Rainy cycles in South America as a driver for the breeding of the Black Skimmer (Rynchops niger) and the Large-billed Tern (Phaetusa simplex) (Aves, Charadriiformes)

The Black Skimmer (Rynchops niger) and the Large-billed Tern (Phaetusa simplex) are two migratory waterbirds that breed simultaneously on many river beaches in South America. Both are polytypic taxa with little information about the distribution and nonbreeding ("wintering") areas. Based on data from the literature, citizen science websites, fieldwork, and specimens housed in natural history museums, we revised the distribution of some of the main breeding colonies in South America, comparing it with continental rainy cycles to identify generalities about the role of precipitation seasonality on the defining intratropical migration routes of these species. Our data suggest that the seasonal precipitation cycle of South America directly influences the reproductive timing and distribution of both species, which is largely circumscribed by South America's rivers. After breeding on sandy beaches during the dry season, both species disperse in small groups or even individually ­ not in large flocks as seen in breeding areas ­ making it difficult to find general migration patterns during the rainy season. Nonetheless, individuals of both species tend to follow the course of the largest rivers of the continent and even alternative routes to disperse into several areas throughout South America during the nonbreeding season.(AU)

Yield, chemical composition, and efficiency of utilization of applied nitrogen from BRS Kurumi pastures / Produção, composição química e eficiência da utilização de nitogênio aplicado de pastagens de BRS Kurumi

ABSTRACT: The objective was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen fertilization levels on productivity, and nutritional value of BRS Kurumi managed at different residue heights during rainy and dry periods of the year. The pasture was managed in three residue heights (20, 35, and 50 cm) and three nitrogen fertilization levels (0, 100, and 200 kg N/ha/year) during the rainy and dry seasons. When the height of the grass of each plot reached 80 cm, the Kurumi was cut manually at the pre-established residue heights. Around 89% of the dry matter (DM) production was observed during the rainy season. The residue height of 35 cm together with doses of 100 or 200 kg N/ha/year, and the residue height of 20 cm, with a dose of 100 kg N/ha/year were the treatments that had the highest DM production during the rainy period. No differences in DM production were observed between tested treatments during the dry period. The Kurumi cultivated during the dry period had the highest content of neutral detergent fiber and lowest digestibility. The Kurumi managed with residue heights of 20 and 35 cm and fertilized with 100 kg N/ha had the highest values of efficiency of utilization applied nitrogen. The use of 20 or 35 cm of residue height and 100 kg of N/ha/year is recommended to obtain greater biomass production and nutrients, nutritional quality, and nitrogen use efficiency.

RESUMO: O objetivo foi avaliar o efeito dos níveis de fertilização nitrogenada na produtividade e no valor nutritivo do BRS Kurumi quando manejado em diferentes alturas de resíduos durante os períodos seco e chuvoso do ano. O capim foi manejado em três alturas de resíduos (20, 35 e 50 cm) em associação com três níveis de fertilização com nitrogênio (0, 100 e 200 kg N/ha/ ano), durante o período seco e chuvoso do ano. Quando a altura do capim de cada parcela atingiu 80 cm, o Kurumi foi cortado nas alturas de resíduos pré-estabelecidas. Cerca de 89% da produção de MS foi observada durante o período chuvoso. A altura do resíduo de 35 cm juntamente com doses de 100 ou 200 kg N/ha/ ano, e a altura do resíduo de 20 cm, com dose de 100 kg N/ha/ ano foram os tratamentos que apresentaram maior produção de MS durante o período chuvoso. Não foram observadas diferenças na produção de MS entre os tratamentos testados durante o período da seca. O Kurumi cultivado no período da seca apresentou maior teor de fibra em detergente neutro e menor digestibilidade. O Kurumi manejado com alturas de resíduo de 20 e 35 cm e fertilizado com 100 kg N/ha apresentou os maiores valores de eficiência de utilização do nitrogênio aplicado. Recomenda-se a utilização de 20 ou 35 cm de altura do resíduo e 100 kg de N/ha/ ano para obter maior produção de biomassa e nutrientes, qualidade nutricional e eficiência no uso do nitrogênio.

Yield, chemical composition, and efficiency of utilization of applied nitrogen from BRS Kurumi pastures / Produção, composição química e eficiência da utilização de nitogênio aplicado de pastagens de BRS Kurumi

The objective was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen fertilization levels on productivity, and nutritional value of BRS Kurumi managed at different residue heights during rainy and dry periods of the year. The pasture was managed in three residue heights (20, 35, and 50 cm) and three nitrogen fertilization levels (0, 100, and 200 kg N/ha/year) during the rainy and dry seasons. When the height of the grass of each plot reached 80 cm, the Kurumi was cut manually at the pre-established residue heights. Around 89% of the dry matter (DM) production was observed during the rainy season. The residue height of 35 cm together with doses of 100 or 200 kg N/ha/year, and the residue height of 20 cm, with a dose of 100 kg N/ha/year were the treatments that had the highest DM production during the rainy period. No differences in DM production were observed between tested treatments during the dry period. The Kurumi cultivated during the dry period had the highest content of neutral detergent fiber and lowest digestibility. The Kurumi managed with residue heights of 20 and 35 cm and fertilized with 100 kg N/ha had the highest values of efficiency of utilization applied nitrogen. The use of 20 or 35 cm of residue height and 100 kg of N/ha/year is recommended to obtain greater biomass production and nutrients, nutritional quality, and nitrogen use efficiency.

O objetivo foi avaliar o efeito dos níveis de fertilização nitrogenada na produtividade e no valor nutritivo do BRS Kurumi quando manejado em diferentes alturas de resíduos durante os períodos seco e chuvoso do ano. O capim foi manejado em três alturas de resíduos (20, 35 e 50 cm) em associação com três níveis de fertilização com nitrogênio (0, 100 e 200 kg N/ha/ ano), durante o período seco e chuvoso do ano. Quando a altura do capim de cada parcela atingiu 80 cm, o Kurumi foi cortado nas alturas de resíduos pré-estabelecidas. Cerca de 89% da produção de MS foi observada durante o período chuvoso. A altura do resíduo de 35 cm juntamente com doses de 100 ou 200 kg N/ ha/ ano, e a altura do resíduo de 20 cm, com dose de 100 kg N/ha/ ano foram os tratamentos que apresentaram maior produção de MS durante o período chuvoso. Não foram observadas diferenças na produção de MS entre os tratamentos testados durante o período da seca. O Kurumi cultivado no período da seca apresentou maior teor de fibra em detergente neutro e menor digestibilidade. O Kurumi manejado com alturas de resíduo de 20 e 35 cm e fertilizado com 100 kg N/ha apresentou os maiores valores de eficiência de utilização do nitrogênio aplicado. Recomenda-se a utilização de 20 ou 35 cm de altura do resíduo e 100 kg de N/ha/ ano para obter maior produção de biomassa e nutrientes, qualidade nutricional e eficiência no uso do nitrogênio.

Association of additives in supplemented grazing cattle during the finishing phase at the rainy season

The objectives were to evaluate the effects of monensin and virginiamycin, alone or combined, on supplemented Nellore cattle grazing tropical grass during the rainy season. Two experiments were conducted simultaneously to evaluate intake, digestibility, CH4 emissions, blood parameters, performance, and carcass characteristics (Exp. 1), and ruminal fermentation and relative abundance of ruminal microorganisms (Exp. 2). Animals (n = 92 Exp. 1 and n = 12 Exp. 2) were distributed in a completely randomized design and allocated in twelve paddocks composed of Urochloa brizantha (A. Rich.) Stapf. cv. Xaraés. A protein-energetic supplementation of 3 g/kg of BW per day was provided to all animals. Supplements were: without additives (WA), monensin alone at 80 mg/kg of product (MN), virginiamycin alone at 150 mg/kg of product (VM), and monensin (80 mg/kg of product) combined with virginiamycin (150 mg/kg of product; MNVM). Treatments did not affect intakes of total dry matter (DM), supplement DM, and nutrients. However, the intakes of forage DM and crude protein decreased in cattle fed MNVM compared with animals fed WA, MN, and VM. Total volatile fatty acids increased in animals fed VM. Ruminal NH3-N decreased, and pH increased in animals fed MN, VM, and MNVM. Relative abundance of total F. succinogenes and S. ruminantium decreased and R. flavefaciens increased in animals fed MN and VM at d 118. Treatments had no effect on enteric CH4 emissions. The average daily gain (ADG) and total gain were greater in cattle fed MNVM than in cattle fed MN. Combination of monensin and virginiamycin altered the rumen microbial populations but did not decrease enteric CH4 emissions. However, it decreased forage dry matter intake without altering the ADG and total weight gain, leading to an increase in feed efficiency. Results from this study indicate an advantage in including feed additives combined in the diet of supplemented Nellore cattle grazing tropical grass during the rainy season.

Impacts of scenarios RCP4. 5 and RCP8. 5 on plant physiology in Tapajos National Forest in the Brazilian Amazon using the ED2. 2 model / Impactos dos cenários RCP4. 5 e RCP8. 5 na fisiologia vegetal na Floresta Nacional do Tapajós, na Amazônia brasileira, através do modelo ED2. 2

Models that simulate the process of stomatal conductance (gs) for a given set of environmental conditions are important, as this process is the main mechanism that controls the gas exchange of terrestrial plants absorbing atmospheric CO2 in tropical forests. Simulations were performed for the Tapajós National Forest, in the western Brazilian Amazon, observing the gs process under the current climate scenario (control) and under the scenarios RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 (2071 - 2100), using the ED2.2 ecosystem demography model. The results showed that the lower availability of soil water for the plants reduced photosynthesis due to the closing of the stomata. The model results for gross primary productivity (GPP) are similar to those observed in the field, varying about ≈24 MgC ha-1 year-1 for the rainy season and ≈23 MgC ha-1 year-1 for the dry season (average 2002 to 2010) in the control scenario. In the RCP4.5 scenario, simulated GPP was 30.7 and 30 MgC ha-1year-1 for the rainy and dry season, respectively (30.5 and 25 MgC ha-1year-1, respectively, for the RCP8.5 scenario). Our results also show that there may be a limitation on the increase in biomass carbon with the concentration of CO2, as GPP was lower in RCP8.5, despite this scenario having a higher value of atmospheric CO2 relative to RCP4.5.(AU)

Modelos que simulam o processo de condutância estomática (gs) para um determinado conjunto de condições ambientais são importantes, pois esse processo é o principal mecanismo que controla as trocas gasosas das plantas terrestres ao absorver o CO2 atmosférico em florestas tropicais. Realizamos simulações para a Floresta Nacional do Tapajós, na Amazônia Ocidental brasileira, observando o processo da gs sob o cenário climático atual (controle) e sob os cenários RCP4.5 e RCP8.5 (2071 - 2100) usando o modelo demográfico de ecossistema ED2.2. Os resultados mostraram que a menor disponibilidade de água no solo para as plantas reduziu a fotossíntese devido ao fechamento dos estômatos. Os resultados do modelo para produtividade primária bruta (PPB) foram semelhantes aos observados em campo, variando cerca de ≈24 MgC ha-1 ano-1 para a estação chuvosa e ≈23 MgC ha-1 ano-1 para a estação seca (média 2002 a 2010) no cenário controle. No cenário RCP4.5, o resultado da PPB simulado foi de 30,7 e 30 MgC ha-1ano-1 para as estações chuvosa e seca, respectivamente (30,5 e 25 MgC ha-1 ano-1, respectivamente, para o cenário RCP8.5). Nossos resultados mostram que pode haver uma limitação no aumento do carbono da biomassa com a concentração de CO2, uma vez que a PPB foi menor no RCP8.5, apesar deste cenário ter um valor maior de CO2 atmosférico em relação ao RCP4.5.(AU)

Efeito residual de estratégias de adubação sobre características produtivas do capim mombaça no período seco / Residual effect of fertilization strategies on productive characteristics ofmombaça grass in the dry season / Efecto residual de las estrategias de fertilización sobre las características productivas de la hierba mombaça en el período seco

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito residual de diferentes recomendações de adubação e momentos deaplicação de adubação nitrogenada após a desfolhação sobre as características morfogênicas, estruturais e produtivas do Megathyrsus maximuscv. Mombaça no período seco do ano. Utilizou-se o delineamento em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 4 x 3, com 4 repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos pelas recomendações de adubação: Manual 5ª aproximação (5AP), Manual do Pará (MP), Reposição de nutrientes (RP) e modelo adaptado de Michaelis e Menten (MM) em três momentos de aplicação da fonte de nitrogênio (N) após desfolhação (dia 0, 3 e 6). As adubações com N foram realizadas no período das águas e no período de transição. A estratégia 5AP com N no dia 0 apresentou os maiores valores para massa seca de lâmina foliar (MSLF) e número de folhas vivas e osmenores para taxa de senescência foliar e massa seca de material morto. Já a recomendação MP com N no dia 6 apresentou os maiores valores para MSLF. A adubação nitrogenada no final do período das águas, promove aumento do comprimento médio de lâmina foliar e do número de folhas vivas além de promover redução de material morto da forragem no período seco.(AU)

The objective was to evaluate the residual effect of different fertilization recommendations and nitrogen application times after defoliation on the morphogenic, structural and productive characteristics of Megathyrsus maximuscv. Mombaça in the dry period of the year. A randomized block design was used in a 4 x 3 factorial scheme, with 4 replications. The treatments were constituted by the fertilization recommendations: 5thApproach Guide(5AP), Pará Guide(PG), Nutrient Replacement(RP) and theMichaelis and Menten adapted model(MM) applied for three days after application of the nitrogen (N) source following defoliation (days 0, 3, and 6). Fertilizations with N were carried out in the rainy season and in the transition period. The 5AP strategy with N on day 0 showed the highest values for leaf blade dry mass (LBDM) and number of live leaves and the lowest values for leaf senescence rate and dead material dry mass. The PG recommendation with N on day 6 presented the higher values for LBDM. Nitrogen fertilization at the end of the wet season promotes an increase in the average length of leaf blade and in the number of live leaves, in addition to promoting a reduction in forage dead material in the dry season.(AU)

El objetivo fue evaluar el efecto residual de diferentes recomendaciones de fertilización y tiempos de aplicación de la fertilización nitrogenada después de la defoliación sobre las características morfogénicas, estructurales y productivas de Megathyrsus maximus cv. Mombasa en el período seco del año. Se utilizó un diseño de bloques al azar en un esquema factorial 4 x 3, con 4 repeticiones. Los tratamientos estuvieron constituidos por las recomendaciones de fertilización: Manual 5º aproximación (5AP), Manual do Pará (MP), Reposición de nutrientes (RP) y modelo adaptado de Michaelis y Menten (MM) en tres momentos de aplicación de la fuente de nitrógeno (N) después de la defoliación (día 0, 3 y 6). Las fertilizaciones con N se realizaron en la época de lluvias y en el período de transición. Laestrategia 5AP con N en el día 0 mostró los valores más altos de masa seca del limbo foliar (MSLF) y número de hojas vivas y los valores más bajos de tasa de senescencia foliar y masa seca de material muerto. La recomendación MP con N en el día 6 presentóvalores superiores para MSLF. La fertilización nitrogenada al final de la estación lluviosa promueve un aumento en la longitud promedio de la lámina foliar y el número de hojas vivas, además de promover una reducción en la materia muerta del forraje en laestación seca.(AU)

Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) of the urban park of Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Southeastern Brazil

Green areas in urban landscapes are under strong anthropogenic pressure, and, at the same time are fundamen-tal to maintaining biodiversity, as they provide resources for many animal and plant species. Knowing these species is funda-mental for its maintenance and conservation, and inventories are extremely important for monitoring fauna and conserving it. Therefore, the goal of this research is to inventory the butterflies species in the park of the Instituto Butantan (Ibu), locat-ed in an urban area in the city of São Paulo, southeast Brazil. The surveys of butterflies were conducted through visual census-es from August 2017 to July 2019 and recorded a total of 324 butterfly species. The most speciose family was Hesperiidae, fol-lowed by Nymphalidae, Lycaenidae, Pieridae, Riodinidae, and Papilionidae. Among the sampled species, there is Euselasia zarawhich is a new record for the state of São Paulo. Neither the species accumulation nor the richness estimator curves tended to reach an asymptote, suggesting that additional butterflies' species will be recorded with more sampling effort on the site. Even with a flora composed mainly of exotic and ornamental plants, the park of Instituto Butantan exhibits a very rich butter-fly community. This community exhibits a pattern of seasonally variation, with the peak of species richness related to the rainy season. When compared with Cidade Universitária Armando de Salles Oliveira (USP), another nearby urban green area, which is larger, more heterogeneous and sampled over a longer period, it is possible to notice that the Ibu butterfly community is a subsample of this larger one. These results highlight the potential that urban parks have for the maintenance and conserva-tion of butterfly species.(AU)

Optimal foraging of Neotropical otters (Carnivora: Mustelidae) in an urban river and predominance of generalist and sedentary fish in their diet

Lontra longicaudis Olfers, 1818 is a semi-aquatic carnivore widely distributed in the Neotropical region. Understanding their diet contributes to an indirect understanding of their ecology and the composition of the local fauna. To this end, we analyzed 109 fecal samples and identified 238 morphological structures; these samples were collected between May 2006 and September 2007 from the Santa Lúcia Biological Station (SLBS) in southeastern Brazil. The area is intersected by the Timbuí River, which arrives at the site after crossing the urban perimeter of the city of Santa Teresa in the state of Espírito Santo. We found a predominance of fish in the otters' diets (82%), mainly cichlids (50%), which are fish with sedentary habits and low mobility levels. The crustacean Trichodactylus fluviatilis Latreille, 1828 was the third most consumed taxon; this occurred mainly during the rainy season, corresponding to the crustacean's reproductive period, when it is more vulnerable to predation. Otters exhibited a seasonal variation in their prey selectivity. Furthermore, they displayed opportunistic foraging behavior, as the most preyed fish were those with both low mobility and a high frequency in the environment, followed by fish with high mobility and high frequency, and then those with low mobility and low frequency. We concluded that the feeding habits of the otters in the SLBS are in line with the optimal foraging theory since prey selection was optimized through the balance between net energy gained and the energy costs of foraging.

Diversity and conservation of fishes from karstic areas of the Jandaíra Formation in the Brazilian semiarid

Few studies have focused on non-troglomorphic fishes occurring in Brazilian caves, especially those in the Caatinga region. The present study is the first survey of fishes from karstic areas of the Jandaíra Formation in Rio Grande do Norte State, northeastern Brazil. This region is characterized by a high concentration of caves and a rich subterranean biodiversity, especially of troglobitic invertebrates, but remains considered a gap on the knowledge of the subterranean ichthyofauna in Brazil. Four field expeditions were carried out covering two dry and two rainy seasons, in 2018 and 2019, in 23 localities in small river basins along the western part of the Jandaíra Formation. A total of 829 fish specimens, none of them troglomorphic, was captured and identified as belonging to 25 species of 12 families and five orders. Amongst them, four species are endemic of the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga ecoregion, and two non-native species were recorded. Habitats were classified into three categories: superficial, associated to cave, and cave. Although no troglomorphic fish species was found in this study, we recorded 64.1% of the Apodi-Mossoró river ichthyofauna occurring in caves or associated to caves, corroborating the hypothesis that part of the ichthyofauna exploits these environments as a refuge during the dry season. In addition, we suggest conservation policies for the maintenance of subterranean and aquatic semiarid ecosystems in the Jandaira formation, which is currently under threat due to anthropogenic activities, such as mining and deforestation.(AU)

The bycatch of piramutaba, Brachyplatystoma vaillantii industrial fishing in a salinity and depth gradient in the Amazon estuary, Brazil / A captura incidental na pesca industrial da piramutaba, Brachyplatystoma vaillantii em um gradiente de salinidade e profundidade no estuário do Amazonas, Brasil

The piramutaba, Brachyplatystoma vaillantii is a freshwater catfish that is the most abundant fishery resource in the Amazon estuary. Piramutaba trawling is done on industrial fishing scale and is characterized by the presence of many freshwater and marine bycatch species, with and without commercial value. Here we describe the bycatch of the industrial fishery of piramutaba in the Amazon estuary and evaluate the relationship of two important environmental factors, depth and salinity, with the accidental capture of freshwater and marine fishes in the Amazon estuary in the rainy and dry seasons. We identified 21 cartilaginous fish species (19.1% freshwater and 80.9% marine) and 125 bony fish species (25.6% freshwater and 74.4% marine). The bycatch included 64 species without commercial value (43% of all bycatch species), which are always discarded. Freshwater and estuarine fishes exhibited significantly higher abundances in shallower environments, while marine fishes were similarly abundant along the entire depth gradient. On the contrary, the abundance of freshwater fishes significantly decreased, and that of estuarine and marine fishes significantly increased with increasing salinity. Regarding the conservation status of the bycatch species, one is classified as vulnerable (VU), and seven as critically endangered (CR). The information on the bycatch of piramutaba fishery in the Amazon estuary is important to subsidize regional fisheries policies and the management of protected areas.(AU)

A piramutaba, Brachyplatystoma vaillantii é um bagre de água doce que representa o recurso pesqueiro mais abundante no estuário amazônico. O arrasto da piramutaba é feito em escala industrial, caracterizado pela presença de muitas espécies de água doce e marinha capturadas de forma incidental, com e sem valor comercial. Aqui descrevemos a captura incidental da pesca industrial de piramutaba no estuário amazônico e avaliamos a relação de dois fatores ambientais, profundidade e salinidade, com a captura incidental de espécies de água doce e marinhas nas estações chuvosa e seca. Identificamos 21 espécies de peixes cartilaginosos (19,1% de água doce e 80,9% marinhos) e 125 espécies de peixes ósseos (25,6% de água doce e 74,4% marinhos). A captura incidental incluiu 64 espécies sem valor comercial (43% de todas as espécies capturadas) que sempre são descartadas. Os peixes de água doce e estuarinos exibiram abundâncias significativamente maiores em ambientes mais rasos, enquanto os peixes marinhos foram igualmente abundantes ao longo de todo o gradiente de profundidade. Inversamente, a abundância de peixes de água doce diminuiu significativamente, e a de peixes estuarinos e marinhos aumentou significativamente em salinidades maiores. Em relação ao estado de conservação das espécies capturadas, uma é reconhecida como vulnerável (VU) e sete como criticamente ameaçadas (CR). As informações sobre a captura incidental da pesca da piramutaba no estuário amazônico são fundaentais para subsidiar políticas pesqueiras regionais e gestão de áreas protegidas.(AU)

Stable fly outbreaks in Brazil: a 50-year (1971-2020) retrospective / Surtos da mosca-dos-estábulos no Brasil: Retrospectiva 50 anos (1971-2020)

Over the last decades, stable fly (Stomoxys calcitrans) outbreaks associated with agricultural and/or livestock production systems have become a serious problem in some Brazilian locations. This article presents a survey on the history, evolution and mapping of such outbreaks in Brazil over five decades (1971-2020). Outbreaks (n= 579) were recorded in 285 municipalities from 14 states, mainly associated with by-products from the ethanol industry (82.7%), in natura organic fertilizers (12.6%) and integrated crop-livestock systems (3.1%). Few cases were reported until the mid-2000s, progressively increasing since then. Outbreaks associated with ethanol mills occurred in 224 municipalities, mainly in Southeast and Midwest states, while those associated with organic fertilizers (mainly poultry litter and coffee mulch) affected 39 municipalities, mostly in the Northeast and Southeast states. More recently, outbreaks in integrated crop-livestock systems during the rainy season have occurred in Midwest states. This survey highlights the magnitude of the problem of stable fly outbreaks in Brazil and its relationship with environmental public policies, agricultural production chains and regional trends. Specific public actions and policies are urgently needed to prevent their occurrence and impact in the affected regions.(AU)

Nas últimas décadas, surtos da mosca-dos-estábulos (Stomoxys calcitrans), associados a sistemas de produção agrícola e/ou pecuária, tornaram-se um grave problema em algumas localidades brasileiras. Este artigo apresenta um levantamento sobre a história, evolução e mapeamento desses surtos no Brasil ao longo de cinco décadas (1971-2020). Surtos (n= 579) foram registrados em 285 municípios de 14 estados, principalmente associados a subprodutos da indústria do etanol (82,7%), fertilizantes orgânicos in natura (12,6%) e sistemas de integração lavoura-pecuária (3,1%). Poucos casos foram registrados até meados dos anos 2000, aumentando progressivamente desde então. Surtos associados a usinas de etanol ocorreram em 224 municípios, principalmente no Sudeste e Centro-Oeste, enquanto surtos associados a fertilizantes orgânicos (principalmente esterco aviário e palha de café) afetaram 39 municípios, principalmente nos estados do Nordeste e Sudeste. Mais recentemente, surtos em sistemas de integração lavoura-pecuária, durante a estação chuvosa, têm ocorrido no Centro-Oeste. Este levantamento ressalta a magnitude do problema dos surtos da mosca-dos-estábulos no Brasil e sua relação com políticas públicas ambientais, cadeias produtivas agrícolas e tendências regionais. Ações e políticas públicas específicas são urgentemente necessárias para prevenir sua ocorrência e impacto nas regiões afetadas.(AU)

Danger under wheels: mammal roadkills in the threaten lowland Atlantic Forest in southeast Brazil / Perigo sob rodas: atropelamentos de mamíferos na ameaçada Mata Atlântica de baixada no sudeste do Brasil

Understanding the ecological impacts of roads on mammals requires periodic monitoring of roads, and identification of both temporal and spatial distribution of roadkills (i.e., roadkill hotspots). The main aim of the study was to identify the most roadkilled mammals and evaluate the temporal and spatial distribution of roadkills in the RJ-122, a highway that crosses the threaten lowland Atlantic Forest in the state of Rio de Janeiro, southeast Brazil. Between October 2017 and January 2020, an intense monitoring study was conducted, with the carcasses of the roadkilled mammals being collected three times a week. Overall, we recorded 295 roadkilled mammals belonging to 22 species, resulting in 11 roadkills per month for the RJ-122 highway. The black-eared opossum, Didelphis aurita (N=149, 51%) stood out as the most roadkilled mammal, followed by porcupine, Coendou spinosus (N= 24, 8%), crab-eating fox, Cerdocyon thous (N= 23, 8), nine-banded armadillo, Dasypus novemcinctus (N= 23, 8%), and white-tufted marmoset, Callithrix jacchus (N= 20, 7%). Roadkills on the RJ-122 varied throughout the year, being more frequent in the rainy season (N=180) than in the dry season (N=115), and were concentrated in two hotspots, indicating some critical points with high roadkill frequency. Hotspots were associated with areas with dense natural vegetation, which can function as forest corridors in this fragmented landscape. Based on our results, several mitigation measures are recommended for the RJ-122 highway.(AU)

Compreender os impactos ecológicos das estradas sobre a fauna de mamíferos requer o monitoramento periódico das estradas e a identificação da distribuição temporal e espacial dos atropelamentos (ou seja, hotspots de atropelamentos). O objetivo principal do estudo foi identificar os mamíferos mais atropelados e avaliar a distribuição temporal e espacial dos atropelamentos na RJ-122, uma rodovia que atravessa a ameaçada Mata Atlântica de baixada no estado do Rio de Janeiro, sudeste do Brasil. Entre outubro de 2017 e janeiro de 2020, foi realizado um intenso estudo de monitoramento, com a coleta três vezes por semana das carcaças dos mamíferos atropelados. Ao todo, registramos 295 mamíferos atropelados pertencentes a 22 espécies, resultando em 11 atropelamentos por mês para a rodovia RJ-122. O gambá-de-orelha-preta, Didelphis aurita (N=149, 51%) destacou-se como o mamífero mais atropelado, seguido pelo ouriço-cacheiro, Coendou spinosus (N= 24, 8%), cachorro-do-mato, Cerdocyon thous (N= 23, 8%), tatu-galinha, Dasypus novemcinctus (N= 23, 8%) e sagui-de-tufo-branco, Callithrix jacchus (N= 20, 7%). Os atropelamentos na RJ-122 variaram ao longo do ano, sendo mais frequentes na estação chuvosa (N=180) do que na estação seca (N=115), e se concentraram em duas áreas, indicando alguns pontos críticos com alta frequência de atropelamentos. Os hotspots foram associados a áreas com vegetação natural densa, que podem funcionar como corredores florestais nesta paisagem fragmentada. Com base em nossos resultados, várias medidas de mitigação são recomendadas para a rodovia RJ-122.(AU)

Evaluation of the thermoregulatory response of goats naturally exposed to the tropical climate using longitudinal data / Avaliação da resposta termorregulatória de cabras expostas naturalmente ao clima tropical a partir do uso de dados longitudinais

Rectal temperature (RT), heart rate (HR), and respiratory rate (RR), determined as repeated measurements over time in female goats, were used to identify covariance matrices that best fit the data for residual modeling on these three traits. Then, based on this result, the goats' responses to heat were evaluated. Five matrices were found with convergence for the three traits. The Heterogeneous Compound Symmetry matrix showed a good fit for modeling the residual associated with RT, whereas the Heterogeneous Autoregressive matrix had a better fit for RR and HR, according to the Akaike Information Criteria (AIC), corrected AIC (AICc), and Schwarz Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) used. After adjusting the residual data for these three traits, a mixed-model analysis was used to evaluate collection period (3), physiological stage (3), and animal age (3) as fixed effects. Residual modeling interfered differently with the p-value associated with the fixed effects studied. Collection period and interactions did not influence the variation in RT (P>0.761), which was within the standard range for goats in the tropics, while the physiological stage of the goats affected it (P<0.05). Rectal temperature, HR, and RR tend to show covariance structures that can be modeled using specific residual covariance matrices, that is, the heterogeneous compound symmetry matrix best suits RT data, whereas the heterogeneous autoregressive matrix is better suited for HR and RR, which are usually correlated. The goats of the evaluated breed maintain RT within the range of variation displayed by breeds adapted to a hot environment, regardless of their physiological condition. Variations occur in RR and HR, without, however, exceeding the normal range for goats. Pregnancy causes goats to raise their RR in the rainy season of the year in the region in order to maintain RT within the normal range for the species.(AU)

Utilizou-se a Temperatura retal (TR), Frequências cardíaca (FC) e respiratória (FR) aferidas como medidas repetidas no tempo em fêmeas caprinas, objetivando-se identificar matrizes de estruturas de covariância que melhor se ajustou aos dados para modelagem do resíduo nessas três características e, em seguida, avaliou-se a respostas de cabras ao calor, com base nesse resultado. Constatou-se cinco matrizes com convergência nas três características. A Simétrica composta heterogênea ajustou-se bem para modelagem do resíduo associado a TR, enquanto a Autorregressiva heterogênea ajustou-se melhor para a FR e FC, de acordo com os critérios de informação de Akaike (AIC), Akaike corrigido (AICc) e o Bayesiano de Schwarz (BIC) utilizados. Com o resíduos de dados dessas três características ajustados, utilizou-se uma análise com modelos mistos para avaliar a Época de coleta (3), Estado fisiológico (3) e Idade do animal (3) foram como efeitos fixos. Constatou-se que a modelagem do resíduo interferiu de modo diferenciado no p valor associado aos efeitos fixos estudados. A época da coleta e interações não influenciaram a variação da TR (P>0,761), que oscilou dentro da faixa padrão para caprinos nos trópicos, mas o Estágio fisiológico da cabra sim (P<0,05). A Temperatura retal e as Frequências cardíaca e respiratória tendem a apresentar estruturas de covariâncias modeláveis com utilização de matrizes de covariâncias residuais especificas, ou seja, a matriz Simétrica composta heterogênea mais adequada para dados da Temperatura retal, enquanto a Autorregressiva heterogênea para as Frequências cardíaca e respiratória, geralmente correlacionas. As cabras da raça avaliadas mantêm a temperatura retal dentro da amplitude de variação apresentada por raças adaptadas a ambiente quente. Isso ocorre independente da condição fisiológica que se encontra, mas com ocorrência de variação na frequência respiratória e cardíaca, não excedendo, no entanto, a faixa normal para caprinos. A gestação condiciona a cabra a elevar a FR na época chuvosa do ano na região para manter a TR na faixa de amplitude normal para caprinos.(AU)

The ovarian and uterine responses of Baixadeiro mares to prostaglandin synchronization during the dry and rainy seasons

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of synchronization with prostaglandin F2α in Baixadeiro mares during the rainy and dry seasons. Fourteen mares were synchronized by administering two doses of 1 mL prostaglandin PGF 2α and monitored by rectal palpation and ultrasound for the assessment of follicular development and uterine echotexture. Of this total, nine mares allowed the collection of blood, in which the blood was collected by venipuncture of the jugular vein to determine progesterone (P4) by ELISA. Mares showed no differences (P > 0.05) in weight, body score condition (BSC), tone, uterine edema, frequency of ovulation, synchronization interval, estrus, and the total number of follicles between periods. However, there was a difference in large increased follicle diameter (P < 0.05) during the dry season. The average concentrations of P4 in mares differed (P < 0.05) between the pre- and post-ovulatory phases for both seasons and after ovulation, with higher concentrations in the rainy season. Furthermore, statistical differences in daily light (P < 0.05) were observed between the dry and rainy periods. Thus, we conclude that mares from the genetic grouping Baixadeiro showed no reproductive seasonality, though there was a difference in luminosity between the rainy and dry seasons. The treatment with two doses of PGF 2α was effective in synchronizing the mares, promoting the return of estrus in the dry and rainy periods. The mares remaining cyclically active throughout the year provided there were appropriate forage availability and quality levels to allow for normal values of body weight and condition.

Seasonality effect on ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) activity in an ecotonal environment in the state of Piauí, Brazil

This study aimed to compare the activity of ants during the rainy and dry seasons in a transitional environment (ecotone) at the interface of Cerrado and Caatinga biomes situated in the state of Piauí, where studies of local ant fauna are still incipient. The research was carried out at Floriano, state of Piauí, Brazil. Ants were sampled during the rainy season in December 2018 and during the dry season in June 2019. Three parallel transects were established at least 100 m apart. At each point, three sampling methods were used, with attractive baits placed on the trees and ground, and pitfall traps on the ground. Thirty-one ant species belonging to 14 genera and five subfamilies were collected, with 27 recorded in the rainy season and 17 in the dry season. The only species reported with the three collection methods and the two seasons was Camponotus crassus Mayr, 1862. Seven ant species sampled in this study are new reports for the state of Piauí. There was a significant difference in the average number of ants and the composition of the assemblages between the rainy and dry seasons. We demonstrate that the activity of ants is influenced by seasonality, corroborating our hypotheses. This is only the second study on ant diversity in the state of Piauí, and more studies are necessary to understand the processes and factors which regulate the activity patterns of ants in ecotonal

Seasonality effect on ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) activity in an ecotonal environment in the state of Piauí, Brazil

Abstract This study aimed to compare the activity of ants during the rainy and dry seasons in a transitional environment (ecotone) at the interface of Cerrado and Caatinga biomes situated in the state of Piauí, where studies of local ant fauna are still incipient. The research was carried out at Floriano, state of Piauí, Brazil. Ants were sampled during the rainy season in December 2018 and during the dry season in June 2019. Three parallel transects were established at least 100 m apart. At each point, three sampling methods were used, with attractive baits placed on the trees and ground, and pitfall traps on the ground. Thirty-one ant species belonging to 14 genera and five subfamilies were collected, with 27 recorded in the rainy season and 17 in the dry season. The only species reported with the three collection methods and the two seasons was Camponotus crassus Mayr, 1862. Seven ant species sampled in this study are new reports for the state of Piauí. There was a significant difference in the average number of ants and the composition of the assemblages between the rainy and dry seasons. We demonstrate that the activity of ants is influenced by seasonality, corroborating our hypotheses. This is only the second study on ant diversity in the state of Piauí, and more studies are necessary to understand the processes and factors which regulate the activity patterns of ants in ecotonal situations like those observed in this region.

Modulation of sexual behavior of Morada Nova ewe by the season of the year in a semiarid equatorial environment

The objective was to evaluate the effect of the season on the sexual behavior patterns adopted by Morada Nova sheep in the Brazilian semiarid region. A total of 55 and 59 female sheep were used in the rainy and dry seasons, respectively, attended by four males of the same breed in rotation. The females identified in oestrus were released in a pasture, together with the breeder of the day for each season, and aspects of sexual behavior were measured for an uninterrupted period of 11 hours/day. Assuming a negative binomial distribution, the behavioral frequencies were subjected to deviation analysis and compared using the chi-square. Heading in the male was observed more frequently during the rainy season (0.12) and shifts with higher temperatures; the turn of the head in relation to the man was observed more frequently during the dry season (2.49). The interactions between seasons and shifts significantly affected the following behaviors: sniffing the male, sniffing the male's urogenital region, wagging the tail, lifting the tail, and urinating. Behavioral variables were influenced by the season. Morada Nova sheep reduce their water intake and grazing time to engage more efficiently in reproductive activities, thus demonstrating an ability to adapt to the Caatinga.

The ovarian and uterine responses of Baixadeiro mares to prostaglandin synchronization during the dry and rainy seasons

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of synchronization with prostaglandin F2α in Baixadeiro mares during the rainy and dry seasons. Fourteen mares were synchronized by administering two doses of 1 mL prostaglandin PGF 2α and monitored by rectal palpation and ultrasound for the assessment of follicular development and uterine echotexture. Of this total, nine mares allowed the collection of blood, in which the blood was collected by venipuncture of the jugular vein to determine progesterone (P4) by ELISA. Mares showed no differences (P > 0.05) in weight, body score condition (BSC), tone, uterine edema, frequency of ovulation, synchronization interval, estrus, and the total number of follicles between periods. However, there was a difference in large increased follicle diameter (P < 0.05) during the dry season. The average concentrations of P4 in mares differed (P < 0.05) between the pre- and post-ovulatory phases for both seasons and after ovulation, with higher concentrations in the rainy season. Furthermore, statistical differences in daily light (P < 0.05) were observed between the dry and rainy periods. Thus, we conclude that mares from the genetic grouping Baixadeiro showed no reproductive seasonality, though there was a difference in luminosity between the rainy and dry seasons. The treatment with two doses of PGF 2α was effective in synchronizing the mares, promoting the return of estrus in the dry and rainy periods. The mares remaining cyclically active throughout the year provided there were appropriate forage availability and quality levels to allow for normal values of body weight and condition.

The ovarian and uterine responses of Baixadeiro mares to prostaglandin synchronization during the dry and rainy seasons

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of synchronization with prostaglandin F2α in Baixadeiro mares during the rainy and dry seasons. Fourteen mares were synchronized by administering two doses of 1 mL prostaglandin PGF 2α and monitored by rectal palpation and ultrasound for the assessment of follicular development and uterine echotexture. Of this total, nine mares allowed the collection of blood, in which the blood was collected by venipuncture of the jugular vein to determine progesterone (P4) by ELISA. Mares showed no differences (P > 0.05) in weight, body score condition (BSC), tone, uterine edema, frequency of ovulation, synchronization interval, estrus, and the total number of follicles between periods. However, there was a difference in large increased follicle diameter (P < 0.05) during the dry season. The average concentrations of P4 in mares differed (P < 0.05) between the pre- and post-ovulatory phases for both seasons and after ovulation, with higher concentrations in the rainy season. Furthermore, statistical differences in daily light (P < 0.05) were observed between the dry and rainy periods. Thus, we conclude that mares from the genetic grouping Baixadeiro showed no reproductive seasonality, though there was a difference in luminosity between the rainy and dry seasons. The treatment with two doses of PGF 2α was effective in synchronizing the mares, promoting the return of estrus in the dry and rainy periods. The mares remaining cyclically active throughout the year provided there were appropriate forage availability and quality levels to allow for normal values of body weight and condition.(AU)

First record of Ereymatermes rotundiceps (Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae) as inquiline of Embiratermes neotenicus (Termitidae: Syntermitinae) in the Colombian Amazon / Primer registro de Ereymatermes rotundiceps (Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae) como inquilino de Embiratermes neotenicus (Termitidae: Syntermitinae) en la Amazonia Colombiana

We report, for the first time, the presence of the termite Ereymatermes rotundiceps Constantino, 1991 as an inquiline of the termite Embiratermes neotenicus (Holmgren, 1906) in the Colombian Amazon, and provide new morphometric information on the species. Soldiers of E. rotundiceps were collected in epigeal nests built by E. neotenicus in pastures during the transition from the dry to the rainy season. The association between host and inquiline termites does not seem to be antagonistic, but the relationship between these two species still needs to be clarified.(AU)

Reportamos por primera vez la presencia de la termita Ereymatermes rotundiceps Constantino, 1991 como inquilino de Embiratermes neotenicus (Holmgren, 1906) en la Amazonia Colombiana y aportamos nueva información morfométrica para las especies. Soldados de E. rotundiceps fueron recolectados en nidos epigeos construidos por E. neotenicus en pasturas durante la transición de la estación seca a la lluviosa. La asociación entre las termitas hospederas e inquilinas parece no ser antagónica, sin embargo, las relaciones entre estas dos especies están aún por esclarecer.(AU)