Plasma energetic substrates and hepatic enzymes in the four-eyed fish Anableps anableps (Teleostei: Cyprinodontiformes) during the dry and rainy seasons in the Amazonian Island of Maracá, extreme north of Brazil

ABSTRACT Anableps anableps is a viviparous teleost typical from Amazon Delta estuaries. It is representative of this biome in Maracá, which offers a potential for biomonitoring. The aim of this study is to apply different biomarkers to males and females of this species and verify possible seasonal influences on their physiology. To collect fish, three expeditions were carried out from the rainy season of April 2018 to the rainy season of February 2019. Biometric parameters and gonadosomatic (GSI), hepatosomatic (HSI), and viscerosomatic (VSI) indexes were calculated, and blood samples were taken to measure triglycerides, total proteins, glucose, and activity of the enzymes aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The GSI of males is higher in the rainy season and of females in the dry season. This is probably related to the embryogenesis process. Males show an increase in biomass during the dry season, a metabolic homogeneity, and females show an increase in plasma glucose, triglycerides, and ALT activity. The tested biomarkers are potential for biomonitoring, preliminarily suggesting that there is a seasonal asynchronism between males and females of A. anableps as for the allocation of energy resources at different times of their life cycle.

RESUMO Anableps anableps é um teleósteo vivíparo típico de estuários do Delta do Rio Amazonas, sendo representativo deste bioma na ilha de Maracá, com potencial para o biomonitoramento. O objetivo deste estudo foi aplicar diferentes biomarcadores em machos e fêmeas desta espécie e verificar a possível influência sazonal em aspectos de sua fisiologia. Para a coleta dos peixes foram realizadas três expedições, de abril/2018 (estação chuvosa), setembro/2018 (estação seca) até fevereiro/2019 (estação chuvosa). Foram obtidos parâmetros biométricos, índices gonadossomático (IGS), hepatossomático (IHS), viscerossomático (IVS) e amostras de sangue para dosagem de triglicerídeos, proteínas totais, glicose e a atividade das enzimas aspartato aminotransferase (AST), alanina aminotransferase (ALT) e fosfatase alcalina (ALP). O IGS dos machos foi maior na estação chuvosa e das fêmeas na estação seca, isso provavelmente ocorreu devido ao processo de embriogênese. Os machos aumentaram a biomassa na estação seca e apresentaram homogeneidade metabólica, já as fêmeas apresentaram hiperglicemia, hipertrigliceridemia e maior atividade da ALT. Os biomarcadores testados mostraram-se promissores para o biomonitoramento, sugerindo de forma preliminar que há um assincronismo sazonal entre machos e fêmeas de A. anableps na alocação de recursos energéticos em diferentes momentos do seu ciclo de vida.

Reproductive cycle of native viviparous fish species (Actinopterygii: Cyprinodontiformes: Goodeidae) in a subtropical Mexican lake

Reproductive tactics and strategies contribute to the persistence and maintenance of long-term populations in fish species. Members of the subfamily Goodeinae are a group of small-bodied freshwater fish with specialized reproduction (viviparity-matrotrophy). They are found in the highlands of central Mexico, most of them endemic. The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive investigation to evaluate the annual reproductive cycle of seven species of goodeines (splitfins). We carried out our study in the subtropical Lake Zacapu, Mexico, with bi-monthly sampling from May 2019 to March 2020. We obtain the fertility, size at first maturity (L50), sex ratio, and gonadosomatic index. Our result shows that populations of goodeines have high fertility compared to other populations of the same species in other aquatic systems and also to other species of goodein. We found that males mature at smaller sizes than females, the observed proportion of females was greater than males in all the goodeines. Lake Zacapu goodeines have two reproductive peaks, one in spring (April to June) and another in fall (September to November). These tactics (fertility rates, sex ratio, reproductive period) and strategies (viviparity-matrotrophy) favor reproductive success in this environmentally stable subtropical lake in the highlands of Mexico.(AU)

Las tácticas y estrategias reproductivas contribuyen a la persistencia y el mantenimiento de las poblaciones a largo plazo en especies de peces. Miembros de la subfamilia Goodeinae son un grupo de peces de agua dulce con reproducción especializada (viviparidad-matrotrofia). Se encuentran en el centro de México, la mayoría de ellos endémicos. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar una investigación integral para evaluar el ciclo reproductivo anual de siete especies de goodeines o mexclapiques. Realizamos nuestro estudio en el lago subtropical de Zacapu, México, con muestreo bimestral de mayo de 2019 a marzo de 2020. Nuestros resultados muestran que las poblaciones de goodeines tienen una alta fertilidad en comparación con otras poblaciones de la misma especie en otros sistemas acuáticos y también con otras especies de goodeines. Encontramos que los machos maduran en tamaños más pequeños que las hembras, la proporción observada de hembras fue mayor que los machos en todas las goodeines. Los goodeines del lago Zacapu tienen dos picos reproductivos, uno en primavera (abril a junio) y otro en otoño (septiembre a noviembre). Estas tácticas (fertilidad, proporción de sexos, período reproductivo) y estrategias (viviparidad-matrotrofia) favorecen el éxito reproductivo en este lago subtropical ambientalmente estable en el altiplano de México.(AU)

Reproductive cycle of native viviparous fish species (Actinopterygii: Cyprinodontiformes: Goodeidae) in a subtropical Mexican lake

Reproductive tactics and strategies contribute to the persistence and maintenance of long-term populations in fish species. Members of the subfamily Goodeinae are a group of small-bodied freshwater fish with specialized reproduction (viviparity-matrotrophy). They are found in the highlands of central Mexico, most of them endemic. The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive investigation to evaluate the annual reproductive cycle of seven species of goodeines (splitfins). We carried out our study in the subtropical Lake Zacapu, Mexico, with bi-monthly sampling from May 2019 to March 2020. We obtain the fertility, size at first maturity (L50), sex ratio, and gonadosomatic index. Our result shows that populations of goodeines have high fertility compared to other populations of the same species in other aquatic systems and also to other species of goodein. We found that males mature at smaller sizes than females, the observed proportion of females was greater than males in all the goodeines. Lake Zacapu goodeines have two reproductive peaks, one in spring (April to June) and another in fall (September to November). These tactics (fertility rates, sex ratio, reproductive period) and strategies (viviparity-matrotrophy) favor reproductive success in this environmentally stable subtropical lake in the highlands of Mexico.(AU)

Las tácticas y estrategias reproductivas contribuyen a la persistencia y el mantenimiento de las poblaciones a largo plazo en especies de peces. Miembros de la subfamilia Goodeinae son un grupo de peces de agua dulce con reproducción especializada (viviparidad-matrotrofia). Se encuentran en el centro de México, la mayoría de ellos endémicos. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar una investigación integral para evaluar el ciclo reproductivo anual de siete especies de goodeines o mexclapiques. Realizamos nuestro estudio en el lago subtropical de Zacapu, México, con muestreo bimestral de mayo de 2019 a marzo de 2020. Nuestros resultados muestran que las poblaciones de goodeines tienen una alta fertilidad en comparación con otras poblaciones de la misma especie en otros sistemas acuáticos y también con otras especies de goodeines. Encontramos que los machos maduran en tamaños más pequeños que las hembras, la proporción observada de hembras fue mayor que los machos en todas las goodeines. Los goodeines del lago Zacapu tienen dos picos reproductivos, uno en primavera (abril a junio) y otro en otoño (septiembre a noviembre). Estas tácticas (fertilidad, proporción de sexos, período reproductivo) y estrategias (viviparidad-matrotrofia) favorecen el éxito reproductivo en este lago subtropical ambientalmente estable en el altiplano de México.(AU)

Estrutura da placenta epiteliocorial em tubarões e sua interação materno-fetal / Epitheliochorial placental structure in sharks and its materno-fetal interaction

Em mamíferos, a nutrição intrauterina de embriões ocorre através da placenta. Porém, em tubarões vivíparos placentários da ordem Carcharhiniformes (famílias Leptochariidae, Triakidae, Hemigaleidae e Carcharhinidae), a nutrição de embriões pode ocorrer de três formas: lecitotrofia (vitelo); histotrofia (secreções uterinas) e placentotrofia. Nesta revisão, é discutida a similitude anatômica, fisiológica e, principalmente imunológica, entre as placentas de tubarões e de mamíferos, mostrando que a tolerância materno-fetal em tubarões placentários e mamíferos é dependente de proteínas como a indoleamina 2,3 – dioxigenase, interleucina-1 e proteínas específicas da gestação.

In mammals, intrauterine nutrition of embryos occurs through the placenta. However, in placental viviparous sharks of the order Carcharhiniformes (families Leptochariidae, Triakidae, Hemigaleidae and Carcharhinidae), embryo nutrition can occur in three ways: lecitotrophy (yolk); histotrophy (uterine secretions) and placentotrophy. In this review, it is discussed the anatomical, physiological, and mainly immunological similarity between the placenta of sharks and mammals, showing that maternal-fetal tolerance in placental and mammalian sharks is dependent on proteins such as indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, interleukin- 1 and specific proteins of gestation.

Estrutura da placenta epiteliocorial em tubarões e sua interação materno-fetal / Epitheliochorial placental structure in sharks and its materno-fetal interaction

Em mamíferos, a nutrição intrauterina de embriões ocorre através da placenta. Porém, em tubarões vivíparos placentários da ordem Carcharhiniformes (famílias Leptochariidae, Triakidae, Hemigaleidae e Carcharhinidae), a nutrição de embriões pode ocorrer de três formas: lecitotrofia (vitelo); histotrofia (secreções uterinas) e placentotrofia. Nesta revisão, é discutida a similitude anatômica, fisiológica e, principalmente imunológica, entre as placentas de tubarões e de mamíferos, mostrando que a tolerância materno-fetal em tubarões placentários e mamíferos é dependente de proteínas como a indoleamina 2,3 dioxigenase, interleucina-1 e proteínas específicas da gestação.(AU)

In mammals, intrauterine nutrition of embryos occurs through the placenta. However, in placental viviparous sharks of the order Carcharhiniformes (families Leptochariidae, Triakidae, Hemigaleidae and Carcharhinidae), embryo nutrition can occur in three ways: lecitotrophy (yolk); histotrophy (uterine secretions) and placentotrophy. In this review, it is discussed the anatomical, physiological, and mainly immunological similarity between the placenta of sharks and mammals, showing that maternal-fetal tolerance in placental and mammalian sharks is dependent on proteins such as indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, interleukin- 1 and specific proteins of gestation.(AU)

State of knowledge of viviparity in Staphylinidae and the evolutionary significance of this phenomenon in Corotoca Schiødte, 1853

Viviparity is characterized by the retention of fertilized eggs in reproductive tract of the female. This condition is very common in vertebrates, but relatively rare in invertebrates, including insects. The present work presents a review on viviparity in Staphylinidae, with special attention on genus Corotoca Schiødte, 1853. The genus is composed by six termitophilous species with neotropical distribution, and together with Spirachtha Schiødte, 1853 are the only to genera with species confirmed as viviparous in the family. Also, information and discussion are presented on the life cycle of Corotoca species based on dissection of females in laboratory and field observations. During the dissection of females of four species of Corotoca we observed that each female carries three eggs at the same time. The embryos present asynchronous development: when one is located at apex of abdomen, the other two are at IV segment, on abdomen curvature. These observations are complementary with those obtained in field observation, when the female deposits a larva outside the nest, on the foraging trail of termite Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Silvestri, 1901). The strategy of Corotoca species focused on the immature as dispersing agent is derived and probably favor the fitness in relation to a hypothetical condition in which the adult is the dispersive agent.

State of knowledge of viviparity in Staphylinidae and the evolutionary significance of this phenomenon in Corotoca Schiødte, 1853

Viviparity is characterized by the retention of fertilized eggs in reproductive tract of the female. This condition is very common in vertebrates, but relatively rare in invertebrates, including insects. The present work presents a review on viviparity in Staphylinidae, with special attention on genus Corotoca Schiødte, 1853. The genus is composed by six termitophilous species with neotropical distribution, and together with Spirachtha Schiødte, 1853 are the only to genera with species confirmed as viviparous in the family. Also, information and discussion are presented on the life cycle of Corotoca species based on dissection of females in laboratory and field observations. During the dissection of females of four species of Corotoca we observed that each female carries three eggs at the same time. The embryos present asynchronous development: when one is located at apex of abdomen, the other two are at IV segment, on abdomen curvature. These observations are complementary with those obtained in field observation, when the female deposits a larva outside the nest, on the foraging trail of termite Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Silvestri, 1901). The strategy of Corotoca species focused on the immature as dispersing agent is derived and probably favor the fitness in relation to a hypothetical condition in which the adult is the dispersive agent.(AU)

Run to the nest: A parody on the Iron Maiden song by Corotoca spp. (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)

Rove beetles belonging to the genus Corotoca (Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) are termitophiles exclusively found in nests of Constrictotermes (Isoptera: Termitidae). We observed the reproductive behavior of Corotoca melantho and C. fontesi during host (Constrictotermes cyphergaster) foraging events. The reproductive behaviors of both species are similar. The variables collected for analysis were distance traveled, the time of larval deposition, nest return time, and locomotion speed. The fact that the female stops in the middle of the foraging trail to deposit the larva leads to a discussion of how its physiological or voluntary mechanisms function to determine the correct stopping time and the importance of speed when returning to the nest as a strategy to avoid predation. This study provides new information concerning the life cycle of Corotoca spp., although complete understanding of host-termitophile relationships, their evolutionary history, and the significance of viviparity will require additional studies.

Run to the nest: A parody on the Iron Maiden song by Corotoca spp. (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae)

Rove beetles belonging to the genus Corotoca (Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) are termitophiles exclusively found in nests of Constrictotermes (Isoptera: Termitidae). We observed the reproductive behavior of Corotoca melantho and C. fontesi during host (Constrictotermes cyphergaster) foraging events. The reproductive behaviors of both species are similar. The variables collected for analysis were distance traveled, the time of larval deposition, nest return time, and locomotion speed. The fact that the female stops in the middle of the foraging trail to deposit the larva leads to a discussion of how its physiological or voluntary mechanisms function to determine the correct stopping time and the importance of speed when returning to the nest as a strategy to avoid predation. This study provides new information concerning the life cycle of Corotoca spp., although complete understanding of host-termitophile relationships, their evolutionary history, and the significance of viviparity will require additional studies.(AU)

A macroscopic classification of the embryonic development of the one-sided livebearer Jenynsia multidentata (Teleostei: Anablepidae)

This study proposes eight stages according to the main discernible changes recorded throughout the embryonic development of Jenynsia multidentata. The development of morphological embryo structures, pigmentation, and changes in tissues connecting mother and embryo were included in the stage characterization. From the fertilized egg (Stage 1), an embryo reaches the intermediary stages when presenting yolk syncytial layer (Stage 2), initial pigmentation of the outer layers of the retina and dorsal region of the head (Stage 3), and the sprouting of the caudal (Stage 4), dorsal and anal fins (Stage 5). During the later stages, the ovarian folds enter the gills, and the body pigmentation becomes more intense (Stage 6), the body becomes elongated (Stage 7), and there is a greater intensity in body pigmentation and increased muscle mass (Stage 8). The dry weight of the batches varied between 0.6 ± 0.3 mg (Stage 3) to 54.6 ± 19.7 mg (Stage 8), but the dry weight of the maternal-embryonic connecting tissues remained almost constant. After controlling the effect of those reproductive tissues, the gain in dry weight of the batches throughout development increased exponentially from Stage 6, reflecting the increase in size and weight of the embryos due to matrotrophy.(AU)

Este estudio propone una clasificación constituida por ocho etapas, establecidas con base en los principales cambios macroscópicos registrados a lo largo del desarrollo embrionario de Jenynsia multidentata. El desarrollo de estructuras embrionarias, los patrones de pigmentación y los cambios en los tejidos de conexión entre la madre y el embrión fueron incluidos en la caracterización de cada etapa. Inicia con el huevo fertilizado (Etapa 1), siguiendo con etapas intermedias del embrión en las cuales es visible la capa sincitial del vitelo (Etapa 2), la pigmentación inicial de las capas externas de la retina y el dorso de la cabeza (Etapa 3), y la aparición de las aletas caudal (Etapa 4), dorsal y anal (Etapa 5). En las etapas posteriores, los pliegues del tejido ovárico se introducen por las branquias y se intensifica la pigmentación corporal (Etapa 6), el cuerpo se extiende (Etapa 7) y hay un marcado aumento en la pigmentación corporal y masa muscular (Etapa 8). El peso seco de los lotes varió entre 0,6 ± 0,3 mg (Etapa 3) y 54,6 ± 19,7 mg (Etapa 8); sin embargo, el peso seco del tejido que conecta a la madre con el embrión se mantuvo prácticamente constante. Después de controlar el efecto del peso seco de estos tejidos, la ganancia de peso seco de los lotes de embriones a lo largo del desarrollo aumentó de forma exponencial a partir de la Etapa 6, evidenciándose en el aumento en tamaño y peso de los embriones debido a la matrotrofia.(AU)

A macroscopic classification of the embryonic development of the one-sided livebearer Jenynsia multidentata (Teleostei: Anablepidae)

This study proposes eight stages according to the main discernible changes recorded throughout the embryonic development of Jenynsia multidentata. The development of morphological embryo structures, pigmentation, and changes in tissues connecting mother and embryo were included in the stage characterization. From the fertilized egg (Stage 1), an embryo reaches the intermediary stages when presenting yolk syncytial layer (Stage 2), initial pigmentation of the outer layers of the retina and dorsal region of the head (Stage 3), and the sprouting of the caudal (Stage 4), dorsal and anal fins (Stage 5). During the later stages, the ovarian folds enter the gills, and the body pigmentation becomes more intense (Stage 6), the body becomes elongated (Stage 7), and there is a greater intensity in body pigmentation and increased muscle mass (Stage 8). The dry weight of the batches varied between 0.6 ± 0.3 mg (Stage 3) to 54.6 ± 19.7 mg (Stage 8), but the dry weight of the maternal-embryonic connecting tissues remained almost constant. After controlling the effect of those reproductive tissues, the gain in dry weight of the batches throughout development increased exponentially from Stage 6, reflecting the increase in size and weight of the embryos due to matrotrophy.(AU)

Este estudio propone una clasificación constituida por ocho etapas, establecidas con base en los principales cambios macroscópicos registrados a lo largo del desarrollo embrionario de Jenynsia multidentata. El desarrollo de estructuras embrionarias, los patrones de pigmentación y los cambios en los tejidos de conexión entre la madre y el embrión fueron incluidos en la caracterización de cada etapa. Inicia con el huevo fertilizado (Etapa 1), siguiendo con etapas intermedias del embrión en las cuales es visible la capa sincitial del vitelo (Etapa 2), la pigmentación inicial de las capas externas de la retina y el dorso de la cabeza (Etapa 3), y la aparición de las aletas caudal (Etapa 4), dorsal y anal (Etapa 5). En las etapas posteriores, los pliegues del tejido ovárico se introducen por las branquias y se intensifica la pigmentación corporal (Etapa 6), el cuerpo se extiende (Etapa 7) y hay un marcado aumento en la pigmentación corporal y masa muscular (Etapa 8). El peso seco de los lotes varió entre 0,6 ± 0,3 mg (Etapa 3) y 54,6 ± 19,7 mg (Etapa 8); sin embargo, el peso seco del tejido que conecta a la madre con el embrión se mantuvo prácticamente constante. Después de controlar el efecto del peso seco de estos tejidos, la ganancia de peso seco de los lotes de embriones a lo largo del desarrollo aumentó de forma exponencial a partir de la Etapa 6, evidenciándose en el aumento en tamaño y peso de los embriones debido a la matrotrofia.(AU)

Genetic control of viviparity in common bean

In common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) harvesting is carried out in the field. It is therefore necessary that cultivars be tolerant to viviparity, i.e., germination of grains still in the pods. Study of the percentage of germination of beans in the pods under laboratory conditions, where humidity content is high, has been proposed. Furthermore, under question is whether the thickness of the pod wall affects water uptake by the pods and, consequently, viviparity. Thus, the aim of the present study was to verify if there is variance among progenies for viviparity and if it is influenced by pod thickness. We assessed the parents, Pérola and ESAL 686, the F1, and a number of segregating generations in two crop seasons, in relation to the percentage of germination of seeds in the pods (PGSP) and pod wall thickness (PWT), and data on individual plants were obtained. The same traits were also assessed using the F2:3, F3:4 and F4:5 progenies. Taking into account the genetic and phenotypic parameters estimates, especially the level of high heritability, selection to less viviparity in common bean has to be carried out to evaluate PGSP in progenies.

Genetic control of viviparity in common bean

In common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) harvesting is carried out in the field. It is therefore necessary that cultivars be tolerant to viviparity, i.e., germination of grains still in the pods. Study of the percentage of germination of beans in the pods under laboratory conditions, where humidity content is high, has been proposed. Furthermore, under question is whether the thickness of the pod wall affects water uptake by the pods and, consequently, viviparity. Thus, the aim of the present study was to verify if there is variance among progenies for viviparity and if it is influenced by pod thickness. We assessed the parents, Pérola and ESAL 686, the F1, and a number of segregating generations in two crop seasons, in relation to the percentage of germination of seeds in the pods (PGSP) and pod wall thickness (PWT), and data on individual plants were obtained. The same traits were also assessed using the F2:3, F3:4 and F4:5 progenies. Taking into account the genetic and phenotypic parameters estimates, especially the level of high heritability, selection to less viviparity in common bean has to be carried out to evaluate PGSP in progenies.(AU)

Estratégias reprodutivas de lagartos Mabuyinae do Brasil

Dentro da família Scincidae está inserida a subfamília Mabuyinae que atualmente compreende 197 espécies distribuídas em todo o mundo. A subfamília Mabuynae está representada pelas espécies que apresentam a forma mais avançada de viviparidade dentro de Squamata. Aspectos relacionados à ecologia e principalmente à reprodução dos machos, tais como: ciclo reprodutivo e estratégias reprodutivas, permanecem desconhecidos. A biologia reprodutiva de sete espécies de Mabuya do Brasil e o lagarto endêmico de Fernando de Noronha, Trachylepis atlantica, foi estudada por meio de exemplares depositados em coleções científicas e coletados in situ. Fêmeas de Mabuya atingiram a maturidade sexual com tamanhos relativamente pequenos. O tamanho da ninhada foi positivamente correlacionado com o comprimento-rostro-cloacal e comprimento do abdômen nas fêmeas. Fêmeas de Mabuya apresentaram tamanhos corporais maiores que machos, ao passo que machos de Trachylepis atlantica foram maiores que as fêmeas. Machos e fêmeas de Mabuya apresentaram os ciclos reprodutivos sazonais, com a espermiogênse estendida na maioria das espécies. O período de inatividade reprodutiva testicular foi curto e concentrado principalmente na estação seca. O aumento embrionário nas fêmeas de Mabuya foi observado principalmente durante a estação chuvosa, com os maiores embriões encontrados no final da estação seca e durante a estação chuvosa. Em Trachylepis atlantica as fêmeas apresentaram uma baixa fecundidade, ciclo provavelmente bianual e a estação reprodutiva concentrada principalmente durante a estação seca. O pico da espermiogênese foi concentrado principalmente durante a estação seca e o período de involução testicular durante a estação chuvosa. Trachylepis atlantica exibe adaptações reprodutivas ao ambiente insular.

Within the Scincidae family, the subfamily Mabuyinae is included, comprising 197 species distributed throughout the world. The Mabuynae subfamily is represented by the species that present the most advanced form of viviparity within Squamata. Aspects related to ecology and mainly to the reproduction of males, such as: reproductive and reproductive cycle, remain unknown. The reproductive biology of seven species of Mabuya from Brazil and the endemic lizard of Fernando de Noronha, Trachylepis atlantica, was studied by specimens deposited in scientific collections and collected in situ. Mabuya females reached sexual maturity with small sizes. The size of the litter was positively correlated with the snouth-vent-length and length of the abdomen in females. Females of Mabuya were larger than males, while males of Trachylepis atlantica were larger than females. Males and females of Mabuya showed seasonal reproductive cycles, with extended spermiogenesis in most species. The period of testicular reproductive inactivity was short and concentrated mainly in the dry season. The embryonic increase in Mabuya was observed mainly during the rainy season, with the largest embryos found at the end of the dry season and during the rainy season. In Trachylepis atlantica, females showed low fertility, probably a biennial cycle and the reproductive season concentrated mainly during the dry season. The peak of spermiogenesis was concentrated mainly during the dry season and the period of testicular involution during the rainy season. Trachylepis atlantica exhibits reproductive adaptations to the island environment.

Monitoramento e Estudos moleculares de ovos de serpentes do gênero Bothrops

Os Squamatas são a única linhagem de répteis com espécies que dão à luz neonatos de vida livre (viviparidade), capazes de viver independente dos tecidos extraembrionários. Em muitas espécies de viperídeos a reprodução é sazonal, mas nem todas as fêmeas se reproduzem num dado ano. Também ocorrem variações intra e inter-específicas em relação ao acasalamento e atividade folicular, permitindo assim mudanças hormonais responsáveis por eventos fisiológicos. Rotineiramente é reportado o depósito, na natureza, de ovos inférteis e anormais tanto em espécies ovíparas quanto vivíparas de Squamatas. A atresia folicular é um processo degenerativo, hormonalmente controlado, pelo qual folículos ovarianos, em variados estágios de desenvolvimento e crescimento, de vertebrados mamíferos e não mamíferos, perdem sua integridade e são eliminados antes da ovulação. A apoptose, mecanismo fundamental de remoção de células germinativas, um programa de morte celular extremamente regulado e de grande eficiência. Com o objetivo monitorar e investigar o elevado número de ovos atrésicos liberados pelas serpentes do gênero Bothrops em cativeiro, investigamos possíveis processos de morte celular por apoptose com abordagens moleculares. Foram identificados os possíveis processos envolvidos na atresia de embriões de serpentes do gênero Bothrops. Os ovos atrésicos mostraram diferentes estadios de desenvolvimento, diferenciação e maturação dos precursores e de células-tronco envolvidos na organogênese destas espécies de serpente. A hipótese: ovo atrésico é fecundado?, neste estudo foi confirmada pela identificação de botões germinativos em diferentes fases de organogênese, que expressaram diferencialmente marcadores moleculares (CD-34, CD-44, CD-90, CD-117, Stro-1 e Caspase-3) envolvidos na cinética de crescimento e diferenciação celular, modulados pelo estresse oxidativo. Outros aspectos relevantes neste estudo envolvidos na atresia destes embriões foi o processo de partenogênese encontrado nas espécies B. moojeni, B. leucurus e B. erythromelas, nesta última foi inovador. B. insularis apresentou elevado número de ovos atrésicos não fecundados, a presença de intersexo entre fêmeas reprodutivas e as condições ambientais no cativeiro.

Squamatas are the only strain of reptiles with species that give birth to free-living neonates (viviparity), capable of living independently of extraembryonic tissues. In many Viperidae species reproduction is seasonal, but not all females reproduce in a given year. Intra and interspecific variations also occur in relation to mating and follicular activity, thus allowing hormonal changes responsible for physiological events. The routine deposit of infertile and abnormal eggs in both oviparous and viviparous Squamata species is routinely reported. Follicular atresia is a hormonally controlled degenerative process by which ovarian follicles, at various stages of development and growth, of mammalian and non-mammalian vertebrates, lose their integrity and are eliminated before ovulation. Apoptosis, a fundamental mechanism for germinal cell removal, a highly regulated and highly efficient cell death program. In order to monitor and investigate the high number of atretic eggs released by captive Bothrops snakes, we investigated possible apoptotic cell death processes with molecular approaches. Possible processes involved in the atresia of Bothrops snake embryos were identified. The atretic eggs showed different stages of development, differentiation and maturation of the precursors and stem cells involved in the organogenesis of these snake species. The hypothesis: Is atretic egg fertilized? In this study was confirmed by the identification of germinal discs in different stages of organogenesis, which differentially expressed molecular markers (CD-34, CD-44, CD-90, CD-117, Stro- 1 and Caspase-3) involved in growth kinetics and cell differentiation, modulated by oxidative stress. Other relevant aspects in this study involved in the atresia of these embryos was the parthenogenesis process found in B. moojeni, B. leucurus and B. erythromelas species, in the last one was innovative. B. insularis showed a high number of unfertilized atretic eggs, the presence of intersex between reproductive females and environmental conditions in captivity.

Influência do ciclo reprodutivo na biologia termal de Crotalus durissus neotropical (Serpentes, Viperidae) em cativeiro

As serpentes são animais ectotérmicos capazes de modificar seu comportamento termorregulatório e consequentemente sua temperatura corpórea para otimizar o desempenho de determinadas atividades, dentre elas, a reprodução. Segundo vários estudos, a reprodução é um dos fatores fisiológicos mais influenciados pela seleção de temperatura corpórea em Squamata. Fêmeas reprodutivas de muitas espécies têm apresentado termofilia gestacional. Esse comportamento tem corroborado a hipótese de manipulação materna da temperatura ótima para o desenvolvimento embrionário, com isso, a fêmea garante o fenótipo da prole e seu sucesso reprodutivo. Aqui investigamos a influência do status reprodutivo na biologia termal de fêmeas de Crotalus durissus em cativeiro semiextensivo. Para isso, foram utilizados sensores de temperatura interna (datalogger) inseridos cirurgicamente na cavidade celomática de fêmeas prenhes e não prenhes. As análises dos dados demonstraram que fêmeas prenhes mantiveram a média de temperatura corpórea significativamente mais elevadas do que fêmeas não prenhes no verão. No entanto, a variação da Tc de fêmeas prenhes não difere de fêmeas não prenhes. O benefício mais frequentemente citado sobre a evolução da viviparidade, é que fêmeas prenhes podem acelerar o desenvolvimento embrionário por meio da termorregulação. A elevação e estabilidade da temperatura corpórea durante a gestação têm sido consideradas o mecanismo primordial para assegurar o desenvolvimento embrionário.Desta forma, aumenta o fitness da prole e garante a viabilidade da ninhada. Os dados apresentados aqui demonstram que a condição reprodutiva de fêmeas prenhes de Crotalus durissus tem grande influência sobre a seleção de temperaturas mais elevadas, corroborando com a hipótese de que fêmeas alteram o comportamento termorregulatório quando estão prenhes.

Snakes are ectothermic animals capable of modifying their thermoregulatory behavior and consequently their body temperature to optimize the performance of certain activities, among them, reproduction. According to several studies, reproduction is one of the physiological factors most influenced by the selection of body temperature in Squamata. Reproductive females of many species have shown gestational thermophily. This behavior has corroborated the hypothesis of maternal manipulation of the optimum temperature for embryonic development, therefore, the female assures the phenotype of offspring and their reproductive success. Here we investigate the influence of reproductive status on the thermal biology of Crotalus durissus females in semiextensive captivity. For this, internal temperature sensors (dataloggers) were inserted surgically in the coelomic cavity of pregnant and non-pregnant females. Data analyzes demonstrated that pregnant females maintained significantly higher mean body temperature than non-pregnant females in the summer. However, the body temperature variation of pregnant females does not differ from non-pregnant females. The most frequently cited benefit on the evolution of viviparity is that pregnant females can accelerate embryonic development through thermoregulation. The elevation and stability of body temperature during pregnancy have been considered the primordial mechanism to ensure the embryonic development. Thus, it increases the fitness of offspring and ensures the viability of the clutch. The data presented here, demonstrate that the reproductive condition of pregnant females of Crotalus durissus has great influence on the selection of higher temperatures, corroborating with the hypothesis that females alter the thermoregulatory behavior when they are pregnant.

Reproductive characteristics and the weight-length relationship in Anableps anableps (Linnaeus, 1758) (Cyprinodontiformes: Anablepidae) from the Amazon Estuary

The present study analyzed the length-weight relationship and some aspects of the reproductive biology of Anableps anableps from the mouth of the Maracanã River, in the Brazilian state of Pará. The specimens were collected using two 30 m-long gillnets with 15 and 20 mm mesh size, as well as a 1 m-diameter hand net with a 10 mm mesh. A total of 865 specimens were collected, from which an adult sex ratio of 2.12 females per male was recorded (χ² = 13.07; p<0.05). Females presented positively allometric growth, whereas males were negatively allometric. In the additional analyses, the gonads of 371 female specimens were observed microscopically. Gonadal development was classified in three stages: immature (5.0 percent), maturing (12.0 percent), and mature (83.0 percent). Embryonic development was classified in five phases, according to the size of the embryo and the vitelline sac. Mean fecundity was 12 eggs/embryos per female (range: 1-37 eggs/embryos). A significant relationship was recorded between the standard length of females and ovaries weight (R² = 0.257; p < 0.001), and the number of embryos carried (R² = 0.573; p < 0.001). Mean body length of females at initial sexual maturation (L50) was estimated at 11.7 cm. The species reproduced throughout the year.(AU)

O presente estudo analisou a relação peso-comprimento e uma série de aspectos da biologia reprodutiva de Anableps anableps da foz do rio Maracanã, no estado brasileiro do Pará. Os espécimes foram coletados por meio de duas redes de emalhar de 30 m de comprimento, com malhas de 15 e 20 mm, e com um puçá com um metro de diâmetro, com malha de 10 mm. Foram capturados 865 espécimes, os quais foram analisados para estabelecer a razão sexual, que foi de 2,12 fêmeas por macho (χ² = 13,07; p<0,05). As fêmeas apresentaram crescimento alométrico positivo, enquanto que os machos foram alométricos negativos. Nas análises adicionais, as gônadas de 371 fêmeas foram observadas ao microscópio. O desenvolvimento gonadal foi classificado em três estádios: imaturo (5,0 por cento), em maturação (12,0 por cento) e maturo (83,0 por cento). O desenvolvimento embrionário foi classificado em cinco fases, de acordo com o tamanho do embrião e do saco vitelino. A fecundidade média foi de 12 ovos / embriões por fêmea (variando de 1-37 ovos / embriões). Uma relação significativa foi verificada entre o comprimento padrão das fêmeas, o peso de seus ovários (R ² = 0,257, p < 0,001), e o número de embriões (R ² = 0,573, p < 0,001). O tamanho médio da primeira maturação sexual (L50) para as fêmeas fo

Presença da proteína Indoleamina 2, 3-dioxigenase (IDO) na interface materno-fetal de Prionace glauca (Linnaeus, 1758)

O tubarão-azul (Prionace glauca) é uma espécie que apresenta desenvolvimento vivíparo placentário em que o saco vitelino se desenvolve ao longo da gestação tornando-se uma placenta que executa função matrotrófica. A Indoleamina 2,3-dioxigenase (IDO) é uma proteína encontrada em mamíferos nos quais participa, além de outras funções, da tolerância materno-fetal, sendo também encontrada em peixes ósseos. Assim, a proposta deste trabalho foi verificar a expressão da IDO na interface materno-fetal de Prionace glauca e descrever sua localização. Para tanto, material placentário/uterino e embriológico de três fases distintas da gestação (pré-placenta, meia gestação e fim da gestação) de fêmeas de P. glauca foram coletados e processados para a imuno-histoquímica. Os resultados mostraram a presença da IDO ao longo do desenvolvimento do saco vitelino/placenta, na ectoderme nas três fases e na endoderme apenas nas duas primeiras fases. No epitélio uterino observou-se a marcação da IDO nas duas últimas fases. Esses tecidos de interface seriam locais de maior contato entre a mãe e o concepto, fato que poderia levar à indução de uma resposta imunológica contra o concepto semi-alogenêico. A soma destes fatores poderia contribuir como um indício de uma possível atuação da IDO como mecanismo da tolerância materno-fetal na interface placentária de Chondrichtyes, como relatado em mamíferos eutérios.

The blue shark (Prionace glauca) is a viviparous placentary species in which the yolk sac develops along pregnancy turning into a placenta with a matrotrofic role. The indoleamine 2 3-dioxygenase (IDO) is a protein usually described in mammals, which, among other functions, participates on the maternal-fetal tolerance process. Although it has also been reported in bony fish, no information is available regarding its function. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of IDO in blue shark maternal-fetal interface and describe its distribution. Thus, placental / uterine and embryonic materials from three different stages (pre-placenta, middle and late gestation) of pregnant P. glauca females were processed for immunohistochemistry. The results showed IDO labelling during the yolk sac / placenta development in ectoderm along the three development phases and at endoderm only at phases I and II. In uterine epithelium, IDO was observed in the last two phases. These interface tissues are major contact areas between the mother ant the conceptus, that would induce an immunological response against the semialogeneic conceptus.The sum of these factors may contribute as an indication to the possible IDO role as a mechanism of maternal-fetal tolerance in Chondrichtyes placentary interface, as described in eutherian mammals.

Effect of cumulative chemical and mutagenic pollutants during ontogenic development of Poecilia vivipara (Cyprinodontiformes, Poeciliidae) / Efeito de poluentes químicos cumulativos e mutagênicos durante o desenvolvimento ontogenético de Poecilia vivípara (Cyprinodontiformes, Poeciliidae)

Living in society is a feature of Homo sapiens and this fact gives him the advantage of occupying many biomes. Population increase and technological development brought a growth in the volume of dejects thrown into water sources. Knowledge of biological models that evaluates contamination levels of these sources is the aim of this research. Cells of the branchial epithelium of Poecilia vivipara, popularly known as guaru, modify their behavior in the presence of environmental variations and keep the homeostasis in adverse conditions. Our intention was to know the origin and the differentiation of cell types in the development of the gill and to detect variations of the branchial epithelium in embryos of pregnant females exposed to lead (a cumulative and mutagenic chemical pollutant). Two groups were formed, the control and the experimental group, which was exposed to a solution of 1 ppm lead acetate. Embryos in stages 24, 30 and 36 were observed (Vernier, 1969) and analyzed under light and electronic scanning microscopy. Embryos of the females were quantified and measured. The formation of the arcs, filaments, rays and lamellae gill were registered. In the epithelium, first the chlorine cells differentiated; in stage 36 mucous cells appear in the branchial ray. There were no morphological differences between the groups in the epithelial cells of the gill. Viviparity may be the e

Viver em sociedade é uma característica do Homo sapiens, e esta vantagem permitiu-lhe ocupar tantos biomas. Aumento populacional e desenvolvimento tecnológico trouxeram paralelamente acréscimo ao volume de dejetos eliminados nos mananciais de água. Conhecer modelos biológicos que permitam averiguar níveis de contaminação destes mananciais é o propósito desta pesquisa. Células do epitélio branquial do guaru (Poecilia vivípara) modificam o seu comportamento em face de variações ambientais, mantendo a homeostasia em condições adversas. Nosso propósito foi conhecer a origem e diferenciação dos tipos celulares no desenvolvimento das brânquias, procurando detectar variações do epitélio branquial em embriões de fêmeas prenhes expostas ao chumbo (poluente cumulativo e mutagênico). Formaram-se dois grupos, o controle e o experimental, que foi exposto à solução de acetato de chumbo a 1 ppm. Observaram-se os embriões nos estágios 24, 30 e 36 (Vernier, 1969), analisados sob microscopia de luz e eletrônica de varredura. Foram quantificados e mensurados os embriões por fêmea. Notou-se a formação dos arcos, filamentos, rastelo e lamelas branquiais. No epitélio, células do cloro se diferenciam primeiro, e no estágio 36 surgem as células mucosas no rastelo branquial. Não houve diferenças morfológicas de células epiteliais das brânquias entre os grupos. A viviparidade pode ser o fato de explicaç

Effect of cumulative chemical and mutagenic pollutants during ontogenic development of Poecilia vivipara (Cyprinodontiformes, Poeciliidae) / Efeito de poluentes químicos cumulativos e mutagênicos durante o desenvolvimento ontogenético de Poecilia vivípara (Cyprinodontiformes, Poeciliidae)

Living in society is a feature of Homo sapiens and this fact gives him the advantage of occupying many biomes. Population increase and technological development brought a growth in the volume of dejects thrown into water sources. Knowledge of biological models that evaluates contamination levels of these sources is the aim of this research. Cells of the branchial epithelium of Poecilia vivipara, popularly known as guaru, modify their behavior in the presence of environmental variations and keep the homeostasis in adverse conditions. Our intention was to know the origin and the differentiation of cell types in the development of the gill and to detect variations of the branchial epithelium in embryos of pregnant females exposed to lead (a cumulative and mutagenic chemical pollutant). Two groups were formed, the control and the experimental group, which was exposed to a solution of 1 ppm lead acetate. Embryos in stages 24, 30 and 36 were observed (Vernier, 1969) and analyzed under light and electronic scanning microscopy. Embryos of the females were quantified and measured. The formation of the arcs, filaments, rays and lamellae gill were registered. In the epithelium, first the chlorine cells differentiated; in stage 36 mucous cells appear in the branchial ray. There were no morphological differences between the groups in the epithelial cells of the gill. Viviparity may be the e

Viver em sociedade é uma característica do Homo sapiens, e esta vantagem permitiu-lhe ocupar tantos biomas. Aumento populacional e desenvolvimento tecnológico trouxeram paralelamente acréscimo ao volume de dejetos eliminados nos mananciais de água. Conhecer modelos biológicos que permitam averiguar níveis de contaminação destes mananciais é o propósito desta pesquisa. Células do epitélio branquial do guaru (Poecilia vivípara) modificam o seu comportamento em face de variações ambientais, mantendo a homeostasia em condições adversas. Nosso propósito foi conhecer a origem e diferenciação dos tipos celulares no desenvolvimento das brânquias, procurando detectar variações do epitélio branquial em embriões de fêmeas prenhes expostas ao chumbo (poluente cumulativo e mutagênico). Formaram-se dois grupos, o controle e o experimental, que foi exposto à solução de acetato de chumbo a 1 ppm. Observaram-se os embriões nos estágios 24, 30 e 36 (Vernier, 1969), analisados sob microscopia de luz e eletrônica de varredura. Foram quantificados e mensurados os embriões por fêmea. Notou-se a formação dos arcos, filamentos, rastelo e lamelas branquiais. No epitélio, células do cloro se diferenciam primeiro, e no estágio 36 surgem as células mucosas no rastelo branquial. Não houve diferenças morfológicas de células epiteliais das brânquias entre os grupos. A viviparidade pode ser o fato de explicaç