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Assassin bugs are one of the most diverse families of cimicomorphan Heteroptera and are known from all biogeographic regions. Except for the kissing bugs (Triatominae) that are hemathophagous, reduviids show a predatory behavior and are usually study as potential biocontrollers of crop pests. In this way, Harpactorines have been specially studied as they are mostly diurnal and live on the vegetation. In this contribution, the complete life cycle of Harpactor angulosus (Lepeletier & Serville, 1825) is described and illustrated. Specimens were collected in the field in El Manantial, San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina, and were reared in laboratory to obtain all immatures (eggs and nymphs) and to observe its feeding habits, molting, mating, and oviposition. Collection specimens as well as online resources such as iNaturalist records were also studied to know the current distribution of the species. This resulted in the expansion of H. angulosus distribution in Argentina to Tucumán and Buenos Aires provinces and to the recording of the species in Ecuador, Peru and Paraguay for the first time. Our findings reveal that H. angulosus would be studied as a potential biocontroller of Agraulis sp., an important pest of maracuyá crops in several South American countries.(AU)

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This work describes aspects of the ecology and feeding of Leporinus striatusto fill the gap in information about the species in Brazilian rivers. The study area is in theIpanema National Forest, Iperó/São Paulo, with the Ipanema River as the place where the specimens were collected in its middle and lower reaches. The size ranged from class 9.0 -9.5 cm to class 11.5 -12.0 cm, with females being found in all classes. Class 10 -10.5 was the one with the highest relative frequency, with males being most abundant in the 9.5-10.0 cm length class and females in the 10-10.5 cm length class. The species' diet was composed of autochthonous species, with the most frequent items being insect fragments and plant material. Based on this information, the species was classified as omnivorous. Underwater observations made it possible to verify that the species is gregarious, inhabiting the water column between midwater and the bottom, preferring stretches with currents and rocky substrate. It performs foraging by leaning its body close to the substrate and biting food on solid surfaces. Small groups made up of at least six individuals shared the areas between rocks and branches. We conclude that, to guarantee the preservation of the species, it is crucial to recognize the significant role played by Conservation Units. However, given the aquatic nature of the species studied, its life cycle is intrinsically linked to stretches that extend beyond the limits of the UC. Additionally, the ecological analyses presented in this study reveal that the species relies on the preservation of a healthy river environment that transcends the boundaries of the conversational unit.(AU)

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Abstract Dietary habits of bandicoot rats (bandicota bengalensis) were investigated in the agricultural crops of the Pothwar Plateau, Pakistan by analysing stomach contents. The research activities were conducted in major field crops including wheat-groundnut and in the fallow lands during non-crop season at the field boundaries. The specimens were captured from the fields using kill/snap traps, and dissected to collect their stomach samples for laboratory analysis. Light microscopic slides of the plant material were recovered from stomach samples and the reference materials were collected from the field. Results revealed that the bandicoot rat predominantly fed upon cultivated crops during cropping season but consumed wild vegetation during non-cropping season. There was no significance difference between summer and winter diets. Most frequently consumed crop food items were wheat (Triticum aestivum; 28.57%), groundnut (Arachis hypogea; 11.26%), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor; 10.17%), chickpea (Cicer arietinum; 9.52%), maize (Zea mays; 6.49%), millet (Pennisetum glaucum; 5.84%), barley (Hordeum vulgare; 4.98%) and mustard (Brassica campestris; 4.98%). Among wild vegetation were consumed khbal gha (Cynodon dactylon; 7.79%), baron dhab (Demostachya bipinnata; 7.36%) and Prickly flower (Achyranthes aspera; 3.03%). The study concludes that, in addition to consuming wheat and groundnut crops, the Lesser bandicoot rat also subsists on grasses, weeds, and some fodder crops, as important component of its diet in agro-ecosystem of the Pothwar Plateau.

Resumo Os hábitos alimentares de ratos bandicoot (Bandicota bengalensis) foram investigados nas plantações agrícolas do planalto de Pothwar, Paquistão, por meio da análise do conteúdo estomacal. As atividades da pesquisa foram conduzidas nas principais culturas de campo, incluindo trigo e amendoim, e em terras de pousio durante a estação não agrícola nos limites do campo. Os espécimes foram capturados dos campos usando armadilhas kill/snap e dissecados para coletar suas amostras de estômago para análise laboratorial. Lâminas de microscopia de luz do material vegetal foram recuperadas de amostras de estômago; os materiais de referência foram coletados no campo. Os resultados revelaram que o rato bandicoot alimentava-se predominantemente de culturas cultivadas durante a época de cultivo, mas consumia vegetação selvagem durante a época de não colheita. Não houve diferença significativa entre as dietas de verão e inverno. Os alimentos agrícolas mais frequentemente consumidos foram trigo (Triticum aestivum; 28,57%), amendoim (Arachis hypogea; 11,26%), sorgo (Sorghum bicolor; 10,17%), grão de bico (Cicer arietinum; 9,52%), milho (Zea mays; 6,49%), milheto (Pennisetum glaucum; 5,84%), cevada (Hordeum vulgare; 4,98%) e mostarda (Brassica campestris; 4,98%). Entre a vegetação silvestre foram consumidos khbal gha (Cynodon dactylon; 7,79%), barão dhab (Demostachya bipinnata; 7,36%) e flor espinhosa (Achyranthes aspera; 3,03%). O estudo conclui que, além de consumir culturas de trigo e amendoim, o rato bandicoot pequeno também subsiste de gramíneas, ervas daninhas e algumas culturas forrageiras, componentes importantes de sua dieta no agroecossistema do planalto de Pothwar.

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Abstract The American Barn Owl (Tyto furcata) lives in urban, periurban and wild environments and feeds mainly on small rodents, meaning it has great importance in the biological control of pests. The aim of this work was to describe the reproductive, parental and eating habits of a pair of American barn owls naturally living outside a residence in the urban area of the municipality of Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. A wood box was installed on an outside wall of the home, monitored by a video camera. A spreadsheet was created to keep track of the observations recorded. The female laid four eggs, and after an incubation period of 30-32 days all the eggs hatched, but only two chicks survived after cannibalism among the chicks. Initially, the male provided the food to the chicks and the female remained in the nest caring for the brood. After approximately a month, the female also began to leave the nest and return with prey, which was offered to the chicks, with the male also continuing this behavior. The chicks left the nest in September, 2017. The data obtained show the existence of cooperation and division of tasks between male and female owls during the reproductive period.

Resumo A coruja-das-torres americana (Tyto furcata) vive em ambientes urbanos e se alimenta principalmente de pequenos roedores, sendo de grande importância no controle biológico de pragas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever os hábitos alimentares, parentais e reprodutivos de um casal de corujas-das-torres americanas, naturalmente vivendo fora de uma residência na zona urbana do município de Campos dos Goytacazes, estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Uma caixa de madeira foi instalada em uma parede externa da casa, monitorada por uma câmera de vídeo. Uma planilha foi criada para manter o controle das observações registradas. A fêmea pôs quatro ovos, e após período de incubação de 30-32 dias todos os ovos eclodiram, mas apenas dois filhotes sobreviveram após o canibalismo entre os filhotes. Inicialmente, o macho fornecia a comida aos filhotes e a fêmea permanecia no ninho cuidando da ninhada. Depois de cerca de um mês, a fêmea também começou a sair do ninho e voltar com a presa, que era oferecida aos filhotes, com o macho também continuando com esse comportamento. Os filhotes deixaram o ninho em setembro de 2017. Os dados obtidos mostram a existência de cooperação e divisão de tarefas entre corujas machos e fêmeas durante o período reprodutivo.

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Bird droppings are an unusual food resource for coprophagous insects and used mostly by opportunistic decomposers. Among them, dung beetles feed mainly on dung, although the species differ in their trophic plasticity. Here we report a record of a dung beetle, Canthidium cf. gracilipes, reaching and manipulating the dropping of a passeriform bird, Dendrocincla fuliginosa (Dendrocolaptidae). The behavior was observed in an urban forest fragment located in the Amazonian city of Manaus, Brazil. Two hours after the bird defecated, the dung beetle reached the dropping and started manipulating them with its fore- and hindlegs. It did not eat the dung, though. For a clear understanding of the relationships between bird droppings and Amazonian dung beetles, it will be important to perform standardized experiments with a wide variety of native dung and carrion types.(AU)

Excrementos de aves correspondem a um recurso alimentar pouco comum para insetos coprófagos, sendo utilizados geralmente por decompositores oportunistas. Entre eles, os rola bostas se alimentam principalmente de fezes, entretanto a plasticidade alimentar varia entre as espécies. Neste estudo nós reportamos um registro do rola bosta Canthidium cf. gracilipes se aproximando de e manipulando os excrementos de uma ave passeriformes, Dendrocincla fuliginosa (Dendrocolaptidae). O comportamento foi observado em um fragmento localizado na cidade amazônica de Manaus, Brasil. Duas horas depois de que a ave defecou, o rola bosta se aproximou das fezes e começou a manipulá-las com as patas anteriores e posteriores. Entretanto, não se observou consumo do excremento. Para uma compreensão mais clara das relações entre os excrementos de aves e os rola bostas amazônicos, é importante a realização de experimentos padronizados com uma ampla variedade de fezes e carcaças nativas.(AU)

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This study evaluated the effect of two commercial forms of recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST; Later® and Fast®; 500 mg) on feed variability, feeding behavior, zootechnical parameters, and milk production of Holstein cows after peak production. Eighteen cows were randomly divided into two groups and treated with injectable of rbST every 14 days for 70 days. Blood samples were collected on day 1, 4, and 7 of each cycle, to assess circulating levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). Weight and body condition score (BCS) assessments were performed. Milk yields were measured daily using the DelPro™ software (DeLaval®). Feed consumption and feeding behavior was obtained daily using automatic individual feeders (Intergado®). No difference was observed in dry matter intake (DMI) between groups (P=0.07), and no impact was noted on dietary variability (P=0.64). In addition, animals treated with rbST-Fast exhibited more frequent visits to feeders, longer time in consumption, and higher relative DMI (per percentage of live weight) (P<0.01). Animals in the rbST-Fast group produced more milk than those in the rbST-Later group (P=0.03). Furthermore, the weight of the cows was significantly different (P=0.05) between groups. The weight of the rbST-Fast animals was smaller and varied more than thot of the rbST-Later animals (P <0.01). Nonetheless, no difference was noted in BCS (P=0.30) between the groups. The animals in the rbST-Fast group had higher concentrations of NEFA than those in the rbST-Later group (P<0.01). In conclusion, behavioral and metabolic shifts that sustained greater milk production in the cows receiving rbST-Fast. Nonetheless, these shifts are likely linked to lipomobilization and not dietary variability or consumption, as evidenced by the increase in NEFA and greater weight loss in that group.(AU)

Este estudo avaliou o efeito de duas formas comerciais de somatotropina bovina recombinante (rbST; Later® e Fast®; 500 mg) na variabilidade alimentar, comportamento alimentar, parâmetros zootécnicos e produção de leite de vacas holandesas após o pico de produção. Dezoito vacas foram divididas aleatoriamente em dois grupos e tratadas com rbST injetável a cada 14 dias durante 70 dias. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas nos dias 1, 4 e 7 de cada ciclo, para avaliar os níveis circulantes de ácidos graxos não esterificados (AGNE). Foram realizadas avaliações de peso e escore de condição corporal (ECC). A produção de leite foi medida diariamente utilizando o software DelPro™ (DeLaval®). O consumo de ração e o comportamento alimentar foram obtidos diariamente em comedouros individuais automáticos (Intergado®). Não foi observada diferença no consumo de matéria seca (CMS) entre os grupos (P=0,07) e não foi observado impacto na variabilidade da dieta (P=0,64). Além disso, os animais tratados com rbST-Fast exibiram visitas mais frequentes aos comedouros, maior tempo de consumo e maior CMS relativo (por porcentagem do peso vivo) (P<0,01). Os animais do grupo rbST-Fast produziram mais leite do que os do grupo rbST-Later (P=0,03). Além disso, o peso das vacas foi significativamente diferente (P=0,05) entre os grupos. O peso dos animais rbST-Fast foi menor e variou mais que o dos animais rbST-Later (P<0,01). No entanto, nenhuma diferença foi observada no ECC (P = 0,30) entre os grupos. Os animais do grupo rbST-Fast apresentaram maiores concentrações de NEFA do que os do grupo rbST-Later (P<0,01). Concluindo, foram observadas mudanças comportamentais e metabólicas que sustentaram maior produção de leite nas vacas que receberam rbST-Fast. No entanto, estas mudanças estão provavelmente ligadas à lipomobilização e não à variabilidade ou consumo dietético, como evidenciado pelo aumento de AGNE e maior perda de peso nesse grupo.(AU)

Resumo

In the Brazilian Cerrado, the Red-and-green Macaw (Ara chloropterus) populations are facing an accelerated rate of habitat loss. Despite this, their feeding areas and primary food sources remain poorly understood. In this study, I assessed the relationship between the diet of the Red-and-green Macaw and available food resources in a habitat mosaic from the fragmented Cerrado in Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. Red-and-green Macaws fed on 20 native and five exotic species, mainly in dry habitats (Cerrado, dry forest, and an urban area along the Maracaju Cliffs) during the dry season, while year-round foraging in the riparian vegetation (Aquidauana River and streams). Then, the number of feeding macaws paralleled variations in food abundance and diversity, besides the number of food species. On the other hand, by using a wide variety of abundant foods, macaws' diet breadth presented high values throughout the year. The seasonal consumption of large-seeded fruits across the habitat mosaic displayed a gradient ranging from the urban area to dry habitats, along which macaws ate from exotic to Cerrado species. In this respect, Terminalia catappa seeds and Mangifera indica fruit pulp were important for Red-and-green Macaws in the urban area during the wet season, while Caryocar brasiliense seeds comprised the same in the Cerrado. At this site, both Dipteryx alata and Buchenavia tomentosa seeds composed much of the Red-and-green Macaws' diet during the dry season. Between those habitats, in the watercourse vegetation, macaws frequently foraged on palm fruits across seasons. Therefore, throughout the year, the abundance and variety of food resources strongly influenced the number of foraging Red-and-green Macaws across the habitat mosaic. Understanding the effect of varying seed availability on the spatial and temporal abundance patterns of Red-and-green Macaws, which primarily feed on large-seeded species, is central to developing effective conservation strategies. Due to the accelerated habitat loss, the Maracaju Cliffs emerge as crucial for the Red-and-green Macaw among the Cerrado remnants of Mato Grosso do Sul.

No Cerrado brasileiro, as populações de arara-vermelha (Ara chloropterus) estão sob forte pressão de perda de habitat, ao mesmo tempo em que suas áreas de alimentação e importantes itens alimentares permanecem praticamente desconhecidos. Neste estudo, avaliei a relação entre a dieta e oferta de recursos alimentares para a arara-vermelha, em um mosaico de habitats, no fragmentado Cerrado do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Registrei o consumo de 20 espécies nativas e 5 exóticas, sendo que os hábitats secos (Cerrado, mata estacional e área urbana em meio a Serra de Maracaju) serviram como principais áreas de alimentação no decorrer da estação seca. Por outro lado, a vegetação ripária (Rio Aquidauana e riachos) foi explorada em proporções semelhantes em ambas estações. O uso sazonal de espécies com grandes sementes, ao longo do mosaico de habitats, exibiu um gradiente da área urbana aos habitats secos ao longo do qual as araras consumiram desde espécies exóticas até as do Cerrado. As sementes de Terminalia catappa e polpa de Mangifera indica foram responsáveis por grande parte da alimentação delas na área urbana durante a estação chuvosa, enquanto as sementes de Cariocar brasiliense correspondeu ao mesmo no Cerrado. As sementes de Dipteryx alata e Buchenavia tomentosa, também no Cerrado, ficaram no extremo oposto do gradiente, sendo consumidos durante a estação seca. Em meio ao gradiente, ficaram os frutos de palmeiras, explorados na vegetação dos cursos d`água, tanto nas chuvas quanto na seca. O número de araras-vermelhas se alimentando foi paralelo a abundância de alimentos, bem como ao número e diversidade de espécies de alimentares. Já a amplitude de nicho alimentar exibiu valores elevados durante o ano todo, refletindo o consumo de uma variedade de frutos abundantes. Portanto, não apenas a abundância, mas também a variedade de recursos alimentares influenciou fortemente o número de araras-vermelhas alimentando-se ao longo do mosaico de habitats durante todo o ano. Como as araras-vermelhas dependem extensamente de espécies com sementes grandes, entender como a oferta diversificada desses recursos pode afetar suas variações temporais e espaciais de abundância são fundamentais para o desenvolvimento de planos de conservação. Dessa forma, face ao acelerado desmatamento do Cerrado no Mato Grosso do Sul, a Serra de Maracaju, em meio aos remanescentes do Cerrado, emerge como crucial para as populações persistentes de araras-vermelhas.

Resumo

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of the increasing levels of inclusion of palm kernel cake (PKC) in the diet on the performance of feedlot heifers. Forty-eight Nelore heifers with an initial weight of 274 ± 4.58 kg, at 24 months of age, were confined for 98 days in a feedlot. The animals were allocated to the four treatments in a completely randomized design. Treatments consisted of PKC levels of 0 (control), 10, 20, and 30% in the total dry matter of the diet. The roughage:concentrate ratio in the diets was 30:70. Ether extract intake increased, whereas the intakes of non-fiber carbohydrates and total digestible nutrients decreased with the inclusion of PKC. The apparent digestibility of all nutrients decreased, as well as the amounts of nitrogen digested and retained. Microbial protein synthesis and its efficiency also declined. The inclusion of up to 20% PKC increased feeding time and reduced rumination time of heifers. Intake and rumination efficiencies decreased with the inclusion of PKC in the diet. Final weight and average daily gain did not change, but feed efficiency increased with the inclusion of PKC. The inclusion of up to 30% PKC in the diet of feedlot heifers is recommended.(AU)

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Upwellings are important oceanographic processes that induce several changes in marine ecosystems, including in the benthic-pelagic coupling (BPC) that plays a major role in coastal areas. However, there is little available information about the possible effects of coastal upwellings on the trophic role of predators and in the BPC. Thus, here we investigate possible seasonal and ontogenetic changes in the trophic interaction of a demersal predator, the Brazilian flathead Percophis brasiliensis, from an upwelling ecosystem. Sampling was carried out for one year during two coastal upwelling events. Based on stomach content analysis (SCA) were recorded seasonal diet shifts, probably driven by coastal upwellings, leading to an increase in pelagic prey and changing the trophic coupling pathways. Stable isotope analysis revealed that isotopic niche decreased with the body size, as well as the values of the Levins' index. Also, significant, and positive relationships were observed between δ13C and δ15N versus total length. Our results showed that the demersal predator has a relevant trophic role in the BPC which is probably influenced by coastal upwellings.(AU)

Ressurgências são importantes processos oceanográficos que induzem diversas mudanças nos ecossistemas marinhos, inclusive no acoplamento bento-pelágico (ABP) que desempenha um papel importante nas áreas costeiras. No entanto, existem poucas informações sobre os possíveis efeitos das ressurgências costeiras no papel trófico de predadores e no ABP. Em vista disso, aqui investigamos as possíveis mudanças sazonais e ontogenéticas nas interações tróficas de um predador demersal, o tira-vira Percophis brasiliensis, em um ecossistema com ressurgência. A amostragem foi realizada ao longo de um ano durante dois eventos de ressurgências costeiras. Baseado nas análises de conteúdos estomacais (ACE) foram registradas mudanças sazonais na dieta provavelmente impulsionadas pelas ressurgências costeiras, levando a um aumento de presas pelágicas e alterando as vias de acoplamento trófico. As análises de isótopos estáveis revelaram que o nicho isotópico diminuiu com o tamanho do corpo, assim como os valores do índice de Levin. Além disso, relações significativas e positivas foram observadas entre δ13C e δ15N versus comprimento total. Nossos resultados mostraram que o predador demersal tem um papel trófico relevante no ABP que provavelmente é influenciado por ressurgências costeiras.(AU)

Resumo

This study evaluated the substitution of corn grain with white oat grain in finishing yearling bulls (initial weight of 259.4±31.7 kg and 18.0±0.2 months of age). The experimental design was completely randomized. The substitution levels of corn grain for white oat grain were 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%. Diets comprised 85% of grains + 15% of a protein-vitamin-mineral pelleted supplement. The adaptation program consisted of ad libitum feeding of five diets over the adaptation period of 14 days, with the concentration level increasing from 60 to 100% of the diet on a dry matter basis. Daily weight gain and carcass gain presented a quadratic behavior with the inclusion of white oat grain. As a result of the differences in average daily gain, the feedlot period varied among groups until the target slaughter weight was reached. Dry matter intake, nutrient intake, feed efficiency, and Kleiber ratio presented a quadratic behavior. Ingestive behavior and rumination patterns were modified by the levels of white oat grain, with longer rumination time observed with the combination of grains. A similar response was observed for the number of regurgitated and chewed bolus. Conversely, the number of chews per bolus and the chewing time per bolus increased linearly with the replacement of corn with white oat grain. Residual intake and body weight gain and the participation of heart, lung, and kidney, heart, and pelvic fat g kg−1 of empty body weight decreases linearly with the inclusion of white oat grain. The partial substitution of corn grain with white oat grain improves the productive performance and rumination patterns yearling bulls in feedlots receiving non-forage diets.(AU)

Resumo

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of snaplage on fecal characteristics, feeding behavior, and performance of finishing bulls. Seventy-two single-sourced Nellore bulls (initial body weight [BW] = 400 ± 27.4 kg; 2.4 years old) were randomly assigned to one of three treatments (three bulls/pen; eight pen replicates/treatment). Treatments consisted of finishing diets with the following sources of fiber and energy: corn silage, reconstituted corn grain silage, and dry-ground corn (control; inclusion of 22.9, 42.1, and 20.0% of dry matter (DM), respectively); snaplage (inclusion of 65% of DM) and dry-ground corn (SNAP65); and snaplage only (inclusion of 85% of DM; SNAP85). Bulls were adapted over a 15-d period and fed for a total of 86 d. Fecal samples were collected on days 42, 65, and 73. Feeding behavior was assessed on days 51 and 69. All data were analyzed as a completely randomized block design. No differences were obtained for initial BW, gain:feed ratio, hot carcass, and dressing. The SNAP85 diet had a greater intake, followed by SNAP65 and control diets (P = 0.02). There was a tendency of greater average daily gain and final BW (P = 0.07 and 0.08, respectively) for SNAP65 diet, followed by SNAP85 and control treatments. A tendency (P = 0.07) was also observed for greater ribeye area in bulls consuming SNAP65 (85 cm2), followed by control (81 cm2) and SNAP85 (80 cm2). Bulls consuming SNAP65 and SNAP85 spent more time chewing (on average, 249 min/d) than those consuming control diet (177 min/d; P = 0.01). Fecal starch was lower, and pH was greater for SNAP85 (P = 0.01 for both variables). Overall, snaplage is a suitable ingredient in high-starch diets for providing energy and physically effective neutral detergent fiber. The inclusion of 65% of snaplage and 20% of dry-ground corn (DM basis) showed a slight superior performance in Nellore bulls.(AU)

Resumo

This trial was designed to evaluate the effect of processing method of rehydrated corn grain silage (RCGS) on feed intake, performance, carcass traits, feeding behavior, rumen morphology, and blood metabolites of cattle in the finishing phase. Thirty-eight F1 Angus × Nellore bulls (365±22 kg) raised under grazing conditions were housed in individual pens (2 × 4 m) for the feeding trial. At the end of the adaptation period, animals were weighed after a 16-h fast, blocked by shrunk body weight, and randomly assigned to one of two dietary treatments: GRC, consisting of RCGS that was ground before ensiling using a hammer mill with a uniform 8-mm screen (1.52 mm geometric mean particle size); and RRC, consisting of RCGS that was rolled before ensiling in a roller mill mounted in a bagging machine (2.18 mm geometric mean particle size). Diet ingredients were mixed manually twice daily, at 09:00 and 15:00 h, and offered as total mixed rations in amounts approximately 50 g/kg in excess of daily intake. The experimental diets contained a forage:concentrate ratio of 130:870 g/kg, with 644 g/kg of RCGS. The GRC resulted in greater daily variation in dry matter intake, total-tract digestibility (dry and organic matter), fecal pH, rumen papillae width, and lower first meal duration, meal length, fecal starch, and rumen papillae height than the RRC. However, grinding or rolling RCGS did not affect dry matter intake, growth performance, carcass traits, or health (liver abscesses, ruminitis, serum D-lactate) of finishing beef cattle. Therefore, the processing equipment to make RCGS might be preferable based on equipment availability, milling yield, energy consumption, and diet composition.(AU)

Resumo

O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar o manejo nutricional elaborado para equinos atletas e éguas no Haras Princesa do Oeste, localizado no município de Crateús ­ CE. Foram avaliadas rações compostas por uma porção volumosa de Capim Elefante (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) e feno de Capim Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp.) junto ao concentrado composto de rações industriais e ração farelada ofertada para seis animais da raça Quarto-de-Milha, sendo dois cavalos e quatro éguas lactantes, compostas, com fornecimento no cocho em até seis vezes durante o dia. Para quantificar o consumo diário de proteína bruta (PB), energia digestível (ED), fibra bruta (FB), cálcio (Ca) e fósforo (P) foram coletas sobras diárias das rações. Os cavalos apresentaram consumo acima da exigência em todos os parâmetros, onde o consumo de PB, ED, Ca e P excederam, em média, 93,8%, 96,6%, 174% e 211,2%, respectivamente, oriundos da ração. Já as matrizes tiveram um déficit médio de 23,9%, 46,7% e 36,8% para os consumos de PB, Ca e P, respectivamente. Os valores de ED consumida apontaram déficit de 15,5% em relação à exigência em três matrizes. Para FB, apenas dois do total de animais do estudo atenderam a exigência recomendada 18-30%. Desta forma, há necessidade de ajuste na dieta de cavalos utilizados para trabalho leve nas propriedades através da redução do fornecimento de ração, o que pode reduzir os custos da alimentação e evitar distúrbios metabólicos nesses animais.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional management designed for equine athletes and mares at Haras Princesa do Oeste, located in the municipality of Crateús ­ CE. Feeds composed of a large portion of Elephant Grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) and Tifton 85 Grass hay (Cynodon spp.) were evaluated together with the concentrate composed of industrial feeds and mashed feed offered to six Quarter Horse animals, two horses and four lactating mares, composed, with feed in the trough up to six times during the day. To quantify the daily consumption of crude protein (CP), digestible energy (DE), crude fiber (FB), calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P), daily leftovers from the rations were collected. The horses presented consumption above the requirement in all parameters, where the consumption of CP, ED, Ca and P exceeded, on average, 93.8%, 96.6%, 174% and 211.2%, respectively, originating from portion. The sows had an average deficit of 23.9%, 46.7% and 36.8% for CP, Ca and P intakes, respectively. The values of ED consumed showed a deficit of 15.5% in relation to the requirement in three matrices. For FB, only two of the total study animals met the recommended requirement 18-30%. In this way, there is a need to adjust the diet of horses used for light work on properties by reducing the feed supply, which can reduce feed costs and avoid metabolic disorders in these animals.(AU)

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el manejo nutricional diseñado para equinos atletas y yeguas en el Haras Princesa do Oeste, ubicado en el municipio de Crateús ­ CE. Se evaluaron alimentos compuestos por una gran porción de Pasto Elefante (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) y heno de Pasto Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp.), junto con el concentrado compuesto por piensos industriales y puré ofrecidos a seis animales de la raza Cuarto de Milla, dos caballos y cuatro yeguas lactantes, compuestas, con alimento en el comedero hasta seis veces durante el día. Para cuantificar el consumo diario de proteína cruda (PB), energía digestible (ED), fibra cruda (FB), calcio (Ca) y fósforo (P), se recolectaron sobrantes diarios de las raciones. Los equinos presentaron consumos superiores al requerimiento en todos los parámetros, donde el consumo de PB, ED, Ca y P superó, en promedio, 93,8%, 96,6%, 174% y 211,2%, respectivamente, provenientes de la porción. Las cerdas tuvieron un déficit promedio de 23,9%, 46,7% y 36,8% para los aportes de PB, Ca y P, respectivamente. Los valores de DE consumidos presentaron un déficit del 15,5% con relación al requerimiento en tres matrices. Para FB, sólo dos del total de animales del estudio cumplieron con el requisito recomendado del 18-30%. Por lo tanto, existe la necesidad de ajustar la dieta de los caballos utilizados para trabajos ligeros en propiedades reduciendo el suministro de alimento, lo que puede reducir los costos de alimentación y evitar trastornos metabólicos en estos animales.(AU)

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The objective of this research was to determine the ingestive behavior, volatile fatty acids,and blood biochemical and hormonal variables of goats consuming a diet with 15% glycerin. Feed efficiency (FE) and rumination (ER) of dry matter intake (DMI) and neutral detergent fiber (NDFI) of dairy goats supplemented with glycerin(0 and 15%)were not influenced by treatments (p >0.05). The specific activities of defecation,urination and drinking had a significant effect (p <0.05) in relation to the treatmentswithglycerin in the diet of dairy goats. The occasional activities (defecation, urinating and drinking water) decreased with the additionof 15% of glycerin in the goats'diet. Lactic acid had a significant effect (p <0.001) with the additionof 15% glycerin. Diets for dairy goats with 15% glycerin did not change the consumption of dry material, neutral detergent fiber,nor did they change the ingestive behavior of these animals. The levels of globulin, protein, albumin/globulin, glucose, cholesterol, urea, triglycerides, cortisol, and T4 variables were significantly influenced (p <0.05) by the additionof glycerin in the diet.(AU)

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Abstract Astyanax lacustris is a small characid fish widely distributed in Brazil, with fast-growing and omnivorous feeding habits. Although the species presents economic and ecological importance, little is known about its parasitological fauna in stream environments. This study aimed to characterize the parasitic fauna of A. lacustris in two streams in the state of Paraná, Brazil. Fifty-two specimens of A. lacustris were collected, 22 from the Carolina stream (Lower Iguaçu River) and 30 from the Carreira stream (Upper Paraná River), in July and September 2018. In both streams, there was a low richness of parasites, and the structure of the parasitic community was predominantly composed of monogeneans. These findings may be associated with the gregarious behavior of the host species. Moreover, the low occurrence of endohelminths, may be associated with the fact that in streams, the energy flow is low, and depends directly on the input of allochthonous matter, which favors the formation of shelters for the establishment of macroinvertebrates, which represent important sources of food for the ichthyofauna, and may act as intermediate and paratenic hosts of parasites. These environments require further studies to support conservation measures aimed at maintaining the balance of ecological relationships in these preserved ecosystems.

Resumo Astyanax lacustris é um caracídeo de pequeno porte, amplamente distribuído no Brasil, com hábito alimentar onívoro e rápido crescimento. Embora a espécie tenha importância econômica, pouco se sabe sobre sua fauna parasitológica em ambientes de riacho. Este estudo objetivou caracterizar a fauna parasitária de A. lacustris em dois riachos do estado do Paraná. Foram coletados 52 exemplares de A. lacustris, sendo 22 no riacho Carolina (baixo rio Iguaçu) e 30 no riacho Carreira (alto rio Paraná), nos meses de julho e setembro de 2018. Em ambos os riachos, houve baixa riqueza de parasitos e a estrutura da comunidade parasitária foi caracterizada pela predominância de monogenéticos. Esses achados podem estar associados ao comportamento gregário da espécie hospedeira. Ademais, a baixa ocorrência de endohelmintos pode estar associada ao fato de que, nos riachos, o fluxo de energia é baixo e depende diretamente do aporte de matéria alóctone, que favorece a formação de abrigos para o estabelecimento de macroinvertebrados, os quais representam uma das principais fontes de alimento da ictiofauna, e podem atuar como hospedeiros intermediários e paratênicos de parasitos. Esses ambientes necessitam de mais estudos para subsidiar medidas de conservação que visem manter o equilíbrio das relações ecológicas nesses ecossistemas preservados.

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Assassin bugs are one of the most diverse families of cimicomorphan Heteroptera and are known from all biogeographic regions. Except for the kissing bugs (Triatominae) that are hemathophagous, reduviids show a predatory behavior and are usually study as potential biocontrollers of crop pests. In this way, Harpactorines have been specially studied as they are mostly diurnal and live on the vegetation. In this contribution, the complete life cycle of Harpactor angulosus (Lepeletier & Serville, 1825) is described and illustrated. Specimens were collected in the field in El Manantial, San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina, and were reared in laboratory to obtain all immatures (eggs and nymphs) and to observe its feeding habits, molting, mating, and oviposition. Collection specimens as well as online resources such as iNaturalist records were also studied to know the current distribution of the species. This resulted in the expansion of H. angulosus distribution in Argentina to Tucumán and Buenos Aires provinces and to the recording of the species in Ecuador, Peru and Paraguay for the first time. Our findings reveal that H. angulosus would be studied as a potential biocontroller of Agraulis sp., an important pest of maracuyá crops in several South American countries.

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Abstract The American Barn Owl (Tyto furcata) lives in urban, periurban and wild environments and feeds mainly on small rodents, meaning it has great importance in the biological control of pests. The aim of this work was to describe the reproductive, parental and eating habits of a pair of American barn owls naturally living outside a residence in the urban area of the municipality of Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. A wood box was installed on an outside wall of the home, monitored by a video camera. A spreadsheet was created to keep track of the observations recorded. The female laid four eggs, and after an incubation period of 30-32 days all the eggs hatched, but only two chicks survived after cannibalism among the chicks. Initially, the male provided the food to the chicks and the female remained in the nest caring for the brood. After approximately a month, the female also began to leave the nest and return with prey, which was offered to the chicks, with the male also continuing this behavior. The chicks left the nest in September, 2017. The data obtained show the existence of cooperation and division of tasks between male and female owls during the reproductive period.

Resumo A coruja-das-torres americana (Tyto furcata) vive em ambientes urbanos e se alimenta principalmente de pequenos roedores, sendo de grande importância no controle biológico de pragas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever os hábitos alimentares, parentais e reprodutivos de um casal de corujas-das-torres americanas, naturalmente vivendo fora de uma residência na zona urbana do município de Campos dos Goytacazes, estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Uma caixa de madeira foi instalada em uma parede externa da casa, monitorada por uma câmera de vídeo. Uma planilha foi criada para manter o controle das observações registradas. A fêmea pôs quatro ovos, e após período de incubação de 30-32 dias todos os ovos eclodiram, mas apenas dois filhotes sobreviveram após o canibalismo entre os filhotes. Inicialmente, o macho fornecia a comida aos filhotes e a fêmea permanecia no ninho cuidando da ninhada. Depois de cerca de um mês, a fêmea também começou a sair do ninho e voltar com a presa, que era oferecida aos filhotes, com o macho também continuando com esse comportamento. Os filhotes deixaram o ninho em setembro de 2017. Os dados obtidos mostram a existência de cooperação e divisão de tarefas entre corujas machos e fêmeas durante o período reprodutivo.

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Toxoplasma gondii (Nicolle & Manceaux, 1908) is a highly prevalent zoonotic protozoan parasite found globally in various bird and mammal species, including humans. Migratory birds play an important epidemiological role by facilitating the spread of pathogens, including T. gondii, to new regions. Armenia is particularly significant in this context being located at the crossroads of three global migration flyways; however, research on T. gondii infection in wild birds in this region has not been previously conducted. This study marks the first molecular detection of active T. gondii infection in the blood of wild birds, assessing the prevalence associated with the risk factors such as age, sex, migratory status, and feeding habits of birds. Research was carried out in the Megri Region of Syunik Province in 2013, 2014, and 2018 in the breeding season. The presence of parasite in 116 Passerines was determined using PCR with specific primers derived from the RE gene with mean prevalence of T. gondii in 12%. The highest infection rates were observed in Upcher's Warbler, Hippolais languida (Hemprich & Ehrenberg, 1833), at 36% (4 out of 11), Eastern Black-eared Wheatear, Oenanthe melanoleuca (Guldenstadt, 1775), at 33% (2 out of 6), and Eastern Orphean Warbler, Curruca crassirostris (Bates, 1936), at 19% (5 out of 27). Long-distance migrants exhibited a higher frequency of T. gondii occurrence compared to resident birds (χ2 = 7.11, DF = 2, p = 0.029). The infection rates did not show a dependence on the sex or age of the birds. The relationship between infection and feeding behavior in local toxoplasmosis distribution remains unclear, necessitating further research with new methodologies, additional animal species, broader geographic coverage, and larger sample sizes.

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Astyanax lacustris is a small characid fish widely distributed in Brazil, with fast-growing and omnivorous feeding habits. Although the species presents economic and ecological importance, little is known about its parasitological fauna in stream environments. This study aimed to characterize the parasitic fauna of A. lacustris in two streams in the state of Paraná, Brazil. Fifty-two specimens of A. lacustris were collected, 22 from the Carolina stream (Lower Iguaçu River) and 30 from the Carreira stream (Upper Paraná River), in July and September 2018. In both streams, there was a low richness of parasites, and the structure of the parasitic community was predominantly composed of monogeneans. These findings may be associated with the gregarious behavior of the host species. Moreover, the low occurrence of endohelminths, may be associated with the fact that in streams, the energy flow is low, and depends directly on the input of allochthonous matter, which favors the formation of shelters for the establishment of macroinvertebrates, which represent important sources of food for the ichthyofauna, and may act as intermediate and paratenic hosts of parasites. These environments require further studies to support conservation measures aimed at maintaining the balance of ecological relationships in these preserved ecosystems.(AU)

Astyanax lacustris é um caracídeo de pequeno porte, amplamente distribuído no Brasil, com hábito alimentar onívoro e rápido crescimento. Embora a espécie tenha importância econômica, pouco se sabe sobre sua fauna parasitológica em ambientes de riacho. Este estudo objetivou caracterizar a fauna parasitária de A. lacustris em dois riachos do estado do Paraná. Foram coletados 52 exemplares de A. lacustris, sendo 22 no riacho Carolina (baixo rio Iguaçu) e 30 no riacho Carreira (alto rio Paraná), nos meses de julho e setembro de 2018. Em ambos os riachos, houve baixa riqueza de parasitos e a estrutura da comunidade parasitária foi caracterizada pela predominância de monogenéticos. Esses achados podem estar associados ao comportamento gregário da espécie hospedeira. Ademais, a baixa ocorrência de endohelmintos pode estar associada ao fato de que, nos riachos, o fluxo de energia é baixo e depende diretamente do aporte de matéria alóctone, que favorece a formação de abrigos para o estabelecimento de macroinvertebrados, os quais representam uma das principais fontes de alimento da ictiofauna, e podem atuar como hospedeiros intermediários e paratênicos de parasitos. Esses ambientes necessitam de mais estudos para subsidiar medidas de conservação que visem manter o equilíbrio das relações ecológicas nesses ecossistemas preservados.(AU)

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The present study aimed to investigate the effect of milk liquid and powder supplements on piglets' performance, drinking behavior, and sow back-fat thickness change during the lactation period. There were four experimental groups (n = 24), and in the control group (n = 6), the piglets were suckled from the sow. For the supplemental groups (n = 18), milk powder (MP), milk liquid by feeding trough (MLFT), and milk liquid feeding by the bucket (MLFB). Data were collected with the weight of a total of 252 piglets measured at birth, at 14 days and at weaning (28 days), respectively. Sow back-fat thickness was measured 3 days before farrowing, 14 days after farrowing and at weaning. There were significant differences in average daily weight gain between day 14 and weaning age for the MP and MLFT (P < 0.05) but not in MLFB (P > 0.05). For approaches to the feeder, there were significantly higher in MP and MLFT groups (P < 0.05). Based on the examination of sow back-fat thickness, the back-fat loss was minimal (P < 0.05) in the MP and MLFT compared to the MLFB and the control. Giving the milk supplement as powder and liquid by feeding trough has increased the piglets' average daily gain and body weight on day 14th and the weaning day. Moreover, the back-fat thickness reduction of sows in the supplemental groups is lower compared to the control group.