New species of Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitizing the urinary bladder of a freshwater turtle in Brazil / Nova espécie de Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitando a bexiga urinária de uma tartaruga de água doce no Brasil

Trachemys dorbigni is the most abundant freshwater turtle species in Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Chelonians are known to host a wide variety of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, hemoparasites and helminths. Among these, nine genera of polystomatid flatworms (Monogenoidea; Polystomatidae) infect freshwater turtles: Apaloneotrema, Aussietrema, Fornixtrema, Manotrema, Pleurodirotrema, Polystomoidella, Polystomoides, Uropolystomoides and Uteropolystomoides. However, little is known about the biology of these parasites in the Neotropical Realm. Through investigative cystoscopy, specimens of Polystomatidae were located inside the urinary bladder of the host T. dorbigni. Retrieved specimens were fixed and stained whole mounts prepared for taxonomic identification. In the present paper, a new species of Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitizing the urinary bladder of a freshwater turtle of the species T. dorbigni in Brazil is described. Polystomoides santamariensis n. sp. differs from the congeneric species on the length of the genital spines, which are longer. Given the enormous diversity of freshwater turtles around the world, it is likely that a large number of chelonian polystomatids are still unknown.(AU)

Trachemys dorbigni é a espécie de tartaruga de água doce mais abundante do Rio Grande do Sul, no Sul do Brasil. Sabe-se que os quelônios são hospedeiros de uma grande variedade de patógenos, incluindo vírus, bactérias, hemoparasitos e helmintos. Dentre estes, oito gêneros de Polystomatidae (Platyhelminthes: Monogenoidea) infectam tartarugas de água doce: Apaloneotrema, Aussietrema, Fornixtrema, Manotrema, Pleurodirotrema, Polystomoidella, Polystomoides, Uropolystomoides e Uteropolystomoides. No entanto, pouco ainda se sabe sobre a biologia destes parasitos na Região Neotropical. Durante uma citoscopia investigativa, foram observados espécimes de Polystomatidae localizados no interior da bexiga urinária de T. dorbigni. Os espécimes coletados foram fixados e corados para identificação taxonômica. No presente artigo, uma nova espécie de Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitando a bexiga urinária de tartaruga de água doce da espécie T. dorbigni no Brasil é descrita. Polystomoides santamariensis n. sp. difere das demais espécies no tamanho dos espinhos genitais, que são maiores. Devido a enorme diversidade de tartarugas de água doce ao redor do mundo, é provável que um grande número de polistomatídeos de quelônios ainda seja desconhecido.(AU)

Geographic range, distribution patterns and interactions of Monogenea Van Beneden 1858, with species of native host freshwater fishes from Brazil / Distribuição geográfica, padrões de distribuição e interações de Monogenea Van Beneden 1858, com espécies de peixes hospedeiros nativos de água doce do Brasil

Abstract This paper investigated information on monogenean species using 312 scientific papers, to search for infection and geographic distribution patterns in native freshwater fish from Brazil. We used 1,698 samples of 296 fish species of 28 families distributed into Characiformes, Siluriformes, Cichliformes, Gymnotiformes, Perciformes, Mugiliformes, Osteoglossiformes and Clupeiformes, in addition to four hybrid fish. Among the hosts of the different orders and families, the greatest numbers of parasite-host associations were found for species of the families Serrasalmidae, Characidae, Loricariidae, Curimatidae and Anostomidae. The 578 species of monogeneans used in parasite-host interactions were distributed in 86 genera of six five families (Dactylogyridae, Gyrodactylidae, Diplectanidae, Microcotylidae, Ancylodiscoididae and Ancyrocephalidae), but with great predominance of Dactylogyridae species. There was variation in prevalence, intensity and abundance levels of monogeneans species among host fish species, as well as in infection sites that occurred predominantly in external organs. Positive correlations of prevalence, intensity and abundance with body length of hosts were observed. There was geographic distribution pattern of monogeneans limited mostly to two hydrographic basins those being the Amazon River and Paraná River. Just approximately 6% of potential monogeneans have been explored thus far, showing a clear need for further studies on this interesting group of parasites.

Resumo Este estudo investigou informações sobre espécies de monogenéticos, usando 312 artigos científicos para buscar padrões de infecção e distribuição geográfica em peixes nativos de água doce do Brasil. Foram utilizadas 1.698 amostras de 296 espécies de peixes de 28 famílias, distribuídas em Characiformes, Siluriformes, Cichliformes, Gymnotiformes, Perciformes, Mugiliformes, Osteoglossiformes e Clupeiformes, além de quatro peixes híbridos. Entre os hospedeiros das diferentes ordens e famílias, os maiores números de associações parasito-hospedeiro foram encontrados para espécies das famílias Serrasalmidae, Characidae, Loricariidae, Curimatidae e Anostomidae. As 578 espécies de monogenéticos, utilizadas nas interações parasito-hospedeiro, foram distribuídas em 86 gêneros de seis famílias (Dactylogyridae, Gyrodactylidae, Diplectanidae, Microcotylidae, Ancylodiscoididae e Ancyrocephalidae), mas com grande predominância de espécie de Dactylogyridae. Houve variação nos níveis de prevalência, intensidade e abundância das espécies de monogenéticos entre as espécies de peixes hospedeiros, bem como nos locais de infecção que ocorreram predominantemente em órgãos externos. Correlações positivas de prevalência, intensidade e abundância com o comprimento corporal dos hospedeiros foram observadas. Houve padrão de distribuição geográfica dos monogenéticos limitados principalmente a duas bacias hidrográficas, sendo elas o Rio Amazonas e Rio Paraná. Apenas aproximadamente 6% dos potenciais monogenéticos são conhecidos até agora, mostrando uma clara necessidade de mais estudos sobre esse interessante grupo de parasitos.

The occurrence of rhizobacteria from Paspalum genotypes and their effects on plant growth

ABSTRACT This work aimed to isolate and characterize plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from 10 Paspalum genotypes and evaluate the effect of their inoculation on P. regnellii, P. atratum, and P. malacophyllum genotypes. The bacterial population ranged from undetectable to 107 bacterial cells per gram of fresh matter in the Paspalum genotypes. Initially, we isolated 164 bacteria from rhizospheric soil and roots of the Paspalum genotypes using media N-free LG agar plate, semi-solid NFb, and LGI. The isolates were characterized genetically and physiologically. The sequencing of 16S rRNA showed the presence of many genera, and some are new in association with Paspalum. The most common was Bacillus followed by Rhizobium, Paraburkholderia, Enterobacter, Cupriavidus, Pseudomonas, Dyadobacter and Acinetobacter. Thirty-eight per cent of isolates produced siderophores, 25 % produced solubilized phosphate, and only 9 % produced indolic compounds. Three greenhouse experiments were performed in randomized blocks with six replicates using representative bacterial strains isolated from P. regnellii, P. malacophyllum and P. atratum cv. Pojuca. We also included strain Sp245 (Azospirillum baldaniorum), uninoculated control, and nitrogen control (150 kg N ha1). There was an increase of up to 53 % in shoot dry matter in P. regnellii inoculated with strain Sp245 and the shoots accumulated more N. In contrast, only small effects were observed for the other Paspalum genotypes inoculated with PGPR from the host genotypes. This study shows a high diversity of diazotrophic rhizosphere bacteria and suggests no strain specificity between the bacterial isolates and the Paspalum genotypes.

The occurrence of rhizobacteria from Paspalum genotypes and their effects on plant growth

This work aimed to isolate and characterize plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from 10 Paspalum genotypes and evaluate the effect of their inoculation on P. regnellii, P. atratum, and P. malacophyllum genotypes. The bacterial population ranged from undetectable to 107 bacterial cells per gram of fresh matter in the Paspalum genotypes. Initially, we isolated 164 bacteria from rhizospheric soil and roots of the Paspalum genotypes using media N-free LG agar plate, semi-solid NFb, and LGI. The isolates were characterized genetically and physiologically. The sequencing of 16S rRNA showed the presence of many genera, and some are new in association with Paspalum. The most common was Bacillus followed by Rhizobium, Paraburkholderia, Enterobacter, Cupriavidus, Pseudomonas, Dyadobacter and Acinetobacter. Thirty-eight per cent of isolates produced siderophores, 25 % produced solubilized phosphate, and only 9 % produced indolic compounds. Three greenhouse experiments were performed in randomized blocks with six replicates using representative bacterial strains isolated from P. regnellii, P. malacophyllum and P. atratum cv. Pojuca. We also included strain Sp245 (Azospirillum baldaniorum), uninoculated control, and nitrogen control (150 kg N ha−1). There was an increase of up to 53 % in shoot dry matter in P. regnellii inoculated with strain Sp245 and the shoots accumulated more N. In contrast, only small effects were observed for the other Paspalum genotypes inoculated with PGPR from the host genotypes. This study shows a high diversity of diazotrophic rhizosphere bacteria and suggests no strain specificity between the bacterial isolates and the Paspalum genotypes.

The occurrence of rhizobacteria from Paspalum genotypes and their effects on plant growth

This work aimed to isolate and characterize plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from 10 Paspalum genotypes and evaluate the effect of their inoculation on P. regnellii, P. atratum, and P. malacophyllum genotypes. The bacterial population ranged from undetectable to 107 bacterial cells per gram of fresh matter in the Paspalum genotypes. Initially, we isolated 164 bacteria from rhizospheric soil and roots of the Paspalum genotypes using media N-free LG agar plate, semi-solid NFb, and LGI. The isolates were characterized genetically and physiologically. The sequencing of 16S rRNA showed the presence of many genera, and some are new in association with Paspalum. The most common was Bacillus followed by Rhizobium, Paraburkholderia, Enterobacter, Cupriavidus, Pseudomonas, Dyadobacter and Acinetobacter. Thirty-eight per cent of isolates produced siderophores, 25 % produced solubilized phosphate, and only 9 % produced indolic compounds. Three greenhouse experiments were performed in randomized blocks with six replicates using representative bacterial strains isolated from P. regnellii, P. malacophyllum and P. atratum cv. Pojuca. We also included strain Sp245 (Azospirillum baldaniorum), uninoculated control, and nitrogen control (150 kg N ha–1). There was an increase of up to 53 % in shoot dry matter in P. regnellii inoculated with strain Sp245 and the shoots accumulated more N. In contrast, only small effects were observed for the other Paspalum genotypes inoculated with PGPR from the host genotypes. This study shows a high diversity of diazotrophic rhizosphere bacteria and suggests no strain specificity between the bacterial isolates and the Paspalum genotypes.

First characterization of a taxonomically well-resolved trophic network composed by host plants and gall midges (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) in the Neotropical region

Abstract In the present study we described the structure of a trophic network composed by gall-midge species (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) and their host plants in the Restinga of Barra de Maricá (Maricá, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). Species data were retrieved from literature and different topological descriptors (links per species, connectance, and modularity of interactions) were used. All gall-midge species were monophages, with connectance of 2.8% of the 2,016 possible interactions. The network of host plants and gall midges had low number of links per species and high modularity, which indicates high specificity and specialization of plant-galling interactions in the area. This is the first characterization of a trophic network with good taxonomic resolution for the Neotropical gall midges.

First characterization of a taxonomically well-resolved trophic network composed by host plants and gall midges (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) in the Neotropical region

Abstract In the present study we described the structure of a trophic network composed by gall-midge species (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) and their host plants in the Restinga of Barra de Maricá (Maricá, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). Species data were retrieved from literature and different topological descriptors (links per species, connectance, and modularity of interactions) were used. All gall-midge species were monophages, with connectance of 2.8% of the 2,016 possible interactions. The network of host plants and gall midges had low number of links per species and high modularity, which indicates high specificity and specialization of plant-galling interactions in the area. This is the first characterization of a trophic network with good taxonomic resolution for the Neotropical gall midges.

First characterization of a taxonomically well resolved trophic network composed by host plants and gall midges (Diptera Cecidomyiidae) in the Neotropical region

In the present study we described the structure of a trophic network composed by gall-midge species (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) and their host plants in the Restinga of Barra de Maricá (Maricá, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). Species data were retrieved from literature and different topological descriptors (links per species, connectance, and modularity of interactions) were used. All gall-midge species were monophages, with connectance of 2.8% of the 2,016 possible interactions. The network of host plants and gall midges had low number of links per species and high modularity, which indicates high specificity and specialization of plant-galling interactions in the area. This is the first characterization of a trophic network with good taxonomic resolution for the Neotropical gall midges.(AU)

A new species of aphid of the genus Nipponaphis (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Hormaphidinae) from China, inducing galls on the trunk of a witch-hazel (Hamamelidaceae)

Plants and insects have co-existed for millions of years. Although research has been conducted on various insect species that induce galls on various plant tissues, information is particularly scarce when it comes to insects that form galls on the tough trunk of their host plants. This contribution describes the gall-inducing aphid Nipponaphis hubeiensis sp. nov. from the Zhushan County, Shiyan City, Hubei Province of China. This aphid induces enclosed galls with woody external layer on the trunk of Sycopsis sinensis (Saxifragales: Hamamelidaceae), an uncommon ecological niche in the aphid-plant interaction system. Morphological features for the identification of new species are provided. In addition, a partial sequence of the nuclear gene EF1α was amplified and sequenced to construct a cluster graph. Based on the clustering graph combined with morphology traits, the gall-forming aphid was classified into Nipponaphis. The unique ecological habits of this new aphid will bring innovative perspectives to the study of the evolution and diversity in aphid-host interaction.(AU)

First record of Bulimulus tenuissimus (Mollusca) as potential experimental intermediate host of Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda) / Primeiro registro de Bulimulus tenuissimus (Mollusca) como hospedeiro intermediário de Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda)

Snails are essential to complete the life cycle of the metastrongylid nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the causative agent of infections in domestic and wild animals, mainly rodents, and also of neural angiostrongyliasis or eosinophilic meningitis in humans. There are many reports of mollusks that can act as intermediate hosts of this parasite, especially freshwater snails and the African giant Achatina fulica. The terrestrial gastropod Bulimulus tenuissimus is widely distributed in Brazil and other species of the same genus occur in Brazil and other countries, overlapping regions in which there are reports of the occurrence of A. cantonensis and angiostrongyliasis. In spite of this, there are no records in the literature of this species performing the role of intermediate host to A. cantonensis. The present study analyzed the experimental infection with first-stage larvae of A. cantonensis, under laboratory conditions, of B. tenuissimus, by using histology and electron microscopy techniques. Three weeks after exposure to L1 larvae, it was possible to recover L3 larvae in small numbers from the infected snails. Developing larvae were observed in the cephalopedal mass (foot), ovotestis, and mantle tissues, being located inside a granulomatous structure composed of hemocyte infiltration, but there was no calcium or collagen deposition in these structures in significant amounts. In the third week post exposure, it was possible observe a sheath around the developing larvae. The infected snails presented reduction in the fibrous muscular tissue in the foot region, loss of the acinar organization in the digestive gland, with increase of amorphous material inside the acini and loss of epithelial pattern of nuclear organization in the acinar cells. However, the ovotestis seemed unaffected by the infection, since there was a large number of developing oocytes and spermatozoa in different stages of formation. The digestion of infected snails allows us the third-stage recovery rate of 17.25%, at 14 days post exposure to the L1. These L3 recovered from B. tenuissimus were used to infect rats experimentally, and 43 days post infection first-stage (L1) larvae of A. cantonensis were recovered from fresh feces. The results presented constituted the first report of the role of B. tenuissimus as an experimental intermediate host to A. cantonensis and shed some light on a possible problem, since the overlapping distribution of B. tenuissimus and A. cantonensis in Brazil and other countries where different species of Bulimulus occur enables the establishment and maintenance of the life cycle of this parasite in nature, with wild rodents as reservoirs, acting as a source of infection to humans, causing neural angiostrongyliasis(AU).

Os moluscos são um requisito essencial para a conclusão do ciclo de vida pelo nematoide metastrogilídeo Angiostrongylus cantonensis, o agente causador de infecções em animais domésticos e selvagens, principalmente roedores, e também de angiostrongilíase neural ou meningite eosinofílica em humanos. Há muitos relatos de moluscos que podem atuar como hospedeiro para este parasito, sendo o foco dado aos moluscos de água doce e no gigante africano Achatina fulica. O gastrópode terrestre Bulimulus tenuissimus é amplamente distribuído no território brasileiro e há outras espécies do mesmo gênero que ocorrem no Brasil e outros países, sobrepondo-se às regiões em que há relatos à ocorrência de A. cantonensis e angiostornigilíase. Apesar disso, não há registro na literatura, acerca desta espécie como hospedeiro intermediário para A. cantonensis. O presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar a possibilidade de infectar experimentalmente, utilizando larvas L1 de A. cantonensis, em condições laboratoriais, o molusco B. tenuissimus, utilizando técnicas de histologia e microscopia eletrônica. Três semanas após a exposição às larvas L1, foi possível recuperar larvas L3 dos moluscos infectados, em pequena quantidade. As larvas em desenvolvimento foram observadas na massa cefalopediosa (pé), ovotestis e nos tecidos do manto, sendo localizadas dentro de uma estrutura granulomatosa constituída por infiltração hemocitária, mas não houve deposição de cálcio ou colágeno nessas estruturas em quantidade significativa. Na terceira semana pós exposição, foi possível observar uma bainha ao redor das larvas em desenvolvimento. Os caracóis infectados apresentaram redução no tecido muscular fibroso na região do pé, perda da organização acinar na glândula digestiva, com aumento de material amorfo dentro dos ácinos e perda do padrão epitelial da organização nuclear nas células acinares. No entanto, o ovotestis, pareceu não ser afetado pela infecção, uma vez que houve um grande número de oócitos em desenvolvimento e espermatozóides em diferentes estágios de formação. A digestão dos moluscos infectados nos permitiu a recuperação de larvas de terceiro estágio (17,25%), aos 14 dias após a exposição à L1 de A. cantonensis . Estas L3 recuperadas de B. tenuissimus foram utilizados para infectar ratos experimentalmente, e 43 dias após a infecção, as larvas do primeiro estágio (L1) foram recuperadas de fezes frescas. Os resultados apresentados representam o primeiro registro do papel de B. tenuissimus como hospedeiro intermediário experimental de A. cantonensis e trazem alguma luz a um problema, até então silencioso, uma vez que a sobreposição da distribuição de B. tenuissimus e A. cantonensis no Brasil, e outros países, onde as diferentes espécies de Bulimulus ocorrem, torna possível o estabelecimento e manutenção do ciclo de vida deste parasito na natureza, com roedores selvagens como reservatório, agindo como fonte de infecção para humanos e causando a angiostrongilíase neural.(AU)

Moscas ectoparasitas (Diptera, Streblidae) de morcegos (Mammalia, Chiroptera) em um remanescente periurbano de Cerrado: composição da comunidade, prevalência, intensidade de infestação e especificidade

ABSTRACT Streblidae flies are found exclusively on bats and are distributed throughout the world, with a high richness of flies and host in Brazil. However, knowledge about the ecological aspects of these relationships is limited to descriptions of the associations. The aim of this work was to characterize the community of ectoparasites flies and their possible association patterns in a peri-urban area of Cerrado. Bats were captured between February and July 2011, with a sample effort of 9 504 h.m2. Ectoparasites were collected and identified. The parasite-host relationship was determined using index such as prevalence, average infestation intensity, and specificity. We captured 161 bats of seven species, with 29.81% (n = 48) that were infested. We found 83 flies of six species of Streblidae, with two accidental associations and eight non-accidental associations. The highest prevalence and intensity of infestation were found for the association between Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) and Trichobius joblingi Wenzel, 1966. Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) also presented high prevalence rates, while Artibeus lituratus (Olfers, 1818) and Sturnira lilium (E. Geoffroy, 1810) had low infestation prevalence. Four species of Streblidae were considered monoxenic and two oligoxenic, which is indicated by the analysis of specificity, which demonstrates the predominance of monoxenic species already reported in other works.

RESUMO Moscas Streblidae ocorrem exclusivamente em morcegos e estão mundialmente distribuídas, com uma alta riqueza de moscas e hospedeiros no Brasil. Entretanto, o conhecimento dos aspectos ecológicos dessa relação é limitado à descrição das associações. O objetivo nesse trabalho foi caracterizar a comunidade de moscas ectoparasitas e de seus possíveis padrões de associação em uma área periurbana de Cerrado. Os morcegos foram capturados entre fevereiro e julho de 2011, com um esforço amostral de 9.504 h.m2. Os ectoparasitas foram coletados e identificados. A relação parasito-hospedeiro foi determinada usando índices como prevalência, intensidade média de infestação e especificidade. Capturamos 161 morcegos de sete espécies, dos quais 29,81% (n = 48) apresentaram-se infestados. Encontramos 83 moscas de seis espécies de Streblidae, com duas associações acidentais e oito associações não acidentais. A maior prevalência e intensidade de infestação foram verificadas na associação entre Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) e Trichobius joblingi Wenzel, 1966. Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) também apresentou elevadas taxas de prevalência, enquanto Artibeus lituratus (Olfers, 1818) e Sturnira lilium (E, Geoffroy, 1810) revelaram baixas prevalências de infestação. Quatro espécies de Streblidae foram consideradas monoxênicas e duas oligoxênicas, o que é indicado pela análise de especificidade, o que demonstra o predomínio de espécies monoxênicas já relatado em outros trabalhos.

The flower flies and the unknown diversity of Drosophilidae (Diptera): a biodiversity inventory in the Brazilian fauna

Diptera is a megadiverse order, reaching its peak of diversity in Neotropics, although our knowledge of dipteran fauna from this region is grossly lacking. This applies even to the most studied families, such as Drosophilidae. Despite its prominence, most aspects of the biology of these insects are still poorly understood, especially those linked to natural communities. Field studies on drosophilids are highly biased towards fruit-breeding species. Flower-breeding drosophilids, however, are worldwide distributed, especially in tropical regions, although being mostly neglected. The present paper shows the results of a biodiversity inventory of flower-breeding drosophilids carried out in several localities in Brazil, based on samples of 125 plant species, from 47 families. Drosophilids were found in flowers of 56 plant species, from 18 families. The fauna discovered turned out to be mostly unknown, comprising 28 species, with 12 of them (> 40%) still undescribed. Not taking into account opportunistic species, two-thirds of the flower-exclusive diversity was undescribed. The Drosophila bromeliae species group was the most representative taxon, with eight species (six undescribed), including four polyphagous and four Solanum-specialized species. This specialization on Solanum is reported for the first time for Drosophilidae. Other taxa of restricted flower-breeding drosophilids were the Drosophila lutzii species group and two species of the genus Zygothrica Wiedemann. Some specimens of the genera Cladochaeta Coquillett, Rhinoleucophenga Hendel and Scaptomyza Hardy were found, but their relations to flowers are unclear. Additionally, ten species of broad niche were found using flowers opportunistically. Localities and host plants were recorded for all species collected.

The flower flies and the unknown diversity of Drosophilidae (Diptera): a biodiversity inventory in the Brazilian fauna

Diptera is a megadiverse order, reaching its peak of diversity in Neotropics, although our knowledge of dipteran fauna from this region is grossly lacking. This applies even to the most studied families, such as Drosophilidae. Despite its prominence, most aspects of the biology of these insects are still poorly understood, especially those linked to natural communities. Field studies on drosophilids are highly biased towards fruit-breeding species. Flower-breeding drosophilids, however, are worldwide distributed, especially in tropical regions, although being mostly neglected. The present paper shows the results of a biodiversity inventory of flower-breeding drosophilids carried out in several localities in Brazil, based on samples of 125 plant species, from 47 families. Drosophilids were found in flowers of 56 plant species, from 18 families. The fauna discovered turned out to be mostly unknown, comprising 28 species, with 12 of them (> 40%) still undescribed. Not taking into account opportunistic species, two-thirds of the flower-exclusive diversity was undescribed. The Drosophila bromeliae species group was the most representative taxon, with eight species (six undescribed), including four polyphagous and four Solanum-specialized species. This specialization on Solanum is reported for the first time for Drosophilidae. Other taxa of restricted flower-breeding drosophilids were the Drosophila lutzii species group and two species of the genus Zygothrica Wiedemann. Some specimens of the genera Cladochaeta Coquillett, Rhinoleucophenga Hendel and Scaptomyza Hardy were found, but their relations to flowers are unclear. Additionally, ten species of broad niche were found using flowers opportunistically. Localities and host plants were recorded for all species collected.(AU)

Moscas ectoparasitas (Diptera, Streblidae) de morcegos (Mammalia, Chiroptera) em um remanescente periurbano de Cerrado: composição da comunidade, prevalência, intensidade de infestação e especificidade / Ectoparasitic flies (Diptera, Streblidae) of bats (Mammalia, Chiroptera) in a periurban remnant of Cerrado: community composition, prevalence, infestation intensity and specificity

Streblidae flies are found exclusively on bats and are distributed throughout the world, with a high richness of flies and host in Brazil. However, knowledge about the ecological aspects of these relationships is limited to descriptions of the associations. The aim of this work was to characterize the community of ectoparasites flies and their possible association patterns in a peri-urban area of Cerrado. Bats were captured between February and July 2011, with a sample effort of 9 504 h.m2. Ectoparasites were collected and identified. The parasite-host relationship was determined using index such as prevalence, average infestation intensity, and specificity. We captured 161 bats of seven species, with 29.81% (n = 48) that were infested. We found 83 flies of six species of Streblidae, with two accidental associations and eight non-accidental associations. The highest prevalence and intensity of infestation were found for the association between Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) and Trichobius joblingi Wenzel, 1966. Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) also presented high prevalence rates, while Artibeus lituratus (Olfers, 1818) and Sturnira lilium (E. Geoffroy, 1810) had low infestation prevalence. Four species of Streblidae were considered monoxenic and two oligoxenic, which is indicated by the analysis of specificity, which demonstrates the predominance of monoxenic species already reported in other works.(AU)

Moscas Streblidae ocorrem exclusivamente em morcegos e estão mundialmente distribuídas, com uma alta riqueza de moscas e hospedeiros no Brasil. Entretanto, o conhecimento dos aspectos ecológicos dessa relação é limitado à descrição das associações. O objetivo nesse trabalho foi caracterizar a comunidade de moscas ectoparasitas e de seus possíveis padrões de associação em uma área periurbana de Cerrado. Os morcegos foram capturados entre fevereiro e julho de 2011, com um esforço amostral de 9.504 h.m2. Os ectoparasitas foram coletados e identificados. A relação parasito-hospedeiro foi determinada usando índices como prevalência, intensidade média de infestação e especificidade. Capturamos 161 morcegos de sete espécies, dos quais 29,81% (n = 48) apresentaram-se infestados. Encontramos 83 moscas de seis espécies de Streblidae, com duas associações acidentais e oito associações não acidentais. A maior prevalência e intensidade de infestação foram verificadas na associação entre Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) e Trichobius joblingi Wenzel, 1966. Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) também apresentou elevadas taxas de prevalência, enquanto Artibeus lituratus (Olfers, 1818) e Sturnira lilium (E, Geoffroy, 1810) revelaram baixas prevalências de infestação. Quatro espécies de Streblidae foram consideradas monoxênicas e duas oligoxênicas, o que é indicado pela análise de especificidade, o que demonstra o predomínio de espécies monoxênicas já relatado em outros trabalhos.(AU)

Moscas ectoparasitas (Diptera, Streblidae) de morcegos (Mammalia, Chiroptera) em um remanescente periurbano de Cerrado: composição da comunidade, prevalência, intensidade de infestação e especificidade / Ectoparasitic flies (Diptera, Streblidae) of bats (Mammalia, Chiroptera) in a periurban remnant of Cerrado: community composition, prevalence, infestation intensity and specificity

Streblidae flies are found exclusively on bats and are distributed throughout the world, with a high richness of flies and host in Brazil. However, knowledge about the ecological aspects of these relationships is limited to descriptions of the associations. The aim of this work was to characterize the community of ectoparasites flies and their possible association patterns in a peri-urban area of Cerrado. Bats were captured between February and July 2011, with a sample effort of 9 504 h.m2. Ectoparasites were collected and identified. The parasite-host relationship was determined using index such as prevalence, average infestation intensity, and specificity. We captured 161 bats of seven species, with 29.81% (n = 48) that were infested. We found 83 flies of six species of Streblidae, with two accidental associations and eight non-accidental associations. The highest prevalence and intensity of infestation were found for the association between Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) and Trichobius joblingi Wenzel, 1966. Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) also presented high prevalence rates, while Artibeus lituratus (Olfers, 1818) and Sturnira lilium (E. Geoffroy, 1810) had low infestation prevalence. Four species of Streblidae were considered monoxenic and two oligoxenic, which is indicated by the analysis of specificity, which demonstrates the predominance of monoxenic species already reported in other works.

Moscas Streblidae ocorrem exclusivamente em morcegos e estão mundialmente distribuídas, com uma alta riqueza de moscas e hospedeiros no Brasil. Entretanto, o conhecimento dos aspectos ecológicos dessa relação é limitado à descrição das associações. O objetivo nesse trabalho foi caracterizar a comunidade de moscas ectoparasitas e de seus possíveis padrões de associação em uma área periurbana de Cerrado. Os morcegos foram capturados entre fevereiro e julho de 2011, com um esforço amostral de 9.504 h.m2. Os ectoparasitas foram coletados e identificados. A relação parasito-hospedeiro foi determinada usando índices como prevalência, intensidade média de infestação e especificidade. Capturamos 161 morcegos de sete espécies, dos quais 29,81% (n = 48) apresentaram-se infestados. Encontramos 83 moscas de seis espécies de Streblidae, com duas associações acidentais e oito associações não acidentais. A maior prevalência e intensidade de infestação foram verificadas na associação entre Carollia perspicillata (Linnaeus, 1758) e Trichobius joblingi Wenzel, 1966. Artibeus planirostris (Spix, 1823) também apresentou elevadas taxas de prevalência, enquanto Artibeus lituratus (Olfers, 1818) e Sturnira lilium (E, Geoffroy, 1810) revelaram baixas prevalências de infestação. Quatro espécies de Streblidae foram consideradas monoxênicas e duas oligoxênicas, o que é indicado pela análise de especificidade, o que demonstra o predomínio de espécies monoxênicas já relatado em outros trabalhos.

Amblyomma scalpturatum Neumann, 1906 (Acari: Ixodidae): confirmation in Acre State, Brazil, and description of parasitism in a human / Amblyomma scalpturatum Neumann, 1906 (Acari: Ixodidae): confirmação no Estado do Acre, Brasil, e descrição de parasitismo em um humano

Amblyomma scalpturatum is a tick species that is unique to South America. It is commonly associated with the Amazon biome and has been reported in some Brazilian states. This tick species exhibits host specificity: it parasitizes tapirs and suidae. Its role in transmitting pathogens to humans is still unknown. Amblyomma scalpturatum is known to be a human-biting tick; however, there is only one report showing that humans make suitable hosts for this species. The knowledge of tick fauna is lacking in the Acre State. This study collected free-living ticks with the aim of finding new records in Acre State. Collections were carried out in Amazon forest fragments in Rio Branco municipality. An A. scalpturatum specimen was identified and submitted sequencing of the ITS-2 gene. This study presents the first molecular confirmation of A. scalpturatum collected in situ in Acre State, North Region, Brazil. This study also presents the first record of a successfully completed feeding by an A. scalpturatum nymph on a human host in the North region of Brazil. Further investigation is needed to ascertain the complete life cycle of this tick species, its seasonality in the environment, and its relationship to pathogens and competence to transmit them.(AU)

Amblyomma scalpturatum é uma espécie de carrapato que ocorre apenas na América do Sul. Está comumente associada ao bioma da Amazônia e tem sido relatada em alguns estados brasileiros. Esta espécie de carrapato apresenta especificidade a hospedeiros: parasita antas e suídeos. Sua competência em transmitir agentes patogênicos a seres humanos é ainda desconhecida. Amblyomma scalpturatum é também conhecido por picar seres humanos; entretanto, há apenas um relato que evidencie que seres humanos sejam capazes de serem hospedeiros adequados. Ainda existem lacunas no conhecimento sobre a ixodofauna no estado do Acre. Neste estudo foram coletados carrapatos de vida livre com o objetivo de encontrar novos registros para o estado do Acre. Coletas de carrapatos foram realizadas em fragmentos de floresta Amazônica no município de Rio Branco. Um exemplar de A. scalpturatum foi identificado e submetido a sequenciamento do gene ITS-2. Este estudo apresenta a primeira confirmação molecular de A. scalpturatum coletado in situ no estado do Acre, região Norte, Brasil. Este estudo também apresenta o primeiro relato de parasitismo completo de uma ninfa de A. scalpturatum em um hospedeiro humano na região Norte do Brasil. Mais investigações são necessárias para elucidar o ciclo de vida completo dessa espécie de carrapato, a sazonalidade de seus estádios no meio ambiente, sua relação a agentes patogênicos e competência em transmiti-los.(AU)

Dolops carvalhoi as a vector of Epistylis sp. between cultivated and wild specimens of Oreochromis niloticus in Brazil / Dolops carvalhoi como vetor de Epistylis sp. entre espécimes cultivados e silvestres de Oreochromis niloticus no Brasil

Epistyliasis has been characterized as an emergent disease which has a great impact on fish farms, especially on Oreochromis niloticus production systems. Although epidemiological important, information about the dispersion of these parasites and their mechanical vectors is scarce. The present study reported the cooccurrence of Epistylis sp. as an epibiont of Dolops carvalhoi, a parasitic crustacean of cultivated/wild specimens (from accidental release) of O. niloticus from a cage fish farm area in the Ilha Solteira Reservoir, Grande River, SP, Brazil. The co-occurrence of Epistylis sp. and D. carvalhoi, and their epibiont relationship registered in this study suppose that the Epistylis may use the crustaceans for dispersion and as mechanical vectors for the dissemination of diseases in wild and cultivated hosts. Moreover, exchange of parasites between wild and cultivated hosts is possible, considering both organisms (protozoan and argulid). Furthermore, the results of the present study demonstrate the need to monitor the areas adjacent to cage fish farms as a preventive measure for the dispersion of pathogens. This is the first report of epibiosis between Epistylis sp. and argulid parasites of cultivated and wild O. niloticus, contributing to knowledge about host-parasite specificity, geographical distribution, dispersion of etiological agents and epidemiology in aquaculture.(AU)

Epistilíase tem sido caracterizada como uma doença emergente de grande impacto nas pisciculturas, especialmente em sistemas de produção de Oreochromis niloticus. Embora seja importante epidemiologicamente, informações sobre a dispersão desses parasitas e seus vetores mecânicos são escassos. O presente estudo relata a coocorrência de Epistylis sp. como um epibionte de Dolops carvalhoi, um crustáceo parasita de espécimes cultivados e silvestres (de escapes acidentais) de O. niloticus em área de piscicultura de tanques-rede no reservatório de Ilha Solteira, Rio Grande, SP, Brasil. A coocorrência de Epistylis sp. e D. carvalhoi, e sua relação epibionte registrada neste estudo, supõem que Epistylis sp. possa utilizar os crustáceos para dispersão e como vetores mecânicos para a disseminação de doenças em hospedeiros silvestres e cultivados. Além disso, a troca de parasitas entre hospedeiros silvestres e cultivados é possível, considerando ambos os organismos (protozoários e argulídeos). Os resultados deste estudo, também demonstram a necessidade de monitorar as áreas adjacentes às pisciculturas como medida preventiva para a dispersão de patógenos. Este é o primeiro relato de epibiose entre Epistylis sp. e parasitas argulídeos de O. niloticus cultivados e silvestres, contribuindo para o conhecimento da especificidade parasitária do hospedeiro, distribuição geográfica, dispersão de agentes etiológicos e epidemiologia na aquicultura.(AU)

Cryptosporidium parvum in captive primates of Parque Municipal Danilo Galafassi, Paraná, Brazil / Cryptosporidium parvum em primatas cativos do Parque Municipal Danilo Galafassi, Paraná, Brasil

A wide variety of terrestrial and aquatic animal species have been identified as hosts of species and genotypes of Cryptosporidium spp., which are important pathogens, however, little is known about their distribution in wild populations. Recent studies associating parasitological findings and molecular techniques have provided a new insight into host specificity and its potential transmission to humans.The objective of this study was to investigate the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. in feces of Callithrixsp. and Ateles paniscus, identify the species, and evaluate their phylogenetic relationships with other representatives of the genus. Four samples of feces were collected from an enclosure where three Callithrix jacchus and one Callithrix penicillate live; in addition, five samples were collected from an enclosure of an Ateles paniscus from Parque Municipal Danilo Galafassi, located in the city of Cascavel-PR. These samples were sent to the UFPR Biotechnology Laboratory, where the modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique was performed on microscope slides with fecal smear. Positive samples were submitted to DNA purification, extraction, PCR, and sequencing of the nuclear SSU rRNA region. Phylogenetic analysis based on Maximum Parcimony and Bayesian Inference were performed. Fifty percent (2: 4) of the feces samples from the enclosure of the Callithrix spp. and 60 % (3: 5) of samples from the Ateles paniscus enclosure were positive for Cryptosporidium spp. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the parasite found in both species of primates was recovered nested with others genotypes of C. parvum, and the genotype found in Callithrix spp. has high similarity with that one founded in several domestic animals. This is the first report of C. parvum in A. paniscus. Because it is an important zoonosis which does not have treatment, preventive measures must be adopted to avoid the spread of the disease.(AU)

Uma grande variedade de espécies animais terrestres e aquáticas tem sido identificada como hospedeiros de espécies e genótipos de Cryptosporidium spp., que são importantes agentes patogênicos, mas pouco se conhece sobre a sua distribuição nas populações silvestres. Estudos recentes associando achados parasitológicos e técnicas moleculares têm proporcionado uma nova visão em relação à especificidade do hospedeiro e seu potencial de transmissão para o homem. O objetivo desse estudo foi pesquisar a presença de Cryptosporidium spp. em fezes de Callithrix spp. e Ateles paniscus, identificar a espécie e avaliar o seu relacionamento filogenético com outros representantes do gênero. Foram coletadas quatro amostras de fezes de um recinto onde convivem três Callithrix jacchus e um Callithrix penicillata e cinco amostras de um recinto onde vive um Ateles paniscus do Parque Municipal Danilo Galafassi localizado na cidade de Cascavel-PR. As amostras foram enviadas ao Laboratório de Biotecnologia da UFPR onde foi realizada a técnica de coloração de Ziehl-Neelsen modificado em lâminas de esfregaço de fezes. As amostras positivas foram submetidas à purificação, extração de DNA, PCR, e sequenciamento da região nuclear SSU rRNA. Foram realizadas análises filogenéticas baseadas em Máxima Parcimônia e Inferência Bayesiana. Cinquenta por cento (2:4) das amostras de fezes do recinto dos Callithrix...(AU)

Bruggmannia chapadensis sp. nov. (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), a new midge inducing galls on Guapira pernambucensis (Nyctaginaceae) from the Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Guimarães, Mato Grosso State, Brazil

Bruggmannia chapadensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on characters of the larva, pupa and adults of both sexes, from specimens collected in Cerrado areas of Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Guimarães, state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The new species is characterized by tarsal claws bent at distal 1/3; well-developed empodia, not reaching the bend in claws; cerci rounded; hipoproct shorter than cerci; aedeagus with globose apex; gonostylus semicircular; ovipositor protrusible about 1.4 times longer than sternite 7; pupal antennal bases enlarged, conical, upper facial horns semicircular; prothoracic spiracle short, abdominal segments 2-8 with one row of dorsal spines; larval terminal segment elongate, with four setose terminal papillae. This new species was collected from lenticular leaf galls of Guapira pernambucensis (Casar.) Lundell (Nyctaginaceae). This is the first record of Bruggmannia galls on this plant species. In Brazil, 13 species of Bruggmannia were previously known, none recorded from Mato Grosso.

Bruggmannia chapadensis sp. nov. (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), a new midge inducing galls on Guapira pernambucensis (Nyctaginaceae) from the Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Guimarães, Mato Grosso State, Brazil

Bruggmannia chapadensis sp. nov. is described and illustrated based on characters of the larva, pupa and adults of both sexes, from specimens collected in Cerrado areas of Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Guimarães, state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The new species is characterized by tarsal claws bent at distal 1/3; well-developed empodia, not reaching the bend in claws; cerci rounded; hipoproct shorter than cerci; aedeagus with globose apex; gonostylus semicircular; ovipositor protrusible about 1.4 times longer than sternite 7; pupal antennal bases enlarged, conical, upper facial horns semicircular; prothoracic spiracle short, abdominal segments 2-8 with one row of dorsal spines; larval terminal segment elongate, with four setose terminal papillae. This new species was collected from lenticular leaf galls of Guapira pernambucensis (Casar.) Lundell (Nyctaginaceae). This is the first record of Bruggmannia galls on this plant species. In Brazil, 13 species of Bruggmannia were previously known, none recorded from Mato Grosso.(AU)