The role of habitat complexity in the survival rates of migratory (native) and sedentary (non-native) species of fish larvae

The increasing losses of original features of many riverine environments and the consequent decline of native aquatic species are now a widely recognized problem. The main river basins of South America have been undergoing constant changes in their communities of fish, with native migratory species disappearing and the rising of sedentary exotic ones. However, few studies report experiments that qualify and/or quantify this correlation. Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the predation mortality of two species of fish larvae (native and non-native) regarding their habitat features. The hypothesis that natural features of habitat (aquatic vegetation and water turbidity) controls the survival rates of fish larvae was tested. The experiments highlight the importance of community structure on population dynamics. The native fish larvae showed to be more adapted than the non-native to using the aquatic plants for refuge. The habitat complexity can be closely related to the persistence of native migratory fish species.(AU)

First record of the exotic Indothais lacera (Gastropoda, Muricidae) in Brazil

Bioinvasions are one of the main causes of the decline of native biodiversity. Indothais lacera (Born, 1778) is a car-nivorous gastropod, native to the Indo-Pacific. We present the first records of I. lacera on the Brazilian coast and the first re-cord of this invasive species in the Western Atlantic. The specimens were found in two locations in the Baía de Todos os Santos, Bahia state, northeast of Brazil. Live specimens were collected in the Itapagipe Peninsula, in Ribeira, Salvador, and dry samples (empty shells) were collected in the extreme north of Itaparica Island. Molecular analyses indicate that there was more than one event of introduction of I. lacera in the bay and alert to the potential impacts that this species can have on the benthic com-munity in the region. We suspect that this exotic species is affecting a native population of Thaisella, which was previously lo-cally abundant but has since become rare.(AU)

Energy and lipid contents, and polyphenols composition of pequi pulp according to the fruit native area / Teores energético e lipídico, e composição em polifenóis da polpa de pequi de acordo com a área nativa do fruto

ABSTRACT: Pequi (Caryocar spp.) is a fruit native to the Brazilian Savannah (Cerrado), and Caryocar brasilienseCamb. is one of the most prevalent species in this biome. The consumption of the pequi pulp has been associated with health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and anticarcinogenic effects. These benefits have been attributed to its high density in nutrients and bioactive compounds. However, there is evidence about considerable variation in the nutritional profile among pequi pulps of different species, and among pulps of the same species, but from different areas of the Cerrado. In addition, there is no information in literature regarding the polyphenols profile of C. brasiliense pulp, neither about the influence of the native area of the fruit on the composition of these phytochemicals. So, this study analyzed the nutrient composition and identified the phenolic compounds in the pulp of C. brasiliense fruits native to four different areas of the Cerrado. There was a remarkable variation in the contents of energy (176.3-387.2 kcal/100 g) and lipids (13.0-37.5 g/100 g) among samples. In contrast, no difference was observed in the polyphenols composition, since gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, catechin, epicatechin, p-coumaric acid, and ellagic acid were identified in all pequi pulps. C. brasiliense pulp shows potential to be used as a functional ingredient rich in bioactive compounds, but with different contents of energy and lipids according to the fruit's native area to attempt distinct health allegations of the product.

RESUMO: O pequi (Caryocar spp.) é um fruto nativo do cerrado brasileiro e Caryocar brasiliense Camb. é uma das espécies mais prevalentes neste bioma. O consumo da polpa de pequi tem sido associado a benefícios à saúde, como efeitos antioxidantes, anti-inflamatórios, hipolipidêmicos, hepatoprotetores e anticarcinogênicos. Esses benefícios têm sido atribuídos à sua alta densidade em nutrientes e compostos bioativos. No entanto, há evidências de considerável variação no perfil nutricional entre polpas de pequi de diferentes espécies, e entre polpas da mesma espécie, mas de diferentes áreas do cerrado. Além disso, não há informações na literatura sobre o perfil de polifenóis da polpa de C. brasiliense, tampouco sobre a influência da área nativa do fruto na composição desses fitoquímicos. Assim, este estudo analisou a composição de nutrientes e identificou os compostos fenólicos na polpa de frutos de C. brasiliense nativos de quatro diferentes áreas do Cerrado. Houve notável variação nos teores de energia (176,3-387,2 kcal/100 g) e lipídios (13,0-37,5 g/100 g) entre as amostras. Em contrapartida, não foi encontrada diferença na composição em polifenóis, uma vez que ácido gálico, ácido protocatecuico, catequina, epicatequina, ácido p-cumárico e ácido elágico foram identificados em todas as polpas de pequi analisadas. A polpa de C. brasiliense tem potencial para ser utilizada como ingrediente funcional rico em compostos bioativos, porém com diferentes teores de energia e lipídios de acordo com a área nativa do fruto para atender a distintas alegações de saúde do produto.

Non-native freshwater fish from drainages of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil

The present study catalogues exotic and allochthonous fish species found in the three main freshwater river drain-ages of Rio Grande do Sul State using records of scientific collections and literature, and discusses the main impacts caused by their introduction in natural environments. Ten exotic species are found in the area, i.e., Clarias gariepinus, Coptodon ren-dalli, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cyprinus carpio, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Hypophthalmichthys nobilis, Ictalurus punctatus, Micropterus salmoides, Oncorhynchus mykiss and Oreochromis niloticus, belonging to five orders, nine genera and seven fami-lies. These fishes are native from African, Asian, European and North American countries. The eight allochthonous species, i.e., Acestrorhynchus pantaneiro, Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus, Hoplias lacerdae, Megaleporinus macrocephalus, Piaractus mesopota-micus, Pachyurus bonariensis, Serrasalmus maculatus, and Trachelyopterus lucenai, belong to three orders, eight genera, and six families, are native from the Río La Plata basin, that includes the Río Uruguay, and have been all registered in the Laguna dos Patos. Two of these species are further recorded in the Rio Tramandaí system (A. pantaneiro and T. lucenai). The study also pre-sentes a brief history of the first records of exotic species in the state and in the country, and their main vectors of introduction. According to the records of exotic species in scientific collections, the two exotic species with the highest number of records in the country are tilapias Coptodon rendalii (508 records) and Oreochromis niloticus (376 records), and most records occurred in the last two decades. The two carps Cyprinus carpio and Ctenopharyngodon idella are the only exotic species recorded in the three main drainage basins of the state. In addition, we warn about the importance of studies about the biology and negative impacts of exotic species over native species on the understanding of management in wild environments.(AU)

An overview of fish stocking in Brazil

Fish stocking is a common management strategy in Brazil, yet no assessment has examined its real extent and features. The present work investigated fish stocking practices in Brazil between 2010 and 2019 to characterize propagule pressure, species composition, the use of non-native species, geographical and temporal trends, environment types, and responsible agencies. Based on information disseminated on the internet, the study detected 1,155 stocking events (ca. 115 events/year). In total, ca. 56.4 million fish were stocked, with an average of ca. 90 thousand fish/event. We found events in all Brazilian regions involving 436 municipalities and 21 states. Most events occurred in the Northeast region (66.3%), which received alone ca. 41 million fish. Reservoirs were the primary target environment, and the public sector conducted most events. Fish stocking involved 63 taxa, including 14 non-native taxa and three hybrids. Considering the events that informed composition, 62.4% released non-native species, which summed 19.7 million fish. These results provide a broad overview of fish stocking practices in Brazil, and reveal that this action is widely disseminated. Its frequent use, associated with the lack of proper criteria and the illegal stocking of non-native species, raise concerns about technical aspects, outcomes, and potential environmental impacts.

A estocagem de peixes é uma estratégia de manejo comum no Brasil, mas nenhum estudo investigou sua real extensão e características. O presente trabalho investigou práticas de estocagem de peixes realizadas no Brasil entre 2010 e 2019, para caracterizar a pressão de propágulos, composição de espécies, participação de espécies não-nativas, variação espaço-temporal, ambientes e órgãos responsáveis. Com base em informações divulgadas na internet, o estudo detectou 1155 eventos de estocagem (ca. 115 eventos/ano). No total, ca. 56,4 milhões de peixes foram liberados, com média de ca. 90 mil peixes/evento. Encontramos eventos em todas as regiões brasileiras, envolvendo 436 municípios e 21 estados. A região nordeste somou a maioria dos casos (66,3%), e sozinha recebeu cerca de 41 milhões de peixes. Os reservatórios foram o principal ambiente alvo, sendo o setor público o principal responsável pelas ações. A estocagem de peixes envolveu 63 táxons, incluindo 14 táxons não-nativos e três híbridos. Considerando os eventos que informaram a composição das espécies, 62,4% liberaram espécies não-nativas, que somaram 19,7 milhões de peixes. Estes resultados fornecem um amplo panorama das práticas de estocagem de peixes no Brasil, e revelam que essa ação de manejo é amplamente disseminada. Seu uso frequente, associado com a falta de critérios apropriados e a soltura ilegal de espécies não-nativas, suscita preocupações quanto a aspectos técnicos, resultados, e potenciais impactos ambientais.

Molecular Phylogenetics of Physa acuta (Pulmonata: Basommatophora): an Invasive species in Central Punjab Pakistan

Abstract Physids belong to Class Gastropoda; belong to Phylum Mollusca and being bioindicators, intermediate hosts of parasites and pests hold a key position in the ecosystem. There are three species of Genus Physa i.e. P. fontinalis, Physa acuta and P. gyrina water bodies of Central Punjab and were characterized on the basis of molecular markers High level of genetic diversity was revealed by polymorphic RAPD, however SSR markers were not amplified. The multivariate analysis revealed polymorphism ranging from 9.09 percent to 50 percent among the three Physid species. Total number of 79 loci were observed for the three species under study and 24 loci were observed to be polymorphic. These RAPD fragment(s) can be developed into co dominant markers (SCAR) by cloning and can be further sequenced for the development of the Physa species specific markers to identify the introduced and native species in Pakistan.

Resumo Os físidos pertencem à classe Gastropoda; pertencem ao filo Mollusca e, sendo bioindicadores, hospedeiros intermediários de parasitas e pragas, ocupam uma posição-chave no ecossistema. Existem três espécies do gênero Physa, ou seja, P. fontinalis, Physa acuta e P. gyrina em corpos dágua do Punjab Central e foram caracterizadas com base em marcadores moleculares. Alto nível de diversidade genética foi revelado por RAPD polimórfico, no entanto os marcadores SSR não foram amplificados. A análise multivariada revelou polimorfismo variando de 9,09% a 50% entre as três espécies de Physid. Um número total de 79 loci foi observado para as três espécies em estudo e 24 loci foram observados como polimórficos. Esses fragmentos RAPD podem ser desenvolvidos em marcadores codominantes (SCAR) por clonagem e podem ser posteriormente sequenciados para o desenvolvimento de marcadores específicos da espécie Physa para identificar as espécies introduzidas e nativas no Paquistão.

Evaluating tree survival and modeling initial growth for Atlantic Forest restoration / Avaliação da sobrevivência e modelagem do desenvolvimento inicial de árvores para restauração da Mata Atlântica

ABSTRACT: Ecological restoration has become an important complementary practice to protect natural resources and preserve biodiversity. However, native species may be used in restoration programs in ways that do not optimize their performance. This research evaluated the survival and to model the initial growth of 15 native tree species planted in "filling" and "diversity" lines in the post-planting phase of a restoration experiment in the subtropics of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. We measured survival rate (%) one year after planting and collar diameter (mm), total height (m), crown projection area (m²) and crown volume (m³) in the first 48 months after planting. Growth modeling for each variable and species was based on the non-linear mathematical Logistic, Gompertz, and Chapman-Richards models. Model selection for each variable/species was supported by the Akaike Information Criterion, standard error of the estimate, and coefficient of determination. The highest survival rates were reported for Cordia americana, Gochnatia polymorpha, Inga uruguensis, Peltophorum dubium, Prunus sellowii e Zanthoxylum rhoifolium (91.7%) and for Solanum mauritianum (90.3%). The species with faster growth were, by increasing order, Mimosa scabrella, Trema micrantha, Solanum mauritianum and Croton urucurana. With a better understanding of the initial developmental potential of tree species, it is possible to increase the species and functional diversity of the filling group. There was no single model capable of describing the variables analyzed and different models were needed to describe different characteristics and species.

RESUMO: A restauração ecológica tornou-se uma importante atividade complementar para proteger os recursos naturais e conservar a biodiversidade. No entanto, as espécies nativas podem estar a ser utilizadas em programas de restauração de formas que não otimizam as suas características. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a sobrevivência e modelar o desenvolvimento inicial de 15 espécies arbóreas nativas plantadas em linhas de "preenchimento" e "diversidade" na fase de pós-plantio numa experiência de restauração nos subtrópicos da Mata Atlântica Brasileira. Avaliou-se a taxa de sobrevivência (%) um ano após o plantio e o diâmetro do colo (mm), a altura total (m), a área de projeção de copa (m²) e o volume de copa (m³) nos primeiros 48 meses após o plantio. A modelagem de crescimento para cada variável e espécie foi baseada nos modelos matemáticos não lineares: Logístico, Gompertz e Chapman-Richards. A seleção do modelo para cada variável/espécie teve como base o Critério de Informação de Akaike, erro padrão da estimativa e coeficiente de determinação. Os percentuais de sobrevivência mais altos foram para Cordia americana, Gochnatia polymorpha, Inga uruguensis, Peltophorum dubium, Prunus sellowii e Zanthoxylum rhoifolium (91,7%) e para Solanum mauritianum (90,3%). As espécies de crescimento mais rápido, por ordem crescente, foram: Mimosa scabrella, Trema micrantha, Solanum mauritianum e Croton urucurana. Com o conhecimento do potencial de desenvolvimento inicial das espécies, é possível aumentar a diversidade de espécies e funcional do grupo de preenchimento. Não houve um modelo único capaz de descrever todas as variáveis de desenvolvimento analisadas. Foram necessários diferentes modelos para descrever as diferentes características e as diferentes espécies.

Energy and lipid contents, and polyphenols composition of pequi pulp according to the fruit native area / Teores energético e lipídico, e composição em polifenóis da polpa de pequi de acordo com a área nativa do frut

Pequi (Caryocar spp.) is a fruit native to the Brazilian Savannah (Cerrado), and Caryocar brasilienseCamb. is one of the most prevalent species in this biome. The consumption of the pequi pulp has been associated with health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and anticarcinogenic effects. These benefits have been attributed to its high density in nutrients and bioactive compounds. However, there is evidence about considerable variation in the nutritional profile among pequi pulps of different species, and among pulps of the same species, but from different areas of the Cerrado. In addition, there is no information in literature regarding the polyphenols profile of C. brasiliense pulp, neither about the influence of the native area of the fruit on the composition of these phytochemicals. So, this study analyzed the nutrient composition and identified the phenolic compounds in the pulp of C. brasiliense fruits native to four different areas of the Cerrado. There was a remarkable variation in the contents of energy (176.3-387.2 kcal/100 g) and lipids (13.0-37.5 g/100 g) among samples. In contrast, no difference was observed in the polyphenols composition, since gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, catechin, epicatechin, p-coumaric acid, and ellagic acid were identified in all pequi pulps. C. brasiliense pulp shows potential to be used as a functional ingredient rich in bioactive compounds, but with different contents of energy and lipids according to the fruit's native area to attempt distinct health allegations of the product.

O pequi (Caryocar spp.) é um fruto nativo do cerrado brasileiro e Caryocar brasiliense Camb. é uma das espécies mais prevalentes neste bioma. O consumo da polpa de pequi tem sido associado a benefícios à saúde, como efeitos antioxidantes, anti-inflamatórios, hipolipidêmicos, hepatoprotetores e anticarcinogênicos. Esses benefícios têm sido atribuídos à sua alta densidade em nutrientes e compostos bioativos. No entanto, há evidências de considerável variação no perfil nutricional entre polpas de pequi de diferentes espécies, e entre polpas da mesma espécie, mas de diferentes áreas do cerrado. Além disso, não há informações na literatura sobre o perfil de polifenóis da polpa de C. brasiliense, tampouco sobre a influência da área nativa do fruto na composição desses fitoquímicos. Assim, este estudo analisou a composição de nutrientes e identificou os compostos fenólicos na polpa de frutos de C. brasiliense nativos de quatro diferentes áreas do Cerrado. Houve notável variação nos teores de energia (176,3-387,2 kcal/100 g) e lipídios (13,0-37,5 g/100 g) entre as amostras. Em contrapartida, não foi encontrada diferença na composição em polifenóis, uma vez que ácido gálico, ácido protocatecuico, catequina, epicatequina, ácido p-cumárico e ácido elágico foram identificados em todas as polpas de pequi analisadas. A polpa de C. brasiliense tem potencial para ser utilizada como ingrediente funcional rico em compostos bioativos, porém com diferentes teores de energia e lipídios de acordo com a área nativa do fruto para atender a distintas alegações de saúde do produto.

Molecular Phylogenetics of Physa acuta (Pulmonata: Basommatophora): an invasive species in Central Punjab Pakistan / Molecular Phylogenetics of Physa acuta (Pulmonata: Basommatophora): uma espécie invasora no centro de Punjab, Paquistão

Physids belong to Class Gastropoda; belong to Phylum Mollusca and being bioindicators, intermediate hosts of parasites and pests hold a key position in the ecosystem. There are three species of Genus Physa i.e. P. fontinalis, Physa acuta and P. gyrina water bodies of Central Punjab and were characterized on the basis of molecular markers High level of genetic diversity was revealed by polymorphic RAPD, however SSR markers were not amplified. The multivariate analysis revealed polymorphism ranging from 9.09 percent to 50 percent among the three Physid species. Total number of 79 loci were observed for the three species under study and 24 loci were observed to be polymorphic. These RAPD fragment(s) can be developed into co dominant markers (SCAR) by cloning and can be further sequenced for the development of the Physa species specific markers to identify the introduced and native species in Pakistan.

Os físidos pertencem à classe Gastropoda; pertencem ao filo Mollusca e, sendo bioindicadores, hospedeiros intermediários de parasitas e pragas, ocupam uma posição-chave no ecossistema. Existem três espécies do gênero Physa, ou seja, P. fontinalis, Physa acuta e P. gyrina em corpos d’água do Punjab Central e foram caracterizadas com base em marcadores moleculares. Alto nível de diversidade genética foi revelado por RAPD polimórfico, no entanto os marcadores SSR não foram amplificados. A análise multivariada revelou polimorfismo variando de 9,09% a 50% entre as três espécies de Physid. Um número total de 79 loci foi observado para as três espécies em estudo e 24 loci foram observados como polimórficos. Esses fragmentos RAPD podem ser desenvolvidos em marcadores codominantes (SCAR) por clonagem e podem ser posteriormente sequenciados para o desenvolvimento de marcadores específicos da espécie Physa para identificar as espécies introduzidas e nativas no Paquistão.

Molecular Phylogenetics of Physa acuta (Pulmonata: Basommatophora): an invasive species in Central Punjab Pakistan / Molecular Phylogenetics of Physa acuta (Pulmonata: Basommatophora): uma espécie invasora no centro de Punjab, Paquistão

Physids belong to Class Gastropoda; belong to Phylum Mollusca and being bioindicators, intermediate hosts of parasites and pests hold a key position in the ecosystem. There are three species of Genus Physa i.e. P. fontinalis, Physa acuta and P. gyrina water bodies of Central Punjab and were characterized on the basis of molecular markers High level of genetic diversity was revealed by polymorphic RAPD, however SSR markers were not amplified. The multivariate analysis revealed polymorphism ranging from 9.09 percent to 50 percent among the three Physid species. Total number of 79 loci were observed for the three species under study and 24 loci were observed to be polymorphic. These RAPD fragment(s) can be developed into co dominant markers (SCAR) by cloning and can be further sequenced for the development of the Physa species specific markers to identify the introduced and native species in Pakistan.(AU)

Os físidos pertencem à classe Gastropoda; pertencem ao filo Mollusca e, sendo bioindicadores, hospedeiros intermediários de parasitas e pragas, ocupam uma posição-chave no ecossistema. Existem três espécies do gênero Physa, ou seja, P. fontinalis, Physa acuta e P. gyrina em corpos dágua do Punjab Central e foram caracterizadas com base em marcadores moleculares. Alto nível de diversidade genética foi revelado por RAPD polimórfico, no entanto os marcadores SSR não foram amplificados. A análise multivariada revelou polimorfismo variando de 9,09% a 50% entre as três espécies de Physid. Um número total de 79 loci foi observado para as três espécies em estudo e 24 loci foram observados como polimórficos. Esses fragmentos RAPD podem ser desenvolvidos em marcadores codominantes (SCAR) por clonagem e podem ser posteriormente sequenciados para o desenvolvimento de marcadores específicos da espécie Physa para identificar as espécies introduzidas e nativas no Paquistão.(AU)

Distribution pattern of arthropods on the leaf surfaces of Acacia auriculiformis saplings

Abstract Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth. (Fabaceae), a non-native pioneer species in Brazil with fast growth and rusticity, is used in restoration programs. Our goal was to assess during a 24-month survey the pattern of arthropods (phytophagous insects, bees, spiders, and predator insects) on the leaf surfaces of A. auriculiformis saplings. Fourteen species of phytophagous, two of bees and eleven of predators were most abundant on the adaxial surface. The values of the ecological indexes (abundance, diversity, and species richness) and the rarefaction, and k-dominance curves of phytophagous, bees and arthropod predators were highest on the adaxial leaf surface of A. auriculiformis. The k-dominance and abundance of Aleyrodidae (Hemiptera) (both leaf surfaces), the native stingless bee Tetragonisca angustula Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae) (both leaf surfaces) and the ant Brachymyrmex sp. (adaxial surface) and Pheidole sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) (abaxial surface) were the highest between the taxonomic groups of phytophagous, bees, and predators, respectively on A. auriculiformis saplings. The ecological indexes and rarefaction, abundance, and k-dominance curves of phytophagous insects, bees, and predators were highest on the adaxial leaf surface. The preference of phytophagous insects for the adaxial leaf surface is probably due to the lower effort required to move on this surface. Understanding the arthropod preferences between leaf surfaces may help to develop sampling and pest management plans for the most abundant phytophagous insects on A. auriculiformis saplings. Also, knowledge on the preference pattern of bees and predators may be used to favour their conservation.

Resumo Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth. (Fabaceae), espécie pioneira com rápido crescimento e rusticidade, é utilizada em programas de recuperação de áreas degradadas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar, durante 24 meses, o padrão de distribuição de artrópodes (insetos fitófagos, abelhas, aranhas e insetos predadores) nas superfícies foliares de A. auriculiformis. Quatorze espécies de fitófagos, duas de abelhas e onze de predadores foram mais abundantes na superfície adaxial. Índices ecológicos (abundância, diversidade e riqueza de espécies) e curvas de rarefação e dominância-k de fitófagos, abelhas e artrópodes predadores foram maiores na face adaxial de folhas de A. auriculiformis. A dominância-k e a abundância de Aleyrodidae (Hemiptera) (ambas as superfícies foliares), da abelha nativa sem ferrão Tetragonisca angustula Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae) (ambas as superfícies foliares) e das formigas Brachymyrmex sp. (superfície adaxial) e Pheidole sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) (superfície abaxial) foram as maiores entre os grupos taxonômicos de fitófagos polinizadores e predadores, respectivamente, em plantas jovens de A. auriculiformis. A abundância, diversidade e riqueza e as curvas de rarefação e dominância-k de artrópodes fitófagos, abelhas e predadores foram maiores nas superfícies adaxiais das folhas dessa árvore. A preferência pela superfície adaxial da folha se deve, provavelmente, ao menor esforço para se movimentarem na mesma. Compreender as preferências dos artrópodes pelas superfícies foliares pode auxiliar no desenvolvimento de planos de amostragem e manejo de pragas em A. auriculiformis. Além disso, o conhecimento da distribuição de abelhas e predadores pode favorecer a conservação desses insetos.

Thermal condition of mate (Ilex paraguariensis) processing / Análise das condições térmicas do processamento da erva-mate

ABSTRACT: The Ilex paraguariensis is a species native to Brazil, Paraguay and Argentine, valued by its positive effects on human health. Mate processing consists of the following stages: pre-drying (rapid drying at high temperature, known as sapeco operation), drying, and milling. In order to verify the current process and to propose future improvements to the mate processing, thermal and mass balance analysis were applied to industrial mate processing units. Results showed that the consumption of energy in sapeco and drying operations exceeds the calorific input necessary for these operations. These results verify the need for a change in the management of temperatures in the sapeco and drying stages of mate processing in order to optimize the consumption of energy, resulting in lower costs, with positive effects on the quality of the mate products.

RESUMO: A Ilex paraguariensis é uma espécie nativa do Brasil, Paraguai e Argentina, valorizada por seus efeitos positivos na saúde humana. O processamento do mate consiste nas seguintes etapas: pré-secagem (secagem rápida em alta temperatura, conhecida como operação de sapeco), secagem e moagem. A fim de verificar o atual processo e propor melhorias futuras no processamento de mate, foram aplicadas análises térmicas e de balanço de massa em unidades industriais de processamento de mate. Os resultados mostraram que o consumo de energia nas operações de sapeco e secagem supera o aporte calorífico necessário para essas operações. Esses resultados comprovam a necessidade de uma mudança no gerenciamento das temperaturas nas etapas de sapeco e secagem do processamento da erva-mate, a fim de otimizar o consumo de energia, resultando em menores custos, com efeitos positivos na qualidade dos produtos da erva-mate.

Representativeness of the fiber parallel elasticity modulus value referring to the Brazilian standard C40 strength class in the design of timber structures / Representatividade do módulo de elasticidade na compressão paralela às fibras da classe C40 no projeto de estruturas de madeira

ABSTRACT: Brazil has the world's second largest forest area, which makes the exploitation and use of varied species in civil construction conducive. One of the traditional uses of wood is to build roofs for different purposes. Considering that the most recurrent pathologies in the roof structures are related to the excessive deformations observed in the structural elements, particularly in those subjected to bending. This study verified the effective representativeness of the stiffness value established by the Brazilian Class wood standard, C40. Batches of eight different tropical wood species were considered, whose framing occurred in the referred Class. Results obtained from the confidence intervals for each evaluated species led to the conclusion that the value of 19500 MPa for the modulus of elasticity is not representative for Class C40 because the value observed in this study was 14467 MPa, which is 26% lower than the normative reference. This observation is an initial indication that the adoption of the value of 19500 MPa by the standard is unfavorable to the safety of the structure, justifying the pathologies observed in the service performance of the roof structures.

RESUMO: O Brasil é o segundo maior país em área de florestas no mundo, o que torna propícia a exploração e uso de espécies variadas na construção civil. Um dos usos tradicionais da madeira se dá nos telhados das edificações para as mais diferentes finalidades. Tendo em vista que as patologias mais recorrentes nas estruturas de cobertura estão relacionadas às deformações excessivas verificadas nos elementos estruturais, principalmente nos sujeitos à flexão, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a efetiva representatividade do valor médio do módulo de elasticidade na compressão paralela estabelecido pela norma brasileira para madeiras da Classe C40. Foram considerados lotes de oito diferentes espécies de madeira tropicais, cujo enquadramento se deu na referida Classe. Os resultados obtidos dos intervalos de confiança para cada espécie avaliada possibilitaram concluir que o valor de 19500 MPa para o módulo de elasticidade não é representativo para a Classe C40, pois o valor encontrado nessa pesquisa foi 14467 MPa, resultado esse 26% inferior à referência normativa. Essa constatação é um indicativo inicial de que a adoção do valor de 19500 MPa pela norma é desfavorável à segurança da estrutura, justificando as patologias observadas no desempenho em serviço das estruturas de cobertura.

Impact of water stress on adaptation and performance of sheep and goat in dryland regions under climate change scenarios: a systematic review

Climate change is shifting rainfall patterns, air temperature, river flows, and sea levels globally, resulting in changes in ground and surface water quality due to salinization, especially in arid and semiarid regions. During dry periods, the main water quality issue is a high quantity of salt in the water. Whilst water with fewer than 3,000 mg/L total salts is beneficial to all livestock species, tolerances vary greatly based on conditions and circumstances. Understanding the normal salt tolerance of animals without harming their production and health is important for sustainable livestock production, especially in dry areas. Understanding the normal salt tolerance of animals without harming their production and health is important for sustainable livestock production, especially in dry areas. Thus, this review examined the physiological, behavioral, hematological, and biochemical responses of sheep and goats in dryland areas under climate change scenarios. Despite changes in physiological, blood, biochemical, feed and water intake, sheep and goats adapt to salinity levels to drinking water in arid environments. Adaptable and native breeds are known to be more tolerant of saline water than selected exotic breeds. Small ruminants experience a decrease in food intake and weight, a decrease in breathing rate, and an increase in blood metabolite concentration when the salt in their drinking water increases. The concept that native and adapted small ruminant breeds can withstand high water salinity is gaining popularity in scientific research worldwide. More research is needed to investigate the water tolerance capabilities of adapted breeds, especially in dry and water-saline regions affected by climate change.

Distribution pattern of arthropods on the leaf surfaces of Acacia auriculiformis saplings / Padrão de distribuição de artrópodes nas superfícies foliares de plantas de Acacia auriculiformis

Abstract Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth. (Fabaceae), a non-native pioneer species in Brazil with fast growth and rusticity, is used in restoration programs. Our goal was to assess during a 24-month survey the pattern of arthropods (phytophagous insects, bees, spiders, and predator insects) on the leaf surfaces of A. auriculiformis saplings. Fourteen species of phytophagous, two of bees and eleven of predators were most abundant on the adaxial surface. The values of the ecological indexes (abundance, diversity, and species richness) and the rarefaction, and k-dominance curves of phytophagous, bees and arthropod predators were highest on the adaxial leaf surface of A. auriculiformis. The k-dominance and abundance of Aleyrodidae (Hemiptera) (both leaf surfaces), the native stingless bee Tetragonisca angustula Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae) (both leaf surfaces) and the ant Brachymyrmex sp. (adaxial surface) and Pheidole sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) (abaxial surface) were the highest between the taxonomic groups of phytophagous, bees, and predators, respectively on A. auriculiformis saplings. The ecological indexes and rarefaction, abundance, and k-dominance curves of phytophagous insects, bees, and predators were highest on the adaxial leaf surface. The preference of phytophagous insects for the adaxial leaf surface is probably due to the lower effort required to move on this surface. Understanding the arthropod preferences between leaf surfaces may help to develop sampling and pest management plans for the most abundant phytophagous insects on A. auriculiformis saplings. Also, knowledge on the preference pattern of bees and predators may be used to favour their conservation.

Resumo Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. Ex Benth. (Fabaceae), espécie pioneira com rápido crescimento e rusticidade, é utilizada em programas de recuperação de áreas degradadas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar, durante 24 meses, o padrão de distribuição de artrópodes (insetos fitófagos, abelhas, aranhas e insetos predadores) nas superfícies foliares de A. auriculiformis. Quatorze espécies de fitófagos, duas de abelhas e onze de predadores foram mais abundantes na superfície adaxial. Índices ecológicos (abundância, diversidade e riqueza de espécies) e curvas de rarefação e dominância-k de fitófagos, abelhas e artrópodes predadores foram maiores na face adaxial de folhas de A. auriculiformis. A dominância-k e a abundância de Aleyrodidae (Hemiptera) (ambas as superfícies foliares), da abelha nativa sem ferrão Tetragonisca angustula Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae) (ambas as superfícies foliares) e das formigas Brachymyrmex sp. (superfície adaxial) e Pheidole sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) (superfície abaxial) foram as maiores entre os grupos taxonômicos de fitófagos polinizadores e predadores, respectivamente, em plantas jovens de A. auriculiformis. A abundância, diversidade e riqueza e as curvas de rarefação e dominância-k de artrópodes fitófagos, abelhas e predadores foram maiores nas superfícies adaxiais das folhas dessa árvore. A preferência pela superfície adaxial da folha se deve, provavelmente, ao menor esforço para se movimentarem na mesma. Compreender as preferências dos artrópodes pelas superfícies foliares pode auxiliar no desenvolvimento de planos de amostragem e manejo de pragas em A. auriculiformis. Além disso, o conhecimento da distribuição de abelhas e predadores pode favorecer a conservação desses insetos.

Foraging patterns of bees in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb. ) flowers in Panama

t The foraging patterns of bees in watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb.) flowers were investigated in Los Santos, Panama, over a period of 84 observation days. The study aimed to identify the bee species visiting the flowers, their daily visitation rates, and the resources they foraged. The majority of visits were made by native bees, particularly stingless bees, suggesting their crucial role in pollinating watermelon crops in the area. The most frequently observed bee species visiting the flowers were N. perilampoides(58.7%), A. mellifera (23%), and P. peckolti (4%). Nectar was the primary resource foraged by most bees, with comparable visitation rates for both male (staminate) and female (pistillate) flowers. Honeybees allocated nearly half of their visits (47.7%) for pollen collection, and the majority of their daily visits occurred between 7:00 and 8:00 hours. In contrast, stingless bee visits peaked between 8:00 and 9:00 hours. Nectar visits were shorter in duration than pollen visits, with honeybees exhibiting the shortest durations when visiting watermelon flowers. Significant variations were observed in the daily foraging patterns among bee species during the 84-h observation period (Friedman P < 0.05). Additionally, bee characteristics such as size, color, and sociability, along with the time of day, significantly influenced flower visits for resources (GLMM P < 0.05). These findings contribute to the understanding of Central American bee species' behavior, aid in their conservation and management and have implications for enhancing fruit production in local watermelon crops.(AU)

Two new species of Asphondylia Loew, 1850 (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae) on Asteraceae from Brazil

Two new species of Asphondylia inducing galls on Asteraceae are described, A. gaucha from the state of Rio Grande do Sul and A. mineira from the state of Minas Gerais. Their host plants are Vernonanthura discolor (Sprengel) H. Rob., and V. polyanthes (Sprengel) Vega & Dematteis, respectively, both native to Brazil. Illustrations of relevant morphological characters are provided. The new species are compared with congeneric Neotropical species. The types are deposited in the Entomological Collection of the Museu Nacional/Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro.

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

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

Antimicrobial, antioxidant activity and phytochemical prospection of Eugenia involucrata DC. leaf extracts

Abstract The species Eugenia involucrata DC. is a plant native to Brazil and is traditionally used for intestinal problems, however, little research has documented about its biological potential and phytochemical profile. Thus, the objective of this study was to carry out preliminary phytochemical prospecting, antimicrobial and antioxidant potential of E. involucrata extracts. Using the E. involucrata leaves, aqueous and organic extracts were obtained using the following solvents (ethanol, methanol, hexane, acetone, dichloromethane and ethyl acetate). The phytochemical prospecting detected the presence of saponins, steroids, flavonoids and tannins in the extracts. Ethanolic and methanolic extracts presented antimicrobial activity for most of the bacterial strains tested, as well as for yeast Candida albicans, with concentrations between 3.12 and 50 mg/mL. The ethanolic and metanolic extract presented high free radical sequestration potential (>90%). The methanol extract showed an IC50 value statistically equal to that found for the commercial antioxidant BHT (p 0.05). The crude extracts obtained with ethanol and methanol were the most promising. These results suggest that methanolic, ethanolic and aqueous extracts are a promising source of natural bioactive.

Resumo A espécie Eugenia involucrata DC. é uma planta nativa do Brasil e tradicionalmente utilizada para problemas intestinais, porém, poucas pesquisas documentam sobre seu potencial biológico e perfil fitoquímico. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar uma prospecção fitoquímica preliminar, o potencial antimicrobiano e antioxidante dos extratos de E. involucrata. A partir das folhas de E. involucrata, foram obtidos extratos aquosos e orgânicos com os seguintes solventes (etanol, metanol, hexano, acetona, diclorometano e acetato de etila). A prospecção fitoquímica detectou a presença de saponinas, esteroides, flavonóides e taninos nos extratos. Os extratos etanólico e metanólico apresentaram atividade antimicrobiana para a maioria das cepas bacterianas testadas, assim como para a levedura Candida albicans, com concentrações entre 3,12 e 50 mg/mL. Os extratos etanólico e metanólico apresentaram alto potencial de sequestro de radicais livres (> 90%). O extrato metanólico apresentou IC50 estatisticamente igual ao encontrado para o antioxidante comercial BHT (p 0,05). Os extratos brutos obtidos com etanol e metanol foram os mais promissores. Esses resultados sugerem que os extratos metanólico, etanólico e aquoso são uma fonte promissora de bioativos naturais.

Thermal condition of mate (Ilex paraguariensis) processing / Análise das condições térmicas do processamento da erva-mate

The Ilex paraguariensis is a species native to Brazil, Paraguay and Argentine, valued by its positive effects on human health. Mate processing consists of the following stages: pre-drying (rapid drying at high temperature, known as sapeco operation), drying, and milling. In order to verify the current process and to propose future improvements to the mate processing, thermal and mass balance analysis were applied to industrial mate processing units. Results showed that the consumption of energy in sapeco and drying operations exceeds the calorific input necessary for these operations. These results verify the need for a change in the management of temperatures in the sapeco and drying stages of mate processing in order to optimize the consumption of energy, resulting in lower costs, with positive effects on the quality of the mate products.

A Ilex paraguariensis é uma espécie nativa do Brasil, Paraguai e Argentina, valorizada por seus efeitos positivos na saúde humana. O processamento do mate consiste nas seguintes etapas: pré-secagem (secagem rápida em alta temperatura, conhecida como operação de sapeco), secagem e moagem. A fim de verificar o atual processo e propor melhorias futuras no processamento de mate, foram aplicadas análises térmicas e de balanço de massa em unidades industriais de processamento de mate. Os resultados mostraram que o consumo de energia nas operações de sapeco e secagem supera o aporte calorífico necessário para essas operações. Esses resultados comprovam a necessidade de uma mudança no gerenciamento das temperaturas nas etapas de sapeco e secagem do processamento da erva-mate, a fim de otimizar o consumo de energia, resultando em menores custos, com efeitos positivos na qualidade dos produtos da erva-mate.