Temporal variation in composition, abundance and biomass of the fish fauna after impact on subtropical transitional water

Transitional waters are characterized by large variations in salinity, temperature, turbidity, among other factors, such as tidal cycle, wind action and rainfall, that are constantly changing over time. The distribution of biota in these environments is regulated by these natural variations and also by human activities, such as pollution, overexploitation of resources, acceleration of urbanization, suppression of habitats and changes in hydrological dynamics. The objective of this study was to analyze the temporal dynamics of the fish fauna of the Saco dos Limões Cove, state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, after the construction of a highway. Fish community was evaluated over five years by annual and monthly variation in species richness, abundance and biomass. A total of 17,993 individuals were collected, distributed in 33 families, 59 genera and 79 species. The evaluated years were similar to each other in species composition. Community descriptors varied over time but did not show seasonal trends. In all years, abundance was higher than biomass, indicating both the disturbance and the ecosystem function as a nursery in the studied area. This was corroborated by the large number of juveniles of dominant species (Genidens genidens, Eucinostomus gula and Eucinostomus argenteus).(AU)

Population density of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and its response to some ecological phenomena in maize crop / Densidade populacional da lagarta-do-cartucho do outono, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith e Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), e a sua resposta a alguns fenômenos ecológicos na cultura do milho

The fall armyworm [FAW; Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)], is considered a serious invasive pest that poses a serious threat to world food security. It can completely devastate a whole country's cereal crops. Therefore, the present work is the 1st field trial in Egypt to elucidate some ecological aspects of S. frugiperda on maize plants (Single-Hybrid 168 Yellow Corn cultivar) at Esna district, Luxor Governorate, Egypt, throughout two sequential growing seasons of maize (2021-2022). Three insect parameters were used, i.e., egg masses, number of larvae, and percentage of damaged corn plants. Effects of certain climatic conditions and corn plant ages on S. frugiperda seasonal activity and damaged plants percentage were also estimated. S. frugiperda population initiated to attack maize plants from the 3rd week of June until the harvest in every season. S. frugiperda had two seasonal activity peaks in terms of egg masses numbers and three peaks regarding the larval population density/season. Its damage percentage increased with increasing plant age weekly. The mean of S. frugiperda egg masses were 2.83 ± 0.40 and 2.96 ± 0.45 mass /10 corn plants in 2021 and 2022, respectively. While, the overall mean larval populations were 13.41 ± 0.52 and 13.03 ± 0.46 larvae/10 plants, during the two growing seasons, respectively. Corn plant damage percentages reached 68.54 ± 2.71 and 60.42 ± 2.92% in 2021 and 2022, respectively. The combined effects of both the weather conditions and maize plant ages were highly significant on egg masses, larvae population density, and damage percentage, and varied from one season to another. The mean daily maximum temperature was the most effective variable on egg masses and the larval population. Maize plant age had a clear effect on the damage percentage caused by the larvae in the field during the two years of the study. The dramatic spread of FAW and the consequent damage (that appeared in different countries of America, Africa, and Asia) mean that different management approaches must be sought for the small and large-scale producers by using available technologies for smallholder farmers will eliminate pest damage without access to reach to an economic Injury level. This information may assist the decision maker when planning the S. frugiperda IPM program for maize plants and its surveillance.

A lagarta-do-cartucho [FAW; Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)], é considerada uma séria praga invasora que representa uma séria ameaça à segurança alimentar mundial. Essa espécie pode devastar completamente as plantações de cereais de um país inteiro. Portanto, o presente trabalho é o primeiro ensaio de campo no Egito para elucidar alguns aspectos ecológicos de S. frugiperda em plantas de milho (Single-Hybrid 168 Yellow Corn cultivar) no distrito de Esna, Luxor Governorate, Egito, ao longo de duas estações de crescimento sequencial de milho (2021 a 2022). Três parâmetros de insetos foram utilizados, isto é, massas de ovos, número de larvas e porcentagem de plantas de milho danificadas. Também foram estimados os efeitos de certas condições climáticas e idades das plantas de milho na atividade sazonal de S. frugiperda e na porcentagem de plantas danificadas. A população de S. frugiperda começou a atacar as plantas de milho a partir da terceira semana de junho até a colheita em todas as estações. S. frugiperda apresentou dois picos sazonais de atividade como o número de massas de ovos e três picos em relação à densidade populacional larval/estação. Seu percentual de dano aumentou semanalmente a partir do aumento da idade da planta. A média das massas de ovos de S. frugiperda foi de 2,83 ± 0,40 e 2,96 ± 0,45 massa/10 plantas de milho em 2021 e 2022, respectivamente. Enquanto, as populações larvais médias gerais foram de 13,41 ± 0,52 e 13,03 ± 0,46 larvas/10 plantas, durante as duas estações de crescimento, respectivamente. As porcentagens de danos às plantas de milho atingiram 68,54 ± 2,71 e 60,42 ± 2,92% em 2021 e 2022, respectivamente. Os efeitos combinados das condições climáticas e da idade das plantas de milho foram altamente significativos nas massas de ovos, densidade populacional de larvas e porcentagem de danos, e variaram de uma estação para outra. A temperatura média diária máxima foi a variável mais efetiva sobre as massas de ovos e a população larval. A idade da planta de milho influenciou visivelmente o percentual de dano causado pelas larvas no campo durante os dois anos de estudo. A propagação dramática da LFM e os danos consequentes (que apareceram em diferentes países da América, África e Ásia) significam que devem ser utilizadas diferentes abordagens de gestão para os pequenos e grandes produtores, a partir de tecnologias disponíveis para os pequenos agricultores eliminarem os danos causados pelas pragas sem acesso para chegar a um nível de dano econômico. Essas informações podem auxiliar o tomador de decisão no planejamento do programa MIP de S. frugiperda para plantas de milho e o seu monitoramento.

Do Dipteryx alata Vogel seedlings recover the quality and the photosynthetic and antioxidant responses in the post-flooding?

Abstract Dipteryx alata Vogel is a tree species widely found in Cerrado, settling preferentially in well drained soils. Studies related to ecophysiology of D. alata may contribute to the decision making about using seedlings of this species in projects aimed at the recovery of degraded areas where seasonal flooding happens. This study aimed to assess the effects of flooding on photosynthetic and antioxidant metabolism and quality of D. alata seedlings cultivated or not under flooding during four assessment periods (0, 20, 40, and 60 days), followed by 100 days after the end of each assessment period (0+100, 20+100, 40+100, and 60+100 days), allowing verifying the potential for post-flooding recovery. Flooded plants showed lower photosynthetic efficiency than non-flooded plants, regardless of the periods of exposure. However, this efficiency was recovered in the post-flooding, with values similar to that of the non-flooded seedlings. Moreover, the damage to FV/FM was evidenced by an increase in the period of exposure to flooding, but recovery was also observed at this stage of the photosynthetic metabolism. Seedling quality decreased under flooding, not varying between periods of exposure, but remained lower although the increase observed in the post-flooding period, with no recovery after flooding. The occurrence of hypertrophied lenticels associated with physiological changes and an efficient antioxidant enzyme system might have contributed to the survival and recovery of these seedlings. Thus, this species is sensitive to flooding stress but capable of adjusting and recovering metabolic characteristics at 100 days after the suspension of the water stress, but with no recovery in seedling quality. Thus, we suggested plasticity under the cultivation condition and determined that the time of 100 days is not enough for the complete resumption of growth.

Resumo Dipteryx alata Vogel é uma arbórea de ampla ocorrência no Cerrado, se estabelecendo preferencialmente em solos bem drenados. Estudos referentes à ecofisiologia de D. alata em podem contribuir para a tomada de decisão sobre o uso de mudas dessa espécie em programas de recuperação de áreas degradadas sujeitas a alagamento temporário. Objetivamos com essa pesquisa avaliar os efeitos do alagamento no metabolismo fotossintético e antioxidante, além da qualidade de mudas dessa espécie, cultivadas ou não sob alagamento durante quatro períodos de avaliação (0, 20, 40 e 60 dias) seguidos de 100 dias após o término de cada período (0+100, 20+100, 40+100, 60+100 dias), possibilitando verificar o potencial de recuperação pós-alagamento. Observamos que as plantas alagadas apresentaram menor eficiência fotossintética e danos em FV/FM entretanto houve recuperação dessas características no pós alagamento. A qualidade das mudas reduziu sob alagamento não variando entre os períodos de exposição e embora tenha aumentado no pós-alagamento manteve-se menor não se recuperando. A ocorrência de lenticelas hipertrofiadas associadas a alterações fisiológicas e um eficiente sistema enzimático antioxidante devem ter contribuído para a sobrevivência e recuperação metabólica dessas mudas. Diante disso, sugerimos que a espécie é sensível ao estresse por alagamento, mas capaz de se ajustar e recuperar as características metabólicas 100 dias após a suspensão deste estresse hídrico, no entanto a qualidade da mudas não apresentou recuperação, assim, sugerimos plasticidade diante da condição de cultivo e ressaltamos que o tempo de 100 dias não é suficiente para a completa retomada do crescimento.

Diaspis echinocacti (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) on cactus pear cladodes: biological aspects at different temperatures / Diaspis echinocacti (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) em cladódios de palma forrageira: aspectos biológicos em diferentes temperaturas

The scale mealybug, Diaspis echinocacti (Bouché, 1833) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), is one of the main pests of the cactus pear in Brazil. The objective was to study biological aspects of D. echinocacti at the constant temperatures of 25, 28, 30, 33 and 35 °C with relative humidity of 60 ± 10% and photoperiod of 12 hours in the laboratory on the cactus pear cultivar, "Orelha de Elefante Mexicana", Opuntia stricta [Haw.] Haw. The development period (22 to 35 days) and survival in the egg (92 to 100%) and nymph (21.8 to 100%) stages and of the egg-adult cycle (20 to 100%), longevity (34.1 to 59.6 days) and fecundity (33 to 112 eggs) of D. echinocacti females with the different temperature and absence of males at the highest temperatures (> 30°C), indicated that the range between 25 °C and 30°C is the most favorable for this scale mealybug. This information may help to improve integrated management programs for D. echinocacti, in areas subject to seasonal temperature changes in the Brazilian regions where cactus pear is cultivated.

A cochonilha-escama, Diaspis echinocacti (Bouché, 1833) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), é uma das principais pragas da palma forrageira no Brasil. O objetivo foi estudar aspectos biológicos de D. echinocacti nas temperaturas constantes de 25, 28, 30, 33 e 35 °C, umidade relativa de 60 ± 10% e fotoperíodo de 12 horas em laboratório na cultivar de palma forrageira, "Orelha de Elefante Mexicana", Opuntia stricta [Haw.] Haw. O período de desenvolvimento (22 a 35 dias) e a sobrevivência nas fases de ovo (92 a 100%) e ninfa (21,8 a 100%) e o ciclo ovo-adulto (20 a 100%), longevidade (34,1 a 59,6 dias) e fecundidade (33 a 112 ovos) de fêmeas de D. echinocacti nas diferentes temperaturas e ausência de machos nas maiores (> 30°C) indicam ser a faixa entre 25°C e 30°C a mais favorável para esta cochonilha de escama. Essas informações podem auxiliar no aprimoramento de programas de manejo integrado de D. echinocacti em áreas sujeitas a variações sazonais de temperatura nas regiões brasileiras onde a palma forrageira é cultivada.

Seasonal variation of thyroxine concentration in Karagouniko and Chios rams in temperate environmental conditions

It is well known that the concentration of the thyroid hormone thyroxine increases as day length increases, and the other way around, in Karagouniko and Chios ewes but based on openly international English literature, nothing is known about this hormone on the rams of the breeds mentioned above concerning a meticulous analysis of their aerial environment. So from this perspective, the current research was conducted to investigate the thyroxine concentrations of Karagouniko and Chios rams, taking into account two periods, January-June and July-November, when the day length was increasing and decreasing, respectively. Apart from photoperiod, the meteorological variables air temperature, relative humidity, and sunshine were taken into consideration in the farm of the Artificial Insemination Center of Karditsa (39021΄18΄΄N, 21054΄19΄΄E), Greece (temperate climate zone), where the experimental animals raised. The possible change of thyroxine concentration in both sheep breeds and the possible changes of the abovementioned meteorological variables between the examined periods were detected using t-tests. Higher thyroxine values (P < 0.05) were confirmed in JanuaryJune (55.11 ng/ml in Karagouniko and 47.72 ng/ml in Chios rams), in comparison to July-November (49.03 ng/ml in Karagouniko and 44.14 ng/ml in Chios rams). Air temperature and sunshine followed a reverse course (P < 0.05). In both periods, Karagouniko rams were characterized by higher concentrations of thyroxine than Chios rams (P < 0.01). Our results add more insight into the physiology of Karagouniko and Chios sheep related to thyroxine and temperate aerial environment.

Seasonal patterns of infestation by monogenean parasites of fish and their relationship with water parameters in two rivers with different disturbance gradients in southeastern Brazil / Padrões sazonais de infestação por parasitos monogenéticos de peixes e sua relação com os parâmetros da água em dois rios com diferentes gradientes de perturbação no sudeste do Brasil

Here, we evaluate the relationships between the infestation rates of five monogenean parasites species with the dry and wet seasons, with the organic and inorganic parameters of the water of two rivers: the Jacaré-Pepira and Jacaré-Guaçú, and with the condition factors of its fish hosts: Serrasalmus maculatus and Astronotus crassipinnis, in the state of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil. Fish were collected between January and December 2017. Anacanthorus serrasalmi, Amphithecium speirocamarotum and Gussevia asota had higher abundance rates (Student's t test, p ≤ 0.05) in the wet season. Gussevia asota had its abundance negatively correlated to nitrate in the Jacaré-Pepira River and with total nitrogen and potassium in the Jacaré-Guaçú River. Regarding the fish hosts condition factors, was observed a positive correlation with the abundances of G. asota in the Jacaré-Guaçú River, and with A. serrasalmi in the Jacaré-Pepira River. In general, wet season favored an increasing in the infestation rates of the monogeneans parasites in their host species, mainly in the river considered as the most polluted, the Jacaré-Guaçú River. Of the five parasites species analyzed in this study, only Gussevia astronoti and Rhinoxenus piranhus had no interaction with seasonality, river water variables, or fish host condition factors. On the other hand, G. asota had interactions both with water parameters (nitrate and total nitrogen) and with the hosts condition factors, which reflected in the abundance and intensity rates, showing itself as a species sensitive to changes in the environment and, therefore, that can be considered as a bioindicator organism.

Aqui, nós avaliamos as relações entre as taxas de infestação de cincos espécies de parasitos monogenéticos em relação aos períodos seco e chuvoso, aos parâmetros orgânicos e inorgânicos da água de dois rios: Jacaré-Pepira e Jacaré-Guaçú, e em relação aos fatores de condição das espécies de peixes hospedeiras: Serrasalmus maculatus e Astronotus crassipinnis, no estado de São Paulo, sudeste do Brasil. Os peixes foram coletados entre os meses de janeiro a dezembro de 2017. Anacanthorus serrasalmi, Amphithecium speirocamarotum e Gussevia asota tiveram maiores taxas de abundância (teste t de Student, p ≤ 0,05) no período chuvoso. Gussevia asota teve sua abundância negativamente correlacionada com o nitrato no rio Jacaré Pepira e com o nitrogênio total e potássio no rio Jacaré-Guaçú. Em relação ao fator de condição dos peixes, foi observado uma correlação positiva com a abundância de G. asota no rio Jacaré-Guaçú e com A. serrasalmi no rio Jacaré-Pepira. No geral, o período chuvoso favoreceu um aumento nas taxas de infestação dos parasitos monogenéticos em seus peixes hospedeiros, especialmente no rio considerado como o mais poluído, o rio Jacaré-Guaçú. Das cinco espécies de parasitos analisadas no estudo, somente Gussevia astronoti e Rhinoxenus piranhus não tiveram nenhum tipo de interação com a sazonalidade, com as variáveis das águas dos rios ou com o fator de condição dos peixes hospedeiros. Por outro lado, G. asota teve interações tanto com os parâmetros da água (nitrato e nitrogênio total) quanto com os fatores de condição dos hospedeiros, que refletiram nas taxas de abundância e de infestação, mostrando que esta espécie é sensível às mudanças no ambiente e que, portanto, pode ser utilizada como um organismo bioindicador.

Do Dipteryx alata Vogel seedlings recover the quality and the photosynthetic and antioxidant responses in the post-flooding? / Mudas de Dipteryx alata Vogel recuperam a qualidade e as respostas fotossintéticas e antioxidantes no pós-alagamento?

Abstract Dipteryx alata Vogel is a tree species widely found in Cerrado, settling preferentially in well drained soils. Studies related to ecophysiology of D. alata may contribute to the decision making about using seedlings of this species in projects aimed at the recovery of degraded areas where seasonal flooding happens. This study aimed to assess the effects of flooding on photosynthetic and antioxidant metabolism and quality of D. alata seedlings cultivated or not under flooding during four assessment periods (0, 20, 40, and 60 days), followed by 100 days after the end of each assessment period (0+100, 20+100, 40+100, and 60+100 days), allowing verifying the potential for post-flooding recovery. Flooded plants showed lower photosynthetic efficiency than non-flooded plants, regardless of the periods of exposure. However, this efficiency was recovered in the post-flooding, with values similar to that of the non-flooded seedlings. Moreover, the damage to FV/FM was evidenced by an increase in the period of exposure to flooding, but recovery was also observed at this stage of the photosynthetic metabolism. Seedling quality decreased under flooding, not varying between periods of exposure, but remained lower although the increase observed in the post-flooding period, with no recovery after flooding. The occurrence of hypertrophied lenticels associated with physiological changes and an efficient antioxidant enzyme system might have contributed to the survival and recovery of these seedlings. Thus, this species is sensitive to flooding stress but capable of adjusting and recovering metabolic characteristics at 100 days after the suspension of the water stress, but with no recovery in seedling quality. Thus, we suggested plasticity under the cultivation condition and determined that the time of 100 days is not enough for the complete resumption of growth.

Resumo Dipteryx alata Vogel é uma arbórea de ampla ocorrência no Cerrado, se estabelecendo preferencialmente em solos bem drenados. Estudos referentes à ecofisiologia de D. alata em podem contribuir para a tomada de decisão sobre o uso de mudas dessa espécie em programas de recuperação de áreas degradadas sujeitas a alagamento temporário. Objetivamos com essa pesquisa avaliar os efeitos do alagamento no metabolismo fotossintético e antioxidante, além da qualidade de mudas dessa espécie, cultivadas ou não sob alagamento durante quatro períodos de avaliação (0, 20, 40 e 60 dias) seguidos de 100 dias após o término de cada período (0+100, 20+100, 40+100, 60+100 dias), possibilitando verificar o potencial de recuperação pós-alagamento. Observamos que as plantas alagadas apresentaram menor eficiência fotossintética e danos em FV/FM entretanto houve recuperação dessas características no pós alagamento. A qualidade das mudas reduziu sob alagamento não variando entre os períodos de exposição e embora tenha aumentado no pós-alagamento manteve-se menor não se recuperando. A ocorrência de lenticelas hipertrofiadas associadas a alterações fisiológicas e um eficiente sistema enzimático antioxidante devem ter contribuído para a sobrevivência e recuperação metabólica dessas mudas. Diante disso, sugerimos que a espécie é sensível ao estresse por alagamento, mas capaz de se ajustar e recuperar as características metabólicas 100 dias após a suspensão deste estresse hídrico, no entanto a qualidade da mudas não apresentou recuperação, assim, sugerimos plasticidade diante da condição de cultivo e ressaltamos que o tempo de 100 dias não é suficiente para a completa retomada do crescimento.

Do Dipteryx alata Vogel seedlings recover the quality and the photosynthetic and antioxidant responses in the post-flooding? / Mudas de Dipteryx alata Vogel recuperam a qualidade e as respostas fotossintéticas e antioxidantes no pós-alagamento?

Dipteryx alata Vogel is a tree species widely found in Cerrado, settling preferentially in well drained soils. Studies related to ecophysiology of D. alata may contribute to the decision making about using seedlings of this species in projects aimed at the recovery of degraded areas where seasonal flooding happens. This study aimed to assess the effects of flooding on photosynthetic and antioxidant metabolism and quality of D. alata seedlings cultivated or not under flooding during four assessment periods (0, 20, 40, and 60 days), followed by 100 days after the end of each assessment period (0+100, 20+100, 40+100, and 60+100 days), allowing verifying the potential for post-flooding recovery. Flooded plants showed lower photosynthetic efficiency than non-flooded plants, regardless of the periods of exposure. However, this efficiency was recovered in the post-flooding, with values similar to that of the non-flooded seedlings. Moreover, the damage to FV/FM was evidenced by an increase in the period of exposure to flooding, but recovery was also observed at this stage of the photosynthetic metabolism. Seedling quality decreased under flooding, not varying between periods of exposure, but remained lower although the increase observed in the post-flooding period, with no recovery after flooding. The occurrence of hypertrophied lenticels associated with physiological changes and an efficient antioxidant enzyme system might have contributed to the survival and recovery of these seedlings. Thus, this species is sensitive to flooding stress but capable of adjusting and recovering metabolic characteristics at 100 days after the suspension of the water stress, but with no recovery in seedling quality. Thus, we suggested plasticity under the cultivation condition and determined that the time of 100 days is not enough for the complete resumption of growth.

Dipteryx alata Vogel é uma arbórea de ampla ocorrência no Cerrado, se estabelecendo preferencialmente em solos bem drenados. Estudos referentes à ecofisiologia de D. alata em podem contribuir para a tomada de decisão sobre o uso de mudas dessa espécie em programas de recuperação de áreas degradadas sujeitas a alagamento temporário. Objetivamos com essa pesquisa avaliar os efeitos do alagamento no metabolismo fotossintético e antioxidante, além da qualidade de mudas dessa espécie, cultivadas ou não sob alagamento durante quatro períodos de avaliação (0, 20, 40 e 60 dias) seguidos de 100 dias após o término de cada período (0+100, 20+100, 40+100, 60+100 dias), possibilitando verificar o potencial de recuperação pós-alagamento. Observamos que as plantas alagadas apresentaram menor eficiência fotossintética e danos em FV/FM entretanto houve recuperação dessas características no pós alagamento. A qualidade das mudas reduziu sob alagamento não variando entre os períodos de exposição e embora tenha aumentado no pós-alagamento manteve-se menor não se recuperando. A ocorrência de lenticelas hipertrofiadas associadas a alterações fisiológicas e um eficiente sistema enzimático antioxidante devem ter contribuído para a sobrevivência e recuperação metabólica dessas mudas. Diante disso, sugerimos que a espécie é sensível ao estresse por alagamento, mas capaz de se ajustar e recuperar as características metabólicas 100 dias após a suspensão deste estresse hídrico, no entanto a qualidade da mudas não apresentou recuperação, assim, sugerimos plasticidade diante da condição de cultivo e ressaltamos que o tempo de 100 dias não é suficiente para a completa retomada do crescimento.

Do Dipteryx alata Vogel seedlings recover the quality and the photosynthetic and antioxidant responses in the post-flooding? / Mudas de Dipteryx alata Vogel recuperam a qualidade e as respostas fotossintéticas e antioxidantes no pós-alagamento?

Dipteryx alata Vogel is a tree species widely found in Cerrado, settling preferentially in well drained soils. Studies related to ecophysiology of D. alata may contribute to the decision making about using seedlings of this species in projects aimed at the recovery of degraded areas where seasonal flooding happens. This study aimed to assess the effects of flooding on photosynthetic and antioxidant metabolism and quality of D. alata seedlings cultivated or not under flooding during four assessment periods (0, 20, 40, and 60 days), followed by 100 days after the end of each assessment period (0+100, 20+100, 40+100, and 60+100 days), allowing verifying the potential for post-flooding recovery. Flooded plants showed lower photosynthetic efficiency than non-flooded plants, regardless of the periods of exposure. However, this efficiency was recovered in the post-flooding, with values similar to that of the non-flooded seedlings. Moreover, the damage to FV/FM was evidenced by an increase in the period of exposure to flooding, but recovery was also observed at this stage of the photosynthetic metabolism. Seedling quality decreased under flooding, not varying between periods of exposure, but remained lower although the increase observed in the post-flooding period, with no recovery after flooding. The occurrence of hypertrophied lenticels associated with physiological changes and an efficient antioxidant enzyme system might have contributed to the survival and recovery of these seedlings. Thus, this species is sensitive to flooding stress but capable of adjusting and recovering metabolic characteristics at 100 days after the suspension of the water stress, but with no recovery in seedling quality. Thus, we suggested plasticity under the cultivation condition and determined that the time of 100 days is not enough for the complete resumption of growth.(AU)

Dipteryx alata Vogel é uma arbórea de ampla ocorrência no Cerrado, se estabelecendo preferencialmente em solos bem drenados. Estudos referentes à ecofisiologia de D. alata em podem contribuir para a tomada de decisão sobre o uso de mudas dessa espécie em programas de recuperação de áreas degradadas sujeitas a alagamento temporário. Objetivamos com essa pesquisa avaliar os efeitos do alagamento no metabolismo fotossintético e antioxidante, além da qualidade de mudas dessa espécie, cultivadas ou não sob alagamento durante quatro períodos de avaliação (0, 20, 40 e 60 dias) seguidos de 100 dias após o término de cada período (0+100, 20+100, 40+100, 60+100 dias), possibilitando verificar o potencial de recuperação pós-alagamento. Observamos que as plantas alagadas apresentaram menor eficiência fotossintética e danos em FV/FM entretanto houve recuperação dessas características no pós alagamento. A qualidade das mudas reduziu sob alagamento não variando entre os períodos de exposição e embora tenha aumentado no pós-alagamento manteve-se menor não se recuperando. A ocorrência de lenticelas hipertrofiadas associadas a alterações fisiológicas e um eficiente sistema enzimático antioxidante devem ter contribuído para a sobrevivência e recuperação metabólica dessas mudas. Diante disso, sugerimos que a espécie é sensível ao estresse por alagamento, mas capaz de se ajustar e recuperar as características metabólicas 100 dias após a suspensão deste estresse hídrico, no entanto a qualidade da mudas não apresentou recuperação, assim, sugerimos plasticidade diante da condição de cultivo e ressaltamos que o tempo de 100 dias não é suficiente para a completa retomada do crescimento.(AU)

Histomorphometric changes of testicular tissues by season and age of Algerian local donkeys (Equus asinus)

The present investigation was undertaken to highlight the histomorphometric changes of testicular tissues according to season and age in donkeys (Equus asinus) under northern Algeria conditions. The experiment was conducted from February 2019 to January 2020. A total of 21 sexually mature donkeys were selected randomly. The testis were immediately collected after slaughter for the histological observation. The analysis of the correlation coefficients shows negative correlations between DL and other parameters such as DST, GCEH, TTA and ITSA, ranged between -0.24 and -0.79. Also, there were a high negative correlations between season and the histomorphometric parameters, except DL was revealed positive (r=0.65). On the other hand, there were positive correlations between age and testicular histomorphometrics parameters. The results indicated that DST, GCEH, TTA and ITSA values were significantly higher in winter and autumn seasons than in spring and summer seasons. It is also noteworthy that DST, GCEH, TTA and ITSA values were significantly higher in adult and aged donkeys than in young donkeys. Our comparative analysis of histological parameters, suggests that the sexual activity usually occurs during winter and autumn in local donkeys of Algeria. In addition, our results of histomorphometric of testicular tissues are correlated with age of donkeys.(AU)

Maturation and quality of 'BRS Magna' grapes influenced by rootstocks in rainy season

Seasonal variations and production factors can influence the quality of grapes. Considering the Sub-middle region of the São Francisco Valley, Brazil, differentiated by production in rainy and warmer periods of the year, the climatic conditions in each season affect the duration of the phenological phases and quality of the grapes. The objective of this study was to characterize the changes in the quality components during maturation of 'BRS Magna' grapes on different rootstocks, in rainy seasons under tropical conditions, as a support to define the harvest time. The experiment was conducted in Petrolina, Pernambuco, Brazil, from Jan to Apr 2017 (cycle 1) and Dec 2017 to Apr 2018 (cycle 2) evaluating rootstocks and age of the fruits. Bunches were picked from the start of maturation to the harvest: 49, 56, 61, 64 and 68 days after fruit set (DAF) for cycle 1, and 35, 41, 48, 55, 61, and 66 DAF for cycle 2. In cycle 1 'IAC 572' and 'Paulsen 1103' rootstocks provided higher sugar contents in grapes, which was only repeated in cycle 2 for 'Paulsen 1103'. The accumulation of anthocyanins and yellow flavonoids was favored by 'IAC 313' and 'IAC 572' rootstocks in cycle 1, and by 'IAC 313' and 'IAC 766' in cycle 2. A higher content of polyphenols was conferred on 'IAC 572' in cycle 1 and on 'IAC 766' in cycle 2, which also had a greater antioxidant capacity. Although there were differences between rootstocks, harvesting at approximately 64 DAF maximized grape quality for all treatments.(AU)

Changes in the feeding behavior and habitat use of the desert hedgehog Paraechinus aethiopicus (Ehrenberg 1832, Eulipotyphla: Erinaceidae), in Saudi Arabia

Abstract Due to the urbanization and human invasion of the natural environments, great changes have been occurred on the food composition and feeding ecology of several animals especially those are sharing human his habitat in fields, wadis and gardens. The desert hedgehogs Paraechinus aethiopicus populations inhabiting different localities in Saudi Arabia were studied by using stomach contents analysis between February 2015 and October 2019. Precise analysis of stomach contents of 55 hedgehogs showed that the food of P. aethiopicus is highly diverse and highly influenced with effect of human on the environment including cooked rice, insects, plant materials, eggshells, worms, garbage and remnants of mammals and birds. Diet composition showed seasonal variations that are apparently associated with changes in the availability of different food items. The present results clearly showed that P. aethiopicus is an omnivorous mammal, capable of adapting to a great variety of dietary compositions in the study sites.

Resumo Devido à urbanização e invasão humana dos ambientes naturais, grandes mudanças têm ocorrido na composição alimentar e ecologia alimentar de vários animais, especialmente aqueles que estão compartilhando seu hábitat humano em campos, wadis e jardins. As populações de ouriços-do-deserto Paraechinus aethiopicus que habitam diferentes localidades na Arábia Saudita foram estudadas usando análise de conteúdo estomacal entre fevereiro de 2015 e outubro de 2019. A análise precisa do conteúdo estomacal de 55 ouriços mostrou que a alimentação de P. aethiopicus é altamente diversa e altamente influenciada com efeito de humanos no meio ambiente, incluindo arroz cozido, insetos, materiais vegetais, cascas de ovo, vermes, lixo e restos de mamíferos e pássaros. A composição da dieta apresentou variações sazonais que aparentemente estão associadas a mudanças na disponibilidade de diferentes itens alimentares. Os presentes resultados mostraram claramente que P. aethiopicus é um mamífero onívoro, capaz de se adaptar a uma grande variedade de composições dietéticas nos locais de estudo.

Population dynamics and seasonality of Euspilotus (Hesperosaprinus) azureus Sahlberg (Coleoptera: Histeridae: Saprininae) / Dinâmica populacional e sazonalidade de Euspilotus (Hesperosaprinus) azureus Sahlberg (Coleoptera: Histeridae: Saprininae)

The effect of climatic conditions on the structure of populations has been perceived for different orders of insects and families of beetles. Here we described the population dynamics of Euspilotus azureus (Sahlberg, 1823) and determined its relationship with climatic variables. The specimens were collected monthly for one year in an area of Seasonal Semideciduous Forest, in Viçosa, Brazil. The seasonality of the population and of sexes was estimated through the absolute frequency of occurrence (AF) and the percentage frequency of occurrence (FO%) of the population and each sex, which were determined monthly. To test whether the changes in monthly AF of the population and of each sex are correlated with climatic variables, Spearman correlation tests were performed. To identify whether there are temporal fluctuations in the sex ratio, considering months and seasons, and within each season, we performed Chi-square tests. A total of 3,126 individuals (1,009 females and 2,117 males) were collected. The population had the highest abundance in spring and summer, and the lowest in autumn and winter. The highest AF and FO were found in December and January, and the lowest in June and July. The sex ratio of the population did not differ in the months of the year, but in the spring there was a marked predominance of males. For E. azureus, the temporal fluctuation in abundance of the population and in the sex ratio is related to the climatic variables of maximum temperature, humidity, and precipitation. Climatic variables, especially the temperature, provided a greater abundance of the population in the hottest and rainiest periods of the year for inducing reproductive activity and altering the population's sex ratio.

O efeito das condições climáticas na estrutura das populações tem sido percebido para diferentes ordens de insetos e famílias de besouros. Nós descrevemos a dinâmica populacional temporal de Euspilotus azureus (Sahlberg, 1823) e determinamos sua relação com as variáveis climáticas. Os espécimes foram coletados durante um ano em uma área de Floresta Semidecidual Sazonal, em Viçosa, Brasil. A sazonalidade da população e dos sexos foi estimada através da frequência de ocorrência absoluta (FA) e da frequência de ocorrência percentual (FO%) da população, as quais foram determinadas mensalmente. Para testar se as mudanças mensais na FA da população e de cada sexo estão correlacionadas com as variáveis climáticas, testes de correlação de Spearman foram realizados. Para identificar se há oscilações temporais na razão sexual considerando meses e estações, e dentro de cada estação, foram realizados testes de Qui-quadrado. Um total de 3.126 indivíduos (1.009 fêmeas e 2.117 machos) foram coletados. A população teve maior abundância na primavera e verão, e menor no outono e inverno. As maiores FA e FO foram em dezembro e janeiro, e a menores em junho e julho. A razão sexual da população não diferiu nos meses do ano, mas na primavera houve uma predominância marcante de machos. Para E. azureus, a flutuação temporal na abundância da população e na razão sexual é explicada pelas variáveis climáticas de temperatura máxima, umidade e precipitação. As variáveis climáticas, especialmente a temperatura, propiciaram uma maior abundância da população nos períodos os mais quentes e chuvosos do ano por induzirem a atividade reprodutiva e a alterar da razão sexual da população.

Changes in the feeding behavior and habitat use of the desert hedgehog Paraechinus aethiopicus (Ehrenberg 1832, Eulipotyphla: Erinaceidae), in Saudi Arabia / Mudanças no comportamento alimentar e no uso do hábitat do ouriço-do-deserto Paraechinus aethiopicus (Ehrenberg 1832, Eulipotyphla: Erinaceidae), na Arábia Saudita

Due to the urbanization and human invasion of the natural environments, great changes have been occurred on the food composition and feeding ecology of several animals especially those are sharing human his habitat in fields, wadis and gardens. The desert hedgehogs Paraechinus aethiopicus populations inhabiting different localities in Saudi Arabia were studied by using stomach contents analysis between February 2015 and October 2019. Precise analysis of stomach contents of 55 hedgehogs showed that the food of P. aethiopicus is highly diverse and highly influenced with effect of human on the environment including cooked rice, insects, plant materials, eggshells, worms, garbage and remnants of mammals and birds. Diet composition showed seasonal variations that are apparently associated with changes in the availability of different food items. The present results clearly showed that P. aethiopicus is an omnivorous mammal, capable of adapting to a great variety of dietary compositions in the study sites.

Devido à urbanização e invasão humana dos ambientes naturais, grandes mudanças têm ocorrido na composição alimentar e ecologia alimentar de vários animais, especialmente aqueles que estão compartilhando seu hábitat humano em campos, wadis e jardins. As populações de ouriços-do-deserto Paraechinus aethiopicus que habitam diferentes localidades na Arábia Saudita foram estudadas usando análise de conteúdo estomacal entre fevereiro de 2015 e outubro de 2019. A análise precisa do conteúdo estomacal de 55 ouriços mostrou que a alimentação de P. aethiopicus é altamente diversa e altamente influenciada com efeito de humanos no meio ambiente, incluindo arroz cozido, insetos, materiais vegetais, cascas de ovo, vermes, lixo e restos de mamíferos e pássaros. A composição da dieta apresentou variações sazonais que aparentemente estão associadas a mudanças na disponibilidade de diferentes itens alimentares. Os presentes resultados mostraram claramente que P. aethiopicus é um mamífero onívoro, capaz de se adaptar a uma grande variedade de composições dietéticas nos locais de estudo.

Changes in the feeding behavior and habitat use of the desert hedgehog Paraechinus aethiopicus (Ehrenberg 1832, Eulipotyphla: Erinaceidae), in Saudi Arabia / Mudanças no comportamento alimentar e no uso do hábitat do ouriço-do-deserto Paraechinus aethiopicus (Ehrenberg 1832, Eulipotyphla: Erinaceidae), na Arábia Saudita

Due to the urbanization and human invasion of the natural environments, great changes have been occurred on the food composition and feeding ecology of several animals especially those are sharing human his habitat in fields, wadis and gardens. The desert hedgehogs Paraechinus aethiopicus populations inhabiting different localities in Saudi Arabia were studied by using stomach contents analysis between February 2015 and October 2019. Precise analysis of stomach contents of 55 hedgehogs showed that the food of P. aethiopicus is highly diverse and highly influenced with effect of human on the environment including cooked rice, insects, plant materials, eggshells, worms, garbage and remnants of mammals and birds. Diet composition showed seasonal variations that are apparently associated with changes in the availability of different food items. The present results clearly showed that P. aethiopicus is an omnivorous mammal, capable of adapting to a great variety of dietary compositions in the study sites.

Devido à urbanização e invasão humana dos ambientes naturais, grandes mudanças têm ocorrido na composição alimentar e ecologia alimentar de vários animais, especialmente aqueles que estão compartilhando seu hábitat humano em campos, wadis e jardins. As populações de ouriços-do-deserto Paraechinus aethiopicus que habitam diferentes localidades na Arábia Saudita foram estudadas usando análise de conteúdo estomacal entre fevereiro de 2015 e outubro de 2019. A análise precisa do conteúdo estomacal de 55 ouriços mostrou que a alimentação de P. aethiopicus é altamente diversa e altamente influenciada com efeito de humanos no meio ambiente, incluindo arroz cozido, insetos, materiais vegetais, cascas de ovo, vermes, lixo e restos de mamíferos e pássaros. A composição da dieta apresentou variações sazonais que aparentemente estão associadas a mudanças na disponibilidade de diferentes itens alimentares. Os presentes resultados mostraram claramente que P. aethiopicus é um mamífero onívoro, capaz de se adaptar a uma grande variedade de composições dietéticas nos locais de estudo.

Changes in the feeding behavior and habitat use of the desert hedgehog Paraechinus aethiopicus (Ehrenberg 1832, Eulipotyphla: Erinaceidae), in Saudi Arabia / Mudanças no comportamento alimentar e no uso do hábitat do ouriço-do-deserto Paraechinus aethiopicus (Ehrenberg 1832, Eulipotyphla: Erinaceidae), na Arábia Saudita

Due to the urbanization and human invasion of the natural environments, great changes have been occurred on the food composition and feeding ecology of several animals especially those are sharing human his habitat in fields, wadis and gardens. The desert hedgehogs Paraechinus aethiopicus populations inhabiting different localities in Saudi Arabia were studied by using stomach contents analysis between February 2015 and October 2019. Precise analysis of stomach contents of 55 hedgehogs showed that the food of P. aethiopicus is highly diverse and highly influenced with effect of human on the environment including cooked rice, insects, plant materials, eggshells, worms, garbage and remnants of mammals and birds. Diet composition showed seasonal variations that are apparently associated with changes in the availability of different food items. The present results clearly showed that P. aethiopicus is an omnivorous mammal, capable of adapting to a great variety of dietary compositions in the study sites.(AU)

Devido à urbanização e invasão humana dos ambientes naturais, grandes mudanças têm ocorrido na composição alimentar e ecologia alimentar de vários animais, especialmente aqueles que estão compartilhando seu hábitat humano em campos, wadis e jardins. As populações de ouriços-do-deserto Paraechinus aethiopicus que habitam diferentes localidades na Arábia Saudita foram estudadas usando análise de conteúdo estomacal entre fevereiro de 2015 e outubro de 2019. A análise precisa do conteúdo estomacal de 55 ouriços mostrou que a alimentação de P. aethiopicus é altamente diversa e altamente influenciada com efeito de humanos no meio ambiente, incluindo arroz cozido, insetos, materiais vegetais, cascas de ovo, vermes, lixo e restos de mamíferos e pássaros. A composição da dieta apresentou variações sazonais que aparentemente estão associadas a mudanças na disponibilidade de diferentes itens alimentares. Os presentes resultados mostraram claramente que P. aethiopicus é um mamífero onívoro, capaz de se adaptar a uma grande variedade de composições dietéticas nos locais de estudo.(AU)

Changes in ovarian morphology and hormone concentrations associated with reproductive seasonality in wild large Japanese field mice (Apodemus speciosus)

Abstract Wild large Japanese field mice (Apodemus speciosus) responses to cyclic seasonal changes are associated with physiological and behavioral changes. However, the detailed regulation of oogenesis in the ovary during the seasonal reproductive cycle in wild large Japanese field mice has not been studied. We assessed the dynamics and changes in ovarian morphology and hormone concentrations associated with reproductive seasonality throughout the year. The stages of the ovarian morphological breeding cycle of wild large Japanese field mice were classified as breeding, transition, and non-breeding periods during the annual reproductive cycle. Measurement of blood estradiol concentrations throughout the year showed that the levels in September and October were higher than those in other months. It is presumed that follicle development starts from a blood estradiol concentration of 38.4 ± 27.1 pg/mL, which marks a shift from the transitional season to the breeding season, followed by the transition to the non-breeding season at 26.1 ± 11.6 pg/mL. These results suggest that seasonal follicle development in wild rodents is correlated with estradiol regulation. We consider this species to be an alternative animal model for studying seasonal reproductive changes and the effects of environmental changes.

Changes in ovarian morphology and hormone concentrations associated with reproductive seasonality in wild large Japanese field mice (Apodemus speciosus)

Wild large Japanese field mice (Apodemus speciosus) responses to cyclic seasonal changes are associated with physiological and behavioral changes. However, the detailed regulation of oogenesis in the ovary during the seasonal reproductive cycle in wild large Japanese field mice has not been studied. We assessed the dynamics and changes in ovarian morphology and hormone concentrations associated with reproductive seasonality throughout the year. The stages of the ovarian morphological breeding cycle of wild large Japanese field mice were classified as breeding, transition, and non-breeding periods during the annual reproductive cycle. Measurement of blood estradiol concentrations throughout the year showed that the levels in September and October were higher than those in other months. It is presumed that follicle development starts from a blood estradiol concentration of 38.4 ± 27.1 pg/mL, which marks a shift from the transitional season to the breeding season, followed by the transition to the non-breeding season at 26.1 ± 11.6 pg/mL. These results suggest that seasonal follicle development in wild rodents is correlated with estradiol regulation. We consider this species to be an alternative animal model for studying seasonal reproductive changes and the effects of environmental changes.(AU)

Coffea arabica L: History, phenology and climatic aptitude of the state of São Paulo, Brazil

The genus Coffea belongs to the Rubiaceae family and includes two species with optimum economic performances, Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora. The state of São Paulo is one of the states that produce the species C. arabica in Brazil. Arabica coffee has been of great importance to São Paulo, providing relevant contributions to the historical, political, architectural, gastronomic, touristic, artistic, agricultural, industrial and social sectors since its introduction into the state in the nineteenth century. The agricultural sector includes crops produced by both small farmers and by highly technological agricultural groups. Coffea arabica plants present six phenological phases, all sensitive to changes in temperature and rainfall. In the reproductive phases, the species requires short days, low temperatures and no rainfall, followed by the rainy season. However, the phenological phases of the coffee plants can be harmed or even inhibited by dry or rainy seasons that are too long or too short. In the state of São Paulo, the municipalities of Garça and Franca show optimal coffee productivity, whereas those of Adamantina and Registro are low, and the agricultural aptitudes of these four municipalities show strong relationships with their geographical distributions in the state. Garça and Franca are situated in areas where the predominant dry and rainy seasons favor the occurrence of the phenological phases of arabica coffee plants, whereas Adamantina and Registro are located in areas with long dry and rainy seasons, respectively, characteristics that harm the development of the reproductive phenological phases of this culture.

Variación estacional de aves en el humedal de Trumao, centro-sur de Chile / Seasonal variation of birds in Trumao wetland, south-central Chile

En este estudio se describe el ensamble de aves del humedal de Trumao y su variación estacional según régimen hidrológico durante primavera 2017 y verano 2018 (no inundado) e inviernos 2017 y 2018 (inundado) y se evalúa el tipo de hábitat. Se registraron 29 especies de aves con una abundancia total de 2,341 individuos. El número total de especies acumuladas observadas para el período inundado y no inundado correspondió a 16 y 22 especies, respectivamente, siendo Chroicocephalus maculipennis (Lichtenstein, 1823) (Gaviota cáhuil) la especie dominante durante el período de estudio. El índice de similitud de Sorensen entre los períodos de inundación y no inundación del humedal fue de 73.2%, mientras que la similitud de Bray-Curtis resultó en un 32.65%. Al compararse el periodo invernal inundado (4 m profundidad) y el periodo estival no inundado (1 m profundidad), el índice de diversidad registró diferencias estadísticamente significativas, en cambio, la abundancia no presentó diferencias significativas. El análisis SIMPER arrojó que entre el periodo invernal inundado y el periodo estival no inundado las especies que mostraron un mayor porcentaje de disimilitud en su abundancia entre estas temporadas fueron la Gaviota cáhuil y Loro choroy [Enicognathus leptorhynchus (King, 1831)]. El uso de hábitat en el humedal de Trumao, por parte de las aves, fue altamente variable, tanto estacional como espacialmente, resultado esperable para este tipo de ecosistemas. Finalmente, nuestros resultados nos indican que las aves ocupan los humedales según fluctuaciones estacionales y según el hábitat que se encuentre disponible, sin embargo, la abundancia no se ve afectada por los cambios hidrológicos. Con estos resultados es fundamental seguir realizando más investigaciones en el humedal para determinar el uso (nidificación, alimentación, reproducción) que realizan las aves en los distintos hábitats para de esta manera generar medidas de protección y conservación para la gestión del humedal de Trumao.(AU)

This study describes the assemblage and habitat use of birds in the Trumao wetland and its seasonal variation according to the hydrological regime during spring 2017 and summer 2018 (not flooded) and winters 2017 and 2018 (flooded). Overall, 29 species of birds were recorded with a total abundance of 2,341 individuals. The total number of accumulated species observed for the flooded and non-flooded period corresponded to 16 and 22 species, respectively, with the Brown hooded Gull [Chroicocephalus maculipennis (Lichtenstein, 1823)] being the dominant species. The qualitative Sorensen similarity index between the flooding and non-flooding periods of the wetland was 73.2%, while the quantitative Bray-Curtis similarity was 32.65%. When comparing the flooded winter period (4 m depth) and the non-flooded summer period (1 m depth), the diversity presented statistically significant differences, but not the abundance. The SIMPER analysis showed that between the flooded winter period and the non-flooded summer period, the species that showed a greater percentage of dissimilarity in their abundance between these seasons were the Brown hooded Gull and the Slender-billed Parakeet [Enicognathus leptorhynchus (King,1831)]. The use of habitat was highly variable, both seasonally and spatially. Our results indicate that birds occupy wetlands according to seasonal fluctuations and according to the habitat that is available; however, abundance is not affected by hydrological changes. It is essential to continue carrying out more research in the wetland to determine the nesting, feeding and reproduction of the birds in the different habitats used to generate its protection and conservation measures in the Trumao wetland.(AU)