Multiple colors in anteaters: review and description of chromatic disorders in Tamandua (Xenarthra: Pilosa) with reports of new and rare coat colorations

Tamandua Gray, 1825 contains two species of anteaters: Tamandua mexicana (Saussure, 1860), which occurs in southern Mexico, throughout Central America and south to the west of the Andes in South America, and Tamandua tetradactyla (Linnaeus, 1758), widely distributed in South America, from Venezuela to northern Argentina, as well as Trinidad and Tobago. Historically, different coloration patterns have been attributed to the coat of Tamandua, with T. mexicana typically showing a partial or complete dark "vest" on the dorsal portion of the body, whereas T. tetradactyla can show a complete, partial, or absent vest and a coat varying from golden, pale yellow and pale gray to brown or black. These different coat colors are sometimes treated as inherent characteristics of subspecies of Tamandua. Here, we review color variation in Tamandua and describe six chromatic disorders for the genus: albinism, leucism, "brown" variation, melanism (partial and total), xanthochromism (partial and total) and, for the first time for anteaters, erythrism. In addition, we detail the morphological expression and geographic distribution of these anomalies in populations of Tamandua from Central and South America.(AU)

The alien species Stenochrus portoricensis (Schizomida: Hubbardiidae): decreasing the Wallacean shortfall in the New World

The widely distributed species, Stenochrus portoricensis Chamberlin, 1922, is recorded for the first time from Costa Rica and Venezuela, and new occurrences from Brazil and Colombia are presented. Morphology of spermathecae from 14 localities is compared and illustrated. The need for studies to evaluate the potential status as an invasive species of S. portoricensis is commented on and a distribution map of the species in southern Central America and South America is given.(AU)

La especie exótica Stenochrus portoricensis Chamberlin, 1922 (Schizomida: Hubbardiidae): disminución del déficit de Wallace en el Nuevo Mundo. La especie de amplia distribución Stenochrus portoricensis Chamberlin, 1922 se registra por primera vez en Costa Rica y Venezuela, y se presentan nuevas ocurrencias en Brasil y Colombia. Se compara e ilustra la morfología de las espermatecas de especímenes provenientes de 14 localidades. Se comenta la necesidad de realizar estudios para evaluar el estatus potencial de S. portoricensis como especie invasora y se presenta un mapa de distribución de la especie en el sur de Centroamérica y Sudamérica.(AU)

Molecular survey of hemotropic mycoplasmas in crab-eating raccoons (Procyon cancrivorus) in southern Brazil / Levantamento molecular de micoplasma hemotrópico em mão-pelada (Procyon cancrivorus) do sul do Brasil

Hemoplasmas are non-cultivable bacterial parasites of erythrocytes that infect domestic and wild animals, as well as humans. Their means of transmission and pathogenesis remain contentious issues and difficult to evaluate in wild animals. Procyon cancrivorus is a South American carnivore and occurs in all Brazilian biomes. In this study, we aimed to investigate occurrences of hemoplasmas infecting P. cancrivorus and to identify their 16S rRNA gene, in southern Brazil. DNA was extracted from spleen and blood samples of P. cancrivorus (n = 9) from different locations. Hemoplasma DNA was detected in six samples, based on 16S rRNA gene amplification and phylogenetic analysis. Four of the six sequences belonged to the "Mycoplasma haemofelis group", which is closely related to genotypes detected in Procyon lotor from the USA; one was within the "Mycoplasma suis group", closely related to "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum"; and one was within the intermediate group between these clusters. Thus, these sequences showed that the molecular identity of hemoplasmas in the population studied was very variable. In five positive animals, Amblyomma aureolatum ticks and a flea (Ctenocephalides felis felis) were collected. The present study describes the first molecular detection of mycoplasmas in P. cancrivorus.(AU)

Os micoplasmas hemotrópicos (hemoplasmas) são parasitas bacterianos não-cultiváveis de eritrócitos que infectam tanto animais domésticos e selvagens, como seres humanos. A transmissão e a patogênese são discutíveis e difíceis de avaliar em animais selvagens. O mão pelada (Procyon cancrivorus) é um carnívoro Sul-americano, que ocorre em todos os biomas brasileiros. O objetivo do presente estudo é o de investigar a ocorrência de hemoplasmas infectando P. cancrivorus e identificar seu gene 16S rRNA no Sul do Brasil. O DNA foi extraído do baço e amostras de sangue de P. cancrivorus (n= 9). O DNA de hemoplasma foi detectado em seis amostras, com base na amplificação do gene 16S rRNA e na análise filogenética. Quatro das seis sequências pertencem ao "Grupo Mycoplasma haemofelis", que estão intimamente relacionadas aos genótipos detectados no Procyon lotor dos EUA; uma dentro do "Grupo Mycoplasma suis", que está intimamente relacionado ao "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum", e uma dentro do grupo intermediário entre esses clusters, mostrando assim que há uma diversidade genética de hemoplasmas na população estudada. Em cinco animais positivos, foram coletados carrapatos Amblyomma aureolatum e uma pulga Ctenocephalides felis. O presente estudo traz a primeira detecção molecular de micoplasmas em P. cancrivorus.(AU)

Breeding biology of the Maguari Stork Ciconia maguari (Aves, Ciconiidae) in the Pampa, and an outline in other Brazilian biomes

The Maguari Stork (Ciconia maguari) is one of the three species of the family Ciconiidae that occur in South America. Despite abundant in landscapes dominated by wetlands and grasslands, detailed studies on its biology are scarce. This study is aimed at investigating aspects of the breeding of Maguari Storks in Brazil. Photographic records were searched in the WikiAves database. A total of 65 records, obtained by citizens along 13 years in 32 municipalities, showed evidences of breeding activities in Brazil. Most (86%) of these records were gathered in the Pampa biome, in southern Brazil. Nests were large platforms and contained 1-3 young. Nests built on the ground were in grasslands or reed patches. Those built on shrubs were at boundaries between lakes and grasslands, and were often in colonial nesting sites with egrets and herons. Incubation occurred between July and November, and nestlings were found between August and December. Juveniles able to fly were recorded between late October and February. Most records of breeding activities were obtained at sites located < 300 m above sea level. As the Maguari Stork is a conspicuous and charismatic species, its conservation could substantially benefit from the awareness of landowners to promote eco-tourism in their properties, attracting birdwatchers. For this, it should be ensured the integrity of grasslands, marshes, and lakes with microhabitats often used for nesting (woody plants and reed patches).(AU)

Neorickettsia sp. in coatis (Nasua nasua) in Brazil / Neorickettsia sp. em quatis (Nasua nasua) no Brasil

The genus Neorickettsia comprises trematode-associated bacteria that can cause diseases in animals and humans. Despite detection of Neorickettsia antigens in the intestine of coatis kept in captivity in southern Brazil through immunohistochemistry, the molecular identity of the bacteria in South American procyonids remains elusive. The aim of the present study was to investigate the occurrence of Neorickettsia sp. in blood samples from coatis in central-western Brazil. Between March 2018 and January 2019, animals were captured and recaptured in two areas of the Cerrado (Parque Estadual do Prosa, PEP; and Vila da Base Aérea, VBA) located in the city of Campo Grande, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, central-western Brazil. All captures were performed according to convenience. DNA from 97 blood samples was subjected to nested PCR (nPCR) targeting a fragment of the 16S rRNA gene of Neorickettsia sp. Six samples (3.6%; five from VBA and one from PEP) from different coatis were positive in nPCR based on the 16S rRNA. The sequences obtained (~500 bp) showed ˃ 99% similarity to N. risticii. Phylogenetic analysis clustered the sequences detected in the present study in a clade with N. risticii. This is the first molecular detection of Neorickettsia sp. in coatis in Brazil.(AU)

O gênero Neorickettsia compreende bactérias associadas a trematódeos que podem causar doenças em animais e humanos. Apesar da detecção de antígenos de Neorickettsia por imuno-histoquímica no intestino de quatis mantidos em cativeiro no sul do Brasil, a identidade molecular da bactéria em procionídeos da América do Sul permanece indefinida. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo investigar a ocorrência de Neorickettsia sp. em amostras de sangue de quatis do Centro-Oeste do Brasil. Entre março de 2018 e janeiro de 2019, os animais foram capturados em duas áreas de Cerrado (Parque Estadual do Prosa PEP e Vila da Base Aérea VBA) localizadas na cidade de Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Centro-Oeste do Brasil. Todas as capturas e recapturas foram realizadas por conveniência. O DNA de 97 amostras de sangue foi submetido a "nested" (nPCR), baseada em um fragmento do gene 16S rRNA de Neorickettsia sp. Seis (3,6% - 5 de VBA e 1 de PEP) amostras de quatis diferentes foram positivas na nPCR, baseada no rRNA 16S. As sequências obtidas (~500 pb) apresentaram ˃99% de identidade com N. risticii. A inferência filogenética agrupou as sequencias detectadas no presente estudo em um clado com N. risticii. Esta é a primeira detecção molecular de Neorickettsia sp. em quatis do Brasil.(AU)

Extending the geographic and altitudinal range of Popilius gibbosus (Burmeister, 1847) (Coleoptera: Passalidae) with taxonomical comments

Abstract Popilius gibbosus (Burmeister, 1847) was known only from localities in the Cordillera Oriental of the northern Andes in Colombia and Venezuela and the southern section in Colombia between 1,350-3,000 m. Herein, we provide the first record for Bolivia at low elevations ( 1,000 m), thus extending the geographic and altitudinal range of this species. Information about characters not yet used and the first description of the aedeagus are provided, accompanied with figures of those characters that facilitate the identification of the species. An identification key for Popilius species in Bolivia and a P. gibbosus distribution map are also provided.

So far from home: first record of Chondromorpha xanthotricha (Diplopoda: Polydesmida: Paradoxosomatidae) in the Brazilian Amazon / Tão longe de casa: primeiro registro de Chondromorpha xanthotricha (Diplopoda: Polydesmida: Paradoxosomatidae) para a Amazônia brasileira

The millipede Chondromorpha xanthotricha, supposedly native to Sri Lanka and southern India, is considered a pantropical species occurring in Southeast Asia, North America, Mesoamerica, the Caribbean, Central America and northern South America. Here we report the first record of this species for Brazil, in the central Amazon region of the country, with taxonomic notes and images of male and female specimens.(AU)

O diplópode Chondromorpha xanthotricha, supostamente nativo do Sri Lanka e sul da Índia, é considerado uma espécie pantropical com ocorrência no Sudeste Asiático, América do Norte, Mesoamérica, Caribe, América Central e norte da América do Sul. Aqui nós reportamos o primeiro registro dessa espécie para o Brasil, na região central da Amazônia brasileira, com notas taxonômicas e ilustrações de espécimes macho e fêmea.(AU)

Extending the geographic and altitudinal range of Popilius gibbosus (Burmeister, 1847) (Coleoptera: Passalidae) with taxonomical comments

Abstract Popilius gibbosus (Burmeister, 1847) was known only from localities in the Cordillera Oriental of the northern Andes in Colombia and Venezuela and the southern section in Colombia between 1,350-3,000 m. Herein, we provide the first record for Bolivia at low elevations (< 1,000 m), thus extending the geographic and altitudinal range of this species. Information about characters not yet used and the first description of the aedeagus are provided, accompanied with figures of those characters that facilitate the identification of the species. An identification key for Popilius species in Bolivia and a P. gibbosus distribution map are also provided.(AU)

Breeding ecology of the Bare-Faced Ibis (Phimosus infuscatus) in Southern Brazil

The Bare-faced Ibis is a gregarious bird found in South America. In the face of a rapid expansion in a southern state in Brazil and a lack of detailed information about the species' reproduction, two breeding areas were studied weekly for two consecutive seasons. We registered numbers and characteristics of adults, nests, eggs, and chicks, calculated success estimates, and assessed nest installation preferences. Chick morphology, age, and measurements served to define five growth stages. The species used the margins of two close rivers in Santa Catarina to build nests, lay eggs, and develop parental care between August and January, with success estimates as expected for the family. We observed a preference for the eastern margin of the rivers and proximity to bridges for nest installation, where the muddy margin provides resources for juvenile feeding. Two colony models were defined based on the near or far installation of the nests. Variations in egg and chick dimensions indicated higher adult investment in the second season, with negative allometric growth of the bill and tarsus of chicks related to weight. The results presented suggest favorable conditions for the species' reproduction in the region, a considerable factor in understanding its expansion in recent years.(AU)

Molecular diagnosis of avian viruses in grassland passerines and captive yellow cardinals Gubernatrix cristata in Brazil

ABSTRACT: Avian influenza viruses (AIVs), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), West Nile virus (WNV), adenovirus (AV) and herpesvirus (HV) play an important role in the health of human and animal populations. However, knowledge of the prevalence of these viruses in wild birds is restricted to some groups (e.g. shorebirds) or regions worldwide. Information on grassland birds of South America, which is essential for their conservation, is scarce. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate occurrences of AIV, NDV, WNV, AV and HV for the first time in a bird community of a unique protected area in southern Brazil, which is home for the critically endangered yellow cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata), and captive yellow cardinals from fauna maintainers of the Brazilian Captive Program of the Yellow Cardinal. Passerine species of wild life were caught, identified and samples (swabs) were collected from the oropharynx and cloaca of 64 passerines of 26 species (including 3 yellow cardinals) and 30 yellow cardinals of captive, for molecular diagnosis. The samples were subjected to RNA and DNA extraction and the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for AIV, NDV and WNV and nested PCR for AV and HV. One yellow cardinal of captive presented a positive result for AV, this result is important for planning, managing natural attributes and making decisions in relation to integrated conservation of threatened species. This is the first report of AV in yellow cardinal and epidemiological investigation of viruses in wild passerines of the Pampa biome, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

RESUMO: Os vírus da gripe aviária (VGA), vírus da doença de Newcastle (VDN), vírus do Nilo Ocidental (VNO), adenovírus (AV) e herpesvírus (HV) desempenham um papel importante na saúde das populações humana e animal. No entanto, o conhecimento da prevalência desses vírus em aves selvagens é restrito a alguns grupos (por exemplo, aves limícolas) ou regiões em todo o mundo. As informações sobre as aves campestres da América do Sul, essenciais para a sua conservação, são escassas. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram avaliar a ocorrência de VGA, VDN, VNO, AV e HV pela primeira vez em uma comunidade de aves de uma área única protegida no Sul do Brasil, que abriga o cardeal-amarelo (Gubernatrix cristata) criticamente ameaçado de extinção e em cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro dos mantenedores de fauna do Programa Brasileiro de Cativeiro do Cardeal-amarelo. Espécies de passeriformes silvestres foram capturadas, identificadas e amostras (swabs) foram coletadas da orofaringe e cloaca de 64 passeriformes de 26 espécies (incluindo 3 cardeais-amarelos) e 30 cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro, para diagnóstico molecular. As amostras foram submetidas à extração de RNA e DNA e à reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real (RT-PCR) para VGA, VDN e VNO e nested PCR para AV e HV. Um cardeal-amarelo de cativeiro apresentou resultado positivo para AV, este resultado é importante para o planejamento, manejo dos atributos naturais e tomada de decisões em relação à conservação integrada de espécies ameaçadas. Este é o primeiro relato de AV em cardeal-amarelo e de investigação epidemiológica de vírus em passeriformes silvestres do bioma Pampa, no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil.

Evaluation of terrestrial gastropods as possible intermediate hosts of Gurltia paralysans in southern Chile / Avaliação de gastrópodes terrestres como possíveis hospedeiros intermediários de Gurltia paralysans no sul do Chile

Gurltia paralysans is the causal agent of gurltiosis in domestic cats in South America. Although the life cycle of G. paralysans is unknown, it is thought that gastropods could act as intermediate hosts (IHs), as is the case for several nematodes in the Angiostrongylidae family. The aim of this study was to search for G. paralysans larvae in terrestrial gastropods and determine their role in the life cycle of this nematode species. Terrestrial gastropod samples (n=835) were collected in Punucapa, Valdivia, southern Chile, where cases of gurltiosis had been reported before. The samples included species from the families Arionidae, Limacidae, Helicidae and Milacidae. All gastropods were subjected to enzymatic digestion to isolate G. paralysans larvae. Ten percent of the gastropod samples were analyzed using seminested PCR targeting the 28S rRNA gene, while 2.6% were analyzed by histopathological examination. The results indicated the absence of G. paralysans when using any of the three methods. In conclusion, further studies are needed to evaluate specific species of aquatic or native gastropods acting as possible IHs (in this geographic location).(AU)

Gurltia paralysans é o agente etiológico da gurltiose em gatos domésticos na América do Sul. Embora o ciclo biologico de G. paralysans seja desconhecido, provavelmente é indireto com gastrópodes atuando como hospedeiros intermediários (HIs), como no caso de vários nematoides da família Angiostrongylidae. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a presença de larvas de G. paralysans em gastrópodes terrestres para avaliar seu papel no ciclo de vida do parasito. Amostras de gastrópodes terrestres (n = 835) foram coletadas em Punucapa, Valdivia, sul do Chile, onde casos de gurltiose foram relatados anteriormente. As amostras incluíram espécies das famílias Arionidae, Limacidae, Helicidae e Milacidae. Todos os gastrópodes foram submetidos à digestão enzimática para isolar as larvas de G. paralysans. 10% das amostras foram analisadas, utilizando-se seminested PCR para o gen 28S RNAr de G. paralysans, enquanto 2,6% foram analisados por exame histopatológico. Os resultados indicaram ausência de G. paralysans em todos os três métodos. Os dados permitem concluir que são necessários mais estudos para avaliar espécies específicas de gastrópodes aquáticos ou nativos, que atuam como possíveis hospedeiros intermediários nessa localização geográfica.(AU)

Seroprevalence of Chagas disease in southern Brazilian cardiac patients and their knowledge about the parasitosis and vectors / Soroprevalência da doença de Chagas em pacientes cardíacos do sul do Brasil e seu conhecimento sobre a parasitose e vetores

Chagas disease (CD) is considered a typical low-income population sickness of the developing countries in Latin America. Given the historical relevance of CD in individuals in southern Rio Grande do Sul (RS) State, Brazil, the aim of this study was to identify the knowledge of the CD and its vectors by cardiac patients, and the prevalence of anti-T cruzi antibodies in these individuals in Pelotas, city located in Rio Grande do Sul (RS) state, Brazil. The subjects with cardiac disease were submitted to a semi-structured questionnaire as well as two serological tests in order to detect anti-T. cruzi IgG antibodies. Of the individuals that born in municipalities showing the highest triatomine infestation rates in recent decades, 81.8% were able to recognize the vector insect (p = 0.0042; OR = 5.9), and 83.3% reported either themselves or someone in their families to have CD (p = 0.043, OR = 5.2). Of the 54 patients submitted to serological analysis, only 01 patient (1.9%) was positive for anti-T. cruzi antibodies, a 55 year old man from the rural area of Canguçu county. This study provides support for the evaluation to be extended to other cardiology centers, given the importance of Chagas disease in Brazil.(AU)

A doença de Chagas (DC) é considerada uma doença típica da população de baixa renda dos países em desenvolvimento da América Latina. Dada a relevância histórica da DC em indivíduos do sul do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (RS), o objetivo deste estudo foi identificar o conhecimento da doença de Chagas (DC) e seus vetores em pacientes cardíacos, e a prevalência de anticorpos anti-T cruzi nesses indivíduos, em Pelotas, cidade localizada no Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brasil. Os pacientes cardiopatas foram submetidos a um questionário semiestruturado, e também a dois testes sorológicos para detecção de anticorpos anti-T. cruzi IgG. Dos indivíduos que nasceram em municípios com as maiores taxas de infestação por triatomíneos nas últimas décadas, 81,8% foram capazes de reconhecer o inseto vetor (p = 0,0042; OR = 5,9), e 83,3% relataram que eles próprios ou alguém em suas famílias tem DC (p = 0,043, OR = 5,2). Dos 54 pacientes submetidos à análise sorológica, apenas 01 paciente (1,9%) foi positivo para anticorpos anti-T.cruzi, um homem de 55 anos da área rural do município de Canguçu. Este estudo fornece subsídios para que a avaliação seja estendida a outros centros de cardiologia, devido à importância da doença de Chagas no Brasil.(AU)

Taxonomic loss and functional reduction over time in the ichthyofauna of the Taquaruçu Reservoir, lower Paranapanema River, Southern Brazil

We evaluated the fish composition and ecological attributes of the ichthyofauna collected in a limnological zone of the Taquaruçu Reservoir, lower Paranapanema River. Information about the fish community was updated when compared to the previous study (2006). Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) showed differences in species composition between periods and community weighted means (CWMs) exhibited changes in functional composition over time. Four functional indices were used in the principal coordinate analysis (PcoA) to measure changes in the functional space of species, whereas functional β-diversity inspected differences in the traits composition between the periods. 1,203 individuals were sampled of 43 species, being 16 non-native and 14 new records. Compared to 2006, 27 species were absent, most of them native to Loricariidae and Anostomidae, while Curimatidae and Pimelodidae decreased in abundance. Functional indexes showed a reduction in functional diversity, whereas new species records exhibited functional redundancy. It might have occurred a simplification of the fish community over time, excluding the migratory and specialists species such as the herbivores and detritivores. Accordingly, we concluded that the ichthyofauna of the Taquaruçu Reservoir might have been undergoing a process towards biotic homogenization.(AU)

Avaliamos a composição de peixes e atributos ecológicos da ictiofauna coletada em uma zona limnológica do reservatório de Taquaruçu, baixo rio Paranapanema. As informações sobre a comunidade de peixes foram atualizadas quando comparadas ao estudo anterior (2006). O escalonamento multidimensional não métrico (NMDS) mostrou diferenças na composição de espécies entre os períodos, e as médias ponderadas da comunidade (CWMs) exibiram mudanças na composição funcional ao longo do tempo. Quatro índices funcionais foram utilizados na análise de coordenadas principais (PcoA) para medir as mudanças no espaço funcional das espécies, enquanto a β-diversidade funcional inspecionou diferenças na composição de traços entre os períodos. Foram amostrados 1,203 indivíduos de 43 espécies, sendo 16 não-nativas e 14 novos registros. Em comparação com 2006, 27 espécies estavam ausentes, a maioria nativa de Loricariidae e Anostomidae, enquanto Curimatidae e Pimelodidae diminuíram em abundância. Os índices funcionais mostraram redução na diversidade funcional, enquanto novos registros de espécies exibiram redundância funcional. Pode ter ocorrido uma simplificação da comunidade de peixes ao longo do tempo, excluindo as espécies migradoras e especialistas como os herbívoros e detritívoros. Dessa forma, concluímos que a ictiofauna do reservatório de Taquaruçu pode estar sofrendo um processo de homogeneização biótica.(AU)

Taxonomic loss and functional reduction over time in the ichthyofauna of the Taquaruçu Reservoir, lower Paranapanema River, Southern Brazil

We evaluated the fish composition and ecological attributes of the ichthyofauna collected in a limnological zone of the Taquaruçu Reservoir, lower Paranapanema River. Information about the fish community was updated when compared to the previous study (2006). Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) showed differences in species composition between periods and community weighted means (CWMs) exhibited changes in functional composition over time. Four functional indices were used in the principal coordinate analysis (PcoA) to measure changes in the functional space of species, whereas functional β-diversity inspected differences in the traits composition between the periods. 1,203 individuals were sampled of 43 species, being 16 non-native and 14 new records. Compared to 2006, 27 species were absent, most of them native to Loricariidae and Anostomidae, while Curimatidae and Pimelodidae decreased in abundance. Functional indexes showed a reduction in functional diversity, whereas new species records exhibited functional redundancy. It might have occurred a simplification of the fish community over time, excluding the migratory and specialists species such as the herbivores and detritivores. Accordingly, we concluded that the ichthyofauna of the Taquaruçu Reservoir might have been undergoing a process towards biotic homogenization.(AU)

Avaliamos a composição de peixes e atributos ecológicos da ictiofauna coletada em uma zona limnológica do reservatório de Taquaruçu, baixo rio Paranapanema. As informações sobre a comunidade de peixes foram atualizadas quando comparadas ao estudo anterior (2006). O escalonamento multidimensional não métrico (NMDS) mostrou diferenças na composição de espécies entre os períodos, e as médias ponderadas da comunidade (CWMs) exibiram mudanças na composição funcional ao longo do tempo. Quatro índices funcionais foram utilizados na análise de coordenadas principais (PcoA) para medir as mudanças no espaço funcional das espécies, enquanto a β-diversidade funcional inspecionou diferenças na composição de traços entre os períodos. Foram amostrados 1,203 indivíduos de 43 espécies, sendo 16 não-nativas e 14 novos registros. Em comparação com 2006, 27 espécies estavam ausentes, a maioria nativa de Loricariidae e Anostomidae, enquanto Curimatidae e Pimelodidae diminuíram em abundância. Os índices funcionais mostraram redução na diversidade funcional, enquanto novos registros de espécies exibiram redundância funcional. Pode ter ocorrido uma simplificação da comunidade de peixes ao longo do tempo, excluindo as espécies migradoras e especialistas como os herbívoros e detritívoros. Dessa forma, concluímos que a ictiofauna do reservatório de Taquaruçu pode estar sofrendo um processo de homogeneização biótica.(AU)

Genetic diversity of Hepatozoon spp. in rodents from Chile / Diversidade genética de Hepatozoon spp. em roedores do Chile

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the genetic diversity of Hepatozoon spp. in rodents from Valdivia, Chile. A total of 74 rodents (synanthropic n=38; wild n=36) were trapped in Valdivia. We performed conventional PCR assays for Apicomplexa organisms targeting two overlapping 18S rDNA gene fragments (600 bp and 900 bp) followed by sequencing of selected amplicons. Hepatozoon spp. occurrence was 82.43% (61/74). Twelve sequences obtained from the 600 bp and ten from the 900 bp 18S rDNA fragments were identified as Hepatozoon sp. Six sequences obtained from 18S rDNA-based overlapping PCR protocols were used for concatenated (1,400 bp) phylogenetic, haplotype and distance analyses. Hepatozoon spp. 18S rDNA concatenated sequences from the present study were detected in Oligoryzomys longicaudatus, Rattus norvegicus, Mus musculus, and Abrothrix longipilis grouped with Hepatozoon species earlier described in rodents and reptiles from Chile and Brazil. Nucleotide polymorphism of the six 18S rDNA sequences (1,400 bp) from this study, and other Chilean sequences from rodents and rodent's ticks, showed high diversity with a total of nine Chilean haplotypes. Three haplotypes from Valdivia were identified for the first time in this study, suggesting the circulation of novel haplotypes in rodents from southern Chile.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a diversidade genética de Hepatozoon spp. em roedores de Valdivia, Chile. Um total de 74 roedores (sinantrópicos n=38; selvagens n=36) foram capturados. PCR convencional foi realizada para organismos Apicomplexa, visando dois fragmentos sobrepostos do gene 18S rDNA (600 bp e 900 bp), seguida pelo sequenciamento de amplicons selecionados. A ocorrência de Hepatozoon spp. foi de 82,43% (61/74). Doze sequências obtidas dos fragmentos de 18S rDNA de 600 pb e dez dos fragmentos de 18S rDNA de 900 pb foram identificadas como Hepatozoon sp. Seis sequências obtidas, a partir de protocolos de PCR sobrepostos, foram usadas para análises filogenéticas (1.400 bp), de haplótipos e de distância. Sequências concatenadas 18S rDNA do presente estudo foram detectadas em Oligoryzomys longicaudatus, Rattus norvegicus, Mus musculus e Abrothrix longipilis e agrupadas com Hepatozoon descrito em roedores e répteis do Chile e do Brasil. A análise de polimorfismos das seis sequências deste estudo, junto com outras sequências chilenas de roedores e carrapatos de roedores, mostrou alta diversidade com um total de nove haplótipos no Chile. Três haplótipos detectados em Valdivia foram identificados pela primeira vez neste estudo, sugerindo que novos haplótipos circulam em roedores do sul do Chile.

Molecular diagnosis of avian viruses in grassland passerines and captive yellow cardinals Gubernatrix cristata in Brazil / Diagnóstico molecular de vírus aviários em passeriformes campestres e cardeais-amarelos Gubernatrix cristata cativos no Brasil

Avian influenza viruses (AIVs), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), West Nile virus (WNV), adenovirus (AV) and herpesvirus (HV) play an important role in the health of human and animal populations. However, knowledge of the prevalence of these viruses in wild birds is restricted to some groups (e.g. shorebirds) or regions worldwide. Information on grassland birds of South America, which is essential for their conservation, is scarce. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate occurrences of AIV, NDV, WNV, AV and HV for the first time in a bird community of a unique protected area in southern Brazil, which is home for the critically endangered yellow cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata), and captive yellow cardinals from fauna maintainers of the Brazilian Captive Program of the Yellow Cardinal. Passerine species of wild life were caught, identified and samples (swabs) were collected from the oropharynx and cloaca of 64 passerines of 26 species (including 3 yellow cardinals) and 30 yellow cardinals of captive, for molecular diagnosis. The samples were subjected to RNA and DNA extraction and the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for AIV, NDV and WNV and nested PCR for AV and HV. One yellow cardinal of captive presented a positive result for AV, this result is important for planning, managing natural attributes and making decisions in relation to integrated conservation of threatened species. This is the first report of AV in yellow cardinal and epidemiological investigation of viruses in wild passerines of the Pampa biome, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.(AU)

Os vírus da gripe aviária (VGA), vírus da doença de Newcastle (VDN), vírus do Nilo Ocidental (VNO), adenovírus (AV) e herpesvírus (HV) desempenham um papel importante na saúde das populações humana e animal. No entanto, o conhecimento da prevalência desses vírus em aves selvagens é restrito a alguns grupos (por exemplo, aves limícolas) ou regiões em todo o mundo. As informações sobre as aves campestres da América do Sul, essenciais para a sua conservação, são escassas. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram avaliar a ocorrência de VGA, VDN, VNO, AV e HV pela primeira vez em uma comunidade de aves de uma área única protegida no Sul do Brasil, que abriga o cardeal-amarelo (Gubernatrix cristata) criticamente ameaçado de extinção e em cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro dos mantenedores de fauna do Programa Brasileiro de Cativeiro do Cardeal-amarelo. Espécies de passeriformes silvestres foram capturadas, identificadas e amostras (swabs) foram coletadas da orofaringe e cloaca de 64 passeriformes de 26 espécies (incluindo 3 cardeais-amarelos) e 30 cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro, para diagnóstico molecular. As amostras foram submetidas à extração de RNA e DNA e à reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real (RT-PCR) para VGA, VDN e VNO e nested PCR para AV e HV. Um cardeal-amarelo de cativeiro apresentou resultado positivo para AV, este resultado é importante para o planejamento, manejo dos atributos naturais e tomada de decisões em relação à conservação integrada de espécies ameaçadas. Este é o primeiro relato de AV em cardeal-amarelo e de investigação epidemiológica de vírus em passeriformes silvestres do bioma Pampa, no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil.(AU)

Molecular diagnosis of avian viruses in grassland passerines and captive yellow cardinals Gubernatrix cristata in Brazil / Diagnóstico molecular de vírus aviários em passeriformes campestres e cardeais-amarelos Gubernatrix cristata cativos no Brasil

Avian influenza viruses (AIVs), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), West Nile virus (WNV), adenovirus (AV) and herpesvirus (HV) play an important role in the health of human and animal populations. However, knowledge of the prevalence of these viruses in wild birds is restricted to some groups (e.g. shorebirds) or regions worldwide. Information on grassland birds of South America, which is essential for their conservation, is scarce. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate occurrences of AIV, NDV, WNV, AV and HV for the first time in a bird community of a unique protected area in southern Brazil, which is home for the critically endangered yellow cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata), and captive yellow cardinals from fauna maintainers of the Brazilian Captive Program of the Yellow Cardinal. Passerine species of wild life were caught, identified and samples (swabs) were collected from the oropharynx and cloaca of 64 passerines of 26 species (including 3 yellow cardinals) and 30 yellow cardinals of captive, for molecular diagnosis. The samples were subjected to RNA and DNA extraction and the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for AIV, NDV and WNV and nested PCR for AV and HV. One yellow cardinal of captive presented a positive result for AV, this result is important for planning, managing natural attributes and making decisions in relation to integrated conservation of threatened species. This is the first report of AV in yellow cardinal and epidemiological investigation of viruses in wild passerines of the Pampa biome, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.(AU)

Os vírus da gripe aviária (VGA), vírus da doença de Newcastle (VDN), vírus do Nilo Ocidental (VNO), adenovírus (AV) e herpesvírus (HV) desempenham um papel importante na saúde das populações humana e animal. No entanto, o conhecimento da prevalência desses vírus em aves selvagens é restrito a alguns grupos (por exemplo, aves limícolas) ou regiões em todo o mundo. As informações sobre as aves campestres da América do Sul, essenciais para a sua conservação, são escassas. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram avaliar a ocorrência de VGA, VDN, VNO, AV e HV pela primeira vez em uma comunidade de aves de uma área única protegida no Sul do Brasil, que abriga o cardeal-amarelo (Gubernatrix cristata) criticamente ameaçado de extinção e em cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro dos mantenedores de fauna do Programa Brasileiro de Cativeiro do Cardeal-amarelo. Espécies de passeriformes silvestres foram capturadas, identificadas e amostras (swabs) foram coletadas da orofaringe e cloaca de 64 passeriformes de 26 espécies (incluindo 3 cardeais-amarelos) e 30 cardeais-amarelos de cativeiro, para diagnóstico molecular. As amostras foram submetidas à extração de RNA e DNA e à reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real (RT-PCR) para VGA, VDN e VNO e nested PCR para AV e HV. Um cardeal-amarelo de cativeiro apresentou resultado positivo para AV, este resultado é importante para o planejamento, manejo dos atributos naturais e tomada de decisões em relação à conservação integrada de espécies ameaçadas. Este é o primeiro relato de AV em cardeal-amarelo e de investigação epidemiológica de vírus em passeriformes silvestres do bioma Pampa, no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil.(AU)

Clinical approach for treating dilated cardiomyopathy in a hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga)

Background: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a multifactorial disease characterized by systolic dysfunction of myocardium, affecting domestic animals like dogs, cats, and ferrets. It was sporadically described in non-domestic species, generally as a necropsy observation. The hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga) is a small mammal, carnivore, belonging to the Mephitidae family, found in southern South America, and considered as concerned in a conservation status of the species. The goal of this issue is report the first clinical approach of dilated cardiomyopathy in a young hog-nosed skunk, elucidating the challenging aspects of the diagnostic, therapy, and clinical outcome. Case: A newborn hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga) was found in a farm of southern Brazil in poor nutritional and behavioral conditions. Thirty days of nutritional supplementation based on cow's milk, fruits and insects were necessary to recover its body weight score and activity level. However, 2 months after adoption, the skunk showed acute dyspnea and abnormal breath sound, decreased appetite, and loss of weight. Firstly, these signs were associated with a possible pulmonary infection or other respiratory disease. However, the general cardiomegaly and pulmonary edema pattern observed on the thoracic radiography, changed the clinical approach, conducting the presumptive diagnosis to congestive heart failure (pulmonary edema) caused by an unknown cardiac disease as a dilated cardiomyopathy (CDM). An adequate physical, echocardiographic, electrocardiographic, and hematological evaluation was possible only after chemical restraint by sevofluorane. Systolic heart murmur and pulmonary cracking sounds were detected on thoracic auscultation. These findings associated to the echocardiography features of four chamber dilatation, systolic (fractional shortening-FS = 9% and ejection fraction-EF= 22%) and diastolic (mitral E/A ratio = 4.93) dysfunctions, and bilateral ventriculoatrial regurgitation (mitral and tricuspid) were highly correlated with DCM. Considering the etiologies of CDM described in domestic species and the poor nutritional condition previously observed in the case, nutritional and idiopathic etiologies of DCM were considered for this case. Therapy was based on furosemide at hospital (4 mg/kg subcutaneous, single doses) and home (2 mg/kg orally, BID), enalapril maleate (0.5 mg/kg orally, every 48 h), taurine supplementation (100 mg orally, SID), and pimobendan (0.5 mg/kg orally, BID). Clinical improvement was already observed on the second day of treatment, and monitored for 5 months, when the skunk was completely revaluated. The second echocardiographic exam showed improvement in systolic (FS = 20% and EF = 43%) and diastolic functions (mitral E/A ratio = 2.05), tricuspid regurgitation was not observed, and decrease the left atrial and ventricular dimensions were seen. Due to good clinical outcome, furosemide was gradually reduced until complete withdrawal without any clinical complications or worsening. After 30 months of therapy of pimobendan, taurine, and enalapril maleate, the skunk has good quality captive life without congestive heart failure recurrence. Discussion: The lack of information about DCM in hog-nosed skunk turns the clinical diagnosis and therapy challenging. However, the radiographic and echocardiographic features seamed to lead the same domestic animal patterns. The therapy based on decrease the cardiac overload, increase the myocardial inotropic function (pimobendan and taurine) resulted on excellent clinical and echocardiographic outcome. Although the etiologies of DCM in this species are not stablished, the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches applied resulted on excellent clinical results, and therefore may provide useful information about this cardiac condition in skunk species.

New records of helminths in Chelidae freshwater turtles (Testudines) in South America / Novos registros de helmintos em tartarugas de água doce Chelidae (Testudines) na América do Sul

. Estudos helmintológicos com tartarugas de água doce Chelidae na América do Sul foram conduzidos na Argentina, Uruguai e Brasil, onde foram relatados nematoides, digenéticos e monogenéticos. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do estudo é registrar novas ocorrências de helmintos gastrintestinais associados a Acanthochelys spixii, Hydromedusa tectifera e Phrynops hilarii. Foram examinados 65 hospedeiros, provenientes da região sul do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Sete taxa pertencentes a Nematoda, Digenea e Monogenoidea são reportados em novos hospedeiros na América do Sul bem como, um Nematoda e dois Digenea tem novo registro de hospedeiro para o Brasil. Assim, o estudo amplia o conhecimento sobre a diversidade de helmintos e a distribuição geográfica dos taxa encontrados parasitando tartarugas Chelidae.

Helminthological studies with Chelidae freshwater turtles in South America were conducted in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil, where nematodes, digeneans and monogeneans were reported. In this context, the study aims to report new cases of gastrointestinal helminth parasites of Acanthochelys spixii, Hydromedusa tectifera, and Phrynops hilarii. A total of 65 hosts from the southern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, were examined. Seven taxa belonging to Nematoda, Digenea, and Monogenoidea have new cases on hosts Chelidae in South America, as well as a Nematoda and two Digenea have new host cases for Brazil. Thus, the study expands the knowledge about the diversity of helminths and the geographic distribution of taxa associated with Chelidae turtles.

New records of helminths in Chelidae freshwater turtles (Testudines) in South America / Novos registros de helmintos em tartarugas de água doce Chelidae (Testudines) na América do Sul

. Estudos helmintológicos com tartarugas de água doce Chelidae na América do Sul foram conduzidos na Argentina, Uruguai e Brasil, onde foram relatados nematoides, digenéticos e monogenéticos. Nesse contexto, o objetivo do estudo é registrar novas ocorrências de helmintos gastrintestinais associados a Acanthochelys spixii, Hydromedusa tectifera e Phrynops hilarii. Foram examinados 65 hospedeiros, provenientes da região sul do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Sete taxa pertencentes a Nematoda, Digenea e Monogenoidea são reportados em novos hospedeiros na América do Sul bem como, um Nematoda e dois Digenea tem novo registro de hospedeiro para o Brasil. Assim, o estudo amplia o conhecimento sobre a diversidade de helmintos e a distribuição geográfica dos taxa encontrados parasitando tartarugas Chelidae.(AU)

Helminthological studies with Chelidae freshwater turtles in South America were conducted in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil, where nematodes, digeneans and monogeneans were reported. In this context, the study aims to report new cases of gastrointestinal helminth parasites of Acanthochelys spixii, Hydromedusa tectifera, and Phrynops hilarii. A total of 65 hosts from the southern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, were examined. Seven taxa belonging to Nematoda, Digenea, and Monogenoidea have new cases on hosts Chelidae in South America, as well as a Nematoda and two Digenea have new host cases for Brazil. Thus, the study expands the knowledge about the diversity of helminths and the geographic distribution of taxa associated with Chelidae turtles.(AU)