Effect of temporal lakes on avifaunal composition at the Southeast of Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, Mexico.

Oaxaca hosts one of the greatest biodiversity in México, occupying first place in avian diversity compared to other regions of the country. However, the area is undergoing serious problems such as high defor- estation rates, soil erosion and over exploitation and extinction of species. These factors have all contributed to the current loss of biodiversity. Also, biological inventories are still incomplete. One of the least explored sites is the semiarid zone of Tehuantepec isthmus, around the locality of Santa Maria del Mar, Oaxaca, México. The area includes floodable grasslands, mangrove areas and dry forest, providing a range of potential habitats for different species. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of temporal lakes on spatial and temporal composition of the avifauna in Santa Maria del Mar, in order to generate information regarding this group within the region and the state, and to understand the importance of flood areas for resident and transitory birds. We conducted 12 avifauna surveys between July 2006 and June 2008, and established two transects of 2km length in each of four habitat types (beach, grassland, dry forest, and mangrove). We found a total of 75 species, corresponding to 16 orders and 30 families. Within an area of 26 km2, we significantly found 10.1% of the total number of bird species recorded for the entire state, and 6.6% of the total reported in Mexico. The families most repre- sented were: Ardeidae, Laridae and Scolopacidae. Over the entire study period, dry forest was the most diverse habitat; followed by mangrove, grassland and the beach. Of all the species recorded, 38.6% were found at the edge or in the temporal lakes. We found a significant difference in species composition between seasons in the grassland, but no difference in the other habitats. Our results showed a significant effect of temporary lakes on avian diversity during the wet season; it also demonstrated the importance of grassland conservation given its relevance for presence of waterbirds. We suggested a continued and more intense monitoring; and proposed the designation of the area as an Important Conservation Bird Area (AICA).

Ecoepidemiology of Chagas Disease in a Biological Corridor in Southeastern Mexico: A Promising Approach to Understand the Risk of Chagas Disease.

Ecoepidemiology is an emerging field that attempts to explain how biotic, environmental, and even social factors influence the dynamics of infectious diseases. Particularly in vector-borne diseases, the study under this approach offers us an overview of the pathogens, vectors, and hosts that coexist in a given region and their ecological determinants. As a result of this, risk predictions can be established in a changing environment and how it may impact human populations. This paper is aimed at evaluating some ecoepidemiological characteristics of Chagas disease in a natural reserve in southeastern Mexico that borders human settlements. We carry out a cross-sectional study in 2022 where we search insects manually and with light traps. We set traps for small mammals and bats and conducted interviews with the inhabitants living around the study site. We identified the presence of Triatoma dimidiata and T. huehuetenanguensis species with a percentage of TcI T. cruzi infection of 68.4% (95% CI: 66.9-69.9). Temperature and humidity were not determining factors for the probability of insect capture. Of the 108 wild mammals (Chiroptera, Rodentia, and Didelphimorphia), none was infected with T. cruzi. Knowledge about Chagas disease in nearby inhabitants is poor, and some characteristics were found on the periphery of dwellings that could offer a refuge for insect vectors. With this information, surveillance strategies can be generated in the study area that reduce the risk of transmission of T. cruzi parasite to humans, and it is expected to motivate the use of this field in future research.

What Do You Need to Know before Studying Chagas Disease? A Beginner's Guide.

Chagas disease is one of the most important tropical infections in the world and mainly affects poor people. The causative agent is the hemoflagellate protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, which circulates among insect vectors and mammals throughout the Americas. A large body of research on Chagas disease has shown the complexity of this zoonosis, and controlling it remains a challenge for public health systems. Although knowledge of Chagas disease has advanced greatly, there are still many gaps, and it is necessary to continue generating basic and applied research to create more effective control strategies. The aim of this review is to provide up-to-date information on the components of Chagas disease and highlight current trends in research. We hope that this review will be a starting point for beginners and facilitate the search for more specific information.

First Report of Eratyrus cuspidatus (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) Infected with Trypanosoma cruzi in Peridomestic Environment in Chiapas, Mexico.

Background: Triatomine bugs are natural vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease or American trypanosomiasis. The role of sylvatic triatomine species as vectors of T. cruzi in Mexico remains to be fully understood. Our research on the epidemiology of Chagas disease in Southeastern Mexico involved sampling triatomines in rural settings. Materials and Methods: A triatomine was collected in a peridomestic environment of a rural dwelling in the state of Chiapas. The triatomine was identified morphologically as an adult female Eratyrus cuspidatus Stal. Results: Microscopic analysis revealed flagellate forms of T. cruzi in the feces of the E. cuspidatus collected. This was confirmed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Amplification of the mini-exon gene showed that the T. cruzi infecting E. cuspidatus corresponded to lineage I. Conclusions: This is the first report from Mexico of E. cuspidatus found infected in a human dwelling, which represents an important adaptation process to inhabit human environments.

Basic ecology of the Oaxacan Spiny-tailed Iguana Ctenosaura oaxacana (Squamata: Iguanidae), in Oaxaca, Mexico.

The Oaxacan Spiny-tailed Iguana Ctenosaura oaxacana is a restricted species to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Southern Oaxaca, Mexico. This reptile is one of the less known iguanid species. We census-tracked a population in the South ofNiltepec, Oaxaca, Mexico from May 2010 to April 2011. Throughout one year, a total of 10 line transects were situated and recorded in the study area to determine relative abundance and density, and habitat type use (dry forest, Nanchal, grassland, riparian vegetation, and mangrove) by the species. This study reports a new C. oaxacana population on the Southeastern limit of species range. Although this species has a very restricted distribution and is in danger of extinction, C. oaxacana has a high population density when compared to other Ctenosaura species. A total of 108 individuals were recorded throughout the study. Dry forest (33.75ind/ha) and Nanchal (18.75ind/ha) were the habitats with higher densities. Comparisons between habitat types showed no significant differences between dry forest and Nanchal (W=15, p=0.0808). Results between seasons were similar. The Oaxacan Spiny tailed Iguana preferred first the dry forest, and then Nanchal, while avoided grassland, riparian vegetation, and mangroves. There was no difference in habitat use between males and females. Mean perch heights were 1.23 +/- 0.32 (n=30) in Nanchal, 2.11 +/- 0.30 (n=9) in grassland, 1.90 +/- 0.56 (n=54) in dry forest, 1.91 +/- 0.28 (n=9) in mangrove and 2.30 +/- 0.37 (n=6) in riparian vegetation. Species observed as refuge and perch were B. crassifolia (Nanchal); C. alata (grassland); Tabebuia sp., Genipa americana, G. sepium, Acacia sp., Ficus sp. and Haematoxylon sp. (dry forest); G. sepium, Acacia sp. and Guazuma ulmifolia (riparian vegetation); and C. erecta (mangrove). Live trees hollows and branches were used by species. Main threats to the species are excessive hunting and habitat loss. Furthermore, grassland fires are still common in the study area during the dry season, which can result in habitat loss and territorial displacement of individuals.

The use of highly diverse clades as a surrogate for habitat integrity analysis: Argia damselflies as a practical tool for rapid assessments.

Human activities have impacted many environments on earth, and thus several species are facing an increased risk of extinction. The environmental crisis requires rapid tools to assess the ecosystem health accurately. Studies have been conducted with visual indices that quantify habitat integrity by predicting species richness and diversity. However, whether a diverse clade can predict habitat integrity has not been used. The genus Argia (Rambur, 1842) is one of the most locally diverse groups in southeastern Mexico. In this context, we hypothesized that the occurrence, species richness, and diversity of adults Argia spp. could be a better predictor of the Visual-Based Habitat Assessment Score (VBHAS) than the other taxonomic levels or less diverse clades. We found that the richness and diversity of Argia spp. are positively correlated with VBHA scores, as same as taxonomic ratios. Simultaneously, VBHA scores increase to 23.51 times when Argia spp. diversity increases. We discuss the possible use of a diverse Odonata clade, as Argia spp. could surrogate habitat integrity for local long-term biomonitoring programs. This approach requires testing with other indices and verifying a reliable and consistent relationship between diverse clades and environmental assessment scores.

Mini-exon gene reveals circulation of TcI Trypanosomacruzi (Chagas, 1909) (Kinetoplastida, Trypanosomatidae) in bats and small mammals in an ecological reserve in southeastern Mexico.

A wide variety of mammals are involved in the sylvatic cycle of Trypanosomacruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. In many areas in Latin America where T.cruzi is endemic, this cycle is poorly known, and its main reservoirs have not been identified. In this study we analyzed T.cruzi infection in bats and other small mammals from an Ecological Reserve in southeastern Mexico. From January through March 2021, we captured wild individuals to extract cardiac and peripheral blood, and infection was detected by PCR of the mini-exon gene. In bats, the prevalence of infection was 16.36%, while in small mammals the prevalence was 28.57%. All of the samples that were positive for T.cruzi were identified as the TCI genotype. Our findings suggest that this zone, situated at the periphery of urban zones might have epidemiological relevance in the sylvatic cycle of T.cruzi and needs to be monitored. The infection of bats in this area is particularly concerning since the flight pattern of this populations overlaps with human settlements. Despite being subject to conservation protections, there continue to be anthropogenic actions that disturb the study area, which could exacerbate risks to public health.

Effect of climate change on the potential distribution of Helodermaalvarezi (Squamata, Helodermatidae).

Climate change represents a real threat to biodiversity conservation worldwide. Although the effects on several species of conservation priority are known, comprehensive information about the impact of climate change on reptile populations is lacking. In the present study, we analyze outcomes on the potential distribution of the black beaded lizard (Helodermaalvarezi Bogert & Martin del Campo, 1956) under global warming scenarios. Its potential distribution, at present and in projections for the years 2050 and 2070, under both optimistic and pessimistic climate change forecasts, were computed using current data records and seven bioclimatic variables. General results predict a shift in the future potential distribution of H.alvarezi due to temperature increase. The optimistic scenario (4.5 W/m2) for 2070 suggests an enlargement in the species' distribution as a response to the availability of new areas of suitable habitat. On the contrary, the worst-case scenario (7 W/m2) shows a distribution decrease by 65%. Moreover, the range distribution of H.alvarezi is directly related to the human footprint, which consequently could magnify negative outcomes for this species. Our research elucidates the importance of conservation strategies to prevent the extinction of the black beaded lizard, especially considering that this species is highly threatened by aversive hunting.

[Mammals of "La Sepultura" Biosphere Reserve, Chiapas, México]. / Mámiferos de la Reserva de la Biosfera "La Sepultura", Chiapas, México.

A species list was elaborated for La Sepultura Biosphere Reserve, Chiapas, Mexico. Line transects and direct observations were made. national and international databases were consulted, and animal traces were registered. Animals were captured during the period May 1994 - December 1999. A total of 848 specimen (248 furs and skulls), 32 tracks in plaster, and 9 osseous fragments were collected. A total of 98 species, 70 genera, 29 families, and 10 orders compose the species list. Of these species 87.7% belong to the orders Chiroptera, Rodentia and Carnivora and 21 species were classified according to some kind of legal protection. These data represent a solid and actualized database useful for designing management and conservation plans for this Biosphere Reserve.

Variation and genetic structure of the endangered Lepus flavigularis (Lagomorpha: Leporidae) / Variación y estructura genética de la liebre en peligro de extinción, Lepus flavigularis (Lagomorpha: Leporidae)

Abstract Lepus flavigularis, is an endemic and endangered species, with only four populations inhabiting Oaxaca, México: Montecillo Santa Cruz, Aguachil, San Francisco del Mar Viejo and Santa María del Mar. Nevertheless, human activities like poaching and land use changes, and the low genetic diversity detected with mitochondrial DNA and allozymes in previous studies, have supported the urgent need of management strategies for this species, and suggest the definition of management units. For this, it is necessary to study the genetic structure with nuclear genes, due to their inheritance and high polymorphism, therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the variation and genetic structure of L. flavigularis using nuclear microsatellites. We sampled four populations of L. flavigularis and a total of 67 jackrabbits were captured by night sampling during the period of 2001 to 2006. We obtained the genomic DNA by the phenol-chloroform-isoamyl alcohol method. To obtain the diversity and genetic structure, seven microsatellites were amplified using the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR); the amplifications were visualized through electrophoresis with 10 % polyacrylamide gels, dyed with ethidium bromide. Genetic diversity was determined using the software GenAlEx v. 6.4, and genetic structure was obtained with ARLEQUIN v. 3.1; null alleles were evaluated using the program Micro-Checker v.2.2.2. Additionally, a Bayesian analysis was performed with software STRUCTURE v. 2.2.3., and the isolation by distance (IBD) was studied using the program PASSAGE v.2.0.11.6. Our results showed that the genetic variation found was low ( HO = 0.30, HE = 0.24) when compared to other jackrabbit species. Fixed alleles and moderate levels of genetic differentiation (F ST = 0.18, P = 0.001) were detected among populations, indicating the effect of the genetic drift and limited gene flow. Bayesian clustering analysis revealed two groups: (1) jackrabbits from Montecillo Santa Cruz, and (2) individuals living in Aguachil, San Francisco del Mar Viejo and Santa María del Mar. No evidence was found of isolation by distance. It is possible that the geographic barriers present between populations (e.g. lagoons, human settlements), rather than the geographical distance between them, may explain the observed genetic structure. The inbreeding coefficient was negative ( FIS =-0.27, P = 0.03), indicating genetic sub-structure in populations. We suggest two management units based on the genetically closer populations, which will help define precise conservation actions in L. flavigularis. This research is the basis for defining translocation of individuals between populations, nevertheless, a more extensive future study, with specific molecular markers for L. flavigularis, is required. In addition, it is necessary to analyze the barriers that limit the gene flow, since it is urgent to reduce the genetic differentiation between populations and increase the genetic diversity of this species.

Resumen Lepus flavigularis es una especie endémica y en peligro, con solo cuatro poblaciones ubicadas en Oaxaca, México: Montecillo Santa Cruz, Aguachil, San Francisco del Mar Viejo y Santa María del Mar. Las actividades humanas (e.g. cacería, cambios de uso de suelo) y la baja diversidad genética detectada con ADN mitocondrial y aloenzimas muestran la urgencia de desarrollar estrategias de manejo para esta especie. Para definir unidades de manejo es necesario estudiar la estructura genética con genes nucleares debido a su herencia y alto polimorfismo, por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio fue examinar la variación y estructura genética de L. flavigularis con microsatélites nucleares. Se obtuvo el ADN genómico de 67 liebres de las cuatro poblaciones de L. flavigularis, capturadas mediante muestreo nocturno de 2001 a 2006, mediante el método fenol-cloroformo-alcohol isoamílico. Para obtener la diversidad y estructura genética se amplificaron siete microsatélites con la Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa (PCR). Las amplificaciones se visualizaron mediante electroforesis con geles de poliacrilamida al 10 %, teñidas con bromuro de etidio. La diversidad genética se determinó con el programa GenAlEx v.6.4, y la estructura genética se obtuvo con el ARLEQUIN v.3.1. Se evaluaron los alelos nulos con el programa Micro-Checker v.2.2.2. Adicionalmente, se realizó un análisis bayesiano con el software STRUCTURE v.2.2.3, y se estudió el aislamiento por distancia (IBD) mediante el programa PASSAGE v.2.0.11.6. La variación genética encontrada fue baja ( HO = 0.30, HE = 0.24) en comparación con otras especies de liebres. Se detectaron alelos fijos y diferenciación genética moderada (F ST = 0.18, P < 0.001) entre las poblaciones, lo que indica el efecto de la deriva genética y flujo genético limitado. El análisis Bayesiano reveló dos grupos: (1) liebres de Montecillo Santa Cruz, e (2) individuos de Aguachil, San Francisco del Mar Viejo y Santa María del Mar. No se detectó evidencia de aislamiento por distancia. Es posible que las barreras geográficas presentes entre las poblaciones (e.g. lagunas, asentamientos humanos), más que la distancia geográfica entre ellas, expliquen la estructura genética observada. El coeficiente de endogamia fue negativo ( FIS =-0.27, P = 0.03), indicando sub-estructura genética en las poblaciones. Sugerimos dos unidades de manejo con base en las poblaciones más cercanas genéticamente, lo que ayudará a definir acciones precisas de conservación en L. flavigularis. Esta investigación es la base para definir la translocación de individuos entre las poblaciones, sin embargo, se requiere un estudio futuro más amplio que incorpore marcadores moleculares específicos para L. flavigularis. Asimismo, es necesario analizar las barreras que limitan el flujo genético, ya que es urgente reducir la diferenciación genética entre poblaciones e incrementar la diversidad genética de esta especie.

Effect of temporal lakes on avifaunal composition at the Southeast of Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, Mexico / Efecto de las lagunas temporales sobre la composición de la avifauna al Sureste del Istmo de Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, México

Oaxaca hosts one of the greatest biodiversity in México, occupying first place in avian diversity compared to other regions of the country. However, the area is undergoing serious problems such as high deforestation rates, soil erosion and over exploitation and extinction of species. These factors have all contributed to the current loss of biodiversity. Also, biological inventories are still incomplete. One of the least explored sites is the semiarid zone of Tehuantepec isthmus, around the locality of Santa Maria del Mar, Oaxaca, México. The area includes floodable grasslands, mangrove areas and dry forest, providing a range of potential habitats for different species. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of temporal lakes on spatial and temporal composition of the avifauna in Santa Maria del Mar, in order to generate information regarding this group within the region and the state, and to understand the importance of flood areas for resident and transitory birds. We conducted 12 avifauna surveys between July 2006 and June 2008, and established two transects of 2km length in each of four habitat types (beach, grassland, dry forest, and mangrove). We found a total of 75 species, corresponding to 16 orders and 30 families. Within an area of 26km², we significantly found 10.1% of the total number of bird species recorded for the entire state, and 6.6% of the total reported in Mexico. The families most represented were: Ardeidae, Laridae and Scolopacidae. Over the entire study period, dry forest was the most diverse habitat; followed by mangrove, grassland and the beach. Of all the species recorded, 38.6% were found at the edge or in the temporal lakes. We found a significant difference in species composition between seasons in the grassland, but no difference in the other habitats. Our results showed a significant effect of temporary lakes on avian diversity during the wet season; it also demonstrated the importance of grassland conservation given its relevance for presence of waterbirds. We suggested a continued and more intense monitoring; and proposed the designation of the area as an important Conservation Bird Area (AiCA).

Oaxaca alberga una biodiversidad de las más grandes en México, ocupando el primer lugar en diversidad de aves si se le compara con otras regiones del país. Sin embargo, el área sufre serios problemas tales como altas tasas de deforestación, erosión de suelo y sobre explotación y extinción de especies. Todos estos factores han contribuido con la actual pérdida de diversidad biológica. Además, los inventarios biológicos aún están incompletos. Una de las zonas menos exploradas es la parte semiárida del istmo de Tehuantepec, en los alrededores de la localidad de Santa María del Mar, Oaxaca, México. El área incluye pastizales inundables, áreas de manglar y de selva seca, y provee de una gama de hábitat potenciales para diversas especies. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar el efecto de las lagunas temporales en la composición espacial y temporal de la avifauna en Santa María del Mar, con el propósito de generar información relacionada con este grupo dentro de la región y del estado, además de comprender la importancia de las áreas inundables para las aves residentes y migratorias. Entre julio 2006 y junio 2008 realizamos 12 monitoreos de la avifauna, y establecimos dos transectos de 2km de longitud para cada uno de los cuatro tipos de hábitat (playa, pastizal, selva seca y manglar). Encontramos un total de 75 especies, correspondendiendo a 16 órdenes y 30 familias. Dentro de un área de 26km², de manera significativa registramos el 10.1% del total de aves registradas para todo el estado y el 6.6% del total de especies registradas para México. Las familias mejor representadas fueron: Ardeidae, Laridae y Scolopacidae. Para todo el periodo de estudio, la selva seca fue el hábitat más diverso, seguido por el manglar, el pastizal abierto y la playa. Del total de especies registradas, el 38.6% se encontraron en el borde o dentro de lagunas temporales. Encontramos una diferencia significativa en la composición de especies entre temporadas en el pastizal, pero no se encontró diferencia entre el resto de los hábitat. Nuestros resultados muestran un efecto significativo de las lagunas temporales sobre la diversidad de la avifauna durante la temporada lluviosa; también evidencian la importancia de la conservación de los pastizales, dada su relevancia para la presencia de aves acuáticas. Sugerimos realizar un monitoreo continuo e intensivo, y proponemos que la zona sea designada como un área de importancia para la Conservación de las Aves (AiCA).

Basic ecology of the Oaxacan Spiny-tailed Iguana Ctenosaura oaxacana (Squamata: Iguanidae), in Oaxaca, Mexico

The Oaxacan Spiny-tailed Iguana Ctenosaura oaxacana is a restricted species to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Southern Oaxaca, Mexico. This reptile is one of the less known iguanid species. We censustracked a population in the South of Niltepec, Oaxaca, Mexico from May 2010 to April 2011. Throughout one year, a total of 10 line transects were situated and recorded in the study area to determine relative abundance and density, and habitat type use (dry forest, Nanchal, grassland, riparian vegetation, and mangrove) by the species. This study reports a new C. oaxacana population on the Southeastern limit of species range. Although this species has a very restricted distribution and is in danger of extinction, C. oaxacana has a high population density when compared to other Ctenosaura species. A total of 108 individuals were recorded throughout the study. Dry forest (33.75ind/ha) and Nanchal (18.75ind/ha) were the habitats with higher densities. Comparisons between habitat types showed no significant differences between dry forest and Nanchal (W=15, p=0.0808). Results between seasons were similar. The Oaxacan Spiny tailed Iguana preferred first the dry forest, and then Nanchal, while avoided grassland, riparian vegetation, and mangroves. There was no difference in habitat use between males and females. Mean perch heights were 1.23±0.32 (n=30) in Nanchal, 2.11±0.30 (n=9) in grassland, 1.90±0.56 (n=54) in dry forest, 1.91±0.28 (n=9) in mangrove and 2.30±0.37 (n=6) in riparian vegetation. Species observed as refuge and perch were B. crassifolia (Nanchal); C. alata (grassland); Tabebuia sp., Genipa americana, G. sepium, Acacia sp., Ficus sp. and Haematoxylon sp. (dry forest); G. sepium, Acacia sp. and Guazuma ulmifolia (riparian vegetation); and C. erecta (mangrove). Live trees hollows and branches were used by species. Main threats to the species are excessive hunting and habitat loss. Furthermore, grassland fires are still common in the study ...

La Iguana de Cola Espinosa Ctenosaura oaxacana es una especie restringida al Istmo de Tehuantepec en el Sureste de Oaxaca, México. Este reptil es uno de los iguánidos menos conocidos. Entre Mayo 2010 y Abril 2011 hicimos el seguimiento de una población al Sur de Niltepec, Oaxaca, México. A lo largo de un año, se colocaron y monitorearon un total de diez transectos en el área de estudio, para determinar la abundancia relativa, densidad y uso de hábitat (selva seca, Nanchal, pastizal, vegetación riparia y manglar) de la especie. Esta investigación reporta una nueva población de C. oaxacana en el límite sureste de la distribución conocida para la especie. Aunque esta especie posee una distribución muy restringida y se encuentra en peligro de extinción, C. oaxacana presenta una alta densidad poblacional comparada con otras especies de Ctenosaura. Se registró un total de 108 individuos a lo largo del estudio. La selva seca (33.75ind/ha) y el Nanchal (18.75ind/ha) fueron los hábitats con densidad más alta. No se encontró diferencia significativa entre la selva seca y el Nanchal (W=15, p=0.0808). Al comparar entre estaciones el resultado fue similar. La Iguana de Cola Espinosa prefirió la selva seca y después al Nanchal, mientras que evitó el pastizal, la vegetación riparia y el manglar. No se registró diferencia en el uso de hábitat entre machos y hembras. La altura media de las perchas fue 1.23±0.32 (n=30) en Nanchal, 2.11±0.30 (n=9) en pastizal, 1.90±0.56 (n=54) en selva baja, 1.91±0.28 (n=9) en manglar y 2.30±0.37 (n=6) en vegetación riparia. Las especies observadas como refugio y percha fueron B. crassifolia (Nanchal); C. alata (pastizal); Tabebuia sp., Genipa americana, G. sepium, Acacia sp., Ficus sp. y Haematoxylon sp. (selva seca); G. sepium, Acacia sp. y Guazuma ulmifolia (vegetación riparia); y C. erecta (manglar). La especie utilizó agujeros y ramas de árboles vivos. Las principales amenazas para la especie son la cacería excesiva y la pérdida de hábitat. Además, la quema de pastizales sigue siendo común en el área de estudio durante la temporada seca, lo que puede resultar en la pérdida de hábitat y el desplazamiento territorial de los individuos.

Estudio de reservorios silvestres del Trypanosoma cruzi en la reserva ecológica de El Zapotal, Chiapas, México / Study of Trypanosoma cruzi in wild reservoirs in the ecological reserve of El Zapotal, Chiapas, Mexico

Reservoirs of T. cruzi were studied in the ecological reserve "El Zapotal", in the Tuxtla Gutiérrez municipality located in the state of Cchiapas. the parasite transmissión cycle exists in that area. A totral of 73 specimens of B different mammal species were trapped alive. Xenodiagnosis tests showed that 11% of them were positive for T. cruzi. Blood concentration exam, blood culture, serology (CIEP) and histological exam were carried out in 65 specimens fromthe total captured T. cruzi positive results in these tests were 1.5, 3.6 and 6.2% respectively. None of the 73 specimens were positive in the histological ewxams. Amastigote nests were found in cardiac tissue of mice, which were inoculated with triatomine bugs dejections collected from those specimens used from xenodiagnosis testing or by the inoculation of parasites grown in axenic blood cultures. These results indicated that there is a sylvan cycle which is maintained by mammal species, which are plundering this geographic area