Efecto de la reubicación de nidos en el éxito reproductivo de la tortuga marina Lepidochelys olivacea (Testudinata: Cheloniidae) / Effect of nest relocation on the reproductive success of the marine turtle Lepidochelys olivacea (Testudinata: Cheloniidae)

Resumen Introducción: Para incrementar el número de crías de tortugas marinas, es necesario mejorar estrategias de conservación, como incubación de nidos, en condiciones de vivero que contrarresten los efectos de las condiciones climáticas extremas. Objetivo: Comparar cinco parámetros de éxito reproductivo (éxito de eclosión, huevos sin desarrollo aparente, crías muertas, mortalidad embrionaria y período de incubación) de la tortuga marina Lepidochelys olivacea. Métodos: Se evaluó la incubación de nidos bajo dos períodos de reubicación de nidos (P1 ~28.8 °C agosto-septiembre y P2 ~27.1 °C octubre-noviembre, temperatura ambiental promedio, bajo condiciones de vivero, en el 2018 en Guerrero, México. Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias significativas en el éxito de eclosión y la mortalidad embrionaria entre los períodos de reubicación de nidos (P < 0.001). En P1, se observaron valores más bajos de éxito de eclosión (77.0 % P1 vs 88.6 % P2) y valores más altos de mortalidad embrionaria (13.7 % P1 vs 3.3 % P2) comparados con los de P2. Es importante señalar que, en el presente estudio la mortalidad embrionaria se presentó en una etapa tardía de desarrollo, es decir, en embriones casi completamente desarrollados. No se encontraron diferencias entre periodos respecto a los parámetros de huevos sin desarrollo aparente, crías muertas y período de incubación. Conclusiones: Las diferencias entre las condiciones ambientales durante el primer período de reubicación de nidos en comparación con el segundo período parecen afectar el éxito de eclosión y mortalidad embrionaria de L. olivacea. Por lo tanto, es importante tomar medidas al respecto durante esta etapa de incubación para tratar de mejorar la incubación de nidos bajo condiciones de vivero.

Abstract Introduction: In order to increase the number of sea turtle hatchlings, it is necessary to improve conservation strategies, such as nest incubation in hatchery conditions that counteract the effects of extreme climatic conditions. Objective: To compare five reproductive success parameters (hatching success, eggs with no apparent embryonic development, dead hatchlings, embryonic mortality, and incubation period) of the sea turtle Lepidochelys olivacea. Methods: The incubation of nests was evaluated under two periods of nest relocation, P1 ~28.8 °C (August and September) and P2 ~27.1 °C (October and November), average ambient temperature, under hatchery condition, in 2018 in Guerrero, Mexico. Results: Significant differences were found in hatching success and embryonic mortality between nest relocation periods (P < 0.001). In P1, lower values of hatching success (77.0 % P1 vs 88.6 % P2) and higher values of embryonic mortality (13.7 % P1 vs 3.3 % P2) were observed compared to those of P2. It's important pointing that, in the present study, embryonic mortality occurred at a late stage of development, that is, in almost fully developed embryos. No differences were found between periods regarding the parameters eggs with no apparent embryonic development, dead hatchlings and incubation period. Conclusions: The differences between the environmental conditions during the first period of nest relocation compared to the second period, respectively, seem to affect the hatching success and embryonic mortality of L. olivacea. Therefore, it is important to take action on this issue during this incubation stage to try to improve the incubation of nests under hatchery conditions.

Reproductive strategies of a population of a freshwater amphipod (Crustacea, Amhipoda, Hyalellidae) from southern Brazil / Estratégias reprodutivas de uma população de um anfípodo de água doce (Crustacea, Amhipoda, Hyalellidae) do sul do Brasil

Abstract: The aim of this study was to characterize the reproductive strategies of a population of Hyalella bonariensis from southern Brazil. Pairing success, reproductive period of males and females, fecundity, and body size at the onset of reproduction were evaluated. Animals were sampled four times (August 2012, October 2012, January 2013, and April 2013) with the 250 µm-mesh dip net during 20 minutes by only one person. In the field, precopulatory pairs and ovigerous females were individualized. In the laboratory, cephalothorax length (CL) were measured and eggs and juveniles were removed from the females' marsupium and counted. The mean CL of paired males and females was significantly higher than that of non-paired males and females. A sexual dimorphism in body size was observed in the population - both paired and non-paired males were larger than females. Probably larger males have a higher probability of losing females during precopulatory behavior. A significant correlation was observed between the size of paired males and females - larger males often paired with larger females and smaller males paired with smaller females (r = 0.81). The pairing success of males increased with body size and we can assume that males from all size classes are able to find mates. The pairing success of females was independent of body size - paired and non-paired females had similar mean CL. The reproductive success increased with body size in males and females, and was more evident in males. Females from the largest size classes had null reproductive success. The idea that larger females can produce more eggs but might have a lower probability of finding a mate than smaller females was corroborated by our results. Therefore, smaller females have higher pairing success because they are capable of mating with a higher percentage of males. The estimated mean fecundity of H. bonariensis was 17.4 (± 3.89) eggs/juveniles. Our results are similar to those of other species of Hyalella from Brazil.

Resumo: Este trabalho teve por objetivo caracterizar as estratégias reprodutivas de uma população de Hyalella bonariensis no sul do Brasil, avaliando o sucesso de pareamento, o período reprodutivo de machos e fêmeas, a fecundidade e o tamanho corporal dos indivíduos durante a reprodução. Para isso foram realizadas quatro amostragens (Agosto/2012, Outubro/2012, Janeiro/2013 e Abril/2013) utilizando-se uma rede de mão, com malha de 250 µm, durante 20 minutos por um coletor. Em campo, os casais e as fêmeas ovígeras foram individualizados e em laboratório os mesmos foram mensurados quanto ao comprimento do cefalotórax (CC) (mm) e os ovos ou juvenis encontrados dentro do marsúpio foram contados. O CC médio dos machos e fêmeas pareados foi significativamente superior ao dos machos e fêmeas não pareados. Um dimorfismo sexual no tamanho corpóreo foi observado na população - ambos machos pareados e não pareados foram maiores do que as fêmeas. Aparentemente os machos maiores têm uma maior probabilidade de perder fêmeas durante o comportamento precopulatório. Foi observada correlação positiva entre o tamanho dos machos e fêmeas que foram encontrados formando casais - machos maiores geralmente pareiam com fêmeas maiores e machos menores com fêmeas menores (r=0,81). O sucesso de pareamento dos machos aumentou com o tamanho corpóreo e podemos assumir que os machos de todas as classes de tamanho são capazes de encontrar parceiras sexuais; entretanto, o sucesso de pareamento das fêmeas não depende do tamanho das mesmas, sendo que as fêmeas pareadas e não pareadas apresentaram CC médio semelhante. O sucesso reprodutivo da espécie aumentou com o tamanho corpóreo em machos e fêmeas, sendo mais pronunciado nos machos. As fêmeas pertencentes às maiores classes de tamanho apresentaram sucesso reprodutivo nulo. Os resultados suportam a ideia que as fêmeas grandes poderiam ter uma baixa probabilidade de encontrar parceiro para formar par pré-copulatório, quando comparada às fêmeas de tamanhos inferiores, apesar das fêmeas maiores serem mais fecundas. Neste sentido, as menores fêmeas possuem um sucesso de pareamento maior, pois elas são capazes de copular com uma elevada proporção de machos. A fecundidade média da espécie foi estimada em 17,4 (± 3,89) ovos/juvenis. Os resultados observados no presente trabalho assemelham-se aos encontrados para outras espécies do gênero já analisadas no sul do Brasil.

Lightweight males of Podisus nigrispinus (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) neglect lightweight females due low reproductive fitness / Machos leves de Podisus nigrispinus (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) negligenciam fêmeas leves devido ao baixo desempenho reprodutivo

Abstract Sexual choice by male stink bugs is important because females that experience food shortages lay fewer eggs with lower viability compared with well-fed females. In this study, we investigated whether Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) males fed with a low-quality diet during its nymphal stage show selectivity for sexual partners resulting in high-quality progeny. Lightweight males and females were obtained from nymphs fed weekly with Tenebrio molitor L. (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) pupae. By contrast, heavyweight males and females were fed three times a week and received an extra nutritional source: cotton leaves, Gossypium hirsutum L. (Malvaceae). Lightweight males preferred to mate with heavy females (77.78 ± 14.69%), whereas heavyweight males did not discriminated between light or heavyweight females. Females mated with lightweight males showed similar levels of reproduction to those mated with heavyweight males. The results provide an indication of the importance of male and female body weight for sexual selection in Asopinae stink bugs.

Resumo A seleção sexual por machos de percevejos é importante porque fêmeas que passaram por escassez alimentar poem poucos ovos com baixa viabilidade em comparação com fêmeas bem alimentadas. Nesse estudo, investigamos se machos de Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) alimentados com dieta de baixa qualidade durante seu estágio ninfal apresenta seletividade por parceiras sexuais resultando em progênie de alta qualidade. Machos e fêmeas leves foram obtidos de ninfas alimentadas semanalmente com pupas de Tenebrio molitor L. (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Em contraste, machos e fêmeas pesados foram alimentados três vezes por semana e receberam uma fonte nutricional extra: folhas de algodão, Gossypium hirsutum L. (Malvaceae). Machos leves preferiram acasalar com fêmeas pesadas (77,78 ± 14,69%), enquanto machos pesados não distinguiram fêmeas leves ou pesadas para acasalamento. Fêmeas que acasalaram com machos leves apresentaram níveis de reprodução semelhantes em comparação com aquelas acasaladas com machos pesados. Os resultados fornecem uma indicação da importância do peso corpóreo de machos e fêmeas para a seleção sexual em percevejos Asopinae.

Breeding biology and hatching success of Chelonia mydas (Testudines: Cheloniidae) in Aves Island Wildlife Refuge, Venezuela, during the 2010 reproductive season

ves Island Wildlife Refuge is the second most important nesting colony for green turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the Caribbean. Even though some research projects have led to a solid source of knowledge about this species' ecology, little information about its breeding biology is available. This study was focused on assessing the breeding characteristics and hatching success for the nesting population during the 2010 season in Aves Island, Venezuela. Nesting data were collected along the entire beach line from July 31st to November 09th by nightly patrols, in order to determine green turtle nesting activity. All females were tagged and measured to compare the new recruits with remigrant females. We determined the number of nesting females, the size and spatial distribution of clutches, the incubation period, the internesting and remigration periods, as well as the hatching and emergence success for first time in Aves Island. Beach dimensions were measured to determine nest density. We recorded 1 106 nesting females with 436 remigrant females individually identified. The female population had an average curved carapace length of 112.2 ± 5.5 cm. The average clutch size was of 124 ± 25.7 eggs, with an estimated clutch frequency of 2 nests/females, and an average inferred clutch period of 12.4 days. We estimated the total number of clutches to be 2 261 ± 33 and a total of 1 130 ± 17 nesting females for the 2010 season. For in situ nests, we observed a Mean hatching and emergence success of 54.4 ± 30.0% and 74.3 ± 29.2%, respectively. There was a positive correlation between the morphometrics of nesting females and clutch size, and also significant differences in the number of clutches and hatching and emergence success among the different island sections of the study site. Our results are only a first attempt at characterizing this site population, but have great value for establishing conservation priorities within the context of national management plans. Care should be taken in extrapolating our data to other years, as there is a need to continue monitoring the nesting beach and developing conservation strategies directed at all life-stages of the population. Rev. Biol. Trop. 63(4): 1059-1070. Epub 2015 December 01.

l Refugio de Fauna Silvestre Isla de Aves (Venezuela) es la segunda colonia anidadora más importante para la tortuga verde (Chelonia mydas) en el Caribe, y su proyecto de investigación representa una sólida fuente de conocimiento sobre la ecología de esta especie. Sin embargo, existe poca información disponible sobre su biología reproductiva. Esta investigación estuvo enfocada en la evaluación de las características reproductivas y éxito de eclosión de la población anidadora durante la temporada 2010 en Isla de Aves. Los datos de anidación fueron recogidos a lo largo de la playa durante patrullajes nocturnos del 31 de julio al 09 de noviembre con el fin de determinar la actividad de anidación de las tortugas. Todas las hembras fueron marcadas y medidas para comparar los datos de las nuevas reclutas con los de las hembras remigrantes. Fue determinado el número de hembras anidadoras, el tamaño y la distribución espacial de las nidadas, el período de incubación, los períodos interanidación y remigración, así como el éxito de eclosión y emergencia por primera vez en la RFSIA. Se midieron las dimensiones de playa para determinar la densidad de nidos a lo largo de sus secciones. Fueron registradas 1 106 hembras anidadoras, de las cuales 436 hembras fueron identificadas individualmente como remigrantes. Las hembras anidadoras tuvieron un largo curvo del caparazón promedio de 112.2 ± 5.5 cm. La media para el tamaño de las nidadas fue de 124.0 ± 25.7 huevos, con una frecuencia de puesta estimada de 2.0 nidos/hembra y un intervalo de puesta inferido de 12.4 días. Estimamos un total de 2 261 ± 33 nidadas y un rango de 1 130 ± 17 hembras anidadodra para la temporada 2010. Para las nidadas insitu observamos un éxito de eclosión de 54.4 ± 30.0 % y un éxito de emergencia de 74.3 ± 29.2 %. Observamos una correlación positiva entre la morfometría de las hembras anidadoras y el tamaño de la nidada, así como diferencias significativas en el número de nidadas, los éxitos de eclosión y emergencia entre las tres secciones de la isla. Estos resultados son una primera aproximación para la caracterización de la población de Isla de Aves, pero tienen gran valor para establecer prioridades de conservación dentro del contexto de los planes de manejo nacionales. Los valores observados en este trabajo deben ser extrapolados con cuidados a otros años, ya que existe una importante necesidad de continuar con el monitoreo de la anidación, así como de desarrollar estrategias de conservación dirigidas a todas las etapas de vida de la población.

Reproductive success of Cabralea canjerana (Meliaceae) in Atlantic forest fragments, Brazil / Éxito reproductivo de Cabralea canjerana (Meliaceae) en fragmentos de bosque del Atlántico, Brasil

In Brazil, the Atlantic forest remnants have high biological diversity and a high level of endemism, but very little is known about the reproductive success of native species. Cabralea canjerana is a common tree in the Montane Atlantic forest, and its reproduction is highly dependent on pollinators. In order to contribute with the particular knowledge on this species, we collected data in three fragmented and three continuous forest sites, where the effects of fragmentation on both mutualistic (pollination) and antagonistic (seed predation) interactions were analysed. We determined fruit production and weight of 25 trees per site. The number of seeds and the percentage of predated and aborted seeds were also accessed for seven fruits of 10 trees per site. Pollinator visitation frequencies to flowers were recorded in two forest fragments and in two sites of the continuous forest. Our data showed that plants of C. canjerana produced more fruits (z-value=-8.24; p<0.0001) and seeds per fruit (z-value=-6.58; p=0.002) in the continuous than in the fragmented sites. This was likely due to differences in pollination, because the number of pollinator visits was higher in the continuous forest than in the fragments. Seed abortion (z-value=4.08, p<0.001) and predation (z-value=3.72, p=0.0002), on the other hand, were higher in the fragmented than in the continuous sites. Then, mutualistic and antagonistic interactions were affected by fragmentation, decreasing the reproductive success of the study tree. This study was the first to show a decrease in the reproductive output in forest fragments in an Atlantic forest tree species. This decrease may threaten the population structure and viability of C. canjerana in forest fragments. Rev. Biol. Trop. 63 (2): 515-524. Epub 2015 June 01.

En Brasil, los remanentes de bosque del Atlántico tienen una alta diversidad biológica y un alto nivel de endemismo, pero se conoce muy poco sobre el éxito reproductivo de las especies nativas. Canjerana cabralea es un árbol común en el bosque Atlántico Montano y su reproducción es altamente dependiente de los polinizadores. Con el fin de contribuir con el conocimiento particular de esta especie, se recogieron los datos en tres sitios fragmentados y tres de bosques continuos, donde se analizaron los efectos de la fragmentación tanto en relaciones mutualistas (polinización) como interacciones antagónicas (depredación de semillas). Se determinó la producción de frutos y el peso de 25 árboles. También se calculó el número de semillas y el porcentaje de semillas depredadas y abortadas en 7 frutos de 10 árboles por sitio. Frecuencia de visitas de polinizadores a las flores se registraron en dos fragmentos de bosque y en dos sitios de bosque continuo. Nuestros datos muestran que las plantas de C. canjerana produjeron más frutos (Z=-8.24; p<0.0001) y semillas por fruto (Z=-6.58; p=0.002) en el continuo que en los sitios fragmentados. Esto fue probablemente debido a las diferencias en la polinización, porque el número de visitas de polinizadores fue mayor en el bosque continuo que en los fragmentos. Por otro lado, el aborto de semillas (Z=4.08, p<0.001) y la depredación (Z=3.72, p=0.0002) fueron mayores en los sitios fragmentados que en los continuos. Entonces, las interacciones mutualistas y antagónicas se vieron afectadas por la fragmentación, disminuyendo el éxito reproductivo del árbol estudiado. Este estudio fue el primero en mostrar una disminución en el rendimiento reproductivo en los fragmentos de bosque en una especie de árboles forestales atlánticos. Esta disminución puede poner en peligro la estructura de la población y la viabilidad de C. canjerana en fragmentos de bosque.

Nesting ecology of Chelonia mydas Testudines: Cheloniidae on the Guanahacabibes Peninsula, Cuba

The nesting colony of green sea turtles Chelonia mydas at Guanahacabibes Peninsula Biosphere Reserve and National Park is one of the largest in the Cuban archipelago; however, little information about its nesting ecology is available. Temporal and spatial variation in nesting and reproductive success as well as morphometric characteristics of gravid females were used to ecologically characterize this colony. Nine beaches of the Southernmost coast of Guanahacabibes Peninsula were monitored for 14 years 1998-2012 to determine green turtle nesting activity, from May to September peak nesting season in this area. Beach dimensions were measured to determine nest density using the length and the area. Afterward the beaches were divided in two categories, index and secondary. Females were measured and tagged to compare new tagged females 823 with returning tagged females 140. Remigration interval was also determined. Temporal variation was identified as the annual number of nesting emergences and oviposits per female, with apparent peaks in reproductive activity on a biennial cycle in the first six years followed by periods of annual increase in nest number 2003-2008 and periods of decreasing number of nests 2010-2012. We also found intra-seasonal variation with the highest nesting activity in July, particularly in the second half of the month. The peak emergence time was 22:00-02:00hr. In terms of spatial variation, smaller beaches had the highest nest density and nesting was more frequent 6-9m from the high tide line, where hatchling production was maximized although hatchling success was high on average, above 80. Morphometric analysis of females was made and newly tagged turtles were smaller on average than remigrants. Our results are only a first attempt at characterizing Guanahacabibes populations but have great value for establishing conservation priorities within the context of national management plans, and for efficient monitoring and protection of nesting beaches.

La colonia de Tortuga verde Chelonia mydas que anida en la Península de Guanahacabibeses es una de las más grandes del archipiélago cubano pero existe poca información disponible sobre la misma. Por ello utilizamos la variación espacial y temporal de la anidación así como el éxito reproductivo y las características morfométricas de las hembras grávidas para realizar la primera caracterización ecológica de esta colonia. Se estudiaron nueve playas durante 14 años 1998-2012 desde mayo hasta septiembre pico de anidación. Estas se dividieron en dos categorías: índices y secundarias. Las hembras fueron medidas y marcadas para comparar las nuevas hembras marcadas 823 con las remigrantes 140. Se detectó una variación temporal en la anidación a tres niveles: interanual, dentro de la temporada y durante la noche. Se observa un ciclo bienal en los primeros seis años, luego un incremento anual 2003-2008 seguido por un período de decrecimiento en las anidaciones 2010-2012. Dentro de la temporada se encontró un pico en el mes de julio aunque cambia de la primera quincena a la segunda en años diferentes y la hora de emergencia preferentemente de 22:00-02:00hr. En la variación espacial, las playas pequeñas tuvieron mayor densidad de anidación, especialmente entre los 6-9m hasta la línea media de marea alta, donde se maximiza la producción de neonatos, aunque el éxito de emergencia de los neonatos se mantuvo como promedio por encima del 80 en toda la playa. Morfométricamente las hembras remigrantes resultaron mayores como promedio que las marcadas por primera vez. Estos resultados son una primera aproximación para la caracterización de la colonia de Guanahacabibes pero tienen gran valor para establecer prioridades de conservación dentro del contexto de los planes de manejo nacionales así como para garantizar un monitoreo eficiente y la protección de las playas de anidación.

Reproductive biology of Synallaxis albescens (Aves: Furnariidae) in the cerrado of central Brazil / Biologia reprodutiva de Synallaxis albescens (Aves: Furnariidae) em cerrado do Brasil central

Understanding the causes and consequences of variation in reproductive strategies is a central theme in studies of avian life history evolution. This study describes the reproductive biology of Synallaxis albescens (Furnariidae) in the cerrado biome of central Brazil. We monitored 35 nests during the 2003 to 2011 breeding seasons, visiting them every 2-4 days. Synallaxis albescens breeds from mid-September to mid-January, builds a retort-shaped nest, and generally lays three immaculate white eggs. Eggs weighed 1.75 g and measured 19.7 by 14.4 mm. Most nests studied were in open cerrado or shrub grassland at an average height above the ground of 0.3 m, with a preference for Davilla elliptica (Dilleniaceae) shrubs as a nesting substrate. Incubation period averaged 18.1 days, while the nestling period averaged 13.6 days. Of 16 closely monitored nests, four were successful (25%), 11 were depredated (69%), and one was abandoned. Predation was similar during incubation (45%) and nestling (55%) phases. In general, the breeding biology of S. albescens was similar to that described previously for this species and for related Furnariidae.

Um tema central em estudos acerca da evolução da história de vida de aves é o entendimento das causas e conseqüências da variação em estratégias reprodutivas. O presente estudo descreve a biologia reprodutiva de Synallaxis albescens (Furnariidae) no bioma cerrado do Brasil central. Nós monitoramos 35 ninhos durantes as estações reprodutivas de 2003 a 2011, visitando-os a cada 2-4 dias. Synallaxis albescens se reproduz da metade de setembro a metade de janeiro, constrói ninho em forma de retorta e geralmente coloca três ovos brancos. Os ovos apresentaram peso de 1,75g e medidas de 19,7 por 14,4 mm. A maior parte dos ninhos estudados estava em Campo sujo e Cerrado ralo a uma altura média, em relação ao solo, de 0.3 m, com uma preferência por arbustos de Davilla elliptica (Dilleniaceae) como substrato para os ninhos. O período de incubação durou em média 18,1 dias, enquanto o período de permanência dos ninhegos durou em média 13,6 dias. Dos 16 ninhos monitorados, quatro obtiveram sucesso (25%), 11 foram predados (69%) e um foi abandonado. A predação foi semelhante durante a fase de incubação (45%) e durante a fase de cuidado dos ninhegos (55%). Em geral, a biologia reprodutiva de S. albescens foi similar ao descrito previamente na literatura para esta espécie, bem como para Furnariidae relacionados.

Reproductive biology of Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth (Fabaceae) / Biologia reprodutiva de Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth (Fabaceae)

The aim of this study was to investigate the reproductive biology of Bowdichia virgilioides in an area of Cerrado (Brazilian Savanna). The study was carried out in Chapadinha, State of Maranhão in northeastern Brazil. Bowdichia virgilioides has cornucopia flowering and annual pattern. Flowering occurred at the beginning of the dry season, between June and August; and fruiting in the middle of this season, between July and October. The anthesis of B. virgilioides is diurnal, and the main flower resource is the nectar. During the flower opening, the anthers becomes dehiscent and thus pollen grains are deposited at the stigma, promoting automatic self-pollination. The species is self-compatible and apomitic. In the study area, they were visited by nine species of bees, four butterflies, two wasps, and two hummingbirds. The visits began in early morning and persisted throughout the day, with a peak of activity between 8:00 and 9:00 hours. Species of Centris were the main visitors of B. virgilioides. The butterfly and wasp species were considered resource robbers, and other floral visitors were considered occasional visitors. Although the flowers of B. virgilioides are widely visited, the species shows a high rate of inbreeding because of automatic self-pollination.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo estudar a biologia reprodutiva de Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth (Fabaceae) e avaliar o papel dos visitantes florais em seu sucesso reprodutivo. Bowdichia virgilioides apresenta padrão de floração anual e do tipo cornucópica. A floração ocorre no início da estação seca, entre os meses de junho e agosto e a frutificação no meio desta estação, entre os meses de julho e outubro. Suas flores são de antese diurna e apresentam néctar como recurso floral. Durante a abertura floral, as anteras se encontram deiscentes e por esta razão há a adesão dos grãos de pólen no estigma da própria flor, promovendo o processo de autopolinização passiva. A espécie é autocompatível e apomitica. As flores foram visitadas por nove espécies de abelhas, quatro espécies de borboletas, duas espécies de vespas, e por duas espécies de beija-flores. As visitas iniciam logo ao amanhecer e perduram por todo o dia, com um pico de atividades de todos os insetos entre 8 e 9h. Em virtude do seu comportamento intrafloral, por sua abundância e frequência, Centris spp. são os principais visitantes de B. virgilioides. As borboletas e as vespas foram consideradas pilhadoras e os outros visitantes florais foram considerados visitantes ocasionais. Embora as flores de B. virgilioides sejam intensamente visitadas, a espécie pode apresentar alta taxa de endogamia pela autopolinização passiva.

Effect of nectar pillaging by native stingless bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in the abscission of flowers of Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd (Nyctaginaceae) / Efeito da pilhagem de néctar por abelhas nativas sem ferrão (Hymenoptera: Apidae) na abscisão floral de Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd (Nyctaginaceae)

This study had as objective to evaluate whether the pillaging activity by native bees influences floral abscission. Samples were collected in ten individuals of Bougainvillea spectabilis. In the period between May 4 and June 1st, 2009, 2,874 flowers were collected on the ground and 2,895 from the plants, with three-day intervals between each collection and a total of 10 repetitions in each plant. We measured the total of closed flowers, open flowers, robbed flowers, normal flowers, open robbed flowers and non-robber open flowers, in both soil and plant. For the statistical analysis, the T-test was used to see whether there was a difference between the averages obtained from the evaluated characteristics between the soil flowers and plant flowers. Simple linear regression was used to see whether there was a relationship between the closed flowers and robbed closed flowers found on the ground and open flowers and non-robbed open flowers in the plant. There were significant differences regarding all variables measured between soil and plant. A correlation was found at both closed flowers and robbed closed flowers found on the ground and open flowers and non-robbed open flowers in the plant.

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a atividade de pilhagem de abelhas nativas influenciando a abscisão floral de Bougainvillea spectabilis. As coletas foram realizadas em dez indivíduos de B. spectabilis. Foram coletadas 2.874 flores no solo e 2.895 na planta no período de 4/5/2009 a 1/6/2009 com intervalo de três dias entre cada coleta, totalizando 10 repetições em cada indivíduo. Foram mensuradas as flores fechadas, flores abertas, flores fechadas pilhadas, flores fechadas não pilhadas, flores abertas pilhadas e flores abertas não pilhadas tanto no solo como na planta. Para as análises estatísticas foi utilizado o Teste-T para verificar se houve diferença entre as médias obtidas das características avaliadas entre as flores do solo e as flores da planta, além de regressão linear simples para verificar se houve relação entre as flores fechadas e flores fechadas pilhadas; flores abertas e flores abertas pilhadas, encontradas no solo e flores fechadas e flores fechadas pilhadas; flores abertas e flores abertas pilhadas na planta. Houve diferença significativa em relação a todas as variáveis entre o solo e a planta. Foi verificada correlação tanto nas flores fechadas e flores pilhadas fechadas encontradas no solo quanto nas flores abertas e flores abertas não pilhadas na planta.

Effect of nectar pillaging by native stingless bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in the abscission of flowers of Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd. (Nyctaginaceae) - doi: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v33i4.8191 / Effect of nectar pillaging by native stingless bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in the abscission of flowers of Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd. (Nyctaginaceae) - doi: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v33i4.8191

This study had as objective to evaluate whether the pillaging activity by native bees influences floral abscission. Samples were collected in ten individuals of Bougainvillea spectabilis. In the period between May 4 and June 1st, 2009, 2,874 flowers were collected on the ground and 2,895 from the plants, with three-day intervals between each collection and a total of 10 repetitions in each plant. We measured the total of closed flowers, open flowers, robbed flowers, normal flowers, open robbed flowers and non-robber open flowers, in both soil and plant. For the statistical analysis, the T-test was used to see whether there was a difference between the averages obtained from the evaluated characteristics between the soil flowers and plant flowers. Simple linear regression was used to see whether there was a relationship between the closed flowers and robbed closed flowers found on the ground and open flowers and non-robbed open flowers in the plant. There were significant differences regarding all variables measured between soil and plant. A correlation was found at both closed flowers and robbed closed flowers found on the ground and open flowers and non-robbed open flowers in the plant.

This study had as objective to evaluate whether the pillaging activity by native bees influences floral abscission. Samples were collected in ten individuals of Bougainvillea spectabilis. In the period between May 4 and June 1st, 2009, 2,874 flowers were collected on the ground and 2,895 from the plants, with three-day intervals between each collection and a total of 10 repetitions in each plant. We measured the total of closed flowers, open flowers, robbed flowers, normal flowers, open robbed flowers and non-robber open flowers, in both soil and plant. For the statistical analysis, the T-test was used to see whether there was a difference between the averages obtained from the evaluated characteristics between the soil flowers and plant flowers. Simple linear regression was used to see whether there was a relationship between the closed flowers and robbed closed flowers found on the ground and open flowers and non-robbed open flowers in the plant. There were significant differences regarding all variables measured between soil and plant. A correlation was found at both closed flowers and robbed closed flowers found on the ground and open flowers and non-robbed open flowers in the plant.

Reproductive biology of Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth (Fabaceae) - doi: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v33i4.9003 / Reproductive biology of Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth (Fabaceae) - doi: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v33i4.9003

The aim of this study was to investigate the reproductive biology of Bowdichia virgilioides in an area of Cerrado (Brazilian Savanna). The study was carried out in Chapadinha, State of Maranhão in northeastern Brazil. Bowdichia virgilioides has cornucopia flowering and annual pattern. Flowering occurred at the beginning of the dry season, between June and August; and fruiting in the middle of this season, between July and October. The anthesis of B. virgilioides is diurnal, and the main flower resource is the nectar. During the flower opening, the anthers becomes dehiscent and thus pollen grains are deposited at the stigma, promoting automatic self-pollination. The species is self-compatible and apomitic. In the study area, they were visited by nine species of bees, four butterflies, two wasps, and two hummingbirds. The visits began in early morning and persisted throughout the day, with a peak of activity between 8:00 and 9:00 hours. Species of Centris were the main visitors of B. virgilioides. The butterfly and wasp species were considered resource robbers, and other floral visitors were considered occasional visitors. Although the flowers of B. virgilioides are widely visited, the species shows a high rate of inbreeding because of automatic self-pollination.

The aim of this study was to investigate the reproductive biology of Bowdichia virgilioides in an area of Cerrado (Brazilian Savanna). The study was carried out in Chapadinha, State of Maranhão in northeastern Brazil. Bowdichia virgilioides has cornucopia flowering and annual pattern. Flowering occurred at the beginning of the dry season, between June and August; and fruiting in the middle of this season, between July and October. The anthesis of B. virgilioides is diurnal, and the main flower resource is the nectar. During the flower opening, the anthers becomes dehiscent and thus pollen grains are deposited at the stigma, promoting automatic self-pollination. The species is self-compatible and apomitic. In the study area, they were visited by nine species of bees, four butterflies, two wasps, and two hummingbirds. The visits began in early morning and persisted throughout the day, with a peak of activity between 8:00 and 9:00 hours. Species of Centris were the main visitors of B. virgilioides. The butterfly and wasp species were considered resource robbers, and other floral visitors were considered occasional visitors. Although the flowers of B. virgilioides are widely visited, the species shows a high rate of inbreeding because of automatic self-pollination.

Reproductive biology of Cabot's Terns on Cardos Island, Santa Catarina, Brazil / A biologia reprodutiva de na ilha dos Cardos, Florianópolis, SC, Brasil

Cabot's Terns Thalasseus acuflavidus (Latham, 1737) are widely distributed along the Atlantic coast of South America from the Caribbean Islands (12º S) to the region of Porto Deseado, Argentina (46º S). Daily observations were conducted on the Cardos Island during 2003, 2005 and 2006 to determine timing and nesting success, and the reproductive biology of the Cabot's Terns nesting there. The first adults arrived at the colony from 22 April to 15 May during the three years recorded; a total of 144 nests were recorded in 2003, 174 in 2005 and 50 in 2006. Observed incubation time was 24.1 ± 0.35 days, and mean egg size was 5.15 ± 0.02 cm in length and 34.30 ± 0.25 g in weight. Hatching success was lowest in 2003 and highest in 2006, with natural causes (such as nest abandonment, flooding, inter and intra-specific fight) being the main cause of loss. The first eggs hatched in July in 2003, and in June in 2005 and 2006. Overall nesting success was lowest (4.00 percent) in 2006 and much higher (36.1 percent and 27.01 percent, respectively) in 2003 and 2005.

O trinta-réis-de-bando, Thalasseus acuflavidus (Latham, 1737) é amplamente distribuído na costa Atlântica da América do Sul, desde as Ilhas do Caribe (12º S) até a região de Porto Deseado, Argentina (46º S). Durante as temporadas reprodutivas de 2003, 2005 e 2006 foram realizadas incursões diárias entre os meses de abril a setembro na Ilha dos Cardos com o objetivo de caracterizar a biologia reprodutiva dessa espécie. Os primeiros adultos chegaram à colônia a partir de maio com o registro de 144 ninhos em 2003, 174 em 2005 e 50 em 2006. O comprimento, volume e tempo de incubação dos ovos foram em média 5,15 ± 0,02 cm, 34,30 ± 0,25 cm³ e 24,1 ± 0,35 dias, respectivamente. O maior sucesso de incubação foi encontrado em 2006 e o menor em 2005, com as causas naturais sendo o principal fator de perdas. Os primeiros jovens eclodiram em julho em 2003 e junho em 2005 e 2006, sendo estimado o sucesso reprodutivo de 48.00, 29.94 e 5.00 por cento, respectivamente.

Biologia reprodutiva de Tyrannus savana (Aves, Tyrannidae) em cerrado do Brasil Central / Breeding biology of Tyrannus savana (Aves, Tyrannidae) in cerrado of Central Brazil

The Fork-tailed Flycatcher Tyrannus savana (Tyrannidae) is a migratory passerine that occurs in central Brazil between August and February. Its breeding biology is still little known, and this study reports data on breeding season, incubation and nestling periods, nest and egg characteristics, nest success and predation rate. We searched for nests at ôEstação Ecológica de Águas Emendadasõ (ESECAE) and its surroundings, Distrito Federal, Brazil, in the breeding seasons of 2002 to 2007. We monitored 78 nests each 2-4 days. Breeding season started in late September and lasted until mid December. Incubation lasted 13.6 ± 0.4 days (n = 21) (mean ± SE) and nestling period lasted 15 ± 0.4 days (n = 27). Most nests (n = 39) were found in ôcerrado raloõ vegetation and were built on plants of the genus Kielmeyera. Clutch size ranged from 1 to 3 eggs, with an average of 2.5 ± 0.3 eggs. Egg length and width averaged 22.2 ± 0.2 mm and 15.8 ± 0.1 mm (n = 6), respectively, and the average weight was 3.0 ± 0.2 g (n = 5). Thirty (52.5%) nests were successful, 24 (43.9%) were predated and only two (3.7%) were abandoned. Egg success was 39.2 ± 1.4% and mean hatching rate was 0.6 ± 0.2 fledglings/egg. Overall productivity was 1.0 ± 0.3 fledglings per nest, and fecundity rate was 1.4 ± 0.4 fledglings per female. Nest success (Mayfield method) was 45.9% ± 1.1, with no significant difference between the average daily survival rate between egg and nestling periods. Several of the estimated parameters for T. savana revealed to be different than expected for a tropical flycatcher.

A tesourinha Tyrannus savana é um Passeriforme (Tyrannidae) migratório que ocorre no Planalto central entre os meses de agosto e fevereiro. Sua biologia reprodutiva é ainda pouco conhecida e foi abordada pelo presente estudo quanto aos seguintes aspectos: período reprodutivo, tamanho da ninhada, tempo de incubação e de permanência dos ninhegos no ninho, características dos ninhos e ovos, taxa de sucesso dos ninhos e taxa de predação. O estudo foi realizado na Estação Ecológica Águas Emendadas e em fragmentos do entorno, DF, nas estações reprodutivas de 2002 a 2007. Os ninhos (n = 78) foram monitorados em intervalos de 2-4 dias. O período reprodutivo estendeu-se de setembro a dezembro. O período médio de incubação foi de 13,6 ± 0,4 dias (n = 21) (média ± EP), e a permanência dos ninhegos no ninho foi de 15 ± 0,4 dias (n = 27). A maioria dos ninhos (n = 39) foi encontrada em cerrado ralo e em plantas-suporte do gênero Kielmeyera. O tamanho da ninhada variou de 1 a 3 ovos com média de 2,5 ± 0,3 ovos. O comprimento e a largura média dos ovos foram de 22,2 ± 0,2 mm e 15,8 ± 0,1 mm (n = 6), respectivamente, e o peso médio foi de 3,0 ± 0,2 g (n = 5). Trinta ninhos (52,5%) tiveram sucesso, 24 (43,8%) foram predados e apenas dois (3,7%) foram abandonados. O sucesso dos ovos foi de 39,2 ± 1,4%, sendo a taxa de eclosão de 0,6 ± 0,2 filhotes/ovo, a fecundidade de 1,5 ± 0,4 filhotes/fêmea e da produção anual de filhotes de 1,0 ± 0,3 filhotes/ninho. O sucesso dos ninhos (método de Mayfield) foi de 45,9% ± 1,1, não havendo diferença significativa entre a taxa média de sobrevivência diária nas fases de ovo e ninhego. Diversos parâmetros estimados para T. savana revelaram ser diferentes do esperado para um tiranídeo tropical.

Seleção de sítios de oviposição em anuros (Lissamphibia) / Oviposition site selection in anurans (Lissamphibia)

A seleção de sítios de oviposição é uma forma de seleção de hábitat em que as fêmeas escolhem o micro-ambiente de desova procurando maximizar o sucesso reprodutivo. Nesta revisão, compilamos as principais conclusões de estudos sobre seleção de sítios de oviposição tendo os anuros como modelo. Na literatura, podemos reconhecer três linhas principais de investigação: 1) análise de múltiplos fatores em hábitat natural- no ambiente de reprodução, sítios com ovos e girinos são comparados com locais não utilizados com base em fatores abióticos e bióticos com potencial de influenciar a escolha da fêmea; 2) experimentos controlados com poças dispostas em blocos replicados simulando sítios potenciais de oviposição com diferenças na qualidade e 3) quantificações de eventos reprodutivos e experimentos de manipulação em ambiente natural. Fêmeas de várias espécies de anuros selecionam sítios de oviposição mais favoráveis à sobrevivência e desenvolvimento dos ovos e girinos. O comportamento de escolha depende da abundância e qualidade relativa dos locais potenciais de desova e da capacidade de discriminação da fêmea. Em geral, as escolhas das fêmeas respondem aos principais riscos à sobrevivência e desempenho da prole, porém apresentam eficiência relativa e perdas parciais ou totais de desovas e girinos são ocasionadas, principalmente, por fatores de mortalidade direta como dessecação e predação. Os mecanismos sensoriais que elas utilizam para discriminar as condições do ambiente de reprodução ainda são praticamente desconhecidos. Além de afetar o sucesso reprodutivo dos parentais, o comportamento de escolha pode influenciar na dinâmica de populações e estrutura de comunidades ao promover a segregação de hábitat entre espécies competidoras ou entre espécies-presa e seus predadores.

Oviposition site selection is a kind of habitat selection in which the females choose egg-laying sites that maximize their reproductive success. In the present review, we compiled the main conclusions of major studies on this theme that used frogs as model organisms. In the literature, three main lines of investigations were recognized: 1) multiple factor analyses in natural habitats- within the breeding site, places with eggs/tadpoles are compared with unused sites, testing several abiotic and biotic factors that could potentially influence female's choice; 2) experiments with pools arranged in replicated blocks (treatments/control) to simulate oviposition sites differing in quality and 3) quantification of reproductive events associated with experimental manipulations in the field. Effectively, females of several frog species select oviposition sites more favorable to survival and development of eggs and tadpoles. In general, the female choice depends on the abundance and quality of potential egg-laying sites and on her discriminatory ability. Female choices usually mirror the main risks to survival and growth of the offspring, but discriminatory power is not absolute and partial or total losses of clutches and tadpoles may occur, most of them resulting from desiccation and predation. The sensory mechanisms that females use to discriminate the conditions of potential oviposition sites remain poorly known and unexplored. Besides affecting the parental reproductive success, the selective behavior potentially influence population dynamics and community structure by promoting habitat segregation among competitive species or prey-species and their predators.

Geographical variation in larval host-plant use by Heliconius erato (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) and consequences for adult life history

Adult body size, one of the most important life-history components, varies strongly within and between Heliconius erato phyllis (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) populations. This study determines if this variation is caused by geographical changes in host-plant used by the larval stage, whose reproductive parameters are influenced by female body size, with estimates of the corresponding heritability. The variation in adult body size was determined together with a survey of passion vine species (Passifloraceae) used by the larvae in seven localities in Rio Grande do Sul State: three located in the urban area of Porto Alegre and Triunfo Counties, two within Eucalyptus plantations (Barba Negra Forest, Barra do Ribeiro County, and Águas Belas Experimental Station -- Viamão County), one in a Myrtaceae Forest (Itapuã State Park -- Itapuã County) and one in the Atlantic Rain Forest (Maquiné Experimental Station -- Maquiné County). Effects of female body size on fecundity, egg size and egg viability were determined in an outdoor insectary. Size heritability was estimated by rearing in the laboratory offspring of individuals maintained in an insectary. The data showed that adults from populations where larvae feed only upon Passiflora suberosa are smaller than those that feed on Passiflora misera. The larvae prefer P. misera even when the dominant passion vine in a given place is P. suberosa. Fecundity increases linearly with the increase in size of females, but there is no size effect on egg size or viability. Size heritability is null for the adult size range occurring in the field. Thus, the geographical variation of H. erato phyllis adult size is primarily determined by the type, corresponding availability and quality of host-plants used by the larval stage. Within the natural size range of H. erato phyllis, the variation related to this caracter is not genetically based, thus being part of H. erato phyllis phenotypic plasticity.

Os adultos de Heliconius erato phyllis (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) variam acentuadamente em relação ao tamanho corporal. Neste trabalho, avalia-se a hipótese de que tal variação se deva em parte a diferenças qualitativas do recurso alimentar da fase larval (passifloráceas) existentes em campo. Em adição, identifica-se como a performance reprodutiva das fêmeas é influenciada pelo tamanho, sendo também estimada a herdabilidade dessa característica. Determina-se a variação espacial do tamanho corporal em sete populações de H. erato phyllis do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (RS), situadas em ambientes urbanos (3), matas de Eucalyptus (2), mata de Mirtáceas (1) e Mata Atlântica (1), e relaciona-se tal variação ao recurso larval utilizado. Em insetário, quantifica-se a influência do tamanho das fêmeas nos parâmetros fecundidade, viabilidade e tamanho do ovo. A herdabilidade do tamanho foi estimada por intermédio da criação, em laboratório, da prole de indivíduos mantidos em insetário. Os adultos das populações cujas larvas utilizaram unicamente Passiflora suberosa foram significativamente menores em relação às que utilizaram Passiflora misera. As larvas foram encontradas preponderantemente sobre P. misera, mesmo quando P. suberosa foi a espécie predominante em um dado local. Dentre os parâmetros de performance reprodutiva estudados, apenas a fecundidade teve relação direta com o tamanho. A estimativa da herdabilidade para o tamanho foi zero. Assim, confirma-se a importância do recurso alimentar larval na determinação da variabilidade do tamanho dos adultos. Tal variação é parte da plasticidade fenotípica das populações naturais de H. erato, sendo a contribuição genotípica pouco expressiva neste caso.

Effect of Wolbachia on the Survival and Reproduction of Trichogramma kaykai Pinto & Stouthamer (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) / Efeito de Wolbachia na Sobrevivência e Reprodução de Trichogramma kaykai Pinto & Stouthamer (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae)

Infecções causadas por Wolbachia resultando em indivíduos paternogenéticos são comuns dentro do gênero Trichogramma. Contudo, os efeitos do microrganismo sobre a fecundidade e sobrevivência dos parasitóides têm sido relativamente pouco estudados. O objetivo desse estudo foi determinar os efeitos da bactéria na sobrevivência e reprodução de Trichogramma kaykai Pinto & Stouthamer, comparando indivíduos infectados (telítocos) com indivíduos curados através de antibiótico (arrenótocos), ambos criados em ovos de Trichoplusia ni Hübner. Fêmeas curadas produziram significativamente mais progênie, além de maior número de filhas que as fêmeas infectadas. Um número significativamente maior de indivíduos emergiu de ovos parasitados por fêmeas arrenótocas do que de ovos parasitados por fêmeas telítocas. As fêmeas não infectadas, contudo, viveram menos que as fêmeas infectadas. Fêmeas curadas apresentaram maturação de ovos mais rápida que fêmeas infectadas.

Parthenogenetic inducing Wolbachia infections are particularly common in the genus Trichogramma, but the influence of the microrganism on parasitoids' fitness has received relatively little attention. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of the bacteria on the survival and reproduction of Trichogramma kaykai Pinto & Stouthamer, comparing an infected line (thelytokous) with an antibiotically cured (arrhenotokous) line, both reared on Trichoplusia ni Hübner eggs. Cured wasps produced significantly more progeny and more daughters than Wolbachia-infected wasps. Significantly more wasps emerged per host when parasitized by the arrhenotokous females than by the thelytokous females. Cured females, however, lived significantly less than infected females. Eggs of cured females matured faster than infected ones.