Network analyses show horizontal and vertical distribution of vascular epiphytes on their hosts in a fragment of cloud forest in Central Mexico.

Cloud forests figure as one of the most diverse ecosystems, accounting not only for a high number of plant species but also with a great variety of interactions among them. A common interaction in these forests is the one between vascular epiphytes and their hosts. However, few studies have used the network approach to analyze them. Here, we analyze the horizontal and vertical structure of the vascular epiphyte - host network in a cloud forest in central Mexico. We quantified the number of epiphyte stands on each host both total and per-stratum. Complete network, group, and species metrics were estimated at both levels of analysis. The host - epiphyte networks had relatively low network size but were highly connected; moderately nested, with low specialization, and modularity; but higher vulnerability than generality, and high niche overlap. The community was composed by a high number of generalist species. To our knowledge this is the first study in which network analyses are conducted with standardized data and including all host and epiphyte species in the community. The analyses suggest that the networks are robust, and that functional redundancy might be probable, two advantageous characteristics in a very fragmented and threatened cloud forest.

New insights into the role of the root system of epiphytic bromeliads: comparison of root and leaf trichome functions in acquisition of water and nutrients.

BACKGROUND: In epiphytic bromeliads, the roots used to be considered poorly functional organs in the processes of absorption and metabolization of water and nutrients, while the leaves always acted as protagonists in both functions. More recent discoveries have been changing this old view of the root system. SCOPE: In this review, we will address the old thoughts of the scientific community regarding the function performed by the roots of epiphytic bromeliads (mere holdfast structures with low physiological activity) and the importance of a reduced or lack of root system for the emergence of epiphytism. We will present indirect and direct evidence that contradicts this older hypothesis. Furthermore, the importance of the root absorptive function mainly for juvenile tankless epiphytic bromeliads and the characteristics of the root absorption process of adult epiphytic tank bromeliads will be thoroughly discussed in physiological aspects. Finally, some factors (species, substrate, environmental conditions) that influence the absorptive capability of the roots of epiphytic tank bromeliads will also be considered in this review, highlighting the importance that the absorptive role of the roots have for the plasticity of bromeliads that live on trees, which is an environment characterized by the intermittent availability of water and nutrients. CONCLUSIONS: The roots of tank-forming epiphytic bromeliads play important roles in the absorption and metabolization of nutrients and water. The importance of roots stands out mainly for juvenile tankless bromeliads since the root is the main absorptive organ. In larger plants with tank, although the leaves become the protagonists in the resource acquisition process, the roots complement the absorptive function of the leaf trichomes, resulting in a better growth of the bromeliad. The physiological and biochemical properties of the processes of absorption and distribution of resources in the tissues seem to differ between absorption by trichomes and roots.

Floral pigments and their perception by avian pollinators in three Chilean Puya species.

The Chilean Puya species, Puya coerulea var. violacea and P. chilensis bear blue and pale-yellow flowers, respectively, while P. alpestris considered to be their hybrid-derived species has unique turquoise flowers. In this study, the chemical basis underlying the different coloration of the three Puya species was explored. We first isolated and identified three anthocyanins: delphinidin 3,3',5'-tri-O-glucoside, delphinidin 3,3'-di-O-glucoside and delphinidin 3-O-glucoside; seven flavonols: quercetin 3-O-rutinoside-3'-O-glucoside, quercetin 3,3'-di-O-glucoside, quercetin 3-O-rutinoside, isorhamnetin 3-O-rutinoside, myricetin 3,3',5'-tri-O-glucoside, myricetin 3,3'-di-O-glucoside and laricitrin 3,5'-di-O-glucoside; and six flavones: luteolin 4'-O-glucoside, apigenin 4'-O-glucoside, tricetin 4'-O-glucoside, tricetin 3',5'-di-O-glucoside, tricetin 3'-O-glucoside and selagin 5'-O-glucoside, which is a previously undescribed flavone, from their petals. We also compared compositions of floral flavonoid and their aglycone among these species, which suggested that the turquoise species P. alpestris has an essentially intermediate composition between the blue and pale-yellow species. The vacuolar pH was relatively higher in the turquoise (pH 6.2) and pale-yellow (pH 6.2) flower species, while that of blue flower species was usual (pH 5.2). The flower color was reconstructed in vitro using isolated anthocyanin, flavonol and flavone at neutral and acidic pH, and its color was analyzed by reflectance spectra and the visual modeling of their avian pollinators. The modeling demonstrated that the higher pH of the turquoise and pale-yellow species enhances the chromatic contrast and spectral purity. The precise regulation of flower color by flavonoid composition and vacuolar pH may be adapted to the visual perception of their avian pollinator vision.

Selfing in epiphytic bromeliads compensates for the limited pollination services provided by nectarivorous bats in a neotropical montane forest.

Abstract. Plants with specialized pollination systems frequently exhibit adaptations for self-pollination, and this contradictory situation has been explained in terms of the reproductive assurance function of selfing. In the neotropics, several plant lineages rely on specialized vertebrate pollinators for sexual reproduction, including the highly diverse Bromeliaceae family, which also displays a propensity for selfing. Thus far, the scarce evidence on the role of selfing in bromeliads and in other neotropical plant groups is inconclusive. To provide insights into the evolution and persistence of self-fertilization in the breeding systems of Bromeliaceae, we studied four sympatric epiphytic species from the genus Werauhia (Tillandsioideae) in Costa Rica. We documented their floral biology, pollination ecology and breeding systems. We estimated the contribution of selfing by comparing the reproductive success between emasculated flowers requiring pollinator visits and un-manipulated flowers capable of selfing and exposed to open pollination across two flowering seasons. The studied species displayed specialized pollination by nectar-feeding bats as well as a high selfing ability (auto-fertility index values > 0.53), which was attained by a delayed selfing mechanism. Fruit set from natural cross-pollination was low (<26% in both years) and suggested limited pollinator visitation. In line with this, we found a very low bat visitation to flowers using video-camera recording, from 0 to 0.24 visits per plant per night. On the contrary, the contribution of selfing was comparatively significant since 54-80% of the fruit set from un-manipulated flowers can be attributed to autonomous self-pollination. We concluded that inadequate cross-pollination services diminished the reproductive success of the studied Werauhia, which was compensated for by a delayed selfing mechanism. The low negative effects of inbreeding on seed set and germination likely reinforce the persistence of selfing in this bromeliad group. These results suggest that selfing in bat-pollinated bromeliads may have evolved as a response to pollinator limitation.

Drought memory in Acanthostachys strobilacea, a CAM epiphytic bromeliad.

Stress memory is the development of altered responses to stress due to previous exposure, which might result in increased tolerance. Biochemical and physiological parameters shown to be positively affected by stress memory include those of the antioxidant and nitrosative metabolism, photosynthetic pigments and osmolyte content. Epiphytic bromeliads likely present stress memory since they experience frequent droughts in the canopies. Thus, we aimed to evaluate if the epiphytic bromeliad Acanthostachys strobilacea (Schult. & Schult.f.) Klotzsch shows improved metabolic stress defence responses to a second drought and rewatering cycle compared to a single exposure. In a controlled environment chamber, 90-day-old plants were exposed to one or two drought-rewatering cycles of 14 days without irrigation and 5 days of rewatering each. Sampling occurred after the final drought and rewatering periods for one or two cycles treatments. The free amino acid, chlorophyll, and carotenoid levels and S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) activity were higher at the second drought than at the first exposure. The rise in nocturnal acidification (indicative of increased CAM activity) caused by the initial drought persisted through the second drought-rewatering cycle, implying a lasting memory effect on CAM activity. Furthermore, the second recovery did not induce glutathione accumulation, as in the first rewatering event, suggesting the pre-exposure to drought reduced this thiol's demand during a later recovery. Our results evidence metabolic changes related to drought stress memory in A. strobilacea, supporting this mechanism might be involved in the tolerance of epiphytic bromeliads to intermittent droughts.

Actualización de la flora epífita del Perú / Update of the epiphytic flora of Peru

Resumen A pesar de la alta diversidad de epífitas vasculares (EV) reportadas en Perú, no existe un listado actualizado que esté acorde con las nuevas delimitaciones taxonómicas y los nuevos conceptos de epífitas. En este trabajo actualizamos el listado de EV de Perú, a partir de una búsqueda bibliográfica y visitas a herbarios locales. Se actualizaron los nombres de las especies según World Flora Online, se confirmó su presencia en la EpiList, su distribución altitudinal y por departamento, su categoría de riesgo y endemismo; y finalmente, se estimó el coeficiente epífito. Encontramos 2462 especies, pertenecientes a 18 órdenes, 25 familias y 249 géneros. Las familias con mayor riqueza fueron Orchidaceae (1606), Bromeliaceae (201) y Piperaceae (139 spp.); el 85 % de las especies estaban en la EpiList (2088 spp.). El departamento con mayor riqueza fue Amazonas (709) y los de menor fueron Ica y Tacna (2 spp.). El rango altitudinal con mayor riqueza se ubica entre los 1501 - 2000 m (649); 689 especies son endémicas y 220 se encuentran en alguna categoría de riesgo; el cociente epífito es de 13.12. Esta actualización representa un incremento aproximado del 40%, lo que posiciona a Perú como el tercer país con mayor diversidad de EV. Se obtuvo un listado más completo y acorde con el concepto de epifitismo; con lo que se hace evidente la necesidad de incluir 384 especies a la EpiList, lo que ayudaría a complementar el listado global de EV en el mundo.

Abstract Despite the high diversity of vascular epiphytes (VE) reported in Peru, there is no updated checklist that is in line with the new taxonomic delimitations and the new concepts of epiphytes. In this study, we update the list of VE in Peru, based on a bibliographic search and visits to local herbaria. Species names were updated according to the World Flora Online, their presence in the EpiList was confirmed, as well as their altitudinal distribution and distribution by department, risk category, and endemism. Finally, the epiphyte coefficient was estimated. We found 2462 species, belonging to 18 orders, 25 families, and 249 genera. The families with the highest richness were Orchidaceae (1606), Bromeliaceae (201), and Piperaceae (139 spp.); 85% of the species were in the EpiList (2088 spp.). The department with the highest richness was Amazonas (709) and the lowest were Ica and Tacna (2 spp.). The altitudinal range with the highest richness is between 1501 - 2000 m (649); 689 species are endemic and 220 are in some risk category; the epiphyte quotient is 13.12. This update represents an approximate 40% increase, positioning Peru as the third country with the highest VE diversity. A more comprehensive list was obtained, in line with the concept of epiphytism, highlighting the need to include 384 species in the EpiList, which would help complement the global list of VE worldwide.

An overview of secretion in floral bracts of Tillandsioideae (Bromeliaceae), with emphasis on the secretory scales.

Bromeliaceae display many water-use strategies, from leaf impounding tanks to Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis and absorbing trichomes. Recent studies show that trichomes in inflorescences of bromeliads can exude viscous secretions, protecting against various stresses, including excessive water loss. In light of this, and considering the knowledge gap regarding inflorescence trichomes in bromeliads, we aimed to investigate the presence, source and chemical nature of inflorescence secretions in species of the Tillandsioideae (Bromeliaceae) and to describe the anatomy of their floral bracts focusing on trichome structure and position. We conducted a prospection of secretory activity and anatomy in floral bracts in 52 species of Tillandsioideae and 1 early divergent Bromeliaceae species. We used histochemical tests to investigate the presence and nature of secretion combined with standard light microscopy methods. Secretion appears in all studied species of tribe Vrieseeae, in Guzmania species, Wallisia cyanea, Tillandsia streptopylla (Tillandsieae) and Catopsis morreniana (Catopsideae). It is absent in Vriesea guttata (Vrieseeae), Racinaea crispa and various Tillandsia species (Tillandsieae). Secretion is produced by peltate trichomes on the adaxial surface of young bracts and comprises hydrophilic and lipophilic substances. Bract anatomy revealed an internal mucilage-secreting tissue with wide distribution within the subtribe Vrieseinae. Our results point to a broad occurrence of secretion associated with bracteal scales in inflorescences of Tillandsioideae. Secretory function is strongly related to trichomes of the adaxial surface, whereas the indumentum of the abaxial side is lacking or likely associated with water absorption; the latter case is especially related to small, xeric plants. Exudates might engage in colleter-like roles, protecting against desiccation, high-radiation and herbivores. Directions for future research are presented.

Exploring the mycobiota of bromeliads phytotelmata in Brazilian Campos Rupestres.

The phytotelmata is a water-filled tank on a terrestrial plant, and it plays an important role in bromeliad growth and ecosystem functioning. Even though previous studies have contributed to elucidate the composition of the prokaryotic component of this aquatic ecosystem, its mycobiota (fungal community) is still poorly known. In the present work, ITS2 amplicon deep sequencing was used to examine the fungal communities inhabiting the phytotelmata of two bromeliads species that coexist in a sun-exposed rupestrian field of Southeastern Brazil, namely Aechmea nudicaulis (AN) and Vriesea minarum (VM). Ascomycota was the most abundant phylum in both bromeliads (57.1 and 89.1% in AN and VM respectively, on average), while the others were present in low abundance (< 2%). Mortierellomycota and Glomeromycota were exclusively observed in AN. Beta-diversity analysis showed that samples from each bromeliad significantly clustered together. In conclusion, despite the considerable within-group variation, the results suggested that each bromeliad harbor a distinct fungi community, what could be associated with the physicochemical characteristics of the phytotelmata (mainly total nitrogen, total organic carbon, and total carbon) and plant morphological features.

A new species of Cavichiana from southeastern Brazil, with a key to the species of the genus and notes on the distribution of C. bromelicola (Insecta: Hemiptera: Cicadellidae)

ABSTRACT The sharpshooter genus Cavichiana Mejdalani et al., 2014 included so far only two species of about 6-8 mm in length: C. bromelicola Mejdalani et al., 2014 (type species) and C. alpina Quintas et al., 2020. Both are bromeliad specialists from southeastern and southern Brazil. Here a third species, C. caelivittata sp. nov., is described and illustrated based on males and females from the Serra dos Órgãos massif in state of Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil. The new bromeliad specialist can be readily distinguished from the previously known species by the dorsum with a pair of broad whitish-blue stripes, each one extending from antennal ledge over lateroposterior area of crown, lateral portion of pronotum, basal portion of clavus, and forming an elongate arc on corium up to outer margin of first apical cell; the aedeagus bears a dorsoapical digitiform lobe directed posterad. A key to the three species, based on the coloration and morphology of the aedeagus, is provided. In addition, the distribution of C. bromelicola is discussed; it is suggested that the trade of bromeliads as ornamental plants is causing the spread of this species to various urban and suburban areas of southeastern Brazil.

Pitcairnia y Deuterocohnia (Bromeliaceae: Pitcairnoideae) del departamento de Lambayeque, Perú / Pitcairnia and Deuterocohnia (Bromeliaceae: Pitcairnioideae) from Lambayeque, Peru

Resumen Este estudio proporciona una lista comentada de las especies de Pitcairnioideae (Bromeliaceae) del departamento de Lambayeque, Perú. Se reporta un total de cinco especies, una de ellas por primera vez para la zona de estudio y dos representan endemismos norperuanos. Las ecoregiones donde se encuentran corresponden al Desierto Cálido Tropical (DCT), Bosque Seco estacional (BSe), la transición Matorral Desértico-Bosque Seco (MD-BS) y el Bosque Pluvial Montano del Noroeste (BPMN), en las tres provincias del departamento. Se discuten las razones de endemismos, amenazas y criterios de categorización de estas.

Abstract This study provides an annotated list of the species of Pitcairnioideae (Bromeliaceae) from Lambayeque, Peru. A total of five species are reported, one of them for the first time for the study area and two represent northern Peruvian endemisms. The ecoregions where they are found correspond to the Tropical Warm Desert (DCT), Seasonal Dry Forest (BSe), the Desert Scrub-Dry Forest transition (MD-BS) and the Northwest Montane Pluvial Forest (MNPF), in the three provinces of the department. The reasons for endemism, threats and criteria for their categorization are discussed.

Different plant compartments, different yeasts: The example of the bromeliad phyllosphere.

The plant phyllosphere is one of the largest sources of microorganisms, including yeasts. In bromeliads, the knowledge of yeasts is dispersed and still incipient. To understand the extent of our knowledge of the subject, this review proposes to compile and synthesize existing knowledge, elucidating possible patterns, biotechnological and taxonomic potentials, bringing to light new knowledge, and identifying information gaps. For such, we systematically review scientific production on yeasts in bromeliads using various databases. The results indicated that the plant compartments flowers, fruits, leaves, and water tank (phytotelma) have been studied when focusing on the yeast community in the bromeliad phyllosphere. More than 180 species of yeasts and yeast-like fungi were recorded from the phyllosphere, 70% were exclusively found in one of these four compartments and only 2% were shared among all. In addition, most of the community had a low frequency of occurrence, and approximately half of the species had a single record. Variables such as bromeliad subfamilies and functional types, as well as plant compartments, were statistically significant, though inconclusive and with low explanatory power. At least 50 yeast species with some biotechnological potentials have been isolated from bromeliads. More than 90% of these species were able to produce extracellular enzymes. In addition, other biotechnological applications have also been recorded. Moreover, new species have been described, though yeasts were only exploited in approximately 1% of the existing bromeliads species, which highlights that there is still much to be explored. Nevertheless, it appears that we are still far from recovering the completeness of the diversity of yeasts in this host. Furthermore, bromeliads proved to be a good ecological model for prospecting new yeasts and for studies on the interaction between plants and yeasts. In addition, the yeast community diverged among plant compartments, establishing bromeliads as a microbiologically complex and heterogeneous mosaic.

Physiological potential of Dyckia spp. bromeliad seeds under different temperatures / Potencial fisiológico de sementes de bromélias Dyckia sp. sob diferentes temperaturas

Bromeliads have been gaining ground in the economic scenario due mainly to their use as ornamental plants. Bromeliads of the genus Dyckia exhibit different morphologies, and therefore, have relevance in this market. However, some species are threatened due to the extraction of plants from their natural environments. Many of these species are endemic and native to Brazil and there are few studies on their seed physiology; hence, expansion of research into this topic is essential. An alternative for the preservation of such plants is the production of seedlings using seeds. To this end, the objective of thiswork was to evaluate the physiological potential of seeds of Dyckia brevifolia, Dyckia beateae, and Dyckia excelsa at different temperatures, and determine the number of days to carry out the tests. A completely randomized design was adopted, with three species of Dyckia, analyzed separately, and four temperatures (20, 25, 30, and 35 °C). The following were evaluated: first germination count, germination, germination speed index, length of seedling, and seedling dry weight. The data were analyzed using the Sisvar software for normality and homogeneity, and when the assumptions were met, they were subjected to analysis of variance using the F test (p < 0.05) and the means were compared using the Tukey test at 5% probability. Seeds of D. excelsa emit the radicle more quickly at 20 and 35 °C; however, temperatures of 25 and 30 °C provide better conditions for seedling growth and development. The greatest vigor of D. brevifolia seeds is observed at temperatures of 30 and 35 °C. Seeds of D. beateae emit the radicle more quickly at 20 °C, and the largest seedlings are observed at 35 °C. The first germination count of D. brevifolia, D. beateae, and D. excelsa should be evaluated on the third day after sowing. The germination evaluations [...].(AU)

As bromélias vêm ganhando espaço no cenário econômico em função principalmente do uso como plantas ornamentais. Bromélias do gênero Dyckia sp., apresentam morfologia diferenciada e, por isso, possuem relevância neste mercado, no entanto, algumas espécies estão ameaçadas devido ao extrativismo das plantas de seus ambientes naturais. Muitas destas espécies são endêmicas e nativas do Brasil e são poucos os estudos sobre a fisiologia de sementes destas plantas, sendo essencial o desenvolvimento de pesquisas. Uma alternativa para preservação é a produção de mudas via sementes. Neste sentido, o objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o potencial fisiológico de sementes de D. brevifolia, D. beateae e D. excelsa em diferentes temperaturas e estabelecer o número de dias para a realização dos testes. Adotou-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado, contendo três espécies de Dyckia (D. brevifolia, D. beateae e D. excelsa), analisadas separadamente, e quatro temperaturas (20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C). Foram avaliadas: primeira contagem de germinação, germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação, comprimento e massa seca de plântulas. Os dados foram analisados pelo software Sisvar quanto à normalidade e homogeneidade e ao atenderem os pressupostos foram submetidos à análise de variância pelo teste F (p <0,05) e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. Sementes de Dyckia excelsa emitem a radícula mais rapidamente a 20 °C e 35 °C; no entanto as temperaturas de 25 °C e 30 °C proporcionam melhores condições para o crescimento e desenvolvimento das plântulas. O maior vigor de sementes de Dyckia brevifolia é observado nas temperaturas de 30 °C e 35 °C. As sementes da espécie Dyckia beateae emitem a radícula mais rapidamente a 20 °C e as maiores plântulas são observadas a 35 °C. A primeira contagem de germinação de D. brevifolia, D. beateae e D. excelsa deve ser avaliada no terceiro dia após a [...].(AU)

Physiological potential of Dyckia spp. bromeliad seeds under different temperatures / Potencial fisiológico de sementes de bromélias Dyckia sp. sob diferentes temperaturas

Bromeliads have been gaining ground in the economic scenario due mainly to their use as ornamental plants. Bromeliads of the genus Dyckia exhibit different morphologies, and therefore, have relevance in this market. However, some species are threatened due to the extraction of plants from their natural environments. Many of these species are endemic and native to Brazil and there are few studies on their seed physiology; hence, expansion of research into this topic is essential. An alternative for the preservation of such plants is the production of seedlings using seeds. To this end, the objective of thiswork was to evaluate the physiological potential of seeds of Dyckia brevifolia, Dyckia beateae, and Dyckia excelsa at different temperatures, and determine the number of days to carry out the tests. A completely randomized design was adopted, with three species of Dyckia, analyzed separately, and four temperatures (20, 25, 30, and 35 °C). The following were evaluated: first germination count, germination, germination speed index, length of seedling, and seedling dry weight. The data were analyzed using the Sisvar software for normality and homogeneity, and when the assumptions were met, they were subjected to analysis of variance using the F test (p < 0.05) and the means were compared using the Tukey test at 5% probability. Seeds of D. excelsa emit the radicle more quickly at 20 and 35 °C; however, temperatures of 25 and 30 °C provide better conditions for seedling growth and development. The greatest vigor of D. brevifolia seeds is observed at temperatures of 30 and 35 °C. Seeds of D. beateae emit the radicle more quickly at 20 °C, and the largest seedlings are observed at 35 °C. The first germination count of D. brevifolia, D. beateae, and D. excelsa should be evaluated on the third day after sowing. The germination evaluations [...].

As bromélias vêm ganhando espaço no cenário econômico em função principalmente do uso como plantas ornamentais. Bromélias do gênero Dyckia sp., apresentam morfologia diferenciada e, por isso, possuem relevância neste mercado, no entanto, algumas espécies estão ameaçadas devido ao extrativismo das plantas de seus ambientes naturais. Muitas destas espécies são endêmicas e nativas do Brasil e são poucos os estudos sobre a fisiologia de sementes destas plantas, sendo essencial o desenvolvimento de pesquisas. Uma alternativa para preservação é a produção de mudas via sementes. Neste sentido, o objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o potencial fisiológico de sementes de D. brevifolia, D. beateae e D. excelsa em diferentes temperaturas e estabelecer o número de dias para a realização dos testes. Adotou-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado, contendo três espécies de Dyckia (D. brevifolia, D. beateae e D. excelsa), analisadas separadamente, e quatro temperaturas (20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C). Foram avaliadas: primeira contagem de germinação, germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação, comprimento e massa seca de plântulas. Os dados foram analisados pelo software Sisvar quanto à normalidade e homogeneidade e ao atenderem os pressupostos foram submetidos à análise de variância pelo teste F (p <0,05) e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. Sementes de Dyckia excelsa emitem a radícula mais rapidamente a 20 °C e 35 °C; no entanto as temperaturas de 25 °C e 30 °C proporcionam melhores condições para o crescimento e desenvolvimento das plântulas. O maior vigor de sementes de Dyckia brevifolia é observado nas temperaturas de 30 °C e 35 °C. As sementes da espécie Dyckia beateae emitem a radícula mais rapidamente a 20 °C e as maiores plântulas são observadas a 35 °C. A primeira contagem de germinação de D. brevifolia, D. beateae e D. excelsa deve ser avaliada no terceiro dia após a [...].

Plant growth-promoting traits of yeasts isolated from the tank bromeliad Vriesea minarum L.B. Smith and the effectiveness of Carlosrosaea vrieseae for promoting bromeliad growth.

Yeasts can play important roles in promoting plant growth; however, little information is available in this regard for yeasts in water of bromeliad tanks. Here, we characterize the ability of 79 yeast isolates from tank bromeliad Vriesea minarum, an endangered species, to solubilize phosphate, secrete siderophores, and synthesize indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). The results showed that 67.8% of all assayed yeast isolates mobilized inorganic phosphate; 40.0% secreted siderophores; and 89.9% synthetized IAA and IAA-like compounds. Among the species studied, Carlosrosaea vrieseae UFMG-CM-Y6724 is highlighted for producing IAA (76.1 µg mL-1) and siderophores, and solubilizing phosphate. In addition, evaluation of the effects of filtrate containing IAA-like compounds produced by the C. vrieseae on the development and photosynthetic performance of V. minarum seedlings found it to improve seedling growth equal to that of commercial IAA. These results demonstrate that C. vrieseae can produce compounds with great potential for future use as biofertilizer agents.

Nuevos registros de Puya (Bromeliaceae) en el departamento de Lambayeque, Perú / New records of Puya (Bromeliaceae) in the department of Lambayeque, Peru

Resumen Este estudio proporciona una lista comentada de las especies de Puya (Bromeliaceae) registradas en el departamento de Lambayeque, Perú. Se reportan un total de cinco especies, de las cuales cuatro se registran por primera vez y una de ellas se confirma como endemismo de los Andes del Departamento. Las ecorregiones donde se encuentran corresponden al Bosque Seco estacional (BSe), la transición Matorral Desértico-Bosque Seco (MD-BS) y Jalca (JA). Se presenta una clave para las especies reportadas y se discuten las razones de los endemismos, amenazas y sus criterios de categorización.

Abstract This study provides an annotated checklist of the Puya (Bromeliaceae) species registered from Lambayeque Department; Peru. A total of five species are reported, four are registered for the first time and one of them is confirmed as endemism of Lambayeque Andes. Species were from the seasonal Dry Forest (BSe), Desert Scrub-Dry Forest transition (MD-BS) and Jalca (JA) ecoregions. A key for the Puya reported species is presented and the reasons for endemisms, threats and their categorization criteria are discussed.

Variación en la fenología de floración de una bromelia epífita a lo largo de un gradiente de elevación / Variation in the flowering phenology of an epiphytic bromeliad along an elevational gradient

ABSTRACT Elevational patterns in flowering phenology have been reported for trees, shrubs and herbs. However, for vascular epiphytes that rely on atmospheric sources for humidity and nutrients, and depend on phorophyte microhabitat, elevational patterns of variation are unknown. In this study, we described the flowering phenology of Tillandsia carlos-hankii, an epiphytic bromeliad, along an elevational gradient in Capulálpam de Méndez, Oaxaca. We analyzed the onset, seasonality and duration of flowering along and within different elevation zones, and we evaluated the effect of phorophyte features (tree height, DBH and canopy diameter) on flowering start date and duration. From June 2016 to May 2017, we periodically recorded phenological data from six populations along three elevation zones ("low": 2151 to 2283 m. a. s. l., "medium": 2284 to 2416 m. a. s. l. and "high": 2417 to 2548 m. a. s. l.), monitoring two population per zone. Start of flowering occurred between December and January, beginning six to 16 days earlier at low elevations than in the other zones, although this difference was not statistically significant. We observed marked flowering seasonality at all the elevation zones, with differences between zones (W≥18.49, p≤0.0001) and between the populations at medium and high elevations (W≥8.57, p≤0.05). Flowering duration spanned from December to May. Phorophyte features were not related to the onset or duration of flowering (t≤-1.47, p≥0.14, in all cases). Our results suggest that vascular epiphytes follow the same elevational patterns in phenology as other life forms, and that populations in the same elevation range can vary. The causes of such intra-elevational variation merit further investigation.

RESUMEN Se han reportado los patrones altitudinales en la fenología de floración para árboles, arbustos y hierbas. Sin embargo, para epífitas vasculares, que dependen de fuentes atmosféricas para la humedad y los nutrientes, y del microhábitat del forofito, los patrones de variación en gradientes de elevación se desconocen. Se describe la fenología de floración de Tillandsia carlos-hankii, una bromelia epífita, en un gradiente de elevación en Capulálpam de Méndez, Oaxaca. Se analiza el inicio, estacionalidad y duración de su floración entre y dentro de diferentes elevaciones y se evalúa también el efecto del forofito (altura, DAP y diámetro de copa) sobre el inicio y la duración de la floración. De junio de 2016 a mayo de 2017, se monitorearon individuos localizados en seis poblaciones en tres elevaciones (bajo: 2151-2283 m. s. n. m., medio: 2284-2416 m. s. n. m., alto: 2417-2548 m. s. n. m.), dos poblaciones por zona. El inicio de la floración ocurrió entre diciembre y enero, empezando de seis a 16 días antes en la elevación baja que en las otras, aunque estas diferencias no fueron significativas. Hubo una marcada estacionalidad en todas las zonas de elevación, con diferencias entre elevaciones (W≥18,49, p≤0,0001) y entre poblaciones de media y alta elevación (W≥8,57, p≤0,05). La floración duró de diciembre a mayo. Las características del forofito no estuvieron relacionadas con el inicio ni la duración de la floración (t≤-1,47, p≥0,14, en todos los casos). Los resultados sugieren que las epífitas vasculares siguen el mismo patrón fenológico altitudinal de otras formas de vida, y que las poblaciones en un misma elevación altitudinal pueden variar. Las causas de tal variación intra-altitudinal merecen mayor investigación.

Description of two females of Leptagrion Selys (Odonata: Coenagrionidae).

In this paper, we provide taxonomic updates on the genus Leptagrion Selys: the females of L. acutum Santos and L. porrectum Selys are illustrated and diagnosed for the first time. We also add to the original description of L. acutum based on a male collected in the Atlantic Forest. A key for females is also provided for the currently known species of Southeast of Brazil.

Remarkably Complex Microbial Community Composition in Bromeliad Tank Waters Revealed by eDNA Metabarcoding.

To investigate patterns of biotic community composition at different spatial scales and biological contexts, we used environmental DNA metabarcoding to characterize eukaryotic and prokaryotic assemblages present in the phytotelmata of three bromeliad species (Aechmea gamosepala, Vriesea friburgensis, and Vriesea platynema) at a single Atlantic Forest site in southern Brazil. We sampled multiple individuals per species and multiple tanks from each individual, totalizing 30 samples. We observed very high levels of diversity in these communities, and remarkable variation across individuals and even among tanks from the same individual. The alpha diversity was higher for prokaryotes than eukaryotes, especially for A. gamosepala and V. platynema samples. Some biotic components appeared to be species-specific, while most of the biota was shared among species, but varied substantially in frequency among samples. Interestingly, V. friburgensis communities (which were sampled at nearby locations) tended to be more heterogeneous across samples, for both eukaryotes and prokaryotes. The opposite was true for V. platynema, whose samples were more broadly spaced but whose communities were more similar to each other. Our results indicate that additional attention should be devoted to within-individual heterogeneity when assessing bromeliad phytotelmata biodiversity, and highlight the complexity of the biotic assemblages gathered in these unique habitats.

Living among thorns: herpetofaunal community (Anura and Squamata) associated to the rupicolous bromeliad Encholirium spectabile (Pitcairnioideae) in the Brazilian semi-arid Caatinga

Bromeliads are important habitats for reptiles and amphibians, and are constantly used as shelter, refuge, foraging or thermoregulation sites due to their foliar architecture, which allows for constant maintenance of humidity and temperature. This study aimed to identify the herpetofauna inhabiting the non-phytotelmata rupicolous bromeliad Encholirium spectabile Mart. ex Schult. & Schult.f. and to analyze the microhabitat usage of these bromeliads by different species in the Caatinga of northeastern Brazil. From January 2011 to August 2012, we collected data by active search throughout three paralel transects in a rock outcrop in the municipality of Santa Maria, state of Rio Grande do Norte. We recorded four species of anuran amphibians, six lizards, and seven snakes in the bromeliads. The average air temperature was lower and air humidity higher inside than outside the bromeliads, and bromeliads at the rock outcrop borders had lower temperatures and higher humidity than those at the center. We found a significant difference in the distribution of individuals throughout the rock outcrop, with most specimens found at the borders. We also found significant differences regarding the use of each microhabitat by the taxonomic groups, with lizards and snakes using green leaves and dry leaves evenly, along with fewer records in inflorescence stems, and anurans mainly using green leaves, with few records on dry leaves, and no records in the inflorescence stems. This study highlights rupicolous bromeliads as key elements in the conservation and maintenance of amphibians and reptiles in the rock outcrops of Brazilian semi-arid Caatinga.(AU)

Conservation of Vriesea flammea L. B. Sm., an endemic Brazilian bromeliad: effects of nutrients and carbon source on plant development / Conservação de Vriesea flammea L. B. Sm., uma bromélia Brasileira endêmica: efeitos dos nutrientes e fonte de carbono sobre o desenvolvimento das plantas

Abstract Bromeliaceae is restricted to the Neotropical region and has a high degree of endemism, which contributes to increased biodiversity because of the diverse morphological characteristics of individuals. In order to develop an in vitro conservation technology to obtain plants for reintroduction, seeds of Vriesea flammea L.B.Sm. were collected, sterilized and germinated in culture medium. The plants obtained were cultured for 180 days in MS medium with different concentrations of mineral nutrients (25 and 50% of nitrogenous salts and macronutrients), and different concentrations of sucrose (20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 g L-1), and then acclimatized for 150 days on commercial substrate. When seeds were sterilized directly, only 4% of them were contaminated, whereas sterilization of capsules resulted in 43.6% contaminated seeds. Germination rates above 80% were recorded. Low concentrations of nitrogenous salts and macronutrients produced greater than 76% survival and promoted greater in vitro plant development than the complete MS medium. The development of the aerial system, root system, fresh mass and photosynthetic pigments were positively related to sucrose concentration in vitro. The highest sucrose concentration also indirectly promoted greater development of the aerial system and fresh mass of acclimatized plants. We established conditions for in vitro cultivation and acclimatization for efficient propagation of V. flammea with a view towards conservation of the species or reestablishment of natural populations.

Resumo Bromeliaceae é restrita à região neotropical, com alto grau de endemismo, que contribui para o aumento da biodiversidade, devido às características morfológicas dos indivíduos. Objetivando desenvolver uma tecnologia in vitro de conservação para obtenção de plantas com vistas à reintrodução, sementes de Vriesea flammea L.B.Sm. foram coletadas, esterilizadas, germinadas em meio de cultura e as plantas obtidas foram cultivadas por 180 dias em meio MS com diferentes concentrações de nutrientes minerais (25 e 50% dos sais nitrogenados e dos macronutrientes), bem como em diferentes concentrações de sacarose (20, 30, 40, 50 e 60 g L-1). Após, as plantas foram aclimatizadas por 150 dias em substrato comercial. Quando da esterilização das sementes, apenas 4% destas contaminaram. Por sua vez, a esterilização de cápsulas resultou em 43,6% de sementes contaminadas. Taxas de germinação superiores a 80% foram registradas. Baixas concentrações dos sais nitrogenados e de macronutrientes proporcionaram sobrevivência superior a 76% e promoveram maior desenvolvimento das plantas in vitro do que o meio MS completo. O desenvolvimento do sistema aéreo, radicular, a massa fresca e pigmentos fotossintéticos apresentaram relação positiva com a concentração de sacarose in vitro. A maior concentração de sacarose também propiciou indiretamente maior desenvolvimento do sistema aéreo e massa fresca das plantas aclimatizadas. Estabelecemos as condições de cultivo in vitro e aclimatização para a eficiente propagação de V. flammea com vistas à conservação da espécie ou reestabelecimento das populações naturais.