Ilha Grande, one of the locations with the most records of bat species (Mammalia, Chiroptera) in Rio de Janeiro state: results of a long-term ecological study

Faunal inventories provide quantitative and qualitative data for different sites and are relevant sources of information for identifying areas of high species richness and endemism. Biological collections are important in this context for increasing the precision of species identification. The objectives of this study were to update the list of bat species of Ilha Grande by analyzing specimens in zoological collections as well as records obtained in areas where no such studies had been undertaken before; to compare five different studies conducted on Ilha Grande using mist net sampling; and to compare the results of studies on Ilha Grande with sampling results from other areas in Rio de Janeiro state. The occurrence of 36 bat species was confirmed for Ilha Grande. Five studies on Ilha Grande formerly conducted by the authors were compared with 34 fauna inventories in Rio de Janeiro state. The studies on Ilha Grande had distinct objectives and sampling techniques applied to different locations in the same area. Ilha Grande is one of the regions in Rio de Janeiro state with more bat records both in terms of abundance and number of species, as well as one of the areas of highest bat capture effort.(AU)

Avifauna of the upper Purus River: relevant records for an area lacking ornithological surveys

Birds are the best-known vertebrate group, although many localities in the world are considered to be knowledge gaps. This is the case of many little-known environments in the Amazon biome, the worlds largest tropical forest. Here, we present a survey of birds in the upper Purus basin, comprising the municipalities of Manoel Urbano and Feijó in the Brazilian state of Acre, and Boca do Acre and Pauini in the state of Amazonas. In this region, poorly-studied habitats, such as open rainforest dominated by palms or bamboo, still predominate. We recorded 452 bird species during 45 field trips between May and July in 2016, and June to August in 2017. Twenty-four of these species are associated with bamboo habitat, 28 are endemic to the southwestern Amazon basin, and seven are threatened with extinction. This high diversity is typical of the western Amazon basin, one of the richest regions in the world in the number of species, due to the heterogeneity of the local environments. The data presented here highlight the importance of the region for the conservation of birds, including species typical of the western Amazon, some of which are still poorly-known.(AU)

Diversity of Ophioniformes wasps (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) in a Central-West Brazilian Savanna area

This study aimed to assess the diversity, abundance and seasonal dynamics of Ophioniformes wasps collected throughout a year, as recorded in Malaise traps set at the Reserva Ecológica da Universidade Estadual do Mato Grosso do Sul, a Brazilian Savanna area in Aquidauana city, MS. A total of 621 specimens of Ophioniformes belonging to 11 subfamilies, 30 genera and 106 species were sampled. Despite the impressive number of species found, in a pattern of a few relatively abundant species and many rare ones, our data estimate even higher richness, probably between 125 to 165 species in the studied area. The genera Diadegma, Nonnus, Diradops, Meniscomorpha, Syzeuctus, Ophiopterus and Thyreodon are recorded for the first time in Mato Grosso do Sul State. Among the climatic variables evaluated, mean temperature and relative humidity were positively and significantly correlated with richness and abundance. Our data highlights the huge unknown species richness of these parasitoids in Brazil and the need of taxonomic studies efforts in the future.(AU)

Phytoseiidae (Acari: Mesostigmata) from the Atlantic Forest in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with complementary description of Amblyseius impeltatus Denmark & Muma

Phytoseiid mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) have been largely used for the biological control of arthropod pests. However, information on the phytoseiid fauna associated with plants of the Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil is still scanty. Surveys were carried out in two areas of Atlantic Forest in Rio de Janeiro State Jaguanum island and Paraty. We report 11 species of seven genera from all three subfamilies. A complementary re-description is provided for Amblyseius impeltatus Denmark & Muma, 1973 and measurements are provided for ten other species.(AU)

Unveiling the trap-nesting bees and wasps' fauna (Hymenoptera: Apocrita) and associated organisms of the Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Urban areas, as cities, are frequently overlooked as refuges for the native fauna. However, these places may support several species and house relevant biodiversity contributing to important ecosystemic functions. Wasps and bees (Hymenoptera: Apocrita) are important faunistic elements acting as predators/parasitoids and pollinators, respectively. Therefore, they must be surveyed and inventoried for conservation purposes, especially in cities located in the Atlantic Forest domain, a ravaged Brazilian biome. Accordingly, this study presents a species list of trap-nesting bees and wasps that occurs at the Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro. The survey was conducted using the trap-nest method. Three types of trap-nests were offered totalizing 1,038 traps: rubber hose, bamboo cane and plastic straw. The plastic straw traps were the most effective followed by the bamboo cane ones at attracting nesting wasps and bees. Between April/2017 and February/2019, 12 foundress species built nests: Tetrapedia curvitarsis (Apidae) (33 nests), Hylaeus sp. (Colletidae) (6), Auplopus cf. rufipes (Pompilidae) (5), Trypoxylon sp. (Crabronidae) (4), Pachodynerus nasidens (Vespidae) (3), Auplopus cf. brasiliensis (Pompilidae), Megachile benigna and Megachile sp. (Megachilidae), Euglossa pleosticta, Euglossa sp., and Eufriesea sp. (Apidae) and Penepodium sp...(AU)

Unveiling the trap-nesting bees and wasps' fauna (Hymenoptera: Apocrita) and associated organisms of the Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Urban areas, as cities, are frequently overlooked as refuges for the native fauna. However, these places may support several species and house relevant biodiversity contributing to important ecosystemic functions. Wasps and bees (Hymenoptera: Apocrita) are important faunistic elements acting as predators/parasitoids and pollinators, respectively. Therefore, they must be surveyed and inventoried for conservation purposes, especially in cities located in the Atlantic Forest domain, a ravaged Brazilian biome. Accordingly, this study presents a species list of trap-nesting bees and wasps that occurs at the Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro. The survey was conducted using the trap-nest method. Three types of trap-nests were offered totalizing 1,038 traps: rubber hose, bamboo cane and plastic straw. The plastic straw traps were the most effective followed by the bamboo cane ones at attracting nesting wasps and bees. Between April/2017 and February/2019, 12 foundress species built nests: Tetrapedia curvitarsis (Apidae) (33 nests), Hylaeus sp. (Colletidae) (6), Auplopus cf. rufipes (Pompilidae) (5), Trypoxylon sp. (Crabronidae) (4), Pachodynerus nasidens (Vespidae) (3), Auplopus cf. brasiliensis (Pompilidae), Megachile benigna and Megachile sp. (Megachilidae), Euglossa pleosticta, Euglossa sp., and Eufriesea sp. (Apidae) and Penepodium sp...

Ichthyofauna of Trairí river basin, Rio Grande do Norte state, northeastern Brazil: a century after the study of the naturalist Edwin Starks in the Papari lagoon

Fishes from the coastal basins of the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga ecoregion (MNCE) were first sampled by the Stanford expedition at the beginning of the 20th century, and published by Edwin C. Starks in 1913. This material included specimens from the Papary lake (= Papari lagoon) in the lower portion of the Trairí river basin, draining towards the eastern coast of Rio Grande do Norte State. In 1941, Henry Fowler provided a broad taxonomic study of the freshwater fishes from northeastern Brazil, including material from the Papari lagoon, besides describing four species assigned to this locality. However, these previous surveys focused only in the lower portion of the Trairí river basin and might be incomplete. Given this framework, the present study aimed at perform a wide ichthyofaunal inventory of Trairí river basin and compare with previously surveys performed in the regions. In 2013 and 2014, four expeditions along the whole basin, including the Papari lagoon itself, resulted in 28 species of fishes belonging to 17 families and seven orders. At Papari lagoon area 16 species were registered whereas 26 and 18 species were recorded by Starks and Fowler’s studies, respectively. Considering all records, 50 species were documented in the basin with 14 (28%) new records, including Serrapinnus potiguar, whose distribution was extended to the south. Two species described by Fowler, Pimelodella papariae and Pseudancistrus papariae, were not found in this study or in any fish collection, and are only known from their type-material. These two species can be naturally rare, locally extinct, or there were inaccuracies in their type-locality. However, species of these genera are only found in larger basins of the MNCE, which drains to the north, corroborating the latter assumption...

Ichthyofauna of Trairí river basin, Rio Grande do Norte state, northeastern Brazil: a century after the study of the naturalist Edwin Starks in the Papari lagoon

Fishes from the coastal basins of the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga ecoregion (MNCE) were first sampled by the Stanford expedition at the beginning of the 20th century, and published by Edwin C. Starks in 1913. This material included specimens from the Papary lake (= Papari lagoon) in the lower portion of the Trairí river basin, draining towards the eastern coast of Rio Grande do Norte State. In 1941, Henry Fowler provided a broad taxonomic study of the freshwater fishes from northeastern Brazil, including material from the Papari lagoon, besides describing four species assigned to this locality. However, these previous surveys focused only in the lower portion of the Trairí river basin and might be incomplete. Given this framework, the present study aimed at perform a wide ichthyofaunal inventory of Trairí river basin and compare with previously surveys performed in the regions. In 2013 and 2014, four expeditions along the whole basin, including the Papari lagoon itself, resulted in 28 species of fishes belonging to 17 families and seven orders. At Papari lagoon area 16 species were registered whereas 26 and 18 species were recorded by Starks and Fowlers studies, respectively. Considering all records, 50 species were documented in the basin with 14 (28%) new records, including Serrapinnus potiguar, whose distribution was extended to the south. Two species described by Fowler, Pimelodella papariae and Pseudancistrus papariae, were not found in this study or in any fish collection, and are only known from their type-material. These two species can be naturally rare, locally extinct, or there were inaccuracies in their type-locality. However, species of these genera are only found in larger basins of the MNCE, which drains to the north, corroborating the latter assumption...(AU)

Medium-sized mammals in peri-urban environments in southern Brazil / Mamíferos de médio porte em ambientes periurbanos no sul do Brasil

Anthropic effects on natural environments caused by urban expansion or agriculture havebeen identified as one of the causes for the decline in species richness. In southern Brazil, the urbanizationprocess affects the local fauna and reduces the diversity of mammalian species. This study was conductedfrom 2012 to 2015 with the objective of gathering information on mammalian species in a peri-urban area.Data was collected four consecutive days each month for 42 months using sand plots and visual searches.Occasional encounters and camera traps complemented were used to complement the data. We recorded15 mammal species belonging to 10 families. The species with the highest abundance, taking into accountall the applied methods, were Didelphis albiventris, Mazama gouazoubira and Cerdocyon thous. Four specieswere listed as endangered (Puma yagouaroundi, Leopardus guttulus, Nasua nasua, and Dasyprocta azarae).

A antropização de ambientes naturais, pela expansão urbana ou pela agricultura, tem sidoapontada como uma das causas da redução da riqueza de espécies. No sul do Brasil, esses processosafetaram a diversidade, extinguindo diversas espécies da mastofauna. Este estudo foi conduzido de 2012 a2015, com o objetivo de conhecer as espécies de mamíferos presentes em uma área periurbana. A coleta dedados foi realizada durante quatro dias por mês durante 42 meses, utilizando plots de areia e procura visual.Encontros ocasionais e armadilhas fotográficas complementaram os dados. Foram registradas 15 espécies demamíferos, distribuídas em 10 famílias. As espécies com a maior frequência, utilizando todos os métodos,foram Didelphis albiventris, Mazama gouazoubira e Cerdocyon thous. Quatro espécies estão listadas comoameaçadas regionalmente (Puma yagouaroundi, Leopardus guttulus, Nasua nasua e Dasyprocta azarae).

Medium-sized mammals in peri-urban environments in southern Brazil / Mamíferos de médio porte em ambientes periurbanos no sul do Brasil

Anthropic effects on natural environments caused by urban expansion or agriculture havebeen identified as one of the causes for the decline in species richness. In southern Brazil, the urbanizationprocess affects the local fauna and reduces the diversity of mammalian species. This study was conductedfrom 2012 to 2015 with the objective of gathering information on mammalian species in a peri-urban area.Data was collected four consecutive days each month for 42 months using sand plots and visual searches.Occasional encounters and camera traps complemented were used to complement the data. We recorded15 mammal species belonging to 10 families. The species with the highest abundance, taking into accountall the applied methods, were Didelphis albiventris, Mazama gouazoubira and Cerdocyon thous. Four specieswere listed as endangered (Puma yagouaroundi, Leopardus guttulus, Nasua nasua, and Dasyprocta azarae).(AU)

A antropização de ambientes naturais, pela expansão urbana ou pela agricultura, tem sidoapontada como uma das causas da redução da riqueza de espécies. No sul do Brasil, esses processosafetaram a diversidade, extinguindo diversas espécies da mastofauna. Este estudo foi conduzido de 2012 a2015, com o objetivo de conhecer as espécies de mamíferos presentes em uma área periurbana. A coleta dedados foi realizada durante quatro dias por mês durante 42 meses, utilizando plots de areia e procura visual.Encontros ocasionais e armadilhas fotográficas complementaram os dados. Foram registradas 15 espécies demamíferos, distribuídas em 10 famílias. As espécies com a maior frequência, utilizando todos os métodos,foram Didelphis albiventris, Mazama gouazoubira e Cerdocyon thous. Quatro espécies estão listadas comoameaçadas regionalmente (Puma yagouaroundi, Leopardus guttulus, Nasua nasua e Dasyprocta azarae).(AU)

Levantamento de mamíferos terrestres em uma área de caatinga em Senhor do Bonfim, Bahia / Preliminary survey of the terrestrian mammalian fauna in a semi-arid scrub forest, Senhor do Bonfim, Bahia

A short inventory of terrestrial mammalian fauna occurring in a semi-arid scrub forest of the Serra de Santana was performed during the fall and winter months. In addition to indirect evidence, such as body fragments of specimens, feces, footprint and bones, testimonies from local people were used. A total of 15 mammalian species were recorded distributed in seven orders, ten families and fourteen genera, which represent 11.4% of species currently listed for scrub. None of them is presently considered as critically endangeredaccording to the IUCN criteria. It is suggested that further research with other collection methods are carried out in both wet and dry seasons to improve the profile of richness and diversity of mammal species in the region.

Foi realizado um curto inventário da fauna de mamíferos terrestres numa área do semiárido baiano durante os meses de outono e inverno. Além de evidências indiretas, como fragmentos do corpo de espécimes, excrementos, pegadas e ossos, foram utilizados depoimentos de pessoas locais. Foram identificadas 17 espécies de mamíferos distribuídas em sete ordens, onze famílias e quinze gêneros, o que representa 11,4% das espécies listadas atualmente para a caatinga. Nenhuma delas é atualmente considerada como criticamente ameaçada de acordo com os critérios da IUCN. Sugere-se que pesquisas adicionais com outros métodos de coleta sejam realizadas em estações úmida e seca para melhorar o perfil da riqueza e diversidade de espécies de mamíferos na região.

Levantamento de mamíferos terrestres em uma área de caatinga em Senhor do Bonfim, Bahia / Preliminary survey of the terrestrian mammalian fauna in a semi-arid scrub forest, Senhor do Bonfim, Bahia

A short inventory of terrestrial mammalian fauna occurring in a semi-arid scrub forest of the Serra de Santana was performed during the fall and winter months. In addition to indirect evidence, such as body fragments of specimens, feces, footprint and bones, testimonies from local people were used. A total of 15 mammalian species were recorded distributed in seven orders, ten families and fourteen genera, which represent 11.4% of species currently listed for scrub. None of them is presently considered as critically endangeredaccording to the IUCN criteria. It is suggested that further research with other collection methods are carried out in both wet and dry seasons to improve the profile of richness and diversity of mammal species in the region.(AU)

Foi realizado um curto inventário da fauna de mamíferos terrestres numa área do semiárido baiano durante os meses de outono e inverno. Além de evidências indiretas, como fragmentos do corpo de espécimes, excrementos, pegadas e ossos, foram utilizados depoimentos de pessoas locais. Foram identificadas 17 espécies de mamíferos distribuídas em sete ordens, onze famílias e quinze gêneros, o que representa 11,4% das espécies listadas atualmente para a caatinga. Nenhuma delas é atualmente considerada como criticamente ameaçada de acordo com os critérios da IUCN. Sugere-se que pesquisas adicionais com outros métodos de coleta sejam realizadas em estações úmida e seca para melhorar o perfil da riqueza e diversidade de espécies de mamíferos na região.(AU)

Beta diversity of birds (Passeriformes, Linnaeus, 1758) in Southern Amazon / Diversidade beta de pássaros (Passeriformes, Linnaeus, 1758) na Amazônia Meridional

The importance of estimating the biological diversity and understanding how ecological specialization of species changes with spatially-organized habitats in undeniable. High beta diversity between neighboring places means an elevated number of species living within small distances, which usually are adapted to local conditions and highly vulnerable to anthropogenic actions as deforestation and burning. We investigated beta diversity of birds from the order Passeriformes in Southern Amazon, within landscapes with a large heterogeneous vegetation cover (habitats with flooded forest, dry forest, and marsh palm) through sound, observational, and photographic censuses. We marked 126 points in equidistant transects. A total of 148 species of birds were identified, distributed in 27 families. We found that 97% of the species foraged in flooded forest, 77% in dry forest and 19% in marsh palms, and only 18% foraged in the three habitats. An ordination analyses revealed which species showed the strongest preference to each habitat. The analysis for the Global beta diversity showed that this value is high (Whittaker: 7.7405), and the same pattern was obtained with the measure of pairwise dissimilarity. An influence of spatial distance was clearly observed in the cluster analysis and confirmed with a partial Mantel analysis; however, this was not observed at points that coincided with the transition and substitution of species. The influence of spatial distance in the dissimilarity index (beta diversity) was significant (r: 0.0608, p: 0.0049). The assemblage of species in small local populations with high beta diversity may be at risk if deforestation, selective logging, and poaching continue. In summary, this study provides important information on specific habitats with high beta diversity that may be at risk of destabilization of its populations due to continuing environmental changes imposed by humans.

Estimar a diversidade biológica e entender as mudanças acerca da especialização ecológica das espécies entre habitats em uma organização espacial é importante. A alta diversidade beta reflete numa pequena distância entre locais, mas que contêm alta incorporação de espécies, que geralmente possuem grande sensibilidade e não estão adaptadas ao estreitamento causado pelo desmatamento ou a presença de queimadas por ações antrópicas. Investigou-se a diversidade beta de pássaros (Passeriformes) na Amazônia Meridional em paisagens com coberturas vegetais mais heterogêneas: habitats de floresta alagada (iguapó), floresta de terra firme e buritis através de censo de audições, observações e fotografias. Marcaram-se pontos em equidistantes transectos. Em todo o estudo foram amostrados 126 pontos. Identificaram-se 148 espécies de pássaros da ordem Passeriformes, distribuídas em 27 famílias. A classificação sobre os habitats de forrageamento resultou em 97% das espécies que forrageiam em iguapó, 77% em floresta de terra firme e 18,1% em buritis, apenas 18% forragem nos três habitats. A análise de ordenação mostrou quais espécies estão mais relacionadas com cada habitat, a análise para a Beta diversidade Global certificou que a diversidade beta é alta (Whittaker: 7,7405). Como era esperado encontrou-se o mesmo padrão quando foi utilizada a medida de dissimilaridade por pares. Na análise de agrupamento, pode-se ver claramente a influência da distância espacial, mas em alguns pontos isto não ocorre. Estes pontos indicam o momento de transição e substituição de espécies. Na maioria dos casos, a influência da distância espacial é predominante e confirmou-se na análise de Mantel parcial. A influência da distância espacial entre o índice de dissimilaridade (diversidade beta) foi significante (r:0,0608, p:0,0049). Esta composição de espécies organizadas em pequenas populacões locais mas com alta diversidade beta não pode ser [...]

A importância de parques urbanos para a conservação de aves / The importance of urban parks for bird preservation / La importancia de bosques urbanos para conservación de aves

Devido à intensa modificação dos ambientes naturais e sua transformação em ambientes urbanos, muitas espécies da fauna silvestre têm perdido ambientes adequados à sua sobrevivência e reprodução. Algumas espécies de aves têm conseguido, entretanto, se adaptar a parques e praças urbanos, encontrando locais para reprodução, alimentação e abrigo. Este estudo avaliou o uso dos parques Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos, Danilo Galafassi, Paulo Gorski e Bosque Elias Lopuch, em Cascavel, PR, Brasil, por aves, e buscou compreender como se dá essa utilização por diferentes espécies. A primeira atividade realizada foi o levantamento das espécies de aves nos parques. A coleta dos dados foi feita por meio de reconhecimento visual e auditivo. Foi observado um total de 85 espécies: 63 espécies no Parque Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos, 48 espécies no Parque Danilo Galafassi, 62 espécies no Parque Municipal Paulo Gorski e 32 espécies no Bosque Elias Lopuch. Registros de nidificação, de insetivoria, nectarivoria e frugivoria, e de uso do espaço para abrigo permitiram inferir que os parques urbanos estudados podem ser importantes espaços para as aves e utilizados como parte de estratégias para sua conservação.(AU)

Due to the intense modification in natural environments and their transformation in urban zones, many wildlife species have lost appropriate environments for their survival and reproduction. However, some bird species have been able to adapt to urban parks and squares, finding places for breeding, feeding and sheltering. This study evaluated the use of Tarquinio Joslin dos Santos, Danilo Galafassi, Paulo Gorski and Elias Lopuch parks located in the city of Cascavel, in the state of Paraná, Brazil, by birds, and sought to understand how different species use these resources. The first activity performed was the listing of the bird species sighted in the parks. A total of 85 species were observed: 63 species in Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos Park; 48 species in Danilo Galafassi Park; 62 species in Paulo Gorski Municipal Park; and 32 species in Elias Lopuch Park. The registration of nesting, insectivorous, nectarivorous and frugivorous activities, and the use of sheltering allowed implying that urban parks may be important areas for birds and may be used as part of the strategies for their preservation.(AU)

Debido a la intensa modificación de los ambientes naturales y su transformación en ambientes urbanos, muchas especies de la fauna silvestre han perdido ambientes adecuados a su supervivencia y reproducción. Algunas especies de aves han conseguido adaptarse a parques y plazas, encontrando sitios para reproducción, alimentación y abrigo. Este estudio evaluó el uso de los parques Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos, Danilo Galafassi, Paulo Gorski y Bosque Elias Lopuch, en Cascavel ­ PR, Brasil, por aves, y ha buscado comprender cómo se da esa utilización por diferentes especies. La primera actividad realizada fue el levantamiento de las especies de aves en los bosques. La recolección de datos ha sido hecha a través de reconocimiento visual y auditivo. Se ha observado un total de 85 especies: 63 especies en el Parque Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos, 48 especies en el Parque Danilo Galafassi, 62 especies en el Parque Municipal Paulo Gorski y 32 especies en el Bosque Elias Lopuch. Registros de nidificación, de insectívora, nectarívora y frugívora, y de uso del espacio para abrigo, donde permitió inferir que los bosques urbanos estudiados pueden ser importantes espacios para las aves y utilizados como parte de estrategias para su conservación.(AU)

Beta diversity of birds (Passeriformes, Linnaeus, 1758) in Southern Amazon / Diversidade beta de pássaros (Passeriformes, Linnaeus, 1758) na Amazônia Meridional

The importance of estimating the biological diversity and understanding how ecological specialization of species changes with spatially-organized habitats in undeniable. High beta diversity between neighboring places means an elevated number of species living within small distances, which usually are adapted to local conditions and highly vulnerable to anthropogenic actions as deforestation and burning. We investigated beta diversity of birds from the order Passeriformes in Southern Amazon, within landscapes with a large heterogeneous vegetation cover (habitats with flooded forest, dry forest, and marsh palm) through sound, observational, and photographic censuses. We marked 126 points in equidistant transects. A total of 148 species of birds were identified, distributed in 27 families. We found that 97% of the species foraged in flooded forest, 77% in dry forest and 19% in marsh palms, and only 18% foraged in the three habitats. An ordination analyses revealed which species showed the strongest preference to each habitat. The analysis for the Global beta diversity showed that this value is high (Whittaker: 7.7405), and the same pattern was obtained with the measure of pairwise dissimilarity. An influence of spatial distance was clearly observed in the cluster analysis and confirmed with a partial Mantel analysis; however, this was not observed at points that coincided with the transition and substitution of species. The influence of spatial distance in the dissimilarity index (beta diversity) was significant (r: 0.0608, p: 0.0049). The assemblage of species in small local populations with high beta diversity may be at risk if deforestation, selective logging, and poaching continue. In summary, this study provides important information on specific habitats with high beta diversity that may be at risk of destabilization of its populations due to continuing environmental changes imposed by humans.(AU)

Estimar a diversidade biológica e entender as mudanças acerca da especialização ecológica das espécies entre habitats em uma organização espacial é importante. A alta diversidade beta reflete numa pequena distância entre locais, mas que contêm alta incorporação de espécies, que geralmente possuem grande sensibilidade e não estão adaptadas ao estreitamento causado pelo desmatamento ou a presença de queimadas por ações antrópicas. Investigou-se a diversidade beta de pássaros (Passeriformes) na Amazônia Meridional em paisagens com coberturas vegetais mais heterogêneas: habitats de floresta alagada (iguapó), floresta de terra firme e buritis através de censo de audições, observações e fotografias. Marcaram-se pontos em equidistantes transectos. Em todo o estudo foram amostrados 126 pontos. Identificaram-se 148 espécies de pássaros da ordem Passeriformes, distribuídas em 27 famílias. A classificação sobre os habitats de forrageamento resultou em 97% das espécies que forrageiam em iguapó, 77% em floresta de terra firme e 18,1% em buritis, apenas 18% forragem nos três habitats. A análise de ordenação mostrou quais espécies estão mais relacionadas com cada habitat, a análise para a Beta diversidade Global certificou que a diversidade beta é alta (Whittaker: 7,7405). Como era esperado encontrou-se o mesmo padrão quando foi utilizada a medida de dissimilaridade por pares. Na análise de agrupamento, pode-se ver claramente a influência da distância espacial, mas em alguns pontos isto não ocorre. Estes pontos indicam o momento de transição e substituição de espécies. Na maioria dos casos, a influência da distância espacial é predominante e confirmou-se na análise de Mantel parcial. A influência da distância espacial entre o índice de dissimilaridade (diversidade beta) foi significante (r:0,0608, p:0,0049). Esta composição de espécies organizadas em pequenas populacões locais mas com alta diversidade beta não pode ser [...](AU)

Studies on the phlebotomine sandflies fauna (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) and on the natural infection by Leishmania infantum in municipalities of northwest region of the State of São Paulo / Estudos da fauna flebotomínica (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) e infecção natural por Leishmania infantum em municípios da região noroeste do estado de São Paulo, Brasil

The geographical expansion and the increase of visceral leishmaniasis cases in northwest region of the São Paulo state aroused the interest of conducting a study to identify the phlebotomine sandflies fauna, and to evaluate the rate of natural infection by Leishmania infantum in Fernandópolis, Santa Fé do Sul and Votuporanga. Entomological surveys were conducted using the CDC miniature light traps, installed in different types of peridomestic ecotopes, during the period from August 2013 to November 2014. The L. infantum DNA detection in phlebotomine sandflies was performed by means of conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Five hundred seven phlebotomine sandflies specimens were collected, being 116 females (22.9 %) and 391 males (77.1 %), which were represented by seven species, prevailing Lutzomyia longipalpis, with 461 specimens (90.9 %). Molecular analysis revealed DNA of L. infantum in one specimen of L. longipalpis from Fernandópolis. These findings confirm the occurrence of this species in all of the surveyed municipalities. And the existence of at least one specimen, naturally infected in Fernandópolis, highlights the need for performing the further control measures directed to the vectors in this municipality, for restraining their spread and to prevent the occurrence of human cases of visceral leishmaniasis.(AU)

A expansão geográfica e o crescente aumento dos casos de leishmaniose visceral na região noroeste do estado de São Paulo despertaram o interesse em desenvolver estudo para identificar a fauna flebotomínica e avaliar sua infecção natural por Leishmania infantum nos municípios de Fernandópolis, Santa Fé do Sul e Votuporanga. Foram realizados inquéritos entomológicos com a utilização de armadilhas luminosas do tipo CDC, instaladas em diferentes ecótopos peridomiciliares, durante o período de agosto de 2013 a novembro de 2014. A detecção de DNA de L. infantum em flebotomíneos foi realizada por meio da Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR). Foram coletados 507 flebotomíneos, sendo 116 fêmeas (22,9 %) e 391 machos (77,1 %), representados por sete espécies, com predomínio de Lutzomyia longipalpis, com 461 exemplares (90,9 %). As análises moleculares revelaram DNA de L. infantum em um exemplar de L. longipalpis capturado em Fernandópolis. Estes resultados confirmam a presença desta espécie nos municípios pesquisados. E o encontro de pelo menos um exemplar, naturalmente infectado, em Fernandópolis evidencia a necessidade de realizar ações de controle direcionadas aos vetores neste município, com o intuito de conter sua dispersão e prevenir a ocorrência de casos humanos de leishmaniose visceral.(AU)

A importância de parques urbanos para a conservação de aves / The importance of urban parks for bird preservation / La importancia de bosques urbanos para conservación de aves

Devido à intensa modificação dos ambientes naturais e sua transformação em ambientes urbanos, muitas espécies da fauna silvestre têm perdido ambientes adequados à sua sobrevivência e reprodução. Algumas espécies de aves têm conseguido, entretanto, se adaptar a parques e praças urbanos, encontrando locais para reprodução, alimentação e abrigo. Este estudo avaliou o uso dos parques Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos, Danilo Galafassi, Paulo Gorski e Bosque Elias Lopuch, em Cascavel, PR, Brasil, por aves, e buscou compreender como se dá essa utilização por diferentes espécies. A primeira atividade realizada foi o levantamento das espécies de aves nos parques. A coleta dos dados foi feita por meio de reconhecimento visual e auditivo. Foi observado um total de 85 espécies: 63 espécies no Parque Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos, 48 espécies no Parque Danilo Galafassi, 62 espécies no Parque Municipal Paulo Gorski e 32 espécies no Bosque Elias Lopuch. Registros de nidificação, de insetivoria, nectarivoria e frugivoria, e de uso do espaço para abrigo permitiram inferir que os parques urbanos estudados podem ser importantes espaços para as aves e utilizados como parte de estratégias para sua conservação.(AU)

Due to the intense modification in natural environments and their transformation in urban zones, many wildlife species have lost appropriate environments for their survival and reproduction. However, some bird species have been able to adapt to urban parks and squares, finding places for breeding, feeding and sheltering. This study evaluated the use of Tarquinio Joslin dos Santos, Danilo Galafassi, Paulo Gorski and Elias Lopuch parks located in the city of Cascavel, in the state of Paraná, Brazil, by birds, and sought to understand how different species use these resources. The first activity performed was the listing of the bird species sighted in the parks. A total of 85 species were observed: 63 species in Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos Park; 48 species in Danilo Galafassi Park; 62 species in Paulo Gorski Municipal Park; and 32 species in Elias Lopuch Park. The registration of nesting, insectivorous, nectarivorous and frugivorous activities, and the use of sheltering allowed implying that urban parks may be important areas for birds and may be used as part of the strategies for their preservation.(AU)

Debido a la intensa modificación de los ambientes naturales y su transformación en ambientes urbanos, muchas especies de la fauna silvestre han perdido ambientes adecuados a su supervivencia y reproducción. Algunas especies de aves han conseguido adaptarse a parques y plazas, encontrando sitios para reproducción, alimentación y abrigo. Este estudio evaluó el uso de los parques Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos, Danilo Galafassi, Paulo Gorski y Bosque Elias Lopuch, en Cascavel ­ PR, Brasil, por aves, y ha buscado comprender cómo se da esa utilización por diferentes especies. La primera actividad realizada fue el levantamiento de las especies de aves en los bosques. La recolección de datos ha sido hecha a través de reconocimiento visual y auditivo. Se ha observado un total de 85 especies: 63 especies en el Parque Tarquínio Joslin dos Santos, 48 especies en el Parque Danilo Galafassi, 62 especies en el Parque Municipal Paulo Gorski y 32 especies en el Bosque Elias Lopuch. Registros de nidificación, de insectívora, nectarívora y frugívora, y de uso del espacio para abrigo, donde permitió inferir que los bosques urbanos estudiados pueden ser importantes espacios para las aves y utilizados como parte de estrategias para su conservación.(AU)

Spider species composition in the tree-shrub strata of riparian forests and its microhabitats in southern Brazil

The composition of the spider fauna of riparian forests is insufficiently known. These forests, adjacent to both aquatic and terrestrial environments, are recognised as having important ecosystem functions. We compare the composition of spider assemblages of four riparian forests in different drainage basins, along with their microhabitats (edges and forest interior), in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Sampling was carried out in the riparian forests of the following rivers: Piratini, municipality of Arroio Grande; Camaquã, municipality of Cristal; Sinos, municipality of Parobé, and Maquiné, municipality of Maquiné. Two samples per season were collected in two years, by sampling the tree-shrub strata with a beating tray, following fixed transects. There were six transects per drainage basin, two per microhabitat: grassland edge, forest interior and river edge. Overall, 42,057 spiders were sampled (juveniles: 79%; adults: 21%). Among the adults (8,851 individuals), we identified 440 species. Similarity analyses (ANOSIM) indicated that the araneofauna composition of the four drainage basins differ in their quantitative (Morisita) and qualitative (Simpson) similarity indexes. There were no differences in composition among microhabitats. The composition of the Maquiné River basin was the most distinct, possibly due to a greater influence of the Atlantic forest on it and a greater dominance of the Linyphiidae Sphecozone personata (Simon, 1894) (SIMPER analysis, contribution to dissimilarity: 12.15%). Differences in spider composition on large spatial scales most likely reflect regional variations in a number of environmental factors, and result in each area having in increased importance in terms of conservation.

Spider species composition in the tree-shrub strata of riparian forests and its microhabitats in southern Brazil

The composition of the spider fauna of riparian forests is insufficiently known. These forests, adjacent to both aquatic and terrestrial environments, are recognised as having important ecosystem functions. We compare the composition of spider assemblages of four riparian forests in different drainage basins, along with their microhabitats (edges and forest interior), in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Sampling was carried out in the riparian forests of the following rivers: Piratini, municipality of Arroio Grande; Camaquã, municipality of Cristal; Sinos, municipality of Parobé, and Maquiné, municipality of Maquiné. Two samples per season were collected in two years, by sampling the tree-shrub strata with a beating tray, following fixed transects. There were six transects per drainage basin, two per microhabitat: grassland edge, forest interior and river edge. Overall, 42,057 spiders were sampled (juveniles: 79%; adults: 21%). Among the adults (8,851 individuals), we identified 440 species. Similarity analyses (ANOSIM) indicated that the araneofauna composition of the four drainage basins differ in their quantitative (Morisita) and qualitative (Simpson) similarity indexes. There were no differences in composition among microhabitats. The composition of the Maquiné River basin was the most distinct, possibly due to a greater influence of the Atlantic forest on it and a greater dominance of the Linyphiidae Sphecozone personata (Simon, 1894) (SIMPER analysis, contribution to dissimilarity: 12.15%). Differences in spider composition on large spatial scales most likely reflect regional variations in a number of environmental factors, and result in each area having in increased importance in terms of conservation.(AU)

Snake assemblages of Marajó Island, Pará state, Brazil

We describe the diversity, natural history and structure of snake assemblages from Marajó Island, state of Pará, Brazil, after analyzing 439 specimens deposited in herpetological collections. We tested the hypothesis that snake assemblages from forest and open areas of Marajó Island are distinct with regard to their structure, composition and functional groups. To compare the snake composition of the forest and open areas of Marajó with other comparable assemblages in Brazil, Principal Coordinate Analysis and Clustering tests were performed. A total of 61 species of snakes was recorded for Marajó, with ten species cited for the first time for the study area (Atractus natans Hoogmoed & Prudente, 2003, A. schach (Boie, 1827), Dendrophidion dendrophis (Schlegel, 1837), Helicops hagmanni Roux, 1910, Hydrops martii (Wagler in Spix, 1824), Lygophis meridionalis (Schenkel, 1901), Erythrolamprus typhlus (Linnaeus, 1758), Philodryas argentea (Daudin, 1803), Siphlophis cervinus (Laurenti, 1768), and Thamnodynastes sp.). The composition and structure of snake assemblages between forested and open were different, with five functional groups of snakes in forest areas, and three groups in open areas, based on habit and habitat. In all, 19 species were exclusive to forest areas, 10 were exclusive to open areas and 26 species were recorded in both areas. Our results revealed greater richness for forested areas, probably due to greater habitat heterogeneity. The species composition for forested area in Marajó was similar to that found in other Amazonian assemblages, while that for open areas was more similar to the Pantanal region than other open area assemblages. The general structure of the snake assemblage of Marajó was dominated by anurophagous, terrestrial and diurnal species. Terrestrial, arboreal and semi-arboreal snakes showed a seasonal offspring production pattern, while the pattern for aquatic and semi-aquatic species was aseasonal. The structure of assemblages...