Abstract Introduction: Levee forests exhibit a vertical stratification that may contribute to structural complexity allowing a great diversity of birds to thrive on the islands. In deltaic ecosystems there is scarce or no data to prove it. Objectives: To assess variations in the composition of the bird community within levee forests. Methods: Two areas of protected wetlands belonging to the Paraná River Delta in Argentina were sampled for three years. A comparative analysis of richness, abundance, and diversity was performed in different levee forests using the point count method. Results: Three distinct types of levee forests -open, intermediate, and closed- were identified based on the structure of their vegetation, hosting a total of 85 bird species. Variation in avian community structure among forest types revealed greater diversity in open forests during winter (3.26 ± 0.13, P < 0.01) and spring (3.58 ± 0.05, P < 0.01), and greater richness in autumn (35.33 ± 3.01, P < 0.01). The closed forests exhibited increased diversity during autumn (3.16 ± 0.13, P < 0.05) and summer (3.24 ± 0.06, P < 0.05), along with elevated abundance in autumn (114 ± 13.70, P < 0.05) and richness in spring (39.17 ± 4.71, P = 0.01). Due to the evolutionary history between sites, significant variation was observed in the most recently created national park, influencing abundance in winter (141 ± 22.06, P < 0.01) and spring (176 ± 12.83, P < 0.01), as well as diversity in winter (3.25 ± 0.10, P < 0.01) and spring (3.50 ± 0.10, P < 0.01). Conclusions: The microhabitat in the different levee forests allows the birds to organize differently. Focusing on microspatial dynamics is key to a deep understanding of the biological processes within subtropical islands and to plan conservation strategies and demonstrate the transition of a recovering riparian forest towards its natural state, where the pulse of the river and the effect of seasonality do not stop operating.

Resumen Introducción: Los bosques de albardón exhiben una estratificación vertical que puede contribuir en la complejidad estructural, permitiendo que una gran diversidad de aves prospere en las islas. En ecosistemas deltaicos hay escasos datos que lo demuestren. Objetivos: Evaluar las variaciones en la composición de la comunidad de aves dentro de los bosques de albardón. Método: Se muestrearon durante tres años, dos áreas protegidas de humedales pertenecientes al Delta del Río Paraná, Argentina. Se realizó un análisis comparativo de riqueza, abundancia y diversidad de aves en tres diferentes bosques de albardón, utilizando el método de conteo por puntos. Resultados: Tres distintos tipos de bosque de albardón -abiertos, intermedios y cerrados- fueron identificados con base en la estructura de su vegetación, hospedando un total de 85 especies de aves. La variación en la estructura de la comunidad de aves entre tipos de bosque revela mayor diversidad en bosques abiertos durante el invierno (3.26 ± 0.13, P < 0.01) y la primavera (3.58 ± 0.05, P < 0.01), y mayor riqueza en otoño (35.33 ± 3.01, P < 0.01). Los bosques cerrados exhibieron mayor diversidad en el otoño (3.16 ± 0.13, P < 0.05) y en verano (3.24 ± 0.06, P < 0.05), junto con elevada abundancia en otoño (114 ± 13.70, P < 0.05) y elevada riqueza en primavera (39.17 ± 4.71, P=0.01). Debido a la historia evolutiva entre sitios, se observó variación significativa en el parque nacional de más reciente creación, influyendo en la abundancia del invierno (141 ± 22.06, P < 0.01) y de la primavera (176 ± 12.83, P < 0.01), así como en la diversidad en el invierno (3.25 ± 0.10, P < 0.01) y en la primavera (3.50 ± 0.10, P < 0.01). Conclusiones: El microhábitat en los diferentes bosques de albardón permite a las aves organizarse diferencialmente. Enfocarse en la dinámica microespacial es clave para una comprensión profunda de los procesos biológicos dentro de las islas subtropicales, planificar estrategias de conservación y evidenciar la transición de un bosque ripario en recuperación hacia su estado natural, donde el pulso del río y el efecto de la estacionalidad no dejan de operar.

Abstract: Aim Our goal was to relate the phytoplankton metacommunity to its possible determinants in a micro watershed: (I) determinants related to landscape-scale filtering, (II) determinants referring to local microhabitat filtering, (III) determinants referring to previous colonization, and (IV) determinants representing three different dispersal routes. Methods Eight sampling stations were selected along the Cascavel River watershed, located in the state of Paraná, Brazil. Samples were collected quarterly for three years. All phytoplankton samples were quantitatively analyzed to determine the density of the metacommunity. In addition, it was characterized the landscape in terms of land use and occupation, and environmental characterization in terms of physical and chemical variables of the water. All data underwent relevant statistical analysis, where variance partitioning was carried out using partial RDA models, with prior selection of predictor variables, to estimate the relative role of each predictor in the community. We also compared three possible dispersal routes: “Asymmetric Eigenvector Map” (AEM), “Overland” and “Watercourse”. Results It was found that the metacommunity was best explained by “asymmetric eigenvector mapping” (AEM), indicating that because it is a small spatial scale the high connectivity between the sampling stations enables species to disperse overland as well. The different filters act together and depend on rainfall variation. Besides fluctuating temporally, the influence of these mechanisms is subject to which dispersal hypothesis is being considered. Conclusions At the watershed scale, we argue that small-scale processes should be considered, since they homogenize the landscape and consequently leave the environmental gradient similar between sampling stations. In addition, the connectivity of colonization patches is essential to understand the behavior of microalgae that have a high dispersal capacity and are not restricted only to the river course. Abstract I (I landscapescale filtering II (II III (III IV (IV routes Paraná Brazil years addition occupation water analysis models community Asymmetric Map AEM, AEM , (AEM) Overland “Overland Watercourse. Watercourse . “Watercourse” asymmetric mapping well variation temporally considered smallscale course (AEM “Watercourse

Resumo: Objetivo O objetivo do trabalho foi relacionar a metacomunidade fitoplanctônica com seus possíveis determinantes em uma microbacia hidrográfica: (I) determinantes relacionados à filtragem em escala de paisagem, (II) determinantes referentes à filtragem local de micro-habitat, (III) determinantes referentes a colonização anterior e (IV) determinantes representando três diferentes rotas de dispersão. Métodos Foram selecionadas oito estações de amostragem ao longo da microbacia do Rio Cascavel, localizada no estado do Paraná, Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas trimestralmente durante três anos. Todas as amostras de fitoplâncton passaram por análise quantitativa para averiguar a densidade da metacomunidade. Além disso fizemos a caracterização da paisagem tanto o uso e ocupação do solo e caracterização ambiental quanto as variáveis físicas e químicas da água. Todos os dados passaram por análises estatísticas pertinentes, onde a partição da variância foi realizada utilizando modelos RDA parciais, com seleção prévia das variáveis preditoras, para estimar o papel relativo de cada preditor na comunidade. Ainda comparamos três possíveis rotas de dispersão: Mapa de Autovetores Assimétricos” (AEM), “Terrestre” e “Curso d´água”. Resultados Constatou-se que a metacomunidade foi mais bem explicada pelo “mapa de autovetores assimétricos” (AEM), indicando que por se tratar de uma pequena escala espacial a alta conectividade entre as estações de amostragem possibilita que as espécies se dispersem também por terra. Os diferentes filtros atuam em conjunto e dependem da variação de chuva. Além de flutuar temporalmente, a influência desses mecanismos está sujeita a qual hipótese de dispersão está sendo considerada. Conclusões Na escala da microbacia hidrográfica, argumentamos que os processos de pequena escala devem ser considerados, uma vez que homogeneízam a paisagem e, consequentemente, deixam o gradiente ambiental semelhante entre as estações de amostragem. Além disso, a conectividade das manchas de colonização é essencial para entender o comportamento das microalgas que têm alta capacidade de dispersão, não se restringindo apenas ao curso do rio. Resumo hidrográfica I (I II (II microhabitat, microhabitat micro habitat, habitat micro-habitat III (III IV (IV Cascavel Paraná Brasil anos água pertinentes parciais preditoras comunidade Assimétricos AEM, AEM , (AEM) Terrestre “Terrestre Curso d´água. dágua d´água . d d´água” Constatouse Constatou mapa assimétricos terra chuva temporalmente considerada considerados consequentemente rio (AEM

ABSTRACT The areas of Amazonian floodplains have added ecological value to their multiple ecosystem services, including water supply, local climate regulation, biodiversity with a marked number of endemic species, and diversity of micro-habitat. Considering the importance of conserving these environments, this study aimed to analyze the behavior and delimit the areas of the natural distribution of forest species Alchornea castaneifolia (Willd.) A. Juss and Laetia corymbulosa (lowland low), Maquira coriacea (H.Karst.) C.C. Berg (Moraceae), and Ocotea cymbarum Kunth (high floodplain), besides evaluating the potential impacts of climate change on the future distribution inferring on its conservation. The potential species distribution was modeled using Environmental Modelling & Software, by employing algorithms such as Bioclim, Domain, Maximum Entropy, Random Forests, and Support Vector Machine (SVM). The projections indicate that climate change threatens the occurrence of floodplain species. Under the SSP 585 scenario for both periods, the four species studied will lose areas of climatic adequacy until the end of the 21st century, especially in the Brazilian Amazon. The study shows the need to increase socio-environmental responsibility through conserving current protected areas in freshwater ecosystems and implementing new priority areas for conserving wetlands (Ramsar Sites) in the Amazon. Such measures are essential to ensure in situ conservation and protect them from habitat loss. services supply regulation microhabitat. microhabitat micro habitat. micro-habitat environments Willd. Willd (Willd. A lowland low, low , low) H.Karst. HKarst H Karst (H.Karst. CC C C.C Moraceae, Moraceae (Moraceae) high floodplain, floodplain) Software Bioclim Domain Entropy Forests SVM. SVM . (SVM) 58 periods st century Amazon socioenvironmental socio environmental Ramsar Sites loss (Willd H.Karst (H.Karst (Moraceae (SVM 5

RESUMO As áreas de várzeas amazônicas possuem valor ecológico agregado aos seus múltiplos serviços ecossistêmicos, incluindo o abastecimento de água, regulagem do clima local, biodiversidade com um número acentuado de espécies endêmicas e com diversidade de micro-habitat. Considerando a importância da conservação desses ambientes, este estudo objetivou analisar o comportamento e delimitar as áreas de distribuição natural das espécies florestais Alchornea castaneifolia (Willd.) A. Juss e Laetia corymbulosa (várzea baixa) e Maquira coriacea (H. Karst.) C.C. Berg (Moraceae) e Ocotea cymbarum Kunth (várzea alta), além de avaliar os impactos potenciais das mudanças climáticas sobre a distribuição futura, inferindo sobre a sua conservação. A modelagem de distribuição potencial das espécies foi feita com o uso do Environmental Modelling & Software, a partir dos algoritmos como: Bioclim, Domain, Maximum Entropy, Random Forests e Support Vector Machine (SVM). As projeções indicam que as mudanças climáticas representam ameaça à ocorrência das espécies de várzea. Sob o cenário SSP 585 para ambos os períodos, as quatro espécies estudadas perderão áreas de adequação climática até o final do século XXI, principalmente, na Amazônia brasileira. O estudo mostra a necessidade de aumentar a responsabilidade socioambiental para conservação das áreas protegidas atuais em ecossistemas de água doce e, implementar novas áreas prioritárias para a conservação de zonas úmidas (Sítios Ramsar) na Amazônia. Tais medidas são fundamentais para garantir a conservação in situ e protegê-las de uma perda de habitat. ecossistêmicos local microhabitat. microhabitat micro habitat micro-habitat ambientes Willd. Willd (Willd. várzea baixa H. H (H Karst. Karst CC C C.C Moraceae (Moraceae alta, alta , alta) futura Software como Bioclim Domain Entropy SVM. SVM . (SVM) 58 períodos XXI principalmente brasileira Sítios Ramsar protegêlas protegê las (Willd (SVM 5

Abstract The distribution of amphibians is conditioned by historical factors and ecological drivers. Thus, Ecological Niche Models are important tools to provide information on the potential distribution of the species and determine where they will be requirements in future. Mainly, rare species or with restricted areas of occurrence, because this information are essential to understanding of their living area, microhabitat use, or natural history, serving as a basis for preservation actions. Xenohyla eugenioi is a poorly known species, restricted to transition areas of Caatinga and Atlantic Forest from Minas Gerais to Sergipe. This species exhibits little biological information available and few specimens housed in museums, which difficulty to plan conservation strategies. Here our aim was modeling the current and future distribution and discussing about conservation of Xenohyla eugenioi. We searched for occurrence records through literature and scientific collections data. For the future (2071-2100), we used ensemble models from three algorithms (CTA, GLM and ANN) to two shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP370 and SSP585 scenarios). This species has approximately 650 km in straight line between the extreme localities, occurring mainly in bromeliads near to water bodies. The Ensemble method indicates the most suitable areas of occurrence were over ecotonal range between Caatinga and Atlantic Forest and our projections have showed suitable conditions to highlands (up to 1.000 m). However, in the future, is expected total erosion of the X. eugenioi populations, due climatic changes, which reinforce the caution to conservation of this poorly known species and necessity of studies about its ecology, natural history and distribution. Moreover, we hope that this work can contribute to the discovery of new records, characterizing the narrower niche space than this species may actually inhabit. drivers Thus Mainly area use actions Sergipe museums strategies data 20712100, 20712100 2071 2100 , (2071-2100) CTA, CTA (CTA ANN SSP370 SSP (SSP37 SSP58 scenarios. scenarios . scenarios) 65 localities bodies up 1000 1 000 1.00 m. m m) However X populations changes ecology Moreover inhabit 2071210 207 210 (2071-2100 SSP37 (SSP3 SSP5 6 100 00 1.0 207121 20 21 (2071-210 SSP3 (SSP 10 0 1. 20712 2 (2071-21 (2071-2 (2071- (2071 (207 (20 (2 (

Abstract Fish make use of different microhabitats, such as submerged trunks, branches, foliage, crevices and stones, with different purposes, in search of shelter, refuge, food and even as a substrate for reproduction. The present study aimed to increase the knowledge about fish species that make use of the micro-habitat of trunks on the banks of streams in the protected area known as the Tupé Sustainable Development Reserve, Lower Negro River region, Amazonas. The data analyzed come from two days of collections, carried out in the falling water periods of 2020 in the Central stream. Six species, Pseudanos trimaculatus, Tatia strigata, Trachelyopterichthys taeniatus, Trachelyopterichthys sp. "negro", Ancistrus dolichopterus and A. hoplogenys were captured inside the submerged trunks. The order Siluriformes was the most abundant and represented (83.33%) of all individuals. The most abundant species were T. strigata (N=46), followed by A. dolichopterus (N=35). Although most species belonged to the order Siluriformes, it is worth mentioning the sampling of one Characiformes, P. trimaculatus (N=1). In addition, an individual of A. hoplogenys was found in association with eggs deposited and fixed within a trunk, displaying protective behavior. The record of these species inside trunks may be associated with their foraging site, refuge and parental care to increase the chances of survival of the offspring. Therefore, the conservation of these microhabitats is important for the maintenance of some fish species. branches foliage stones purposes shelter reproduction microhabitat micro habitat Reserve region Amazonas collections 202 stream taeniatus sp negro, negro , "negro" A 83.33% 8333 83 33 (83.33% individuals T N=46, N46 N N=46 46 (N=46) N=35. N35 N=35 . 35 (N=35) Characiformes P N=1. N1 N=1 1 (N=1) addition trunk behavior site offspring Therefore 20 "negro 83.33 833 8 3 (83.33 N4 N=4 4 (N=46 N3 N=3 (N=35 N= (N=1 2 83.3 (83.3 (N=4 (N=3 (N= 83. (83. (N (83 (8 (

Resumo Os peixes fazem uso de diferentes microhabitats, como troncos submersos, galhos, folhagens, fendas e entre pedras, com diversas finalidades, seja em busca de abrigo, refúgio, alimento e até como substrato para reprodução. O presente estudo teve como objetivo ampliar o conhecimento sobre as espécies de peixes que fazem uso do micro-habitat de troncos às margens dos riachos da unidade de conservação (UC) conhecida como Reserva de Desenvolvimento Sustentável do Tupé, região do Baixo Rio Negro, Amazonas. Os dados analisados são provenientes de dois dias de coletas, realizadas nos períodos de vazantes de 2020 no igarapé Central. Seis espécies, Pseudanos trimaculatus, Tatia strigata, Trachelyopterichthys taeniatus, Trachelyopterichthys sp. "negro", Ancistrus dolichopterus e A. hoplogenys foram capturados dentro dos troncos submersos. A ordem Siluriformes foi a mais abundante e representada (83,33%) da amostra. As espécies mais abundantes foram T. strigata (N=46), seguida por A. dolichopterus (N=35). Embora a maioria das espécies seja da ordem Siluriformes, vale ressaltar o encontro de uma espécie de Characiforme, P. trimaculatus (N=1). Além disso, foi encontrado um indivíduo de A. hoplogenys associado a ovos depositados e fixados dentro de um tronco, realizando comportamento de cuidado e proteção. O encontro dessas espécies no interior de troncos pode estar associado ao local de forrageamento, refúgio e cuidado parental, a fim de aumentar as chances de sobrevivência da prole. Portanto, a conservação desses microhabitats é importante para a manutenção dos organismos aquáticos. submersos galhos folhagens pedras finalidades abrigo reprodução microhabitat micro habitat UC (UC Tupé Negro Amazonas coletas 202 Central taeniatus sp negro, negro , "negro" 83,33% 8333 83 33 (83,33% amostra T N=46, N46 N N=46 46 (N=46) N=35. N35 N=35 . 35 (N=35) Characiforme P N=1. N1 N=1 1 (N=1) disso tronco proteção forrageamento parental prole Portanto aquáticos 20 "negro 83,33 833 8 3 (83,33 N4 N=4 4 (N=46 N3 N=3 (N=35 N= (N=1 2 83,3 (83,3 (N=4 (N=3 (N= 83, (83, (N (83 (8 (

Abstract Organisms can respond to environmental gradients from local to landscape features. Aquatic insects are particularly affected by watershed peculiarities due to their dependence on microhabitat conditions. However, these relationships are poorly understood in lotic ecosystems of subtropical grasslands, limiting water resources management and bioassessment proposals. Here, we investigated how local stream environment and variations in landscape types affect the assemblage structure of a bioindicator insect group, face to the spatial proximity of the sampled locations. We sampled immatures of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera in streams along the Brazilian Pampa biome, recording environmental descriptors in different grassland ecosystem types. The structure of aquatic insect assemblages differed across grassland types, with specific dominant genera associated with each landscape. Spatially-structured water physicochemical descriptors explained a significant amount of variation in assemblage data. Our findings suggest that grassland ecosystem type delimitations capture ecological attributes, influencing watershed features important to EPT assemblage structuration. Moreover, we highlight the importance of niche-based process structuring EPT assemblages along grassland ecosystem types of Pampa biome. In addition, we encourage using aquatic insects in bioassessment of lotic waters to assess local and landscape environmental impacts. We strongly recommend considering the grassland ecosystem schedule for water resources management and bioassessment proposals. conditions However grasslands proposals Here group locations Ephemeroptera Plecoptera biome Spatiallystructured Spatially structured data attributes structuration Moreover nichebased niche based addition impacts

ABSTRACT The increase in urbanization poses a significant threat to biodiversity, leading to the alteration of natural habitats and intensified competition between native and exotic species. The house sparrow, Passer domesticus (Linnaeus, 1758) is a globally widespread exotic and invasive species known for its environmental adaptability. However, recent studies have indicated that degrees of urbanization and microhabitat characteristics can influence house sparrow populations in diverse ways. In this study, we investigated the abundance, temporal variation, and microhabitat use of house sparrows across three areas with varying degrees of urbanization: urban areas (consisting of residential areas, paved streets, and squares), anthropic fields (including pastures and cultivated fields), and forests in Jacaraú, Northeastern Brazil. From October 2017 to September 2018, we employed the point count method to compare the abundance of house sparrows among the different areas. A total of 1880 records of house sparrows were obtained, with 56.3% observed in urban areas, 43.7% in anthropic fields, and none in the forest, indicating significant variations among the study areas. Throughout the year, active birds were observed in both urban areas and anthropic fields. Although no variations in bird abundance were found among the months in urban areas, a significant difference was observed in March (higher abundance) and October (lower abundance) in anthropic fields. The most frequently utilized microhabitats by house sparrows were ground surfaces, man-made structures, and artificial perches, whereas trees were the least used microhabitats. Our findings confirm that both habitat and microhabitat characteristics play crucial roles in determining the abundance and distribution patterns of the species in Brazil. Furthermore, our results suggest that house sparrows avoid using forests, and these environments can act as barriers to the species’ distribution. These findings enhance our understanding of the ecological dynamics of house sparrows in Brazil and provide valuable insights for management. biodiversity Linnaeus, Linnaeus (Linnaeus 1758 adaptability However ways variation consisting streets squares, squares , squares) including fields) Jacaraú 201 2018 188 obtained 563 56 3 56.3 437 43 7 43.7 forest year higher lower surfaces manmade man made structures perches Furthermore management 175 20 18 5 56. 4 43. 17 2 1

Resumo As espécies simpátricas de caranguejo-da-lama Panopeus americanus e Panopeus austrobesus são encontradas em ambientes entremarés associados a habitats lamacentos e rochosos, bem como em simpatria na costa do Atlântico Ocidental. Portanto, constituem um sistema modelo adequado para ser utilizado em estudos focados na investigação de aspectos de coexistência biológica entre espécies semelhantes, como estrutura populacional e habitat. Os objetivos do presente estudo são descrever e comparar a microdistribuição de duas espécies simpátricas de caranguejo-da-lama – P. americanus e P. austrobesus – com base na avaliação de sua distribuição espacial e temporal, em uma área estuarina complexa e com baixo impacto antrópico. A hipótese de que estas duas espécies apresentam microdistribuição semelhante, embora uma espécie seja mais abundante que a outra, foi testada. A amostragem foi realizada na zona entremarés de uma área específica do complexo estuarino de Cananeia, Estado de São Paulo, Sudeste do Brasil, em diferentes períodos durante dois anos. Ambas as espécies apresentaram microdistribuição e frequência semelhantes, principalmente nas zonas entremarés média e alta. Entretanto, Panopeus americanus foi mais abundante e apresentou menor tamanho médio em todas as zonas amostrais. A pronunciada disparidade de tamanho entre as espécies sugere preferências alimentares divergentes, potencialmente relacionadas ao tamanho das presas possibilitando a coexistência dessas espécies simpátricas. A predominância dessas duas espécies nas zonas intermareais superiores também indica uma estratégia para evitar a competição com os camarões alfeídeos. caranguejodalama caranguejo da lama rochosos Ocidental Portanto semelhantes habitat P temporal antrópico semelhante outra testada Cananeia Paulo Brasil anos alta Entretanto amostrais divergentes alfeídeos

Abstract Sympatric mud crab species Panopeus americanus and Panopeus austrobesus are found in intertidal environments associated with muddy and rocky habitats in the Western Atlantic coast. Therefore, they are a suitable model system to be used in studies focused on investigating biological coexistence aspects between close species, such as population structure and habitat. The aims of the current study are to describe and compare the distribution of two sympatric mud crab species – P. americanus and P. austrobesus – based on their spatial and temporal distribution, in a low human impact estuarine complex area. The hypothesis that these two species show similar distribution, although one species is more abundant than the other, was herein tested. Sampling was carried out in the intertidal zone of a specific area in Cananeia estuarine complex, São Paulo State, Southeastern Brazil, in different periods of time for two years. Both species presented similar pattern distribution and frequency, with predominance in the middle and high intertidal zones, including all demographic categories. However, Panopeus americanus was more abundant and presented smaller mean size in all sampling zones. The pronounced disparity in size between the species suggests divergent dietary preferences, potentially related to prey size allowing the coexistence of these sympatric and syntopic species. The predominance of these two species in the upper intertidal zones was understood as a strategy for avoiding competition with the intertidal alpheid shrimps. coast Therefore habitat P other tested State Brazil years frequency categories However preferences shrimps

ABSTRACT The mangrove ecosystems are characterized by being one of the most productive, despite their poor soils, finding a great faunal richness. Meanwhile, pseudoscorpions are arachnids that inhabit all terrestrial ecosystems, and diverse in the tropics and subtropics. We evaluated the relationship of pseudoscorpions composition in mangrove forest fragments in the southern Gulf of Morrosquillo, using different metrics related to vegetation and land use. A total of 1063 individuals were collected, distributed in four families and eight species. Three indicator species of good conservation status were identified, Pachyolpium isolatum (Beier, 1931) a good indicator (A = 1.0; B = 0.93; p <0.001), and four detecting species of disturbed mangroves. The proximity to urban and tourist areas influences the composition of the community of the pseudoscorpion. The indicator capacity and the sensitivity demonstrated by the species make them a valuable argument and are considered as a tool that can indicate promptly the negative effects of certain management practices in the different mangrove forest fragments in the southern Gulf of Morrosquillo. productive soils richness Meanwhile subtropics Morrosquillo use 106 collected identified Beier, Beier (Beier 1931 1.0 10 1 0 0.93 093 93 <0.001, 0001 <0.001 , 001 <0.001) mangroves pseudoscorpion 193 1. 0.9 09 9 000 <0.00 00 19 0. <0.0 <0. <0 <

RESUMEN Los ecosistemas de manglar se caracterizan por ser uno de los más productivos, a pesar de sus suelos pobres, encontrando una gran riqueza faunística. Por su parte, los pseudoescorpiones son arácnidos que habitan en todos los ecosistemas terrestres, y diversos en los trópicos y subtrópicos. Se evaluó la relación de la composición de la comunidad de pseudoescorpiones en fragmentos de bosque de manglar en el sur del Golfo de Morrosquillo, utilizando diferentes métricas relacionadas con la vegetación y el uso del suelo. Se colectaron 1063 individuos distribuidos en cuatro familias y ocho especies. Se identificaron tres especies indicadoras de buen estado de conservación, Pachyolpium isolatum (Beier, 1931) un bueno indicador (A = 1.0; B = 0.93; p <0.001) y cuatro especies detectoras de manglares perturbados. La proximidad a zonas urbanas y turísticas influye en la composición de la comunidad del pseudoescorpiones. La capacidad indicadora y la sensibilidad demostrada por las especies las convierten en un argumento valioso y son consideradas como una herramienta que puede indicar puntualmente los efectos negativos de ciertas prácticas de manejo en los diferentes fragmentos de bosque de manglar en el sur del Golfo de Morrosquillo. productivos pobres faunística parte terrestres subtrópicos Morrosquillo suelo 106 conservación Beier, Beier (Beier 1931 A 1.0 10 1 0 0.93 093 93 <0.001 0001 001 perturbados 193 1. 0.9 09 9 <0.00 000 00 19 0. <0.0 <0. <0 <

Abstract Scorpions and assassin bugs are arthropod predators that may impact in trophic chain, coexisting in similar microhabitats and exhibiting antagonistic interactions. This study reports the first case of predation of the scorpion Physoctonus debilis by the assassin bug Microtomus tibialis in a Brazilian Seasonal Dry Tropical Forest biome. During a nocturnal collection, an adult individual of M. tibialis was observed, with the head and body facing downwards, while holding a female of P. debilis, with the aid of the mouthparts under the vegetation. Reports like these are important to understand the evolutionary dynamics and natural history of predators that cohabit in the same microhabitat.

Resumen Los escorpiones y las chinches asesinas son artrópodos depredadores que pueden impactar en la cadena trófica, coexistiendo en microhábitats similares y exhibiendo interacciones antagónicas. Este estudio reporta el primer caso de depredación del escorpión Physoctonus debilis por la chinche asesina Microtomus tibialis en un bioma de Bosque Tropical Seco Estacional Brasileño. Durante una colecta nocturna, se observó un individuo adulto de M. tibialis con la cabeza y el cuerpo hacia abajo, mientras sujetaba a una hembra de P. debilis con la ayuda del aparato bucal bajo la vegetación. Informes como estos son importantes para comprender la dinámica evolutiva y la historia natural de los depredadores que cohabitan en el mismo microhábitat.

Resumen Introducción: Uno de los principales cuellos de botella en proyectos de restauración basada en reproducción sexual es la supervivencia de las larvas posterior al asentamiento, principalmente por la competencia por el sustrato con algas filamentosas y la depredación. Por ello, se han creado y analizado sustratos de diferentes formas y materiales, buscando optimizar estos procesos con superficies atrayentes para las larvas, y estructuras donde los reclutas se encuentran protegidos de la depredación y se disminuya la competencia. Objetivo: Mejorar el asentamiento y la supervivencia de dos importantes corales formadores de arrecifes del Caribe, utilizando diferentes recubrimientos en sustratos. Métodos: Para determinar si las propiedades de la superficie del sustrato son favorables para el asentamiento de larvas de Orbicella annularis y O. faveolata, recolectadas en Puerto Morelos, Caribe mexicano, evaluamos su asentamiento durante tres semanas en seis recubrimientos con una combinación de propiedades. Cada recubrimiento fue diseñado para proporcionar una combinación de dos de tres propiedades: 1) repelencia al agua (hidrofobicidad), 2) fosforescencia y 3) química superficial enriquecida con minerales. En un experimento separado se evaluó el asentamiento de larvas en sustratos con recubrimientos de una sola propiedad. Finalmente, se determinó la supervivencia posterior al asentamiento de O. annularis y O. faveolata sobre los diferentes recubrimientos durante siete semanas. Resultados: La combinación de alta hidrofobicidad y micropartículas fosforescentes azules y alta hidrofobicidad y micropartículas fosforescentes rojo-naranja dio como resultado un mayor asentamiento de O. annularis y O. faveolata en comparación con otros recubrimientos (30.8 - 66.7 % mayor). No se encontraron diferencias significativas en el número de larvas asentadas cuando se evaluaron de forma independiente la repelencia al agua y la fosforescencia. El tiempo de supervivencia posterior al asentamiento en los sustratos fue bajo, con un máximo de 34 días después del asentamiento para O. annularis y 42 días para O. faveolata. Conclusiones: En el asentamiento de larvas, la combinación de las propiedades del recubrimiento parece desempeñar un papel importante en la elección del microhábitat tanto para O. annularis como para O. faveolata. Pero de forma individual estas propiedades no generaron una ventaja en el asentamiento larvario. Además, algunos componentes químicos asociados con los recubrimientos pueden ser contraproducentes para la supervivencia de los pólipos a lo largo del tiempo.

Abstract Introduction: One of the main bottlenecks in restoration projects based on sexual reproduction is post-settlement survival, mainly due to competition for substrate with fleshy algae and predation. Therefore, substrates of different shapes and materials have been created and tested, seeking to optimize these processes with attractive surfaces for the larvae and structures where the recruits are protected from predation, and competition is reduced. Objective: To improve settlement and post-settlement survival of two important Caribbean reef-building corals, using different coatings on substrates. Methods: To determine whether substrate coatings properties are favourable to larval settlement in Orbicella annularis, and O. faveolata, collected in Puerto Morelos, Mexican Caribbean, we evaluated their settlement for three weeks on six coatings with a combination of properties. Each coating was designed to provide a combination of two out of three properties: 1) water repellence (hydrophobicity), 2) phosphorescence-based colour, and 3) mineral-enriched surface chemistry. In a separate experiment larvae settlement was tested using coatings with a single property. Finally, we determined the post-settlement survival of O. annularis and O. faveolata on the different coatings for seven weeks. Results: The combination of high hydrophobicity and light blue phosphorescent microparticles and high hydrophobicity and red-orange phosphorescent microparticles resulted in a higher settlement of O. annularis and O. faveolata when compared with other coatings (30.8 - 66.7 % higher). No significant differences were found in the number of larval settled when the water-repellence and the phosphorescence-based were evaluated independently. Post-settlement survival time on substrates was low, with a maximum of 34 days after settlement for O. annularis and 42 days for O. faveolata. Conclusions: In terms of the larval settlement, the combination of the coatings properties appears to play an essential role in the choice of microhabitat for both O. annularis and O. faveolata. But individually these properties did not generate an advantage in the larval settlement. Moreover, some chemical components associated with the coatings may be counterproductive to the survival of the polyps over time.

Abstract This study examined a population of ghost orchids (Dendrophylax lindenii) in Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park in Collier County, Florida, to determine if they exhibit host species preference, vertical stratification, substrate diameter stratification, or a distribution pattern similar to their host plants. Twenty-five ghost orchids were found on three host plant species: 20 (80%) were on pop ash (Fraxinus caroliniana), four (16%) on arthritis vine (Hippocratea volubilis), and one (4%) on pond apple (Annona glabra). Our analysis indicated a statistically significant occurrence of ghost orchids on pop ash relative to other woody plant species in the study area. Although most orchids were found below 3 m from the forest floor, this was not staistically significant when compared to orchids above 3 m. A weak trend (p=0.06) for increasing occurrence was observed in the next to largest (14.1 cm to 17.2 cm diameter at breast height) size class among the five size classes of pop ash in this study. The spatial analyses indicated that both the stems of pop ash and ghost orchids demonstrate non-random clumping on the landscape. In addition, the presence of an individual orchid increases the probability of multiple ghost orchids on a stem. These results further emphasize the importance of pop ash as a host species in Florida’s ghost orchid populations and add to the list of hosts (arthritis vine) in the literature. Continuing to study the vertical position of ghost orchids will be important as climate change has the potential to alter humidity patterns and the occurrence of both low temperature events and hurricanes. Improved understanding of host plant preference, microhabitat requirements, spatial distribution, and continued long-term monitoring of population dynamics are critical for the conservation of the ghost orchid.

Abstract In this study we investigate the niche interaction between the frogs Physalameus cuvieri and Physalaemus kroyeri that occur in syntopy in water bodies of the Atlantic Forest located in the eastern Bahia State, Brazil. We investigated the niche width and overlap in the calling activity time, microhabitat use, diet composition, advertisement call, and body size. Both species preferred the same substrate and calling substrate categories, and showed low niche width values and high spatial niche overlap values. The pseudocommunity analysis revealed the absence of competition in space use. Ants and termites were the most important items in the diet of both species with the pseudocommunity analysis indicating an absence of competition in the diet. The two species demonstrate a greater similarity in body proportions and a high overlap in the calling activity time. However, they showed divergence in acoustic parameters, especially in the dominant frequency and call duration. Our results reinforce the role of advertisement call as a relevant attribute for anuran coexistence and highlight the importance of analyzing the various axes of the multidimensional niche for the most reliable description of the existence and magnitude of niche partitioning. State Brazil time use composition size categories However parameters duration partitioning

Abstract The Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest is considered one of the world biodiversity hotspots, with high levels of endemism. Studies on the myxobiota of Atlantic Rainforest have been carried out mainly in the Northeast region of Brazil but the ground litter microhabitat has only been included in a few of these studies. This study aimed to record the composition and diversity of the myxobiota of the ground litter of Pedra Talhada Biological Reserve and to expanding the knowledge about the microbiota of Atlantic Rainforest. Samples of ground litter were collected at the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season and 1,080 moist chambers were mounted. The identification of the specimens obtained were based on a morphological examination. Were obtained 86 specimens, identified, and registered in the UFP herbarium. Plasmodia and/ or sporocarps were recorded in 23.7% of the moist chambers. The inventory resulted in 13 new records for Alagoas raising the number of known species in the state to 61. Perichaena longipes and Stemonitopsis gracilis are registered for the first time in Northeast Brazil and in the Atlantic Rainforest, Macbrideola spinosispora is the first record for Brazil and Licea sp. is likely a new taxon. A key to identify the species occurring in Alagoas is presented, as well as, distribution and comments of the species in Brazil. hotspots endemism studies 1080 1 080 1,08 mounted examination 8 identified herbarium 237 23 7 23.7 61 sp taxon presented 108 08 1,0 2 23. 6 10 0 1,

Resumo A Floresta Atlântica brasileira é considerada um dos hotspots de biodiversidade mundial, com altos níveis de endemismo. Estudos sobre a mixobiota de Floresta Atlântica têm sido realizados principalmente na região Nordeste do Brasil, mas o folhedo de solo foi incluído em poucos desses estudos. O objetivo desse trabalho foi registrar a composição e diversidade da mixobiota do folhedo de solo da Reserva Biológica de Pedra Talhada e expandir o conhecimento sobre a microbiota da Floresta Atlântica. Amostras do folhedo de solo foram coletadas no final da estação seca e início da estação chuvosa e 1.080 câmaras úmidas foram montadas. A identificação e descrição dos espécimes obtidos foram baseadas em análise morfológica. Foram obtidos 86 espécimes, identificados e registrados no Herbário UFP. Plasmódios e/ou esporocarpos foram registrados em 23,7% das câmaras úmidas. O inventário resultou em 13 novos registros para Alagoas, aumentando para 61 o número de espécies conhecidas para o estado. Perichaena longipes e Stemonitopsis gracilis são registrados pela primeira vez no Nordeste e na Floresta Atlântica. Macbrideola spinosispora é o primeiro registro para o Brasil e Licea sp. provavelmente é um novo táxon. Uma chave de identificação para as espécies ocorrentes em Alagoas é apresentada, bem como, comentários e distribuição das espécies no Brasil. mundial endemismo estudos 1080 1 080 1.08 montadas morfológica 8 UFP eou ou 237 23 7 23,7 6 estado sp táxon apresentada como 108 08 1.0 2 23, 10 0 1.

Resumen Las tierras altas de Costa Rica son consideradas un punto caliente de diversidad y endemismo, pero los estudios sobre roedores son escasos. Comparamos la riqueza y abundancia de ratones entre el bosque de robledal y el páramo en la cima de la Cordillera de Talamanca. Seleccionamos dos sitios de estudio en la Cordillera de Talamanca: la Estación Biológica Cerro de la Muerte y el páramo. El primero es un bosque montano dominado por robles, y el segundo está dominado por una vegetación herbácea y algunos parches dispersos de arbustos. Capturamos ratones en dos microhábitats diferentes en el robledal y el páramo. Por lo que tuvimos cuatro microhábitats de muestreo: (1) páramo-arbustos, (2) páramo-Chusquea, (3) bosque montano-arbustos, y (4) bosque montano-Chusquea. Los ratones fueron marcados para identificar recapturas. Capturamos cuatro especies de ratones y sus abundancias variaron considerablemente entre hábitats y microhábitats (Tabla 1). La especie más abundante, con 85 % del total de capturas, fue Peromyscus nudipes. Los ratones fueron más abundantes en el robledal que en el páramo. Dentro del robledal, los ratones fueron más abundantes en el microhábitat compuesto por arbustos. El bosque montano posee una estructura vegetal más compleja, con mayor diversidad de recursos alimenticios y refugios que el páramo. Al igual que a nivel de hábitat, discutimos que las diferencias en abundancia entre microhábitats están directamente relacionadas con la estructura de la vegetación. Un hábitat con una estructura más compleja es de esperar que provea a los roedores de mejores condiciones.

Abstract The Costa Rican highlands are considered hotspots of diversity and endemism, but studies on rodents are scarce. We compared the richness and abundance of mice between the montane forest and the paramo at the summit of the Talamanca mountain range. We selected two study sites within the Talamanca mountain range: the Cerro de la Muerte Biological Station and the paramo. The former is a montane forest dominated by oaks, and the latter is dominated by an herbaceous layer, and some scattered bushy patches. We captured mice in two different microhabitats within each montane forest and paramo, so we had four different sampling microhabitats: (1) paramo-bush, (2) paramo-Chusquea, (3) montane forest-bush, and (4) montane forest-Chusquea. Mice were marked to identify recaptures. We captured four mouse species and their abundance varied largely between habitats and among microhabitats (Table 1). The most abundant species, representing 85 % of all mouse captures, was Peromyscus nudipes. Mice were more abundant in the montane forest than in the paramo. Within the montane forest, mice were more abundant in the microhabitat containing bushes. The montane forest has a more complex vegetation structure with more diversity of food resources and shelters than the paramo. As well as at the habitat level, we argue that differences in abundance among microhabitats are directly related with the structure of vegetation. A more complex habitat structure may provide rodents with better conditions.