Abstract Introduction: Evidence suggests that herbivores, such as peccaries, shape vegetation structure and diversity through predation, trampling, dispersal, and rooting behavior. Objective: To evaluate the impact of peccaries (Dycotiles tajacu) on the understory vegetation of the tropical rainforest in the Nogal-La Selva Local Biological Corridor, Costa Rica, comparing a site with the absence of peccaries to another with the presence of these animals. Methodology: From June to November 2021, 20 experimental exclusions and 20 free access plots, each measuring 2 m2 were used to quantify herbivory, the number of leaf blades, damaged leaves, healthy leaves, sapling height, and fallen biomass at both sites. Results: A higher sapling density was found in the Nogal Reserve, but a lower sapling diversity, while in La Selva there was a higher sapling diversity, but a lower density of seedlings. Herbivory and sapling height in La Selva exceeded those in Nogal. The exclusion of peccaries reduced seedling damage but did not affect the dynamics of fallen biomass. Conclusion: For the design, implementation, and evaluation of the effectiveness of biological corridors, it is crucial to consider plant-animal interactions to enhance the flow of ecological processes through functional and structural connectivity, analyzed from interactions such as those presented in this paper.

Resumen Introducción: Existe evidencia que herbívoros, como los saínos, dan forma a la estructura y diversidad de la vegetación a través del comportamiento de depredación, pisoteo, dispersión y enraizamiento. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto de los saínos (Dycotiles tajacu) en la vegetación del sotobosque del bosque tropical húmedo en el Corredor Biológico Local Nogal-La Selva, Costa Rica, en un sitio con ausencia y en otro con presencia de saínos. Métodos: De junio a noviembre de 2021 se utilizaron 20 exclusiones experimentales y 20 parcelas de acceso libre de 2 m2, se cuantifico la herbivoría, número de láminas foliares, hojas dañadas, hojas sanas, altura de brinzales y biomasa caída en ambos sitios. Resultados: Se encontró una mayor densidad de brinzales en Reserva Nogal pero una menor diversidad, contrario en La Selva donde se encontró una mayor diversidad de brinzales, pero una menor densidad de plántulas. La herbivoría y la altura de brinzales en La Selva fue mayor que en Nogal. La exclusión de los saínos disminuyó el daño a las plántulas, pero no afectó la dinámica de la biomasa caída. Conclusión: Es necesario contemplar para el diseño, implementación y evaluación de la efectividad de corredores biológicos, las interacciones planta-animal, para potencializar el flujo de procesos ecológicos mediante la conectividad funcional y estructural, analizada a partir de interacciones como las presentadas en este trabajo.

Abstract Introduction: Despite sensory enrichment being critical for ensuring the well-being of captive wild animals, smells are not being included in enrichment protocols for birds. For this group, neophobia can be a problem when it comes to implementing new enrichment devices. Objective: To explore how participation in an olfactory enrichment and latency times varies between bird taxonomic groups (Amazona spp. / Ara spp. / Ramphastos spp.). Methods: We exposed 257 birds to a scent enrichment, and we recorded which individuals engaged with it and the time they took to interact with it. Results: We discovered that participation by toucans in the enrichment was higher compared to amazons and macaws. Furthermore, latency time to interact with the enrichment was higher in amazons that in the other species. Our findings could suggest that toucans are neophilic species which could benefit from higher exploration rates. Amazons on the contrary seem to be particularly neophobic, possibly because of their less opportunistic feeding habits compared to toucans and their higher vulnerability to predation compared to macaws. Conclusion: These results point out that toucans would be more inclined to engage in environmental enrichments, while a more natural design using smells inside familiar objects could be a more successful enrichment for psittacids.

Resumen Introducción: A pesar de que el enriquecimiento sensorial es fundamental para garantizar el bienestar de los animales silvestres en cautiverio, los olores no son incluidos de forma rutinaria en los protocolos de enriquecimiento para aves. Además, en el caso de estos animales, la neofobia puede ser un problema a la hora de implementar nuevos dispositivos de enriquecimiento. Objetivo: Explorar cómo varía la participación y la latencia en la interacción con un enriquecimiento olfativo entre grupos taxonómicos de aves (Amazona spp. / Ara spp. / Ramphastos spp.). Métodos: Expusimos a 257 aves a un enriquecimiento olfativo y registramos qué individuos participaron y el tiempo que tardaron en interactuar con él. Resultados: La participación en el enriquecimiento fue mayor en los tucanes en comparación con las amazonas y los guacamayos. Además, el tiempo de latencia para interactuar con el enriquecimiento fue mayor en las amazonas que en las otras especies. Nuestros hallazgos sugieren que los tucanes son especies neofílicas que podrían beneficiarse de tasas de exploración más altas. Por otro lado, las amazonas parecen ser particularmente neofóbicas, posiblemente debido a sus hábitos alimenticios menos oportunistas en comparación con los tucanes y a su mayor vulnerabilidad a la depredación en comparación con los guacamayos. Conclusión: Estos resultados señalan que los tucanes serían más proclives a participar en enriquecimientos ambientales, mientras que un diseño que utilice olores dentro de objetos más naturales o familiares podría ser más exitoso para las psitácidas.

Abstract Introduction: The pelagic sea snake Hydrophis platurus has the broadest distributional range of all the snakes and is the only sea snake of tropical waters off the west coast of the Americas. Within the variation in the color pattern of this species, completely yellow specimens were considered very rare or occasional. However, a yellow pattern dominates a population established in the interior of the Golfo Dulce in the Southern Pacific of Costa Rica. Objective: We studied the abundance, activity patterns, morphometry, and feeding behavior of the yellow H. platurus within the Golfo Dulce. Methods: Between February 2009 and July 2018, we conducted surveys for sea snakes from a boat within the perimeter of the Golfo Dulce. Results: Adults from the gulf population are smaller than the bicolor oceanic population, with females having larger bodies. Sea snakes within the gulf float and move with surface currents without being linked to drift lines and debris. These snakes are mainly found in clean, calm waters with little turbulence. They feed on a wide diversity of small fish, which they capture using passive stalking predatory behaviors floating on the surface. Prey are quickly captured and swallowed alive. This species has an almost total absence of predation, a pattern that extends to this yellow population. Conclusions: The characteristics of the gulf and the direction and strength of the surface currents at its entrance might restrict the transit of this yellow population to the outside and the entry of the bicolored snakes of the oceanic population. We do not consider making taxonomic changes in this Golfo Dulce population prudent. This yellow population is relatively common within the basin. However, the high tourist traffic and other activities are risk factors for its conservation. Protection policies must be created to preserve and protect this small population of yellow sea snakes unique within this species’ distribution range.

Resumen Introducción: La serpiente marina pelágica Hydrophis platurus tiene el rango de distribución más amplio de todas las serpientes y es la única serpiente marina de aguas tropicales del oeste de América. Dentro de la variación en el patrón de color de esta especie, los ejemplares completamente amarillos se consideraban muy raros u ocasionales. Sin embargo, los patrones amarillos dominan una población establecida en el interior del Golfo Dulce en el Pacífico sur de Costa Rica. Objetivo: Monitoreamos y estudiamos la abundancia, patrones de actividad, morfometría y comportamiento alimentario del H. platurus amarillo dentro del Golfo Dulce. Métodos: Entre febrero 2009 y julio 2018, realizamos búsquedas mensuales de serpientes marinas desde una embarcación dentro del perímetro del Golfo Dulce. Resultados: Los adultos de la población de golfo son más pequeños que la población oceánica bicolor, con las hembras de cuerpos más grandes. Las serpientes del Golfo Dulce flotan y se mueven con las corrientes superficiales sin asociarse con líneas de deriva y escombros. Las serpientes se encuentran principalmente en aguas limpias y tranquilas con poca turbulencia. La dieta se compone de una amplia diversidad de peces pequeños, que capturan con un comportamiento depredador de acecho pasivo, flotando en la superficie. La presa es rápidamente capturada y tragada viva. Esta especie tiene una ausencia casi total de depredación, patrón que se extiende a esta población amarilla. Conclusiones: Las características del golfo y la dirección y fuerza de las corrientes superficiales en su entrada podrían restringir el tránsito de esta población amarilla hacia el exterior y el ingreso de las serpientes bicolores de la población oceánica. No consideramos prudente realizar cambios taxonómicos en esta población. La población amarilla es relativamente abundante dentro de la cuenca. Sin embargo, el alto tráfico turístico y otras actividades son factores de riesgo para su conservación. Políticas de protección deben crearse para preservar y proteger esta pequeña población de serpientes marinas amarillas, única dentro del rango de distribución de esta especie.

Classic depictions of human evolutionary ecology cast Homo as predator and other hominins, including Paranthropus robustus, as prey. Such hypotheses rest on a small number of fossils that exhibit evidence of carnivore predation, including the iconic SK 54 cranium from Swartkrans in South Africa. Here we demonstrate that the SK 54 cranium shares its closest affinities with H. erectus sensu lato rather than P. robustus. Demonstrating that Homo was prey for leopards at Swartkrans weakens the historically significant hypothesis that Homo was better able to avoid predation because of being behaviourally and technologically advanced compared to Paranthropus. Subsequent ideas about hominin palaeobiology derived from this hypothesis warrant reconsideration. SIGNIFICANCE: • The small sample of early Homo from southern Africa is increased by the allocation of the SK 54 cranium to that genus. • Evidence from Swartkrans suggests that Homo was prey for leopards. • Hypotheses concerning the biology, behaviour, and technological capabilities of Homo and P. robustus stemming from Brain's seminal work, The Hunters or the Hunted?, should be reassessed.

Abstract Introduction: The coral reefs of Isla del Coco National Park are some of the most pristine ecosystems on Earth. The sea urchin Diadema mexicanum (Diadematoida: Diadematidae) is a common inhabitant with a pivotal role in the ecology of this unique ecosystem. Objective: In this study, we identified the predominant predators of D. mexicanum and estimated the predatory consumption rates. We also determined predation rates at different sea urchin sizes and at sites with contrasting refuge availability. Methods: We use field video recording observations and tethering experiments. Results: The balistid Sufflamen verres and the labrid Bodianus diplotaenia were identified as predators of small and medium size D. mexicanum; the labrids Thalassoma grammaticum and B. diplotaenia (juvenile) and the tetraodontid Arothron meleagris were attempted predators; and Canthigaster punctatissima and Holacanthus passer were scavengers. Larger sea urchins (> 30 mm) were also preyed upon during the tethering experiments. Furthermore, a clear effect of the site on survival of the different sea urchins’ sizes was noted. No difference in the sea urchin predator biomass was found among sites, which highlights the importance of site complexity on survival. At high and medium complexity sites, large individuals had better survival, while at the low complexity site, there was almost no differences in survival rates among the three size classes. Our results also show that a high abundance of these predatory fishes, above 0.04 ind m-2, guarantees a low sea urchin density. Below this threshold, a higher variability in sea urchin density is observed Despite not being registered with the video recordings, lobsters were observed once preying upon a large sea urchin individual. Conclusions: This study identifies a keystone fish guild with high predation rate for Diadema in the National Park, which suggests that protective actions have positively benefited predatory fish and lobster populations.

Resumen Introducción: Los arrecifes de coral del Parque Nacional Isla del Coco son uno de los ecosistemas más prístinos de la Tierra. El erizo de mar Diadema mexicanum (Diadematoida: Diadematidae) es un habitante común con un papel ecológico esencial en este ecosistema único. Objetivo: En este estudio, identificamos los depredadores predominantes de D. mexicanum y estimamos las tasas de consumos predatorias. También determinamos las tasas predatorias de diferentes tamaños de erizo de mar en sitios con disponibilidad de refugio contrastante. Métodos: Utilizamos grabaciones de video de campo y experimentos de marcaje. Resultados: El pez ballesta Sufflamen verres y el lábrido Bodianus diplotaenia fueron identificados como depredadores de tamaños pequeños y medianos de D. Mexicanum; los lábridos Thalassoma grammaticum y B. diplotaenia (juvenil) y el tetraodóntido Arothron meleagris fueron intento de depredadores; y Canthigaster punctatissima y Holacanthus passer fueron carroñeros. Los erizos de mar de gran tamaño (> 30 mm) también fueron depredados durante el experimento de marcaje. Además, se encontró un efecto claro del sitio en la supervivencia de los diferentes tamaños de erizo de mar. No se encontraron diferencias en la biomasa de los depredadores del erizo de mar entre sitios, lo que señala la importancia de la complejidad del sitio en la supervivencia. En sitios con complejidad estructural alta y media, los individuos grandes tuvieron mejor supervivencia, mientras que en sitios de complejidad baja apenas hubo diferencias en las tasas de supervivencia entre los tres tamaños. Nuestros resultados también muestran que una alta abundancia de peces depredadores, por encima de 0.04 ind m-2, asegura bajas densidades de erizos de mar. A pesar de no ser registrado durante las grabaciones de video, se observó en una ocasión a una langosta depredando sobre un erizo de gran tamaño. Conclusiones: Este estudio identifica el grupo de peces clave con grandes tasas de depredación sobre Diadema en el Parque Nacional, lo que sugiere que las medidas de protección han beneficiado positivamente las poblaciones de peces depredadores y langostas.

Resumo O ácaro da tamareira, Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae), é uma praga grave das tâmaras no Médio Oriente e Norte de África, causando graves danos econômicos se não for controlado precocemente. Como os ácaros predadores são conhecidos por serem potenciais agentes de biocontrole contra diversas pragas, também a capacidade de predação, tabela de vida, reprodução e sobrevivência de Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot e Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans) (Acari: Phytoseiidae), coletados em fazendas de tamareiras em Qassim Arábia Saudita, foram estudados em condições de laboratório (25 °C, 30 °C, 35 °C e 50 ± 5% UR) contra todos os estágios móveis de O. afrasiaticus. Para ambos os predadores, o tempo médio de desenvolvimento, o período de oviposição e a longevidade foram inversamente relacionados à temperatura de 25 °C a 35 °C. Vários parâmetros foram estudados para A. swirskii e N. cucumeris a 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C, ou seja, o tempo de desenvolvimento feminino, 9,37, 7,29, 5,56 e 10,67, 8,38, 6,45 d; período de oviposição, 19,77, 16,18, 13,94 e 15,90, 13,84, 10,64 d; longevidade, 29,39, 24,79, 20,64 e 25,42, 21,94, 17,39 dias; fecundidade, 31,91, 37,10, 42,16 e 21,75, 26,84, 30,56 ovos por fêmea, respectivamente. A taxa máxima de predação diária para ambos os predadores foi registrada a 35 °C durante o período de oviposição. A predação total de fêmeas de A. swirskii e N. cucumeris foi de 370,86, 387,54, 405,83, 232,14, 263,32, 248,85 presas a 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C respectivamente. A taxa máxima de reprodução de A. swirskii e N. cucumeris (3,02; 2,87 ovos/♀/dia) foi registrada a 35 °C, enquanto a mínima (2,00; 1,36 ovos/♀/dia) foi registrada a 25 °C. Os parâmetros da tabela de vida foram estimados como taxa reprodutiva líquida (Ro) 21,68, 25,94, 29,52 e 18,95, 20,25, 22,78; o tempo médio de geração (T) 24,92, 21,82, 18,24 e 26,30, 23,60, 20,56 d; a taxa intrínseca de aumento (rm) 0,181, 0,232, 0,248 e 0,170, 0,185, 0,196; a taxa finita de aumento (λ) 1,365, 1,551, 1,706 e 1,126, 1,324, 1,428 para A. swirskii e N. cucumeris a 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C respectivamente. Os resultados deste estudo sugerem que as duas espécies de fitoseídeos são promissores agentes de controle biológico de O. afrasiaticus em uma ampla faixa de temperaturas. tamareira McGregor (McGregor Acari (Acari Tetranychidae, Tetranychidae , Tetranychidae) África precocemente pragas AthiasHenriot Athias Henriot Oudemans (Oudemans Phytoseiidae, Phytoseiidae Phytoseiidae) Saudita (2 C 3 5 UR 2 N seja feminino 937 9 37 9,37 729 7 29 7,29 556 56 5,5 1067 10 67 10,67 838 8 38 8,38 645 6 45 6,4 d 1977 19 77 19,77 1618 16 18 16,18 1394 13 94 13,9 1590 15 90 15,90 1384 84 13,84 1064 64 10,6 2939 39 29,39 2479 24 79 24,79 2064 20 20,6 2542 42 25,42 2194 21 21,94 1739 17 17,3 dias fecundidade 3191 31 91 31,91 3710 37,10 4216 42,1 2175 75 21,75 2684 26 26,84 3056 30,5 fêmea respectivamente 37086 370 86 370,86 38754 387 54 387,54 40583 405 83 405,83 23214 232 14 232,14 26332 263 32 263,32 24885 248 85 248,8 3,02 302 02 (3,02 287 87 2,8 ovos/♀/dia ovosdia dia 2,00 200 00 (2,00 136 1 36 1,3 Ro (Ro 2168 68 21,68 2594 25,94 2952 52 29,5 1895 95 18,95 2025 20,25 22,78 2278 22 78 T (T 2492 92 24,92 2182 82 21,82 1824 18,2 2630 26,30 2360 23 60 23,60 2056 20,5 rm (rm 0181 0 181 0,181 0232 0,232 0248 0,24 0170 170 0,170 0185 185 0,185 0,196 0196 196 λ (λ 1365 365 1,365 1551 551 1,551 1706 706 1,70 1126 126 1,126 1324 324 1,324 1428 428 1,42 temperaturas ( 93 9,3 72 7,2 55 5, 106 8,3 4 6, 197 19,7 161 16,1 139 13, 159 15,9 138 13,8 10, 293 29,3 247 24,7 206 20, 254 25,4 219 21,9 173 17, 319 31,9 371 37,1 421 42, 217 21,7 268 26,8 305 30, 3708 370,8 3875 387,5 4058 40 405,8 2321 232,1 2633 263,3 2488 248, 3,0 (3,0 28 2, 2,0 (2,0 1, 216 21,6 259 25,9 295 29, 189 18,9 202 20,2 22,7 227 249 24,9 218 21,8 182 18, 26,3 236 23,6 205 018 0,18 023 0,23 024 0,2 017 0,17 0,19 019 155 1,55 70 1,7 112 12 1,12 132 1,32 142 1,4 9, 7, 8, 19, 16, 15, 24, 25, 21, 31, 37, 26, 370, 387, 405, 232, 263, 3, (3, (2, 22, 23, 01 0,1 0, 1,5 11 1,1 (3

Abstract The date palm mite, Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae), is a serious pest of dates in the Middle East and North Africa, inflicting severe economic damage if not controlled early. As predaceous mites are known to be potential biocontrol agents against several pests, so predation capacity, life table, reproduction, and survival of Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot and Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans) (Acari: Phytoseiidae), collected from date palm farms in Qassim Saudi Arabia, were studied under laboratory conditions (25 °C, 30 °C, 35 °C and 50 ± 5% RH) against all motile stages of O. afrasiaticus. For both predators, mean developmental time, oviposition period, and longevity were inversely related to temperature from 25 to 35 °C. Various parameters were studied for A. swirskii and N. cucumeris at 25 °C, 30 °C and 35 °C, i.e. the female developmental time, 9.37, 7.29, 5.56, and 10.67, 8.38, 6.45 d; oviposition period, 19.77, 16.18, 13.94 and 15.90, 13.84, 10.64 d; longevity, 29.39, 24.79, 20.64 and 25.42, 21.94, 17.39 d; fecundity, 31.91, 37.10, 42.16 and 21.75, 26.84, 30.56 eggs per female, respectively. The maximum daily predation rate for both the predators was recorded at 35 °C during the oviposition period. The total predation of A. swirskii and N. cucumeris female was 370.86, 387.54, 405.83, 232.14, 263.32, 248.85 preys at 25 °C, 30 °C and 35 °C respectively. The maximum reproduction rate of A. swirskii and N. cucumeris (3.02, 2.87 eggs/♀/day) was recorded at 35 °C while the minimum (2.00, 1.36 eggs/♀/day) was recorded at 25 °C. The life table parameters were estimated as net reproductive rate (Ro) 21.68, 25.94, 29.52 and 18.95, 20.25, 22.78; the mean generation time (T) 24.92, 21.82, 18.24 and 26.30, 23.60, 20.56 d; the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) 0.181, 0.232, 0.248 and 0.170, 0.185, 0.196; the finite rate of increase (λ) 1.365, 1.551, 1.706 and 1.126, 1.324, 1.428 for A. swirskii and N. cucumeris at 25 °C, 30 °C and 35 °C respectively. The results of this study suggested that the two phytoseiid species are promising biological control agents of O. afrasiaticus at a wide range of temperatures. mite McGregor (McGregor Acari (Acari Tetranychidae, Tetranychidae , Tetranychidae) Africa early pests capacity AthiasHenriot Athias Henriot Oudemans (Oudemans Phytoseiidae, Phytoseiidae Phytoseiidae) Arabia (2 C 3 5 RH O period 2 A N ie i e i.e 937 9 37 9.37 729 7 29 7.29 556 56 5.56 1067 10 67 10.67 838 8 38 8.38 645 6 45 6.4 d 1977 19 77 19.77 1618 16 18 16.18 1394 13 94 13.9 1590 15 90 15.90 1384 84 13.84 1064 64 10.6 2939 39 29.39 2479 24 79 24.79 2064 20 20.6 2542 42 25.42 2194 21 21.94 1739 17 17.3 fecundity 3191 31 91 31.91 3710 37.10 4216 42.1 2175 75 21.75 2684 26 26.84 3056 30.5 respectively 37086 370 86 370.86 38754 387 54 387.54 40583 405 83 405.83 23214 232 14 232.14 26332 263 32 263.32 24885 248 85 248.8 3.02, 302 02 (3.02 287 87 2.8 eggs/♀/day eggsday day 2.00, 200 00 (2.00 136 1 36 1.3 Ro (Ro 2168 68 21.68 2594 25.94 2952 52 29.5 1895 95 18.95 2025 20.25 22.78 2278 22 78 T (T 2492 92 24.92 2182 82 21.82 1824 18.2 2630 26.30 2360 23 60 23.60 2056 20.5 rm (rm 0181 0 181 0.181 0232 0.232 0248 0.24 0170 170 0.170 0185 185 0.185 0.196 0196 196 λ (λ 1365 365 1.365 1551 551 1.551 1706 706 1.70 1126 126 1.126 1324 324 1.324 1428 428 1.42 temperatures ( 93 9.3 72 7.2 55 5.5 106 8.3 4 6. 197 19.7 161 16.1 139 13. 159 15.9 138 13.8 10. 293 29.3 247 24.7 206 20. 254 25.4 219 21.9 173 17. 319 31.9 371 37.1 421 42. 217 21.7 268 26.8 305 30. 3708 370.8 3875 387.5 4058 40 405.8 2321 232.1 2633 263.3 2488 248. 3.02 (3.0 28 2. 2.00 (2.0 1. 216 21.6 259 25.9 295 29. 189 18.9 202 20.2 22.7 227 249 24.9 218 21.8 182 18. 26.3 236 23.6 205 018 0.18 023 0.23 024 0.2 017 0.17 0.19 019 155 1.55 70 1.7 112 12 1.12 132 1.32 142 1.4 9. 7. 5. 8. 19. 16. 15. 24. 25. 21. 31. 37. 26. 370. 387. 405. 232. 263. 3.0 (3. 2.0 (2. 22. 23. 01 0.1 0. 1.5 11 1.1 3. (3

Resumo As respostas funcionais de larvas de Chrysoperla carnea foram avaliadas em sete diferentes densidades de ninfas de 3º instar de Aphis craccivora e Gynaikothrips ficorum, a fim de descobrir a relação entre as densidades de predadores e suas presas, e sua capacidade de controle biológico de pulgões e tripes. Os resultados revelaram que todos os instares larvais testados de Ch. carnea apresentaram resposta de tipo II em relação à presa. Além disso, os coeficientes de taxa de ataque (a) e tempo de manejo (Th) diferiram entre os vários instares de crescimento do predador e para a espécie de presa. As larvas de 3º instar de Ch. carnea manifestaram a maior taxa de ataque (1,23 e 1,22) nas ninfas de 3º instar de A. craccivora e G. ficorum, respectivamente. Além disso, a maior taxa de predação máxima (Na máx.) (50,00 e 52,63) apresentou-se em ninfas de A. craccivora e G. ficorum, respectivamente, em comparação aos demais tratamentos. Assim, é possível concluir que o Ch. carnea pode ser considerado um agente de biocontrole promissor para o manejo de A. craccivora e G. ficorum.

Abstract The functional responses of Chrysoperla carnea larvae were evaluated at different seven densities of the 3rd instar nymphs of Aphis craccivora and Gynaikothrips ficorum in order to find out the relationship between predator densities and its prey by the, and also to find out their capability for biological control of aphids and thrips. Results revealed that all tested larval instars of Ch. carnea exhibited a type II response in relation to the prey. Moreover, the coefficients of attack rate (a) and handling time (Th) was differed among various growing instars of predator and for the prey species. The 3rd instar larvae of Ch. carnea manifested the highest attacking rate (1.23 and 1.22) on the 3rd instar nymphs of A. craccivora and G. ficorum, respectively. In addition it exhibited the highest maximum predation (Na max) (50.00 and 52.63) on A. craccivora and G. ficorum nymphs, respectively as compared with the other treatments. Accordingly, Ch. carnea could be considered as a promising bio-control agent for A. craccivora and G. ficorum management.

Resumo Anthonomus grandis grandis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) é uma praga com grande potencial de destruição nas lavouras de algodão, causando danos às estruturas reprodutivas do algodoeiro. A tesourinha Marava arachidis (Dermaptera: Labiidae), é uma importante referência como predador em diversas culturas agrícolas, além de ser de fácil criação em laboratório. Com o objetivo de analisar o potencial biocontrole de larvas de A. grandis grandis por M. arachidis, foi realizado um estudo de capacidade predatória utilizando um modelo de resposta funcional. Larvas de A. grandis grandis foram expostas ao predador nas densidades: 1, 2, 4, 6 e 8 larvas (= presa/predador/placa de Petri), com 30 repetições em cada densidade. O contato entre o predador e a presa ocorreu durante 24 horas; após esse período, o nível de predação de M. arachidis foi avaliado com base na proporção de larvas predadas. O coeficiente de regressão logística linear foi utilizado com um modelo linear generalizado beta-binomial para determinar a resposta funcional. O sinal negativo do coeficiente linear e os testes de ajuste revelaram uma resposta funcional quadrática ou tipo II, com o número de presas variando de 1,00 larva (densidade de 1 larva/predador) a 6,50 larvas (densidade de 8 larvas/predador). Portanto, os resultados do presente estudo demonstram uma alta capacidade predatória de M. arachidis sobre larvas de A. grandis grandis. Coleoptera (Coleoptera Curculionidae algodão algodoeiro Dermaptera (Dermaptera Labiidae, Labiidae , Labiidae) agrícolas laboratório M densidades 2 4 = ( presapredadorplaca placa Petri, Petri Petri) 3 densidade horas período predadas betabinomial beta binomial II 100 00 1,0 larva/predador larvapredador 650 50 6,5 larvas/predador. larvaspredador larvas/predador . larvas/predador) Portanto 10 0 65 5 6,

Abstract Anthonomus grandis grandis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a pest with a large potential for destruction in cotton crops, causing damage to the cotton reproductive structures. The earwig Marava arachidis (Dermaptera: Labiidae), is an important reference as a predator in several crops and being easy to rear in the laboratory. To analyze the potential biocontrol of M. arachidis of A. grandis grandis larvae, a study of predatory capacity was conducted using a functional response model. A. grandis grandis larvae were exposed to the predator at densities 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 larvae (= prey/predator / Petri dish), with 30 replications at each density. Contact between the predator and the prey occurred for 24 hours; after this period, the level of predation of M. arachidis was assessed based on the proportion of preyed larvae. The linear logistic regression coefficient was used with a beta-binomial generalized linear model to determine the functional response. The negative signal of the linear coefficient and the goodness-of-fit tests revealed a quadratic or type II functional response, with the number of prey varying from 1.00 larva (density of 1 larva/predator) to 6.50 larvae (density of 8 larvae/predator). Therefore, the results of the present study demonstrate a high predatory capacity of M. arachidis on A. grandis grandis larvae. Coleoptera (Coleoptera Curculionidae structures Dermaptera (Dermaptera Labiidae, Labiidae , Labiidae) laboratory M A 2 4 6 = ( preypredator dish, dish dish) 3 density hours period betabinomial beta binomial goodnessoffit goodness fit 100 00 1.0 larva/predator larvapredator 650 50 6.5 larvae/predator. larvaepredator larvae/predator . larvae/predator) Therefore 10 0 1. 65 5 6.

Resumo Ophiactis savignyi pode ser descoberta em todo o mundo em ambientes marinhos tropicais. A população pode ter contribuído para a propagação de O. savignyi, particularmente as populações ocidentais e orientais do istmo do Panamá. A estrela-quebradiça O. savignyi, muitas vezes conhecida como estrela-quebradiça de Savignyi, coexiste com a esponja Geodia corticostylifera. O foco desta pesquisa foi avaliar a relevância funcional dos metabólitos secundários de G. corticostylifera como anti-incrustante contra mexilhões, proteção contra peixes generalistas e sinais químicos para estrelas-quebradiças afiliadas. Em estudos de laboratório com fluxo contínuo e estático de água do mar, O. savignyi, que anteriormente havia se ligado a esponjas, recebeu mimetizadores tratados e controle ao mesmo tempo. O extrato de esponja também foi testado por sua capacidade de proteger os peixes contra predadores e incrustações. Testes de dissuasão usando produtos químicos indicaram que o nível normal de extrato de esponja também pode suprimir a predação de peixes generalistas no campo, bem como a fixação normal do mexilhão Perna perna em ambientes clínicos. De acordo com os achados, o extrato bruto de G. corticostylifera tem diversas funções em ambientes aquáticos, aparentemente responsáveis pela relação mais próxima dessa esponja com O. savignyi, protegendo o ofiuroide e inibindo os epibiontes.

Abstract Ophiactis savignyi could be discovered all over the world in tropical marine environments. People could have aided in the spread of O. savignyi, particularly in the western and eastern populations of Panama's Isthmus. The brittle star Ophiactis savignyi, often known as savigny's brittle star, coexists alongside the sponge Geodia corticostylifera. The focus of this research has been to assess the functional relevance of G. corticostylifera secondary metabolites as antifoulant against mussels, protection against generalist fish, and chemical cues to affiliated brittle stars. Both in flow-through and static seawater laboratory studies, O. savignyi which has previously been connected with sponges, was given both treated and control mimics at the same time. The sponge extract was also tested for its ability to protect fish against predators and fouling. Deterrence test using chemicals indicated that the normal level of the sponge extract may also suppress generalist fish predation in the field as well as the mussel Perna perna’s normal attachment in clinical contexts. According to the findings, G. corticostylifera crude extract has many roles in the aquatic environments, apparently being accountable for this sponge's tighter relationship with O. savignyi, which protects the ophiuroid and inhibits epibionts on itself.

Abstract The exploited mangrove crab Ucides cordatus, an important ecosystem engineer in South American mangroves, has a biphasic lifecycle with pelagic larvae developing offshore. Megalopae return to the mangrove forest to settle, i.e., metamorphose into benthic juveniles but its environmental drivers remain poorly understood. We postulate that conspecific crabs facilitate recruitment. In the field, we investigated whether the number of recruits is higher near conspecific burrows than in areas without conspecific bioturbation. Recruit sampling was conducted monthly from April 2008 to May 2009 along an environmental gradient. First, U. cordatus recruits of that year emerged from March to July. Intraspecific facilitation was indicated by significantly higher recruit numbers in bioturbated than in non-bioturbated substrates. Recruits were most abundant in zones with intermediate conditions of inundation, leaf litter standing stock, sediment consistency, luminosity, temperature, salinity, and pH. Avoidance of more inundated zones likely reduces predation by fishes and of less inundated zones helps individuals escape more stressful, drier environmental conditions. The observed habitat-specific recruitment pattern must be considered when designing field assessments of the population structure of U. cordatus (which should include sampling recruits) and enhancing stocks by releasing laboratory-cultivated larvae and first juveniles into the wild. mangroves offshore settle ie i e i.e. understood bioturbation 200 gradient First U July nonbioturbated non substrates inundation stock consistency luminosity temperature salinity pH stressful habitatspecific habitat specific which laboratorycultivated laboratory cultivated wild i.e 20 2

ABSTRACT Habitat loss and land use changes resulting from urbanization in residential communities are among the greatest threats to wild mammals. Identifying anthropogenic factors determining mammal diversity and composition can help coordinate socio-economic development with ecological conservation. In this study, we used transect surveys to compare the mammal assemblages near human-disturbed communities with those in the natural off-community area around Beijing, a major metropolis. We assessed the variables affecting the mammals’ presence using 19 environmental indicators. Of the twelve mammal species detected in the area, three vulnerable species have obtained legislative protection. In 58% of the observations, mammals were discovered around communities closer to croplands and located at slightly higher elevations with less vegetation, and these are the main environmental variables contributing to more mammals’ presences in the disturbed near-community area. The selection of croplands for the mammals in the suburb should be a trade-off between feeding benefits and predation risks, and with the rise of protection willingness, green zones near residential communities can serve as additional habitats for mammals facing the expansion of urbanization. socioeconomic socio economic conservation study humandisturbed human offcommunity off community Beijing metropolis 1 indicators 58 observations vegetation nearcommunity tradeoff trade risks willingness 5

ABSTRACT Duponchelia fovealis is an important pest in strawberry crops. In search of an alternative biological control method, the objective of this study was to assess the effects of a diet composed of Ephestia kuehniella or D. fovealis eggs offered to Chrysoperla externa larvae on their subsequent development and survival under controlled conditions. Biological and reproductive parameters of C. externa were assessed. Additionally, the daily predation of D. fovealis eggs by C. externa was analyzed. Finally, a fertility life table was constructed. The egg-to-pupa development time differed significantly between diets. The weights of firstand second-generation male C. externa pupae were significantly higher when fed on D. fovealis eggs. Males tended to live longer on a diet based on D. fovealis eggs, but females presented no significant differences between diets. The oviposition period tended to be longer for C. externa fed on D. fovealis eggs. The time between generations and the net reproductive rate were greater for C. externa fed on D. fovealis eggs. The results showed that D. fovealis eggs are a suitable diet for the development of C. externa. This information is important for developing protocols for the use of C. externa as a biocontrol agent against this pest. crops method D conditions C assessed Additionally analyzed Finally constructed eggtopupa egg pupa diets secondgeneration second generation

RESUMO Duponchelia fovealis é uma praga severa no cultivo do morangueiro. Na busca de uma alternativa de agente de controle biológico, avaliamos o impacto de uma dieta composta por ovos de Ephestia kuehniella ou D. fovealis oferecidas às larvas de Chrysoperla externa em seu subsequente desenvolvimento e sobrevivência, sob condições controladas. Foram avaliados os parâmetros biológicos e reprodutivos de C. externa e a predação diária de ovos de D. fovealis por C. externa. Por fim, foi construída a tabela de vida de fertilidade. A duração do período do ovo à pupa diferiu significativamente entre as dietas. O peso das pupas de C. externa foi significativamente maior quando alimentadas com ovos de D. fovealis para machos de primeira e segunda geração. Os machos tenderam a viver mais tempo com uma dieta baseada em ovos de D. fovealis, mas não foram detectadas diferenças significativas entre as dietas para as fêmeas. O período de oviposição tendeu a ser mais longo em C. externa alimentada com ovos de D. fovealis. A predação média diária da primeira geração de C. externa foi afetada pela dieta. O tempo entre cada geração e a taxa líquida de reprodução foram maiores para C. externa alimentada com ovos de D. fovealis do que quando alimentada com ovos de E. kuehniella. Nossos resultados comprovaram que os ovos de D. fovealis são uma dieta adequada para o desenvolvimento de C. externa. Esta informação é valiosa no desenvolvimento de protocolos para o uso de C. externa como agente de controle desta praga. morangueiro biológico D sobrevivência controladas C fim fertilidade fêmeas E

Abstract In the Brazilian Cerrado, the Red-and-green Macaw (Ara chloropterus) populations are facing an accelerated rate of habitat loss. Despite this, their feeding areas and primary food sources remain poorly understood. In this study, I assessed the relationship between the diet of the Red-and-green Macaw and available food resources in a habitat mosaic from the fragmented Cerrado in Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. Red-and-green Macaws fed on 20 native and five exotic species, mainly in dry habitats (Cerrado, dry forest, and an urban area along the Maracaju Cliffs) during the dry season, while year-round foraging in the riparian vegetation (Aquidauana River and streams). Then, the number of feeding macaws paralleled variations in food abundance and diversity, besides the number of food species. On the other hand, by using a wide variety of abundant foods, macaws' diet breadth presented high values throughout the year. The seasonal consumption of large-seeded fruits across the habitat mosaic displayed a gradient ranging from the urban area to dry habitats, along which macaws ate from exotic to Cerrado species. In this respect, Terminalia catappa seeds and Mangifera indica fruit pulp were important for Red-and-green Macaws in the urban area during the wet season, while Caryocar brasiliense seeds comprised the same in the Cerrado. At this site, both Dipteryx alata and Buchenavia tomentosa seeds composed much of the Red-and-green Macaws' diet during the dry season. Between those habitats, in the watercourse vegetation, macaws frequently foraged on palm fruits across seasons. Therefore, throughout the year, the abundance and variety of food resources strongly influenced the number of foraging Red-and-green Macaws across the habitat mosaic. Understanding the effect of varying seed availability on the spatial and temporal abundance patterns of Red-and-green Macaws, which primarily feed on large-seeded species, is central to developing effective conservation strategies. Due to the accelerated habitat loss, the Maracaju Cliffs emerge as crucial for the Red-and-green Macaw among the Cerrado remnants of Mato Grosso do Sul. Redandgreen Red green Ara chloropterus loss understood study State Brazil 2 species (Cerrado forest season yearround year round Aquidauana streams. streams . streams) Then diversity hand foods largeseeded large seeded respect site seasons Therefore strategies

Resumo No Cerrado brasileiro, as populações de arara-vermelha (Ara chloropterus) estão sob forte pressão de perda de habitat, ao mesmo tempo em que suas áreas de alimentação e importantes itens alimentares permanecem praticamente desconhecidos. Neste estudo, avaliei a relação entre a dieta e oferta de recursos alimentares para a arara-vermelha, em um mosaico de habitats, no fragmentado Cerrado do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Registrei o consumo de 20 espécies nativas e 5 exóticas, sendo que os hábitats secos (Cerrado, mata estacional e área urbana em meio a Serra de Maracaju) serviram como principais áreas de alimentação no decorrer da estação seca. Por outro lado, a vegetação ripária (Rio Aquidauana e riachos) foi explorada em proporções semelhantes em ambas estações. O uso sazonal de espécies com grandes sementes, ao longo do mosaico de habitats, exibiu um gradiente da área urbana aos habitats secos ao longo do qual as araras consumiram desde espécies exóticas até as do Cerrado. As sementes de Terminalia catappa e polpa de Mangifera indica foram responsáveis por grande parte da alimentação delas na área urbana durante a estação chuvosa, enquanto as sementes de Cariocar brasiliense correspondeu ao mesmo no Cerrado. As sementes de Dipteryx alata e Buchenavia tomentosa, também no Cerrado, ficaram no extremo oposto do gradiente, sendo consumidos durante a estação seca. Em meio ao gradiente, ficaram os frutos de palmeiras, explorados na vegetação dos cursos d`água, tanto nas chuvas quanto na seca. O número de araras-vermelhas se alimentando foi paralelo a abundância de alimentos, bem como ao número e diversidade de espécies de alimentares. Já a amplitude de nicho alimentar exibiu valores elevados durante o ano todo, refletindo o consumo de uma variedade de frutos abundantes. Portanto, não apenas a abundância, mas também a variedade de recursos alimentares influenciou fortemente o número de araras-vermelhas alimentando-se ao longo do mosaico de habitats durante todo o ano. Como as araras-vermelhas dependem extensamente de espécies com sementes grandes, entender como a oferta diversificada desses recursos pode afetar suas variações temporais e espaciais de abundância são fundamentais para o desenvolvimento de planos de conservação. Dessa forma, face ao acelerado desmatamento do Cerrado no Mato Grosso do Sul, a Serra de Maracaju, em meio aos remanescentes do Cerrado, emerge como crucial para as populações persistentes de araras-vermelhas. brasileiro araravermelha arara vermelha Ara chloropterus habitat desconhecidos estudo araravermelha, vermelha, Sul 2 (Cerrado Maracaju seca lado Rio riachos estações chuvosa tomentosa palmeiras dágua d água d`água ararasvermelhas vermelhas alimentos abundantes Portanto alimentandose conservação forma ararasvermelhas. vermelhas.

Abstract: Seeds of the genus Eugenia have high regenerative capacity, producing roots and shoots from seeds with reduced cotyledon matter. In addition, seeds of this genus regenerate new roots and shoots when the first roots and shoots are eliminated, and this characteristic is maintained even when the seed reserves are reduced by up to half. The aim of this study was to analyze the limits of new root and shoot regenerative capacity in whole and fractionated Eugenia candolleana seeds at different maturity stages. The regenerative capacity of seeds stored for six months was also evaluated. The seeds were sown; and when the first roots and shoots were produced, they were eliminated, simulating herbivory conditions. The results showed that the seed not only has high regenerative capacity at different maturity stages, but also that it maintains root regeneration when the seed is reduced by half, even after the storage period. Such information may indicate that seeds of the Eugenia genus can await the next crop season by regenerating several times as a way to withstand or tolerate predation. This ability can be understood as a propagation strategy of the species. Abstract matter addition eliminated half stages evaluated sown produced conditions period predation species

Resumo: Sementes do gênero Eugenia apresentam alta capacidade regenerativa, produzindo raízes e partes aéreas a partir de sementes que tiveram redução da massa cotiledonar. Também, foi observado, para sementes deste gênero, a regeneração de novas raízes e partes aéreas, quando as primeiras raízes e partes aéreas são eliminadas, ainda, tal característica se mantém quando a semente teve suas reservas reduzidas pela metade. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar os limites das regenerações de novas raízes e partes aéreas em sementes inteiras e fracionadas de Eugenia candolleana, em diferentes estádios de maturação. Avaliou-se também, a capacidade regenerativa em sementes armazenadas por seis meses. As sementes foram semeadas e quando emitiram as primeiras raízes e partes aéreas, estas foram eliminadas, simulando uma condição de herbivoria. Os resultados mostraram que, além de apresentar alta capacidade regenerativa em diferentes estádios de maturação, a semente reduzida pela metade, a regeneração de raízes se manteve, inclusive após o período de armazenamento, tais informações podem indicar que sementes do gênero Eugenia são capazes de aguardar a próxima safra regenerando diversas vezes, como maneira de suportar ou tolerar a predação. Essa habilidade pode ser entendida como estratégia de propagação da espécie. Resumo cotiledonar Também observado eliminadas ainda metade candolleana maturação Avaliouse Avaliou também meses herbivoria manteve armazenamento vezes predação espécie