ABSTRACT Harmful algal blooms (HABs) can negatively affect coastal water quality, aquatic fauna, and human health from the consumption of toxin-contaminated seafood. Estuaries are especially prone to the incidence of these noxious events and sensitive to the associated damage. This study represents a comprehensive overview of previous investigations reporting the occurrence of harmful algae and/or phycotoxins in the Paranaguá Estuarine Complex (CEP), in Southern Brazil. Secondary data from 2002 to 2021 were combined with new results obtained from widely spaced sampling campaigns performed from 2018 to 2019 to assess the periods and estuarine sectors at greater risk for the incidence of HABs. In total, about 600 water/sediment samples containing harmful microalgae and 675 tissue samples of phycotoxin-contaminated fauna were analyzed. The most frequent and abundant species of potentially toxic microalgae were dinoflagellates belonging to the species complexes Dinophysis acuminata and Prorocentrum lima, producers of diarrhetic shellfish toxins (DSTs), and diatoms of the genus Pseudo-nitzschia, producers of amnesic shellfish toxins (ASTs). Okadaic acid, a DST, was by far the most common toxin in the fauna, reaching higher levels in primary consumers such as bivalve mollusks (mussels, oysters, and clams), zooplankton, and suspension-feeding crustaceans (ghost shrimps), and moderate to low levels in cephalopods, fishes, gastropods, echinoderms, sea turtles, seabirds, and cetaceans. Less rainy periods (winter-early spring) were associated with the highest incidence of DSTs and blooms of their producing algae P. lima and Dinophysis spp., mainly in the middle region of Paranaguá Bay and on the shallow continental platform adjacent to the estuarine mouth. However, certain HAB-forming species may be more successful in inner estuarine areas ( Prorocentrum cordatum) and during different periods, such as late summer—early fall ( Pseudo-nitzschia spp.). Continuous monitoring of harmful algae and toxins is therefore highly recommended to mitigate the effects of HABs in the entire estuary. (HABs quality toxincontaminated contaminated seafood damage andor or CEP, CEP , (CEP) Brazil 200 202 201 total 60 watersediment sediment 67 phycotoxincontaminated phycotoxin analyzed DSTs, (DSTs) Pseudonitzschia, Pseudonitzschia Pseudo nitzschia, nitzschia ASTs. ASTs . (ASTs) acid DST mussels, mussels (mussels oysters clams, clams clams) zooplankton suspensionfeeding suspension feeding ghost shrimps, shrimps shrimps) cephalopods fishes gastropods echinoderms turtles seabirds cetaceans winterearly winter early spring P spp spp. mouth However HABforming HAB forming cordatum summerearly summer spp.. spp.) estuary (CEP 20 6 (DSTs (ASTs 2

ABSTRACT Bycatch species are as important as target species in the challenge of comprehensive fishery management. This is especially the case for vulnerable species such as elasmobranchs in offshore areas of the Colombian Pacific Ocean (CPO), for which information is scarce and long-term databases are used. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the bycatch in tuna purse-seine fishery with an elasmobranch species approach using fishery data from 2000 to 2019. A total of 59 bycatch species were identified, including 27 bony fishes, 22 elasmobranchs, two mollusks, four sea turtles, and four dolphins. The total bycatch percentage was 20.8%, with elasmobranchs accounting for less than 5%. Fish aggregating devices (FADs) and class 6 vessels recorded the highest percentage of bycatch. Bony fish bycatch was mainly obtained from the border of Ecuador until 4° N across the CPO. Elasmobranchs were captured throughout the CPO, showing differences by vessel class and fishing method. The silky shark Carcharhinus falciformis was the most caught species. Elasmobranch spatial abundance and capture hotspots showed the highest values towards the northern coast, in offshore areas of Gorgona Island, southwards in offshore areas, and around Malpelo Island. FADs captured the highest number of bycatch species compared with other fishing methods, such as Tuna Associated with Dolphins (DEL), Natural Floating Objects (NAT), and Tuna not Associated (NoAs). Management recommendations for bycatch species in this fishery are provided in the CPO. management CPO , (CPO) longterm long term used Therefore purseseine purse seine 200 2019 5 identified 2 fishes mollusks turtles dolphins 208 20 8 20.8% 5% (FADs 4 method coast Island methods DEL, DEL (DEL) NAT, NAT (NAT) NoAs. NoAs . (NoAs) (CPO 201 20.8 (DEL (NAT (NoAs 20.

Abstract To address urban turtle sampling challenges, we presented Hookless fishing with clip, a cost-effective method for sampling this important group. Effectiveness, biases and potential advantages were analysed in comparison to two commonly used methods (funnel trap and hand capture). Fieldwork was conducted between August and November/2021 in four areas in Brazil, using the three methods simultaneously. A total of 195 turtles from four species (Phrynops geoffroanus, Hydromedusa tectifera, Trachemys dorbigni and T. scripta elegans) were captured. Funnel trap demonstrate a significantly higher capture than hand capture, while Hookless fishing showed no significant difference in captures compared to funnel trap. The highest catch per unit effort values were observed for the new method (0.37) and the funnel trap (0.34). Despite being widely used, funnel traps were the only method to exhibit male bias. Our findings revealed that Hookless fishing with clip exhibited remarkable capture efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ease of transport and utilization; however, it requires operator presence. Nevertheless, the proposed method, both as the primary or auxiliary approach, appears efficient in enhancing captures and reducing costs and risks. This innovative method has the potential to assist researchers studying omnivorous and carnivores freshwater turtles in environments worldwide, especially in human settlements. challenges costeffective cost effective group Effectiveness capture. . capture) November2021 November 2021 November/202 Brazil simultaneously 19 Phrynops geoffroanus tectifera T elegans captured 0.37 037 0 37 (0.37 0.34. 034 0.34 34 (0.34) bias efficiency costeffectiveness, costeffectiveness effectiveness, effectiveness cost-effectiveness utilization however presence Nevertheless approach risks worldwide settlements November202 202 November/20 1 0.3 03 3 (0.3 (0.34 November20 20 November/2 0. (0. November2 2 November/ (0 (

Abstract The big-headed Amazon River turtle, Peltocephalus dumerilianus, is endemic to the Orinoco and Amazon River basins. It is a food source for local communities, often unsustainably. Knowledge about P. dumerilianus’ parasitological fauna and host-parasite relationships is limited. Thus, ecological aspects of gastrointestinal parasitism in this species were investigated. Helminths were found in the gastrointestinal tract of 21 turtles, morphologically identified, and infection descriptors calculated. All animals harbored helminths: nematodes Ancyracanthus pinnatifidus, Paratractis hystrix, Atractis trematophila, Klossinemella conciliatus indeterminate three Klossinemella species, and digeneans Nematophila grandis, Helicotrema spirale, and Telorchis hagmanni. The highest parasite load occurred in the large intestine, followed by the small intestine and stomach. Shell length directly correlated with parasite burden of heteroxenic helminths, with males having higher burden than females. This is the first record of A. trematophila, K. conciliatus, and T. hagmanni in P. dumerilianus, and new location record for A. trematophila, P. hystrix, N. grandis, H. spirale, and T. hagmanni. Three potentially new Klossinemella species are presented. bigheaded big headed turtle dumerilianus basins communities unsustainably P hostparasite host limited Thus investigated 2 turtles identified calculated helminths pinnatifidus hystrix trematophila grandis spirale stomach females A K T N H presented

Resumo O cabeçudo, Peltocephalus dumerilianus, é endêmico das bacias dos rios Orinoco e Amazonas. Ele é uma fonte de alimento para as comunidades locais, frequentemente de maneira insustentável. O conhecimento sobre a fauna parasitológica de P. dumerilianus e suas relações hospedeiro-parasito são limitados. Assim, investigou-se os aspectos ecológicos do parasitismo gastrointestinal nessa espécie. Helmintos encontrados no trato gastrointestinal de 21 tartarugas, foram identificados morfologicamente e descritores de infecção calculados. Todos os animais abrigavam helmintos: nematoides Ancyracanthus pinnatifidus, Paratractis hystrix, Atractis trematophila, Klossinemella conciliatus e três espécies de Klossinemella indeterminados, além dos digenéticos Nematophila grandis, Helicotrema spirale e Telorchis hagmanni. A maior carga parasitária ocorreu no intestino grosso, seguida pelo intestino delgado e estômago. O comprimento da carapaça correlacionou-se diretamente com a carga de parasitos de helmintos heteroxênicos, e os machos apresentaram uma carga parasitária maior que as fêmeas. Este é o primeiro registro de A. trematophila, K. conciliatus e T. hagmanni em P. dumerilianus, e um novo registro de local para A. trematophila, P. hystrix, N. grandis, H. spirale e T. hagmanni. Três potenciais novas espécies de Klossinemella são apresentadas. cabeçudo Amazonas locais insustentável P hospedeiroparasito hospedeiro parasito limitados Assim investigouse investigou se espécie 2 tartarugas calculados pinnatifidus hystrix trematophila indeterminados grandis grosso estômago correlacionouse correlacionou heteroxênicos fêmeas K T N H apresentadas

Resumo A sexagem das espécies é uma ferramenta importante para o manejo populacional. Em tartarugas, cágados e jabutis, a sexagem geralmente é feita de acordo com características secundárias, como morfologia do plastrão ou técnicas de eversão do falo. Neste artigo, apresentamos o método de eversão do falo e comparamos sua eficiência com outras técnicas existentes. Este novo método visa encurtar o tempo de manejo e reduzir os efeitos colaterais físicos nos animais, promovendo o manejo clínico e reprodutivo do cágado-de-barbicha (Phrynops geoffroanus) e espécies relacionadas. Uma amostra de cinquenta indivíduos foi coletada na região central do estado do Piauí, Nordeste do Brasil. O método proposto consiste em remover a cabeça de sua posição de repouso. Os métodos que obtiveram índice de sucesso superior a 80% foram comparados entre si quanto ao tempo de estimulação necessário para a eversão do falo. O método aqui proposto alcançou 100% de eficiência na determinação do sexo de espécimes com comprimento de carapaça linear entre 10 e 34 cm. Além disso, quando comparado ao segundo método mais eficiente, reduziu substancialmente o tempo necessário para o manejo dos espécimes (91%), evitando possíveis sequelas nos indivíduos manuseados.

Abstract The sexing of species is an important tool for population management. In tortoises and turtles, sexing is usually done according to secondary characteristics, such as plastron morphology or phallus eversion techniques. In this paper, we present the phallus eversion method and compare its efficiency to other existing techniques. This new method aims at shortening the management time and reducing the physical aftereffects on the animals, fostering the clinical and reproductive management of Geoffroy’s side-necked turtle (Phrynops geoffroanus) and related species. A sample of fifty individuals was taken in the central region of Piauí state, Northeastern Brazil. The proposed method consisted of moving the head from its resting position. The methods achieving a success rate higher than 80% were compared to each other as for the stimulation time required for phallus eversion. The method as here proposed achieved 100% efficiency in the sex determination of specimens with a linear carapace length between 10 and 34 cm. Also, when compared to the second most efficient method, it substantially reduced the time needed for managing the specimens (91%), avoiding possible sequelae in the individuals handled.

Resumen Este trabajo presenta un análisis de las imágenes de los kurdos, Kurdistán, y la frontera que Bahman Ghobadi construye en los filmes Turtles Can Fly (2004) y Halfmoon (2006). La investigación se enfoca en el valor del cine como medio propicio para que los kurdos como comunidad marginada produzcan sus propias representaciones. Además de abordar la relevancia del medio cinematográfico en la creación y circulación de contenidos simbólicos, este estudio busca enfatizar su capacidad para configurar estos contenidos e incidir políticamente en una problemática sociohistórica contemporánea. Se plantea que al presentar a los kurdos como víctimas de la guerra y mostrar a Kurdistán como un territorio poseedor de fronteras propias, los filmes seleccionados fungen como contra-visualidades, pues cuestionan tanto la legitimidad de las fronteras de los estados nacionales en los que fue dividido Kurdistán como las representaciones sesgadas sobre los kurdos que han elaborado agentes externos.

Abstract This paper presents an analysis of the images of the Kurds, Kurdistan, and the border crafted by Bahman Ghobadi in the films Turtles Can Fly (2004) and Halfmoon (2006). The research focuses on the value of cinema as a favorable medium for Kurds to produce their own representations as a marginalized community. In addition to addressing the relevance of the cinematic medium in the creation and circulation of symbolic content, this study seeks to emphasize its ability to shape this content and politically influence a contemporary socio-historical issue. It is proposed that by presenting the Kurds as victims of war and showing Kurdistan as a territory with its own borders, the selected films act as counter-visuals, as they question both the legitimacy of the borders of the nation-states into which Kurdistan was divided and the biased representations of the Kurds that have been made by external agents.

Resumen: El análisis de patrones espaciales, temporales y ambientales en las áreas de anidación de las tortugas es indispensable para entender los factores asociados a su supervivencia, así como para lograr un óptimo desarrollo en las labores de conservación. El objetivo fue identificar patrones de influencia espacial asociados a características de sedimentos respecto a la disponibilidad de áreas de anidación para tres especies de tortugas, en un marco multitemporal. La metodología comprende dos fases. La primera fase de campo realizada durante junio y agosto de 2019 se hizo parte de las actividades de conservación que desarrollan cinco comunidades indígenas, fueron visitadas seis playas y se tomaron muestras del suelo (por especie) de los lugares donde las hembras anidaban. La segunda fase de oficina, se llevó a cabo un análisis de laboratorio de las características físicas y químicas de las muestras de suelo. Por otro lado, se realizó una clasificación supervisada a partir de imágenes satelitales Landsat 5, 7 y 8 correspondientes al mes de septiembre para cada año de actividad del programa de conservación. Fueron analizadas en total 14 muestras de suelo. Estas evidenciaron las condiciones idóneas y/o de preferencia por las tortugas para desarrollar los procesos de oviposición referente a textura, color, densidad, pH, materia orgánica, presencia de alófanos (material volcánico) y carbonatos. En paralelo, se obtuvo un total de 12 clasificaciones supervisadas en las que se evidenció variabilidad asociada con la disponibilidad de las seis playas en términos de tamaño, forma y ubicación, así como la aparición de dos nuevas extensiones y el cambio en la morfología del río. En conclusión, en la ecología reproductiva de las tortugas de río intervienen diversos factores geoespaciales y multitemporales que se relacionan con las condiciones del ecosistema acuático, así como con la disponibilidad y características propias de las playas de anidación.

Abstract: The analysis of spatial, temporal, and environmental patterns of the availability of turtle nesting areas is essential for the understanding of the factors associated with their survival, as and for an optimal development of conservation activities. The objective was to identify patterns of spatial influence associated with sediment characteristics regarding the availability of nesting areas for three species of turtles, in a multitemporal framework. The methodology comprises two phases. The first field phase was carried out during July and August of 2019, we participated in conservation activities being carried out by five indigenous communities, we visited six beaches and took soil samples from places where the females of each species nested. In the second office phase, an analysis was carried out on a laboratory analysis of the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil samples was carried out. A supervised classification of beaches was done from satellite images Landsat 5, 7 and 8, from September of each year of activity of the conservation program. A total of 14 soil samples were analyzed. They showed the ideal conditions and/or preference of turtles for oviposition processes. Such conditions included texture, color, density, pH, organic matter, presence of allophones (volcanic material) and carbonates. A total of 12 supervised beach classifications were obtained. The availability of the six beaches had remarkable variability in terms of size, shape, and location. Two new beach extensions and changes in river morphology were observed. In conclusion, in various geospatial and multi-temporal factors influence the reproductive ecology of river turtles. These are related to the conditions of the aquatic ecosystem, and the availability and characteristics of nesting sites.

Abstract Ulcerative and necrotizing dermatitis (UND) is a cutaneous disease caused by traumatic skin lesions on the necks of sea turtles. In this study we report the first findings of UND in free-ranging olive ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) in La Escobilla, Oaxaca, Mexico. We found several skin injury conditions on the necks of nesting turtles in the arribada events of the 2021 nesting season. Samples from injuries were taken with sterile swabs for bacteriological analyses, and antimicrobial resistance profiles were studied. Of the 525 turtles examined, 278 had injuries on the back of the neck (52.9% prevalence). Two bacteria (Pseudomonassp. andStaphylococcussp.) and 1 fungus (Candidasp.) were identified in 8 turtles with UND. Ciprofloxacin was the only antibiotic with high inhibition ofStaphylococcussp. andPseudomonassp. We recommend initiating a continuous monitoring program to follow the occurrence of dermatitis disease inL. olivaceain subsequent years to better document prevalence and progression of skin injuries in more individuals.

Resumen La dermatitis ulcerativa y necrotizante (DUN) es una enfermedad cutánea causada por lesiones traumáticas de la piel sobre el cuello de las tortugas marinas. En este estudio reportamos los primeros hallazgos de DUN en tortugas golfina (Lepidochelys olivacea) de vida libre en La Escobilla, Oaxaca, México. Encontramos diferentes condiciones de lesiones de piel sobre el cuello de tortugas anidantes en los eventos de arribada de la temporada de anidación de 2021. Tomamos muestras de las lesiones con hisopos estériles para los análisis bacteriológicos y estudiamos los perfiles de resistencia antimicrobiana. De las 525 tortugas examinadas, 278 presentaron lesiones en el dorso del cuello (prevalencia del 52.9%). Identificamos 2 bacterias (Pseudomonassp. yStaphylococcussp.) y 1 hongo (Candidasp.) en 8 tortugas con DUN. La ciprofloxacina fue el único antibiótico con alta inhibición deStaphylococcussp. yPseudomonassp. Recomendamos iniciar un programa de monitoreo continuo para el seguimiento de la ocurrencia de la dermatitis enL. olivaceaen los siguientes años, con el fin de documentar de mejor manera la prevalencia y la progresión de las lesiones de la piel en más individuos.

Resumen Introducción: El Campamento Tortuguero de Cedeño ha sido el sitio menos investigado del Golfo de Fonseca, donde se protege a la tortuga golfina en Honduras desde 1975. Objetivo: Evaluar la anidación de la tortuga Golfina (Lepidochelys olivacea) durante la temporada de veda entre el 2011 y 2021 en Campamento Tortuguero Cedeño, Choluteca, Honduras. Métodos: Entre 2011 a 2021, se llevó a cabo el monitoreo diario de las actividades de anidación durante la veda del 1 al 25 de septiembre. Los patrullajes se realizaron entre las 6:00-18:00 h, y las 18:00-5:00 h. Se registró el número total de tortugas que anidaban y se recogieron sus huevos, que se transportaron al criadero, donde se tabularon los resultados de las puestas y las crías. Resultados: Se registró un total 1 065 tortugas de L. olivacea, 95 051 huevos recolectados, 1 065 nidos marcados en tres playas que fueron reubicados en viveros artificiales y una eclosión exitosa de 62 747 neonatos. La playa Las Doradas fue el sitio con el mayor número de tortugas anidadoras, seguido de Los Delgaditos y por último Cedeño. El promedio de la frecuencia de anidación fue de 96 nidos. Del 2011 al 2021 el esfuerzo de recolección de los nidos aumentó en un 91.6 %, pasando de 84 a 161 nidos. El número de personas patrullando se asoció con la cantidad de nidos detectados en las playas. Conclusión: Los esfuerzos de monitoreo y conservación para la especie han indicado que ha habido un incremento en la anidación de L. olivacea en las tres playas, con un mayor incremento en Playa Las Doradas. Este escenario comprueba la funcionalidad de la veda en esta zona.

Abstract Introduction: The Cedeño Turtle Camp has been the least researched site in the Fonseca Gulf, where Olive Ridley Turtles in Honduras have been protected since 1975. Objective: To evaluate the nesting of Olive Ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) during the closed season from 2011 to 2021 in Campamento Tortuguero Cedeño, Choluteca, Honduras. Methods: From 2011 to 2021, daily monitoring of nesting activities was conducted during the closed season from the 1st to 25th of September. Patrols were conducted between 6:00-18:00 h, and 18:00-5:00 h. The total number of nesting turtles was recorded, and their eggs were collected and transported to the hatchery, where clutch and hatchling performance were tabulated. Results: A total of 1 065 L. olivacea turtles were recorded, 95 051 eggs collected, 1 065 nests marked on three beaches that were relocated in artificial hatcheries and a successful hatching of 62 747 hatchlings. Las Doradas beach was the site with the highest number of nesting turtles, followed by Los Delgaditos and lastly Cedeño. The average nesting frequency was 96 nests. From 2011 to 2021 the nest collection effort increased by 91.6 %, from 84 to 161 nests. The number of people patrolling was associated with the number of nests detected on the beaches. Conclusion: Monitoring and conservation efforts for L. olivacea in the Campamento Tortuguero Cedeño show a positive trend in nesting with a greater increase in Playa Las Doradas. This scenario proves the functionality of the closed season in this area.

Resumen Introducción. La normativa que regula los alimentos balanceados asegura el bienestar de las mascotas, la salud pública y la seguridad al consumidor, por lo que es valioso corroborar el contenido de los nutrimentos declarados en las etiquetas. Objetivo. Determinar el cumplimiento del análisis de garantía de 34 alimentos importados para perros, gatos, hámsters, conejos, peces ornamentales y tortugas, y comparar los resultados con las recomendaciones nutricionales encontradas en la literatura. Materiales y métodos. Durante los meses de agosto y diciembre del año 2018, se obtuvieron muestras de alimento de perros (10), gatos (10), peces ornamentales (5), tortugas (4), hámster (3) y conejos (2); mediante compra directa en diferentes puntos de venta en San José, Costa Rica. Se analizó el contenido de humedad, proteína cruda (PC), extracto etéreo (EE), fibra cruda (FC), calcio, fósforo, sal y carbohidratos. Se calculó el contenido promedio, la desviación estándar, el valor máximo y mínimo de cada nutrimento en cada grupo de alimento, según la especie animal. Los valores individuales y promedios obtenidos se compararon con los valores declarados en la etiqueta y las recomendaciones nutricionales encontradas en la literatura. Resultados. Los nutrimentos que presentaron incumplimientos fueron: sal (27), calcio (16) y energía (14). Además, se encontró que alimentos no declaraban el contenido de sal (14), calcio (9) y fósforo (7). Con respecto a los requerimientos mínimos nutricionales, veintidós alimentos presentaron deficiencias o excesos en al menos un nutrimento (carbohidratos (11) y extracto etéreo (7)). Conclusiones. Los alimentos balanceados importados para perros, gatos, conejos, hámster, tortugas y peces ornamentales presentaron incumplimientos en los contenidos de PC, EE, FC, EM, Ca, P y sal garantizados en la etiqueta. La composición nutricional de los alimentos evaluados limita el cumplimiento de requerimientos nutricionales de los animales, excepto para conejos que sí se cumple con los requerimientos.

Abstract Introduction. The regulations that govern balanced pet food ensure the welfare of pets, public health, and consumer safety, making it valuable to verify the nutritional content declared on labels. Objective. To determine the compliance of the guaranteed analysis of 34 imported foods for dogs, cats, hamsters, rabbits, ornamental fish, and turtles and compare the results with the nutritional recommendations found in the literature. Materials and methods. During the months of August and December of 2018, food samples of dog (10), cat (10), ornamental fish (5), turtles (4), hamster (3), and rabbits (2) food were obtained by direct purchase at different points of sale in San José, Costa Rica. The content of moisture, crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), crude fiber (CF), calcium, phosphorus, salt, and carbohydrates were analyzed. The average content, standard deviation, maximum and minimum value of each nutrient in each group of food were calculated according to the animal species. The individual and average values obtained were compared with the values declared on the label and the nutritional recommendations found in the literature. Results. The nutrients that presented non-compliances were: salt (27), calcium (16), and energy (14). Additionally, it was found that some foods did not declare the content of salt (14), calcium (9), and phosphorus (7). With respect to the minimum nutritional requirements, twenty-two samples presented deficiencies or excesses in at least one nutriment (carbohydrates (11) and ether extract (7)). Conclusions. Imported balanced foods for dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, turtles, and ornamental fish presented non-compliances in the guaranteed content of CP, EE, CF, ME, Ca, P, and salt declared on the label. The nutritional composition of the evaluated foods limits compliance with the nutritional requirements of the animals, except for rabbits that do comply with the requirements.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The Caribbean is the second most polluted sea by debris in the world. Urban waste from this region goes to open dumps and 85% of its wastewater is not treated, arriving a great proportion to the beaches. The Guanahacabibes National Park is Biosphere Reserve and the sea turtles that nest on its beaches are on the Red List of threatened species, also there are fish associated with the coral reef and seabirds in the area. Objective: To determine the risk of ecological impact of debris that end on the “El Holandés” beach of the Guanahacabibes National Park on animal biota. Materials and Methods: The collected debris was quantified and classified by type, possible origin and color. The risk of its ecological impact on animal biota was determined. Results and Discussion: The areas to the east of the camp are more contaminated with the presence of marine debris. White and blue plastic predominated (mainly lids and containers); the number of fragments whose function cannot be identified is large. There is a risk that the plastic material may be swallowed by sea turtles, birds and fish by being confused with food or hinder their normal behavior. The presence of sargassum in large quantities is a source of entry of marine debris. Conclusions: The importance of carrying out the systematic collection of marine debris is corroborated, since it is risky for the life of sea turtles, fish and birds. There is a base line for a longitudinal study.

RESUMEN Introducción: El Caribe es el segundo mar más contaminado por basura del mundo. Los residuos urbanos de esta región van a basureros a cielo abierto y el 85% de sus aguas residuales no son tratadas, arribando gran parte de estas a las playas. El Parque Nacional Guanahacabibes de Cuba es Reserva de la Biosfera y las tortugas marinas que anidan en sus playas están en la Lista Roja de especies amenazadas, existiendo peces asociados al arrecife coralino y aves marinas en el área. Objetivo: Determinar el riesgo de impacto ecológico de basura recalada en la playa “El Holandés” del Parque Nacional Guanahacabibes sobre la biota animal. Materiales y Métodos: La basura recolectada se cuantificó y clasificó por tipología, posible origen y color. Se determinó el riesgo de su impacto ecológico sobre la biota animal. Resultados y Discusión: Las áreas al este del campamento están más contaminadas. Predomina plástico blanco y azul (fundamentalmente tapas y envases); el número de fragmentos cuya función no fue identificada es grande. Existe riesgo de que el material plástico sea ingerido por tortugas marinas, aves y peces al ser confundidos con alimentos u obstaculice su comportamiento normal. La presencia de sargazo en grandes cantidades es una fuente de entrada de basura marina. Conclusiones: Se corrobora la importancia de realizar la recogida sistemática de basura marina, al ser riesgosa para la vida de tortugas marinas, peces y aves. Se cuenta con una línea base para un estudio longitudinal.

ABSTRACT Introduction: This study pretends to determine the vulnerability of sea turtle nesting areas in the western Cuban archipelago due to climate change and other threats. The objectives of this paper are: to estimate the sex ratio in every season from the temperature and the incubation period for the beaches analyzed, to evaluate the influence of the vegetation in the distribution of the nests and the embryonic development, to correlate the geomorphologic changes due to tropical storms in the Guanahacabibes peninsula with the reproductive success of the sea turtles and to document the impact generated by the accumulation of sargassum in the conduct and the reproductive success of the sea turtles. Methods: They were analyzed 21 sea turtle nesting seasons in the Guanahacabibes Peninsula. Results: It was observed an annual variation in the number of emergencies and nests per female with a well-defined biennial cycle. It was recorded a reduction in clutch size, incubation period and hatchling size. It was also estimated a higher production of females, as a consequence of the high incubation temperatures. In addition, they were monitored the dynamics of the beaches, finding important changes in the distribution and characteristics of the coastal vegetation as a result of meteorological events. They were determined areas vulnerable to coastal flooding and the impact of massive sargassum bursts. Conclusions: the evidence collected constitutes an alert for protected area managers in order to take measures aimed at mitigating the effects on the successful reproduction of sea turtles of high temperatures, meteorological events and other natural phenomena, such as sargassum bursts in the Cuban archipelago. Likewise, these results are an experience for other nesting areas in the Greater Caribbean region where they are exposed to similar threats.

RESUMEN Introducción: El presente estudio pretende determinar la vulnerabilidad de las áreas de anidación de tortugas marinas del occidente del archipiélago cubano ante el cambio climático y otras amenazas. Los objetivos del presente trabajo fueron estimar la proporción sexual por temporada a partir de la temperatura y el período de incubación para las playas analizadas, evaluar la influencia de la presencia de la vegetación en la distribución de los nidos y el desarrollo embrionario, relacionar los cambios geomorfológicos ocurridos por el paso de tormentas tropicales en la Península de Guanahacabibes con el éxito reproductivo de las tortugas marinas y documentar los impactos que generan las acumulaciones masivas de sargazo sobre la conducta y el éxito reproductivo de tortugas marinas. Métodos: Para ello se analizaron 21 temporadas de anidación de tortugas marinas en la Península de Guanahacabibes. Resultados: Se observó una variación anual en el número de emergencias y nidos por hembra con un ciclo bienal bien definido. Se registró una reducción en el tamaño de la nidada, el período de incubación y la talla de las crías. Asimismo, se estimó una mayor producción de hembras, como consecuencia de las elevadas temperaturas de incubación. Además, se realizó un seguimiento de la dinámica de las playas en las que se encontraron cambios importantes en la distribución y características de la vegetación costera a partir del paso de eventos meteorológicos. Se determinaron las áreas vulnerables a inundaciones costeras y al impacto de las arribazones masivas de sargazo. Como conclusiones, las evidencias recopiladas constituyen una alerta para que los administradores de áreas protegidas tomen medidas de manejo dirigidas a mitigar los efectos de las elevadas temperaturas, de los impactos de eventos meteorológicos y de otros fenómenos naturales, como las arribazones de sargazo, en el éxito reproductivo de tortugas marinas en el archipiélago cubano. Asimismo, constituyen experiencias para otras áreas de anidación en la región del Gran Caribe donde se encuentran expuestas a similares amenazas.

ABSTRACT Plastic pollution has not raised much attention until the 2000s, despite being manufactured for about a century. It is now considered one of the most substantial environmental issues. Here we investigate the presence of plastic contamination in 34 stranded animals on the coast of French Guiana, South America. Here we present information highlighting the magnitude of plastic contamination in marine coastal and pelagic tropical marine vertebrates on the Equatorial Atlantic coast of South America. All four species studied here are protected and emblematic vertebrates of the region, with a fragile conservation status, including the olive ridley turtle Lepidochelys olivacea, the green turtle Chelonia mydas and the leatherback turtle Dermochelys coriacea, and a small cetacean, the Guiana dolphin Sotalia guianensis. Macroplastics (polypropylene, polyethylene, terephthalate, and polystyrene) were detected in four juvenile green turtles. Microplastics (polypropylene, polyethylene, terephthalate, polystyrene, nylon, acrylates, polycarbonates) were found in 13 individuals (two dolphins, six olive ridleys, four green turtles, and the leatherback turtle). The sampled species have different diets, distribution patterns, and ages, suggesting widespread plastic pollution. The study area is located far from the oceanic gyres. However, they are influenced by the North Brazilian Current, the Amazon River, and other rivers of the Guianas.

Resumen Introducción: En años recientes ha habido un incremento en el número de especies de reptiles consideradas amenazadas por presiones emergentes en El Salvador. Las características corporales son rasgos observables que ayudan en la evaluación de su estado de conservación, pero poco se ha hecho en El Salvador sobre este tema. Objetivo: Evaluar el estado de conservación, sexo y tamaño corporal de los reptiles de Santiago Nonualco, El Salvador. Métodos: Comparamos el estado de conservación en listados oficiales con el Índice de Vulnerabilidad Ambiental. Resultados: Identificamos 36 especies, 14 en alguna categoría de conservación, seis amenazadas y una en riesgo de extinción en El Salvador. Los individuos de tamaño corporal medio y los adultos fueron los más abundantes. Los machos fueron más grandes y abundantes, excepto en las tortugas. Conclusión: Santiago Nonualco brinda refugio a varios reptiles, incluidas especies amenazadas. Las tortugas se diferencian de otros reptiles en las diferencias sexuales; y los individuos pequeños se vieron con menos frecuencia en este censo.

Abstract Introduction: In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of reptile species considered threatened by emerging pressures in El Salvador. Body characteristics are observable traits that help in the evaluation of their conservation status, but little has been done in El Salvador on this subject. Objective: To evaluate the conservation status, sex and body size of the reptiles of Santiago Nonualco, El Salvador. Methods: We compared the conservation status in official listings with the Environmental Vulnerability Index. Results: We identified 36 species, 14 in some conservation category, six threatened and one at risk of extinction in El Salvador. Individuals of medium body size and adults were the most abundant. Males were larger and more abundant, except in turtles. Conclusion: Santiago Nonualco provides refuge for several reptiles, including threatened species. Turtles differ from other reptiles in sexual differences; and small individuals were less frequently seen in this census.

Resumen Introducción. El consumo de metales pesados puede provocar problemas de salud en los animales. Objetivo. Determinar la concentración de cadmio, mercurio, plomo y arsénico en 34 alimentos balanceados importados y comercializados en Costa Rica para perros, gatos, conejos, hámsteres, tortugas y peces ornamentales. Materiales y métodos. Se cuantificó el contenido de arsénico (As), cadmio (Cd), mercurio (Hg) y plomo (Pb) en alimentos balanceados importados para seis animales de compañía, durante los meses de mayo a octubre del año 2018. De forma aleatoria, se visitaron expendios autorizados de alimentos balanceados y se compraron diez empaques de alimento para perros y gatos, cinco para peces ornamentales, cuatro para tortugas, tres para hámsteres y dos para conejos. Las muestras fueron analizadas en el Centro de Investigación en Nutrición Animal de la Universidad de Costa Rica mediante espectrofotometría de absorción atómica con atomizador de tubo de grafito (As, Cd, Pb) y de celda de cuarzo (Hg). Resultados. Las concentraciones obtenidas en alimentos para perros y gatos, adultos y cachorros, conejos, hámsteres, peces ornamentales y tortugas, fueron para As de 0,009, 0,013, 0,003, no detectable (ND), ND, 0,036 y 0,113 ppm, respectivamente; para Cd de ND, 0,021, 0,022, 0,031, 0,010, 0,037, 0,139 y 0,043 ppm, respectivamente; para Hg de 0,101, 0,078, 0,045, 0,040, 0,031, 0,045, 0,032 y 0,032 ppm, respectivamente, y para Pb de 0,381, 0,885, 0,573, 0,740, 0,446, 0,732, 0,763 y 0,841 ppm, respectivamente. Conclusión. Los contenidos de metales pesados determinados en alimentos para mascotas, no superaron los valores máximos permitidos para su comercialización. Este trabajo incrementa la información disponible en temas de inocuidad de alimentos balanceados en peces ornamentales, hámsteres, tortugas y conejos; promueve estrategias de monitoreo continuo de estos y la comprensión del potencial real de acumulación en los animales y sus efectos en el bienestar de los mismos.

Abstract Introduction. The intake of heavy metals can cause health problems in animals. Objective. To determine the concentration of cadmium, mercury, lead, and arsenic in 34 imported balanced foods marketed in Costa Rica for dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, turtles, and ornamental fish. Materials and methods. The content of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) in imported balanced foods for six pets was quantified during the months of May to October 2018. On a random basis, authorized feed stores were visited to purchased ten packages of dog and cat food, five for ornamental fish, four for turtles, three for hamsters, and two for rabbits. The samples were analyzed at the Animal Nutrition Research Center of the Universidad de Costa Rica using atomic absorption spectrophotometry with graphite tube atomizer (As, Cd, Pb) and quartz cells (Hg). Results. The concentrations obtained in the food for dogs and cats, adults and puppies, rabbits, hamsters, ornamental fish, and turtles were for As 0.009, 0.013, 0.003, non-detectable (ND), ND, 0.036, and 0.113 ppm, respectively; for Cd ND, 0.021, 0.022, 0.031, 0.010, 0.037, 0.139, and 0.043 ppm, respectively; for Hg 0.101, 0.078, 0.045, 0.040, 0.031, 0.045, 0.032, and 0.032 ppm, respectively, and for Pb of 0.381, 0.885, 0.573, 0.740, 0.446, 0.732, 0.763, and 0.841 ppm, respectively. Conclusions. The contents of heavy metals in pet foods did not exceed the maximum values allowed for their commercialization. This work increases the information available on the safety of food for ornamental fish, hamsters, turtles, and rabbits, also promotes continuous monitoring strategies, and the understanding of the real potential for accumulation in animals, and its effects on their welfare.