ABSTRACT: Biomass is a key parameter in ecology, as it provides insight into ecosystem functioning. Length-mass estimations are widely used for this purpose due to the relatively simple and straightforward procedures required. In this study, we conducted the first assessment of length-mass relationships for 25 aquatic insect species from the Magellanic sub-Antarctic ecoregion of Chile. There were strong linear correlations between the mass and size of the study species. We found a low proportion of change in mass associated with length increase, for most species, given the obtained b values, which could indicate recent molts, incomplete chitinization, and/or dominance of early developmental stages. While the estimated parameters from linear and non-linear regressions were similar to those reported in other studies, we emphasize that simple extrapolation from other areas should be avoided due to the inherent variability of each ecosytem. The collection of length-mass estimation data provides important information on biomass and secondary production, key parameters of functional diversity.

RESUMEN: La biomasa es un parámetro clave en ecología, ya que proporciona información sobre el funcionamiento de los ecosistemas. Las estimaciones de longitud-peso se han utilizado ampliamente debido a sus procedimientos relativamente simples y directos. En este estudio, realizamos la primera evaluación de las relaciones longitud-peso para 25 especies de insectos acuáticos presentes en la ecoregión sub-Antártica chilena. Nuestros resultados indican que existe una fuerte correlación lineal entre el peso y el tamaño de los organismos, tal como indican los altos coeficientes de determinación. Encontramos valores bajos de b para la mayoría de los organismos estudiados, lo que podría indicar mudas recientes y/o grado de quitinización incompleta, o predominancia de estados de desarrollo iniciales. Si bien los parámetros estimados de las regresiones lineales y no lineales fueron similares a los reportados en otros estudios, es importante señalar que se debe evitar la extrapolación de datos desde otras áreas dada las particularidades inherentes de cada sistema. Esperamos que nuestros resultados fomenten la generación y recopilación de datos longitud-peso, ya que representan información importante sobre la biomasa y la producción secundaria, parámetros clave de la diversidad funcional.

Abstract The aquatic insects of the genus Phylloicus play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, shredding leaves and contributing to nutrient cycling in streams. Therefore, this genus is often used in laboratory experiments. However, in Cerrado regions such as Araguaia, these studies are impractical due to a lack of knowledge about basic aspects, such as their feeding preferences for local plants. Hence, our objective is to determine the native plant species in the Araguaia region preferred as food by Phylloicus. We conducted an experimental study comparing the consumption of three native Cerrado plant species: Casearia sylvestris, Astronium fraxinifolium, and Ficus guaranítica by Phylloicus. To assess differences in consumption, we performed an Analysis of Variance. The results revealed that Phylloicus larvae exhibited a feeding preference for Casearia sylvestris (F = 9.71; p = 0.004). This finding will contribute to the development of future experimental studies using Phylloicus in the Araguaia region, as understanding the feeding preferences of animals used in experiments is essential for their maintenance in the laboratory. ecosystems streams Therefore However aspects plants Hence fraxinifolium Variance F 9.71 971 9 71 0.004. 0004 0.004 . 0 004 0.004) 9.7 97 7 000 0.00 00 9. 0.0 0.

Resumo Os insetos aquáticos do gênero Phylloicus desempenham um papel essencial nos ecossistemas aquáticos, fragmentando folhas e contribuindo para a ciclagem de nutrientes nos riachos. Por isso, esse gênero é frequentemente utilizado em experimentos de laboratório. No entanto, em regiões de Cerrado como o Araguaia, esses trabalhos são inviáveis por não se conhecer aspectos básicos como a sua preferência alimentar por plantas locais. Por isso, nosso objetivo é responder quais são as espécies vegetais nativas da região do Araguaia preferidas para a alimentação de Phylloicus. Fizemos um trabalho experimental comparando o consumo de três espécies vegetais nativas do Cerrado: Casearia sylvestris, Astronium fraxinifolium e Ficus guaranítica pelos Phylloicus. Para avaliar as diferenças no consumo, realizamos uma Análise de Variância. Os resultados obtidos revelaram que as larvas de Phylloicus demonstraram preferência alimentar por Casearia sylvestris (F = 9.71; p = 0.004). Esse achado ajudará no desenvolvimento de futuros trabalhos experimentais utilizando Phylloicus na região do Araguaia, uma vez que é essencial o conhecimento da preferência alimentar dos animais utilizados nos experimentos para sua manutenção em laboratório. riachos isso laboratório entanto locais Variância F 9.71 971 9 71 0.004. 0004 0.004 . 0 004 0.004) 9.7 97 7 000 0.00 00 9. 0.0 0.

Abstract The Northeastern Mata Atlântica Freshwater ecoregion (NMAF) is part of the 25 worlds biodiversity hotspots. It comprises the Central Atlantic Forest Ecological Corridor and Chapada Diamantina Complex (in part), including high rates of endemism in coastal freshwater ecosystems. However, estimates indicate a high population decline in Freshwater ecosystems. Trichoptera are the most affected insect order, with average extinction rates of ~9% and many unknown species (e.g., estimates are around 50% in Brazil and Ecuador). This crisis can be aggravated by gaps in the knowledge of species (Linnean shortfall) and their distribution (Wallacean shortfall), caused mainly by a lack of investment in extensive fauna inventories and human resources related to systematics. Thus, to face these shortfalls in NMAF, we describe four new species of. H. (Feropsyche) and provide new distribution records. In addition, we perform niche modeling based on the species distributions of the group to identify areas with high environmental suitability to direct biodiversity research efforts on NMAF, a highly endemic and underexplored ecoregion. We increased the number of known species of NMAF from seven to 16 species. The niche modeling pointed to two areas as priorities to guide the strategies to reduce shortfalls in the NMAF. (NMAF 2 hotspots part, , part) ecosystems However order 9 ~9 e.g., eg e g (e.g. 50 Ecuador. Ecuador . Ecuador) Linnean shortfall Wallacean shortfall, systematics Thus H Feropsyche (Feropsyche records addition 1 ~ e.g. (e.g 5 e.g

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

Resumen Introducción: La información taxonómica de macroinvertebrados acuáticos brinda información importante para caracterizar la biodiversidad en ecosistemas acuáticos, pero en muchos casos, algunos grupos (e.g. Diptera) no se clasifican al mismo nivel taxonómico que otros debido a las dificultades y el escaso conocimiento sobre estos. Esta situación toma mayor relevancia en regiones poco estudiadas y/o afectadas por presiones antrópicas como en el río Garagoa en el departamento de Boyacá, Colombia. Objetivo: Estudiar la biodiversidad de los macroinvertebrados acuáticos del río Garagoa al nivel taxonómico más bajo posible en un gradiente altitudinal. Métodos: Entre marzo y junio de 2021 se tomaron muestras en 40 sitios abarcando un gradiente altitudinal entre 500 y 2 887 m.s.n.m., realizando un muestreo aleatorio estratificado (36 redes Surber por sitio). Resultados: Se registraron un total de 70 taxones, sin embargo, usando una técnica de rarefacción, la riqueza estimada para el río Garagoa puede ser superior a 104 taxones. Los órdenes con el mayor número de taxones fueron: Diptera, Coleoptera, Trichoptera y Ephemeroptera, siendo Chironomidae, Elmidae y Baetidae las familias más ricas en géneros. Varios géneros tienen una amplia distribución a lo largo del río Garagoa como Simulium, Parachironomus, Cardiocladius, Leptonema, Heterelmis, Neoelmis y Baetodes. El análisis phi-IndVal nos permitió seleccionar taxones representativos en diferentes altitudes. Así, Leptohyphes y Belostoma son comunes en altitudes relativamente bajas, mientras que Culoptila, Lumbriculus y Physa son representativos de altitudes intermedias. Finalmente, Gundlachia, Dugesia y Pentaneura fueron exclusivos y frecuentes en los sitios de mayor altitud. Conclusiones: La composición de comunidad de macroinvertebrados acuáticos en el río Garagoa presentó diferencias notables respecto al gradiente altitudinal evaluado que contrastaron con los patrones de biodiversidad esperados. Se resalta la importancia de incluir taxones que generalmente no se informan en los estudios de biodiversidad, para comprender mejor los patrones de distribución de las comunidades acuáticas en arroyos de los Andes.

Abstract Introduction: The taxonomic identification of aquatic macroinvertebrates allows characterizing biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems, but in many cases some groups (e.g. Diptera) are not classified to the same taxonomic level than other due to difficulties and poor knowledge on these groups. It becomes relevant in regions little studied and affected by anthropic pressures, such as the Garagoa River in the department of Boyacá, Colombia. Objective: To study the biodiversity of aquatic macroinvertebrates from Garagoa river at the lowest taxonomical level possible in an altitudinal gradient. Methods: From March to June 2021, samples were taken at 40 sites in an altitudinal gradient between 500 and 2 887 m.a.s.l., performing a stratified aleatory sampling (36 Surber nets per site). Results: A total of 70 taxa were reported, however, using a rarefaction technique, the estimated richness for the Garagoa River may be greater than 104 taxa. The orders with the largest number of taxa were: Diptera, Coleoptera, Trichoptera and Ephemeroptera with Chironomidae, Elmidae and Baetidae being the families with the richest genera. Several genera have a wide distribution along the Garagoa River as Simulium, Parachironomus, Cardiocladius, Leptonema, Heterelmis, Neoelmis and Baetodes. The phi-IndVal analysis allowed us to select representative taxa at different altitudes. Thus, Lepthyphes and Belostoma are common with relatively low altitudes, while Culoptila, Lumbriculus and Physa are representative of intermediate altitudes. Finally, Gundlachia, Dugesia and Pentaneura were exclusive and frequent at the higher altitude sites. Conclusions: The composition of the aquatic macroinvertebrate community presented notable differences with respect to the evaluated altitudinal gradient that contrasted with the expected biodiversity patterns. The importance of including taxa that are not generally reported in biodiversity studies is highlighted to better understand the distribution patterns of aquatic communities in Andean streams.

RESUMEN El funcionamiento ecosistémico de quebradas o arroyos altoandinos de Colombia aún es poco conocido. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la descomposición de hojas de aliso (Alnusacuminata), sietecueros (Andesanthuslepidotus) y una mezcla 1:1 de estas especies (Mixto), utilizando bolsas de hojarasca de poro amplio y fino, de 5 y 0,5 mm respectivamente, en la quebrada Las Perlas (2390 m.s.n.m.). Se recolectaron cuatro réplicas por tratamiento a los 3, 7, 15, 20 y 30 días, y se analizó la descomposición y la colonización por invertebrados (densidad, grupos funcionales de alimentación-GFA). Las tasas de descomposición (k) fueron significativamente distintas entre tratamientos y durante el experimento: A. acuminata (62 % de pérdida de masa seca) > Mixto (53 %) > A. lepidotus (31 %), principalmente en la primera semana y hacia el final del estudio. El mayor valor de k se registró en A. acuminata (- 0,019 días1) y el menor en A. lepidotus (- 0,004 días1). La densidad de macroinvertebrados colonizadores mostró una tendencia a aumentar durante el experimento, fue mayor en el día 20, y estuvo dominada principalmente por Diptera (Chironomidae, Simuliidae), Trichoptera (Hydroptilidae), Coleoptera (Elmidae) y Ephemeroptera (Leptohyphidae), mientras que en los GFA predominaron los recolectores, con los valores más altos en Mixto que en las especies por separado. En general, nuestros resultados sugieren que la colonización y la función de los invertebrados están relacionadas con la diversidad de hojas y sus mezclas, las cuales pueden definir la dinámica de la descomposición y de nutrientes en sistemas acuáticos tropicales altoandinos.

ABSTRACT The ecosystem functioning in headwater Colombian Andean streams is still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate the leaf decomposition of alder (Alnusacuminata), sietecueros (Andesanthus lepidotus) and a 1:1 mixture of the two species using coarse- (5 mm) and fine-mesh litter bags (0.5 mm) in the Las Perlas stream, a high-altitude tropical Andean aquatic system (2390 m.a.s.l.). A subset of 4-litterbags of each treatment was retrieved at 3, 7, 15, 20, and 30 days and analyzed for litter decomposition and invertebrate colonization (density, functional feeding groups-FFG). Decomposition rates (k) were significantly distinct between treatments and over the experiment: A. acuminata (62 % leaf dry mass loss) > Mixture (53 %) > A. lepidotus (31 %), mainly during the first week and toward the final phase of the study. The highest k-value was registered in A. acuminata (- 0.019 days1) and was lower in A. lepidotus (- 0.004 days1). Macroinvertebrate density tended to increase over the incubation period, was higher in the day 20, and was primarily dominated by Diptera (Chironomidae, Simuliidae), Trichoptera (Hydroptilidae), Coleoptera (Elmidae), and Ephemeroptera (Leptohyphidae), whereas the collectors predominated, attaining higher values in the Mixture than in the species alone. Overall, our results slightly suggest that invertebrate colonization and their function are related to the leaflitter diversity and mixing, which can define the dynamics of the decomposition and nutrients in tropical high-Andean aquatic systems.

ABSTRACT The male and female of a new species in the long-horned caddisfly genus Nectopsyche Müller, 1879 are described from southeastern Brazil. The new species has male genitalia similar to species of the candida-group, but has several endothecal spines in the phallic apparatus similar to those of gemma-group species. The color pattern of the scales and hairs on the head, thorax and forewings is similar to that of Nectopsyche splendida (Navás, 1917), as both species have bands of metallic silver-iridescent scales interleaved with black areas on the forewings. Additionally, we present illustrations of the male and female genitalia of N. splendida and expand the knowledge of its distribution. longhorned long horned Müller 187 Brazil candidagroup, candidagroup candida group, group candida-group gemmagroup gemma head Navás, Navás (Navás 1917, 1917 , 1917) silveriridescent silver iridescent Additionally N distribution 18 191 1 19

Abstract Secondary production is the formation of heterotrophic biomass across time, which integrates several important ecological processes that affect the life of organisms, populations, communities and ecosystems, but its study has poor developed in South America. The objectives of this work were to describe the diversity of benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages in terms of abundance and biomass, and to quantify their secondary production for the first time in Andean rivers. A quantitative sampling scheme was implemented, using a Surber sampler, in three forested streams. Physical-chemical variables, nutrients, organic matter and chlorophyll were measured also. The macroinvertebrates were separated and identified mostly at the species level. Each taxon was assigned to a functional feeding group. Secondary production was estimated for 38 taxa, mostly Diptera, Trichoptera, Coleoptera, and Ephemeroptera. The annual production varied from 3769 to 13916 mg dry mass m-2 y-1. Most abundant taxa were also those with higher production, dominated by Ephemeroptera (Baetidae), Trichoptera (Hydropsychidae) and Diptera (Chironomidae and Simuliidae). Density, biomass, and production of collectors and predators were much higher than the other feeding groups. We expect that our results will be useful to evaluate the effects on stream functioning produced by global warming and other anthropogenic disturbances in our region. organisms populations ecosystems America rivers implemented sampler streams Physicalchemical Physical chemical variables nutrients level group 3 Coleoptera 376 1391 m2 m 2 m- y1. y1 y 1. 1 y-1 Baetidae, Baetidae , (Baetidae) Hydropsychidae (Hydropsychidae Chironomidae Simuliidae. Simuliidae . Simuliidae) Density groups region 37 139 y- (Baetidae 13

Resumo O movimento de deriva consiste no desprendimento dos organismos dentro da coluna de água, o que permite a sua locomoção passiva. Este movimento resultará numa variação das comunidades de organismos ao longo do rio, gerando padrões espaciais. Com base nisto, testamos as hipóteses a) o movimento de indivíduos em direção montante-jusante criará um padrão aninhado, no qual as comunidades de insetos aquáticos a montante são um subconjunto das comunidades a jusante; b) haverá um aumento no número de indivíduos e gêneros à medida que nos aproximamos do ponto mais a jusante. O presente estudo foi realizado em sete pontos de amostragem distribuídos ao longo do rio Xingu. A amostragem ocorreu durante a noite no canal central do rio. O número de gêneros ao longo do rio se manteve constante, e não observamos uma distribuição de aninhamento das comunidades no gradiente ascendente e descendente do rio. Com base nos resultados, é possível visualizar uma substituição dos gêneros no gradiente longitudinal do rio, porém ocorrendo um acúmulo de gêneros na região mais a jusante. Os organismos que são transportados pelo fluxo da corrente de água respondem as características do corpo de água adaptando-se ao tipo de ambiente em que se encontram. passiva espaciais nisto montantejusante jusante aninhado b Xingu constante resultados adaptandose adaptando encontram

Abstract The drift movement consists of the displacement of the organisms inside the water column which allows its passive locomotion. This movement will result in a variation of the communities of organisms along the river, generating spatial patterns. Based on this, we tested the hypotheses a) the drift of individuals in an upstream-downstream direction creates a nestedness pattern, when the upstream is a subset of downstream communities of aquatic insects; b) there will be an increase in the number of individuals and genera as we approach the most downstream point. The present study was carried out in seven sampling points distributed along the Xingu River. The sampling occurred at night in the central area of the river. The number of genera along the river remained constant, and the nestedness distribution of the communities in the upstream-downstream gradient was not observed. Based on the results, it is possible to visualize a turnover of genera in the longitudinal gradient of the river, but with an accumulation of genera in the downstream region. Organisms that are transported by the flow of the water current respond to the characteristics of the body of water by adapting to the type of environment in which they are found. locomotion patterns this upstreamdownstream pattern insects b point River constant observed results region found

Resumo Objetivo Os objetivos deste estudo foram avaliar quais medidas alométricas do corpo das larvas de Leptonema são mais adequadas, a fim de desenvolver equações matemáticas para descrever as relações de biomassa para a população deste táxon em riachos de cabeceira. Métodos Foram medidas quatro dimensões corporais (comprimento corporal, distância interocular, largura horizontal da cápsula cefálica e largura vertical da cápsula cefálica) de 65 larvas de Leptonema, que foram coletadas no mês de fevereiro de 2022, no manancial Taboões, Parque Estadual da Serra do Rola Moça, Minas Gerais, utilizando amostrador Surber. Para a determinação das medidas alométricas, cada indivíduo foi fotografado em um estereomicroscópio dissecante (Leica M80) equipado com câmera digital. O comprimento de cada espécime foi medido usando o software Motic Image Plus 2.0. Após a medição da dimensão corporal linear e medição direta da biomassa, utilizamos esses valores para calcular equações comprimento-massa. Para às equações, usamos modelos de potência: DM = a Lb, onde a/b são constantes, DM é a massa seca, L é a dimensão corporal linear. Resultados O comprimento do corpo apresentou a maior variação, com valores variando de 4,03 a 25,28 mm, seguido pela largura vertical da cápsula cefálica (0,51 - 2,69 mm), largura horizontal da cápsula cefálica (0,55 - 2,22 mm) e distância interocular (0,24 - 1,88 mm). Nossos resultados mostram que o comprimento do corpo forneceu a equação de melhor ajuste para estimar a biomassa (R2 = 0,90). No entanto, observamos um ajuste próximo entre as demais medidas alométricas, retornando altos coeficientes de determinação, largura horizontal da cápsula cefálica (R2 = 0,85), distância interocular (R2 = 0,82), largura vertical da cápsula cefálica (R2= 0,78). Conclusões Esses resultados podem ser úteis para fornecer as melhores medidas alométricas e equações para estimar a biomassa de larvas de Leptonema de riachos tropicais. adequadas cabeceira 6 2022 Taboões Moça Gerais Surber Leica M80 M digital 20 2 0 2.0 comprimentomassa. comprimentomassa massa. comprimento-massa potência Lb ab b constantes seca variação 403 4 03 4,0 2528 25 28 25,2 mm 0,51 051 51 (0,5 269 69 2,6 , 0,55 055 55 222 22 2,2 0,24 024 24 (0,2 188 1 88 1,8 mm. . R2 R (R 0,90. 090 0,90 90 0,90) entanto 0,85, 085 0,85 85 0,85) 0,82, 082 0,82 82 0,82) R2= 0,78. 078 0,78 78 0,78) tropicais 202 M8 2. 40 4, 252 25, 0,5 05 5 (0, 26 2, 0,2 02 18 8 1, 09 0,9 9 08 0,8 07 0,7 7 0, (0 (

Abstract: Aim The objectives of this study were to evaluate which allometric measurements of Leptonema larvae are most suitable in order to develop mathematical equations to describe biomass relationships for the population of this taxon in a reference condition headwater stream. Methods We measured four body dimensions (body length, interocular distance, horizontal width of cephalic capsule and vertical width of the cephalic capsule) of 65 Leptonema larvae, which were collected in February 2022, in the Taboões spring, Serra do Rola Moça State Park, Minas Gerais, using a Surber sampler. For the determination of allometric measurements, each individual was photographed under a dissecting stereomicroscope (Leica M80) equipped with a digital camera. Each photographed specimen's length was measured using the Motic Image Plus 2.0 software. After measuring the linear body dimension and direct measurement of the biomass, we used these values to calculate the length-mass mathematical equations. To the equations use power models: DM = a Lb, where a/b are constants, DM is the dry mass, L is the linear body dimension. Results Among body dimensions of Leptonema larvae, body length showed the greatest range of variation, with values ranging from 4.03 to 25.28 mm, followed by head capsule vertical width (0.51 - 2.69 mm), head capsule horizontal width (0.55 - 2.22 mm) and interocular distance (0.24 - 1.88 mm). Our results show that body length provided the best-fitting equation for estimating biomass (R2 = 0.90). However, we observed a close fit between the other allometric measures, including high coefficients of determination, head capsule horizontal width (R2 = 0.85), interocular distance (R2 = 0.82), head capsule vertical width (R2 = 0.78). Conclusions These results will be useful in providing the best allometric measurement and equations to estimate the biomass of Leptonema larvae from the tropics. Abstract stream 6 2022 spring Park Gerais sampler Leica M80 M camera specimens specimen s 20 2 0 2. software lengthmass mass models Lb ab b constants variation 403 4 03 4.0 2528 25 28 25.2 mm 0.51 051 51 (0.5 269 69 2.6 , 0.55 055 55 222 22 2.2 0.24 024 24 (0.2 188 1 88 1.8 mm. . bestfitting fitting R2 R (R 0.90. 090 0.90 90 0.90) However measures 0.85, 085 0.85 85 0.85) 0.82, 082 0.82 82 0.82) 0.78. 078 0.78 78 0.78) tropics 202 M8 40 4. 252 25. 0.5 05 5 (0. 26 0.2 02 18 8 1. 09 0.9 9 08 0.8 07 0.7 7 0. (0 (

ABSTRACT Five new species of Alisotrichia Flint, 1964 microcaddisflies are described and illustrated from type material collected in Northeastern Brazil, constituting the first records of the genus to this region, as it was previously known only from Southeastern and Northern Brazil. The number of Brazilian species of Alisotrichia is doubled herein from five to ten, however, likely there are still many other species to be described. The new species described here are all placed in the orophila species group: A. froehlichi sp. nov. (Sergipe State), A. calori sp. nov. (Bahia and Paraíba states), A. penispinata sp. nov. (Ceará and Pernambuco states), A. dilatata sp. nov. (Ceará and Mato Grosso do Sul states), and A. nordestina sp. nov. (Ceará and Sergipe states). These new species are separated mainly by features of male genitalia, particularly the dorsal area of segment X, the shape of the segment VIII, and the phallus morphology. Currently, the orophila species group is composed by 37 species, more than half of the species diversity of Alisotrichia.

Abstract: Aim We evaluated the effects of native vegetation and agricultural activities on functional characteristics of aquatic insects’ assemblages in Atlantic Forest streams southern Brazil. Methods We collected information on land uses, riparian zone structural characteristics, and limnological variables of ten streams to characterize their environmental quality. In the same streams, we collected aquatic insects (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera) and determined their functional characteristics (e.g. food habits, mobility, shape, and body size). The information for each trait category was quantified using a fuzzy code technique. To test the environmental conditions on aquatic insect functional attributes, we used an RLQ analysis. Results In our study, only five environmental variables showed variation in streams (temperature, pH, DO, native vegetation, and agriculture use). We collected a total of 2591 organisms distributed in 21 EPT genera. We observed that the functional attributes of EPT formed distinct groups in relation to the stream categories defined by the measured environmental variables. We observed that shredders and larger and flattened organisms were associated with natural streams. These attributes were associated with the genera Phylloicus, Anacroneuria, Tupiperla, and Farrodes. On the other hand, we observed greater proportions of scrapers, with spherical bodies and shelter builders in streams impacted by agriculture. The most frequent genera in these streams were Itaura, Wormaldia and Helicopsyche. Conclusions The modification of natural landscapes by agricultural areas caused significant functional changes in the aquatic invertebrate communities. Since aquatic insects participate effectively in ecological processes, alterations in the functional characteristics of these communities can cause changes in the streams’ functioning.

Resumo: Objetivo Neste estudo avaliamos os efeitos da vegetação nativa e atividades agrícolas sobre as características funcionais de assembleias de insetos aquáticos em riachos de Mata Atlântica, sul do Brasil. Métodos Coletamos informações sobre usos do solo, características estruturais da zona ripária e variáveis limnológicas de dez córregos para caracterizar sua qualidade ambiental. Nos mesmos riachos coletamos insetos aquáticos (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera e Trichoptera) e determinamos as características funcionais (e.g., hábitos alimentares, mobilidade, forma, tamanho do corpo). A informação para cada categoria de característica foi quantificada usando uma técnica de código fuzzy. Para testar as condições ambientais nos atributos funcionais de insetos aquáticos, utilizamos uma análise RLQ. Resultados Em nosso estudo, apenas cinco variáveis ambientais apresentaram variação entre os riachos (temperatura, pH, DO, vegetação nativa, uso agrícola). Coletamos um total de 2591 organismos distribuídos em 21 gêneros das ordens EPT. Observamos que os atributos funcionais do EPT formaram grupos distintos em relação às categorias de riachos definidas pelas medidas das variáveis ambientais. Observamos que fragmentadores e organismos maiores e achatados estiveram associados a riachos naturais. Esses atributos foram associados aos gêneros Phylloicus, Anacroneuria, Tupiperla e Farrodes. Por outro lado, em riachos impactados pela agricultura, observamos maiores proporções de raspadores, com corpos esféricos e construtores de abrigos. Nesses riachos, os gêneros mais frequentes foram Itaura, Wormaldia e Helicopsyche. Conclusões A modificação das paisagens naturais por áreas agrícolas causou mudanças funcionais significativas nas comunidades de invertebrados aquáticos. Como os insetos aquáticos participam efetivamente dos processos ecológicos, alterações nas características funcionais dessas comunidades podem causar mudanças no funcionamento dos riachos.

Abstract: Aim Additive diversity partitioning has been used to explain the accumulation of diversity at different spatial scales with relative success. In lotic ecosystems, the spatial extent is extremely relevant in studies of diversity accumulation, because it encompasses environmental variation that causes changes in the observed communities. Despite of previous knowledge on the effect of extent on biological communities and diversity accumulation, little is known about the topic in aquatic insect communities in large rivers. In this context, we studied the effect of spatial extent and environmental variation on diversity components, alpha and beta, in Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) groups in Xingu River rapids. Methods The sampling was carried out in October 2015 in the dry period of the region, in nine rapids in the Xingu, Bacajá and Iriri rivers. At each collection site, five Surber samples were taken. We also recorded pH, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, water temperature, and geographic coordinates. We used additive diversity partitioning to separate the diversity components α and β. For the spatial component, we generated the spatial filters using PCNM (Principal Coordinates of Neighbour Matrices) and partitioned the variance between space and environment using partial Redundancy Analysis (pRDA). Results We collected 12,249 individuals in 27 genera within 11 families in the EPT orders. The greatest accumulation of diversity was observed among rapids of the river, when the β diversity in this spatial extent was greater than the expected. The spatial structure was an indirect effect at this extent, since it is a relevant drive to environmental variables. Conclusions The results indicate that the effect of spatial extent on rapids is a contributing factor in the diversity components of aquatic insect communities in large river rapids. To the conservation and management of this environment is necessary cover as many rapids as possible, since the preservation of only a few rapids can mean a substantial loss of regional diversity.

Resumo: Objetivo O particionamento aditivo da diversidade tem sido utilizado para explicar a acumulação de diversidade em diferentes escalas espaciais com relativo sucesso. Em ecossistemas lóticos, a escala espacial é extremamente relevante em estudos de acumulação de diversidade, pois engloba a variação ambiental que causa mudanças nas comunidades observadas. Apesar do conhecimento prévio sobre o efeito da escala nas comunidades biológicas e na acumulação de diversidade, pouco se sabe sobre o tema em comunidades de insetos aquáticos em grandes rios. Neste contexto, estudamos o efeito da escala espacial e da variação ambiental sobre os componentes da diversidade, alfa e beta, em grupos de Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera e Trichoptera (EPT) em corredeiras do rio Xingu. Métodos A amostragem foi realizada em outubro de 2015, no período seco da região, em nove corredeiras nos rios Xingu, Bacajá e Iriri. Em cada local de coleta, foram coletadas cinco amostras de Surber. Também foram registradas as variáveis pH, oxigênio dissolvido, condutividade elétrica, temperatura da água e coordenadas geográficas. Usamos o particionamento aditivo da diversidade para separar os componentes de diversidade α e β. Para o componente espacial, geramos os filtros espaciais usando PCNM (Principal Coordinates of Neighbour Matrices) e particionamos a variância entre espaço e ambiente usando a análise de redundância parcial (pRDA). Resultados Foram coletados 12.249 indivíduos em 27 gêneros dentro de 11 famílias nas ordens EPT. O maior acúmulo de diversidade foi observado entre as corredeiras do rio, quando a diversidade β nessa escala espacial foi maior que a esperada. A estrutura espacial foi um efeito indireto nesta escala, uma vez que é um direcionador relevante para as variáveis ambientais. Conclusões Os resultados indicam que o efeito da escala espacial em corredeiras é um fator contribuinte nos componentes de diversidade das comunidades de insetos aquáticos em corredeiras de grandes rios. Para a conservação e manejo desse ambiente é necessário abranger o maior número possível de corredeiras, uma vez que a preservação de apenas algumas corredeiras pode significar uma perda substancial da diversidade regional.

ABSTRACT The genus Nectopsyche is widely recognized by its striking adults, with colored setae and scales, even metallic and/or iridescent. It is primarily distributed in the Neotropical region, with a few species found in the Nearctics. Nectopsyche has more than 100 described species, with 26 of them recorded in Brazil. In Pará state, one of the largest Brazilian’ states, only three species have been recorded. In contribution to the taxonomic knowledge about the Neotropical caddisflies, especially those of the Amazonian region, we propose two new species of Nectopsyche from Pará state based on male specimens: Nectopsyche tridentata n. sp. and Nectopsyche froehlichi n. sp. In addition, Nectopsyche acutiloba, Nectopsyche adusta, Nectopsyche jenseni, and Nectopsyche quatuorguttata are recorded for the first time in the state of Pará. Our results increase the number of Nectopsyche species recorded in Brazil to 28, and the number of recorded species in the state of Pará to eight.

ABSTRACT Sixteen species of the microcaddisfly Ochrotrichia Mosely, 1934 (Hydroptilidae) have been recorded so far in Brazil, mainly distributed in the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil. In order to reduce the Linnean and Wallacean shortfalls for the Ochrotrichia Brazilian fauna, we diagnose, describe, and illustrate three new species based on adult males from three protected and preserved areas of the Cerrado biome of Federal District (Central-West region), Minas Gerais (Southeast region) and Tocantins (North region) states; all of them named in honor of three great Brazilian entomologists viz., Ochrotrichia froehlichi sp. nov., Ochrotrichia machadoi sp. nov. and Ochrotrichia nessimiani sp. nov. They can be recognized mainly by the morphology of the tergum X, number, and position of the spine-like setae of the inferior appendages. This contribution represents the first record of Ochrotrichia for the Central-West region, increasing the number of species of this genus in Cerrado biome from one to four, and is the first report of a microcaddisfly for the Federal District. In addition, the genus is reported for the first time from Paraná, São Francisco, and Tocantins hydrographic basins. Finally, we provide a checklist of the Ochrotrichia species from Brazil.