RESUMO Este estudo foca no desempenho de vacas para produção de carne, criadas nos pântanos do Paraguai, examinando cinco genótipos bovinos; Brahman, Brangus, Nelore, bem como duas raças locais em risco de extinção. O principal objetivo é identificar e classificar variáveis fenotípicas que incluem variáveis sanguíneas, clínicas, de pelagem e saúde, demonstrando ligação causal com o peso vivo das vacas analisadas. Inicialmente, foram identificadas correlações elevadas entre diferentes variáveis incluídas neste estudo, e, então, utilizando técnicas avançadas de aprendizado de máquina e a aplicação de explicações aditivas de Shapley (SHAP), foi proporcionado um entendimento mais profundo dos fatores fortemente associados à adaptabilidade nestes ambientes, e, portanto, o respectivo desempenho zootécnico. A associação entre o componente genotípico bovino ligado à estação do ano mostrou ser o fator influente mais predominante sobre o peso vivo bovino. Variáveis como comprimento do pelo, hematócrito, fosfatase, fósforo, creatina phosphokinase, creatinina, proteína, cortisol, cálcio e a presença de endoparasitas foram destacadas, demonstrando sua importância hierárquica para a seleção animal. Os modelos de ML são ferramentas eficazes para estabelecer hierarquias de relevância em multivariáveis fenotípicas complexas, o que é crucial em programas de melhoramento genético em diferentes espécies zootécnicas, bem como em ambientes especiais e específicos, como os pântanos. carne Paraguai bovinos Brahman Brangus Nelore extinção sanguíneas clínicas saúde analisadas Inicialmente então SHAP, SHAP , (SHAP) portanto zootécnico pelo hematócrito fosfatase fósforo phosphokinase creatinina proteína cortisol destacadas animal complexas zootécnicas específicos (SHAP

ABSTRACT This study focuses on the performance of cows for meat production raised in the wetlands of Paraguay, examining five cattle genotypes: Brahman, Brangus, and Nelore, as well as two local breeds at risk of extinction. The main objective is to identify and rank phenotypic variables, including blood, clinical, hair, and health variables, demonstrating causal linkage with the live weight of the cows analyzed. Initially, high correlations were identified between different variables included in this study; then, using advanced Machine learning (ML) techniques and the application of Shapley additive explanations (SHAP), a deeper understanding was provided of the factors strongly associated with adaptability in these environments, and, therefore, the respective zootechnical performance. The association between cattle genotypic components linked with the season of the year proved to be the most influential factor on cattle live weight. Variables such as hair length, hematocrit, phosphatase, phosphorus, creatine phosphokinase, creatinine, protein, cortisol, calcium, and the presence of endoparasites were highlighted, demonstrating their hierarchical importance for animal selection. ML models are effective tools for establishing hierarchies of relevance in complex phenotypic multivariable, which is crucial in breeding programs for different zootechnical species and in special and specific environments like wetlands. Paraguay genotypes Brahman Brangus Nelore extinction blood clinical analyzed Initially then (ML SHAP, SHAP , (SHAP) therefore length hematocrit phosphatase phosphorus phosphokinase creatinine protein cortisol calcium highlighted selection multivariable (SHAP

Abstract Introduction: Aquatic birds (AB) are usually associated with wetlands, which provide refuge, food, and/or nesting sites for resident and migratory species. Despite their ecological importance, there is little knowledge on AB in some tropical environments, such as those found on the Colima coast. Objective: To investigate the spatial and temporal composition of the AB community in Juluapan Lagoon, Colima, Central Mexican Pacific. Methods: Monthly counts were conducted between June 2017 and May 2018 during low-tide conditions to record habitat use by AB. Species richness and bird counts were obtained to compare sampling areas; mean richness and number of individuals were compared between seasons. Results: We detected 53 species and 5 750 individuals. The highest species richness and relative abundance values were obtained in winter at the lagoon area farthest from the connection with the marine system, where anthropogenic activity is lower. Diversity was greater in zones 2 and 3 in spring, summer, and fall. Muddy flats were the most used environment, and the most frequent activity was resting. Nesting activity was only recorded in the middle of the lagoon at the mangrove during spring. “Shorebirds” and “waders” were the most dominant groups in the bird community of the Juluapan lagoon. Conclusions: This coastal wetland is a site of great biological importance for aquatic birds; thus, conservation measures should be implemented, and there should be a continuous study of the effects of anthropogenic pressure.

Resumen Introducción: Las aves acuáticas (AA) son usualmente relacionadas a los humedales debido a que éstos funcionan como sitios de refugio, alimentación y anidación de diferentes especies residentes y migratorias. Sin embargo, el conocimiento sobre las aves acuáticas en algunos humedales es nulo. Objetivo: Investigar la composición espacio-temporal de la comunidad de AA en la laguna Juluapan, Colima, en el Pacífico Central Mexicano. Métodos: Entre junio de 2017 y mayo de 2018 se llevaron a cabo conteos mensuales en condiciones de marea baja para registrar el uso de hábitat de las AA. Se obtuvieron valores de riqueza de especies y número de individuos para realizar comparaciones entre zonas de muestreo, así como el promedio del número de especies y número de individuos para comparaciones entre temporadas. Resultados: Se registraron un total de 53 especies y 5 750 individuos. Los valores de riqueza de especies y densidad de individuos fueron más altos durante invierno, en la zona más alejada al ambiente marino, donde la actividad antropogénica es menor. La diversidad tuvo valores más altos en la zona 2 y 3, durante primavera, verano y otoño. El ambiente más explotado por las aves fueron las planicies lodosas; y el descanso fue la actividad más frecuente. Asimismo, la actividad de anidación sólo se registró en el manglar de la zona media durante primavera. Las “aves playeras” y “aves zancudas” fueron los grupos más predominantes en la comunidad de aves de la laguna Juluapan. Conclusiones: Este humedal costero es un sitio de gran importancia biológica para aves acuáticas, por lo que resulta necesario la implementación de medidas de conservación, así como el estudio de los efectos por la presión antropogénica.

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

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

The Zandvlei Estuary is the only functioning estuary along the False Bay coastline of Cape Town and is therefore of extreme local ecological importance. The most significant problems are eutrophication and siltation caused by the increased total inorganic nitrogen (TIN) and soluble ready phosphorus (SRP) levels due to urban development and the associated increased impervious surface area in the catchment that drains into it. In South Africa, stormwater drainage systems conventionally channel everything they collect into receiving water bodies without significant treatment. Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) provide an alternative approach to managing stormwater runoff. They are designed to manage both stormwater quality and quantity while potentially improving biodiversity and amenity. This project modelled the potential improvement in the quality of the water entering Zandvlei Estuary resulting from the implementation of selected SuDS control measures in Zandvlei's Diep River catchment using the software program, PCSWMM. SRP, TIN, total phosphorus (TP) and total suspended solids (TSS) were selected as pollutant indicators. Treatment trains that included a large, constructed wetland at the bottom of the catchment will likely provide the greatest improvements to the water quality entering Zandvlei -potentially reducing SRP, TIN, TP and TSS by approximately 59%, 53%, 53%, and 66%, respectively - as well as potentially reducing the runoff by 48%.

Abstract Introduction Land use/land cover change (LULCC) alters the quantity and quality of ecosystem services. The economic value of these services is an indicator of change that facilitates conservation, utilization, and restoration activities of ecosystems. Objective To analyze the dynamics of land use/land cover (LULC) from 2000 to 2020 and estimate the ecosystem services value (ESV) as an indicator of ecological degradation in the Copalita River watershed in Oaxaca. Materials and methods Landsat 7 and 8 images captured during the years 2000 and 2020, respectively, were used. Six types of LULC were identified and classified in the watershed, and an intensity analysis was performed. Based on the economic values of biomes previously published, the values of LULC and ecosystem service functions in the watershed were estimated. Results and discussion There is an increase in forest cover (13.23 %), low-cover lands (494.41 %), construction (75.35 %), and wetlands (38.34 %), and a decrease in the area of rainforest (-48.02 %) and water bodies (-32.71 %). LULCC dynamics caused a 2.21 % reduction in the ESV of the watershed. The value of provisioning services increased (49.10 %), while regulation (-12.39 %), cultural (-4.77 %), and support (-3.89 %) values decreased. Conclusions The reduction in the economic value of ecosystem service functions is caused by the effects of LULCC on the decrease in rainforest and water bodies in the watershed.

Resumen Introducción Los cambios en las coberturas y usos de suelo (CCUS) modifican la cantidad y calidad de los servicios ecosistémicos. El valor económico de estos es un indicador de cambio que facilita las actividades de conservación, aprovechamiento y restauración de ecosistemas. Objetivo Analizar la dinámica de coberturas y usos de suelo (CUS) de 2000 a 2020 y estimar el valor de servicios ecosistémicos (VSE) como indicador de la degradación ecológica de la cuenca del río Copalita en Oaxaca. Materiales y métodos Se utilizaron imágenes Landsat 7 y 8 capturadas durante los años 2000 y 2020, respectivamente. Seis tipos de CUS se identificaron y clasificaron en la cuenca y se hizo un análisis de intensidad. Con base en los valores económicos de biomas, previamente publicados, se estimaron los valores de las CUS y de las funciones de los servicios ecosistémicos de la cuenca. Resultados y discusión Existe incremento de las coberturas de bosque (13.23 %), tierras de baja cobertura (494.41 %), construcción (75.35 %) y humedales (38.34 %) y se redujo el área de selva (-48.02 %) y cuerpos de agua (-32.71 %). Los CCUS ocasionaron reducción de 2.21 % del VSE de la cuenca. El VSE de provisión creció (49.10 %) y el de regulación (-12.39 %), cultural (-4.77 %) y de soporte (-3.89 %) disminuyó. Conclusiones La reducción del valor económico de las funciones de los servicios ecosistémicos es causada por los efectos de los CCUS en la disminución de selva y cuerpos de agua en la cuenca.

ABSTRACT Amazonia (defined herein as the Amazon basin) is home to the greatest concentration of biodiversity on Earth, providing unique genetic resources and ecological functions that contribute to ecosystem services globally. The lengthy and complex evolutionary history of this region has produced heterogeneous landscapes and riverscapes at multiple scales, altered the geographic and genetic connections among populations, and impacted rates of adaptation, speciation, and extinction. In turn, ecologically diverse Amazonian biotas promoted further diversification, species coexistence, and coevolution, with biodiversity accumulating over tens of millions of years. Important events in Amazonian history included: (i) late Cretaceous and early Paleogene origin of major rainforest plant and animal groups; (ii) Eocene-Oligocene global cooling with rainforests contracting to tropical latitudes separating Atlantic coastal and Amazonian rainforests; (iii) Miocene uplift of central and northern Andes that separated Pacific coastal and Amazonian rainforests, spurred formation of mega-wetlands in the western Amazon, and contributed to the origin of the modern transcontinental Amazon River; (iv) late Neogene formation of the Panamanian Isthmus that facilitated the Great American Biotic Interchange; (v) Pleistocene climate oscillations followed by late Pleistocene-Holocene human colonization and megafaunal extinctions; and (vi) modern era of widespread anthropogenic deforestation, defaunation, and ecological transformations of regional landscapes and global climates. Amazonian conservation requires decade-scale investments into biodiversity documentation and monitoring to leverage existing scientific capacity, and strategic habitat planning to allow continuity of evolutionary and ecological processes now and into the future. defined basin Earth globally scales populations adaptation speciation extinction turn diversification coexistence coevolution years included i (i groups ii (ii EoceneOligocene Eocene Oligocene iii (iii megawetlands mega wetlands River iv (iv Interchange v (v PleistoceneHolocene Holocene extinctions vi (vi deforestation defaunation climates decadescale decade scale capacity future

RESUMEN La Amazonía (definida como la cuenca amazónica) concentra la mayor biodiversidad de la Tierra, proporcionando recursos genéticos y funciones ecológicas únicas que contribuyen a los servicios ecosistémicos a nivel mundial. La compleja historia evolutiva de esta región produjo paisajes heterogéneos a múltiples escalas geográficas, alteró las conexiones geográficas y genéticas entre las poblaciones e influyó en las tasas de adaptación, especiación y extinción. Las biotas amazónicas, ecológicamente diversas, promovieron una mayor diversificación, coexistencia de especies y coevolución, acumulando biodiversidad a lo largo de decenas de millones de años. Acontecimientos importantes en la historia de la Amazonía incluyeron: (i) orígenes durante el Cretácico tardío y el Paleógeno temprano de los principales grupos de plantas y animales; (ii) enfriamiento global del Eoceno-Oligoceno, contrayendo los bosques a latitudes tropicales y separando los de la costa Atlántica de los amazónicos; (iii) levantamiento de los Andes centrales y del norte en el Mioceno, separando las selvas tropicales de la costa del Pacífico y de la Amazonía, estimulando la formación de megahumedales en la Amazonía occidental y contribuyendo al origen del moderno Río Amazonas transcontinental; (iv) formación del istmo de Panamá durante el Neógeno tardío, facilitando el Gran Intercambio Biótico Americano; (v) oscilaciones climáticas del Pleistoceno seguidas por la colonización humana y las extinciones de megafauna; (vi) era moderna de deforestación antropogénica generalizada, defaunación y transformaciones ecológicas de paisajes regionales y climas globales. La conservación de la Amazonía requiere inversiones por décadas en la documentación y el seguimiento de la biodiversidad para impulsar la capacidad científica existente, así como la planificación estratégica del hábitat para permitir la continuidad de los actuales y futuros procesos evolutivos y ecológicos. definida amazónica Tierra mundial adaptación extinción amazónicas diversas diversificación coevolución años incluyeron i (i animales ii (ii EocenoOligoceno, EocenoOligoceno Eoceno Oligoceno, Oligoceno Eoceno-Oligoceno amazónicos iii (iii Mioceno transcontinental iv (iv Americano v (v megafauna vi (vi generalizada globales existente ecológicos

ABSTRACT Red chili pepper Capsicum annuum L. var. annuum plants are one of the fruity vegetable types that are often cultivated in riparian tropical wetlands but are constrained by water stress such as waterlogging during rainy season and drought in dry season. The aim of this research was to evaluate the growth and morpho-physiological responses of red chili pepper cultivars subjected to waterlogging and drought stress conditions. The experiment was carried out in a strip-plot design with two factors. The first factor was three water stress treatments, namely control (field capacity), waterlogging, and drought. The second factor was six cultivars of Indonesian red chili pepper. The findings indicated that both waterlogging and drought stress had a detrimental impact on the reduction of the growth parameters of red chili pepper such as root, shoot and total dry weight. Chili pepper defended its root weights in response to drought stress (0.653 g plant-1) whereas it preserved shoot weight in response to waterlogging (0.913 g plant-1). In the morphological characters, chili pepper exhibited an increase in specific leaf area expansion in response to both waterlogging (150.82 cm2) and drought (188.82 cm2) compared to control (140.91 cm2), but decreased specific leaf weight during stresses and recovered after 7 d in waterlogging. Leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD) and leaf relative water content (LRWC), as physiological characteristics, also experienced a decline during exposure to both waterlogging and drought during 8 d; yet, SPAD and LRWC able to recover completely at 7 d after waterlogging and drought treatment were terminated.

Abstract The Esteros del Iberá, located within the biogeographic province of the same name, have recently begun to be explored in an interdisciplinary manner in order to address different aspects of their archaeological landscapes. In fact, pre-Hispanic occupations have been verified, especially from ca. 1000 years BP. This work presents the first analyses of botanical macro- and micro rests from the archaeological site Isla El Disparito, located in Laguna Trin (Esteros del Iberá, Corrientes, Argentina). Recent research at the site reveals evidence of pre-Hispanic occupations characterized by the presence of traces of residential occupations (lithic and bone tools, ceramic material, faunal remains), and burial activities. The analysis focused on charred wood and siliceous microremains found in ceramic fragments collected in the field and sieved in the laboratory. The anthracological analysis revealed the presence of the tree Tessaria integrifolia Ruiz & Pav. and the palm Butia yatay (Mart.) Becc. The study of microremains revealed phytoliths of Poaceae, Cyperaceae, Arecaceae, and Dicotyledoneae, along with algae and sponge spicules. This research contributes new data on the botanical resources used by ancient communities of Iberá and the characteristic flora of the region during the late Holocene.

Resumen Los Esteros del Iberá, localizados dentro de la Provincia Biogeográfica homónima, recientemente han comenzado a ser explorados de forma interdisciplinarias a fin de abordar diferentes aspectos de sus paisajes arqueológicos. En efecto, se ha verificado ocupaciones prehispánicas especialmente a partir de ca. 1000 años AP. Este trabajo presenta los primeros análisis de macro y microrrestos botánicos del sitio arqueológico Isla El Disparito situado en la Laguna Trin (Esteros del Iberá, Corrientes, Argentina). Investigaciones recientes en el sitio evidencian asentamientos caracterizados por la presencia de vestigios adjudicados a ocupaciones residenciales (instrumentos líticos y óseos, material cerámico, restos faunísticos), y actividades de inhumación. Se analizaron fragmentos de maderas carbonizadas y microrrestos silíceos presentes en las adherencias de fragmentos cerámicos, recolectados en campo y recuperados mediante tamizados en laboratorio. El análisis antracológico reveló la presencia Tessaria integrifolia Ruiz & Pav. y la palmera Butia yatay (Mart.) Becc. El estudio de microrrestos reveló fitolitos de Poaceae, Cyperaceae, Arecaceae y Dicotyledoneae, junto con algas y espículas de esponjas. Desde una perspectiva paleoetnobotánica, estos hallazgos proporcionan información de base para discutir respecto del aprovechamiento de recursos botánicos en tiempos prehispánicos. Preliminarmente, permiten caracterizar la paleoflora regional durante el Holoceno tardío.

RESUMEN En los estudios de especímenes de herbarios y material vivo se observó que varias especies del género Azolla Lam. están presentes en diferentes humedales de Costa Rica, lo que implicó la búsqueda de los nombres aplicables a cada taxón. De acuerdo con la revisión morfológica y reproductiva, además de las especies descritas y validadas, se reconocieron tres especies: Azolla filiculoides Lam., A. imbricata (Roxb. ex Griff.) Nakai y A. pinnata R. Br. La primera especie es la única especie nativa de América, la segunda se conoce de Asia y la tercera se conoce de África y Australia. El uso de Azolla para la fertilización de arrozales y la alimentación animal ha hecho que especies como A. imbricata y A. pinnata se hayan introducido en países como Estados Unidos, Colombia y Ecuador; después de esto, probablemente las aves acuáticas y migratorias hayan sido las responsables de la propagación a otros países como Costa Rica.

Abstract In studies of herbarium specimens and living material, we observed that several species in the genus Azolla Lam. are present in different wetlands of Costa Rica, which instigated the search for applicable names of each taxon. According to a morphological and reproductive review, in addition to the species registered and validated, three species were recognized: Azolla filiculoides Lam., A. imbricata (Roxb. ex Griff.) Nakai and A. pinnata R. Br. The first species is the only native species from America, the second is from Asia, and the third is from Africa and Australia. The use of Azolla for fertilizing rice fields and animal feed has led to the introduction of species such as A. imbricata and A. pinnata to countries such as the United States, Colombia, and Ecuador. After their introduction, it is likely that aquatic and migratory birds were responsible for the spread of these species to other countries such as Costa Rica.

SIGNIFICANCE: While many technologies exist to address the wide variety of sustainability challenges facing humanity, many technologies are not adopted at sufficient scale or are used incorrectly, negating the positive impacts. This commentary introduces the discipline of human factors and ergonomics, demonstrating four features that facilitate the effective design and implementation of eco-socio-technical systems for sustainability. An example of the URBWAT research project, which implemented a nature-based solution in an informal settlement to collect and treat greywater, is given to illustrate how these four features operate in practice.

Abstract (Introduction): Floodplain vegetation plays an important role in providing ecosystem services such as carbon capture and cycle regulation; hence, the need arises to assess its condition. (Objective): To analyze the vegetation structure of the “complejo cenagoso de Zapatosa” (CCZ), propose the Floodplain Vegetation Quality Index (FVQI), and evaluate vegetation quality. (Methodology): Rectangular plots of 500 m2 in 12 sampling sites were defined; richness, composition, and structure analysis were conducted. The FVQI, a modification of the River Vegetation Quality Index (QBR), is proposed, and CCZ vegetation quality is calculated using the proposed index. (Results): 48 species were found; most are native, and two are endemic. Of these, 32 are categorized as Least Concern (LC). The proposed FVQI evaluates the naturalness of continental wetland vegetation formations, vertical stratification, longitudinal connectivity, presence of native species, and anthropogenic alterations affecting the ecosystem; 66 % of the evaluated sites showed good vegetation quality, with slight transformation. (Conclusions): An assessment of floodplain vegetation in lentic ecosystems was conducted using the FVQI index. This index, along with structural analysis, provided information on the current state of vegetation and the degree of naturalness of vegetation formations. This study offers a more comprehensive view of ecosystem health and quality, crucial for their conservation and proper management.

Resumen (Introducción): La vegetación inundable desempeña un papel importante en la provisión de servicios ecosistémicos como la captura de carbono y la regulación de su ciclo; por esto surge la necesidad de evaluar su estado. (Objetivo): Analizar la estructura de la vegetación del complejo cenagoso de Zapatosa (CCZ), proponer el índice de calidad de la vegetación inundable (ICVI) y evaluar la calidad de la vegetación. (Metodología): Se definieron parcelas rectangulares de 500 m2 en 12 sitios de muestreo y se realizó el análisis de riqueza, composición y estructura. Se propone el ICVI, una modificación del índice de calidad de vegetación de ribera (QBR) y se calcula la calidad de la vegetación del CCZ con el índice propuesto. (Resultados): Se encontraron 48 especies; la mayoría nativas y 2 endémicas. De estas, 32 se categorizan en preocupación menor (LC). El ICVI evalúa la naturalidad de las formaciones vegetales de humedales continentales, la estratificación vertical, conectividad longitudinal, presencia de especies autóctonas y las alteraciones antrópicas que afectan el ecosistema. El 66 % de los sitios presentaron una calidad buena, con una ligera transformación. (Conclusiones): Se llevó a cabo una evaluación del estado de la vegetación inundable en ecosistemas lénticos utilizando el índice ICVI, que, junto con el análisis estructural, permitió obtener información sobre el estado actual de la vegetación y el grado de naturalidad de las formaciones vegetales. Este estudio proporciona una visión más completa de la salud y la calidad de los ecosistemas, lo que es fundamental para su conservación y manejo adecuado.

Abstract The high mountain area of the Central Andes of Argentina (30-37°S and 69.5°-70.5°W) is a sector of approximately 40,000 km², locate dover 2,500-3,000 m a.s.l, and sparsely populated. This region is highly valued by local populations for being producers of surface and underground water which provide shire source for millions of in habitants located downstream. In this context, high altitude wetlands, locally known as vegas, and glaciers represent tout standing components of the hydrological cycle of the high mountain area, affected by a changing climate and who se problematic have been addressed separately in most of the local investigations. However, both land covers are hydrological connected in certain areas. Therefore, in the search for a more comprehensive understanding of high mountain ecosystems, in this thesis was investigated comparatively the current spatial distribution (year 2020) and recent spatiotemporal evolution (1986-2020) of wetlands and glaciers and their relationship to fluctuations in temperature and precipitation. Geotechnologies, constituted the methodological foundation of this thesis. The indices NDVI and NDSI were used in the identification and characterization of the area covered by wetlands and clean-ice glaciers respectively. The study of the current situation (2020) was performed with Sentinel 2 images and the recent spatiotemporal evolution (1986-2020) with Landsat (5, 7, 8) scenes. The analysis related to temperature and precipitation were based in the processing of the product TerraClimate. Most of the information was obtained and processed, initially, in Google Earth Engine, a platform of geospatial data, which allow researchers to virtually process data at different spatiotemporal scales. The analyses were completed with the use of statistical tools and spatial statistics. As a result, it was possible to identify an area of 475 km² of wetlands and 1260 km² of glaciers (550 km² and 710 km² of clean-ice and covered ice respectively) for 2020. Between the years 1986 and 2020 was observed a significant increase in temperature and particularly from year 2010 a significant decrease in precipitation. In this context the area covered by wetlands did not change significantly but the glaciated area diminished significantly in around 36%. The strip between 34°S and 35°S to the west of the region, was identified as the area where wetlands and glaciers are closest to each other and where this proximity and the greater availability of water, as a result of the melting ice, has had a positive impact on the productivity of wetlands located approximately 5 km away from these glaciers.

Resumen La zona de alta montaña de los Andes Centrales de Argentina (30-37°S y 69,5°-70,5°W) es un sector de aproximadamente 40.000 km², ubicado sobre 2.500-3.000 m s.n.m., y escasamente poblado. Esta región es muy valorada por las poblaciones locales por ser productora de aguas superficiales y subterráneas que abastecen de este recurso a millones de habitantes ubicados aguas abajo. En este contexto, los humedales de gran altitud, localmente conocidos como vegas, y los glaciares representan componentes destacados del ciclo hidrológico de la zona de alta montaña, afectados por un clima cambiante y cuyas problemáticas han sido abordadas por separado en la mayoría de las investigaciones locales. Sin embargo, ambas coberturas terrestres están conectadas hidrológicamente en ciertas áreas. Por lo tanto, en la búsqueda de una comprensión más integral de los ecosistemas de alta montaña, en esta tesis se investigó comparativamente la distribución espacial actual (año 2020) y la evolución espaciotemporal reciente (1986-2020) de humedales y glaciares y su relación con las fluctuaciones de temperatura y precipitación. Las geotecnologías, constituyeron la base metodológica de esta tesis. Se utilizaron los índices NDVI y NDSI en la identificación y caracterización del área cubierta por humedales y glaciares de hielo limpio respectivamente. El estudio de la situación actual (2020) se realizó con imágenes de Sentinel 2 y la evolución espaciotemporal reciente (1986-2020) con escenas Landsat (5, 7, 8). Los análisis relacionados con la temperatura y la precipitación se basaron en el procesamiento del producto TerraClimate. La mayor parte de la información fue obtenida y procesada, inicialmente, en Google EarthEngine, una plataforma de datos geoespaciales, que permite a los investigadores procesar virtualmente datos en diferentes escalas espaciotemporales. Los análisis se completaron con el uso de herramientas estadísticas y estadísticas espaciales. Como resultado, se pudo identificar un área de 475 km² de humedales y 1260 km² de glaciares (550 km² y 710 km² de hielo limpio y hielo cubierto respectivamente) para 2020. Entre los años 1986 y 2020 se observó un aumento significativo de temperatura y especialmente a partir del año 2010 un descenso significativo de las precipitaciones. En este contexto, el área cubierta por humedales no cambió significativamente pero el área glaciar disminuyó significativamente en alrededor del 36%. La franja comprendida entre los 34°S y 35°S al oeste de la región, fue identificada como la zona donde los humedales y los glaciares se encuentran más cercanos entre sí y donde esta proximidad y la mayor disponibilidad de agua, producto del deshielo, ha tenido un impacto positivo en la productividad de los humedales ubicados aproximadamente a 5 km de estos glaciares.

ABSTRACT Coastal wetlands adjacent to urban areas, such as the Pantanos de Villa in the city of Lima, Peru, are subject to constant changes in land use due to anthropogenic interaction. This has led to the reduction of dense vegetation areas, giving way to built-up areas. Therefore, this article addresses the issue of the physical changes experienced in urban areas adjacent to the wetland, such as the environmental management units, in this case the Zone of Protection of Outcrop and Surface Runoff (ZPAES), and the Zone of Landscape Protection of Edge (ZPB), as well as the Pantanos de Villa Wildlife Refuge (RVSPV), as a result of rapid urban expansion. Therefore, the objective of this research is to analyze the spatial and temporal evolution of the Pantanos de Villa environment and urbanization within the Environmental Management Units ZPB, ZPAES, and RVSPV. To achieve this, the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform was used, and satellite images from Landsat 5 TM and Sentinel 2 MSI sensors were processed. These images were worked on in the GEE interface and analyzed using spectral indices, NDVI and NDBI, through map algebra codes and pixel masking. For cartographic representation, a Geographic Information System (GIS) was used. The results show a 291.12% increase in built-up area and a 26% reduction in vegetated area over the last 35 years, for the Environmental Management Units ZPB and ZPAES, and the RVSPV. The identified reduction is directly related to unplanned expansion of urban areas and anthropogenic activities.

RESUMEN Los humedales costeros adyacentes a zonas urbanas, como los Pantanos de Villa en la ciudad de Lima, Perú, están sujetos a cambios constantes en el uso del suelo debido a la interacción antropogénica. Esto ha llevado a la reducción de áreas de vegetación densa, dando paso a zonas edificadas. Por esta razón, el presente artículo aborda la problemática de los cambios físicos experimentados en las zonas urbanas adyacentes al humedal, como las unidades de ordenamiento ambiental, en este caso la Zona de Protección de Afloramiento y Escorrentía Superficial (ZPAES y la Zona de Protección Paisajística de Borde (ZPB), así como el Refugio de Vida Silvestre Pantanos de Villa (RVSPV), como consecuencia de la rápida expansión urbana. Por ello, el objetivo de esta investigación es analizar la evolución espacial y temporal del entorno de los Pantanos de Villa y la urbanización dentro de las Unidades de Ordenamiento Ambiental ZPB, ZPAES y el RVSPV. Para ello, se utilizó la plataforma de Google Earth Engine (GEE) y se procesaron imágenes satelitales de los sensores Landsat 5 TM y Sentinel 2 MSI. Estas imágenes se trabajaron en la interfaz de GEE y se analizaron utilizando índices espectrales, NDVI y NDBI, mediante códigos de álgebra de mapas y el enmascaramiento de píxeles. Para la representación cartográfica, se empleó un Sistema de Información Geográfica (SIG). Los resultados muestran un aumento del 291.12% en la superficie edificada y una reducción del 26% en la superficie vegetal en los últimos 35 años, para las Unidades de Ordenamiento Ambiental ZPB y ZPAES, y el RVSPV. La reducción identificada se relaciona directamente con la expansión no planificada de la superficie urbana y las actividades antropogénicas.

Abstract The aim of this study was to carry out a floristic survey of aquatic macrophytes in the municipality of Chapadinha, eastern Maranhão, and classify their biological forms. The study was done between September 2021 and September 2022. A total of 31 families, 49 genera and 72 species of aquatic macrophytes were catalogued, of which 65 are angiosperms. Among them, Bacopa stricta (Plantaginaceae), Staurogyne diantheroides (Acanthaceae), and Xanthosoma aristeguietae (Araceae) are new records for the flora of Maranhão, with the last two new records for Northeast Brazil. The richest family was Cyperaceae, with 11 species, followed by Plantaginaceae (seven taxa), Fabaceae (five taxa) and Lentibulariaceae (five taxa). Six biological forms were recorded, amphibious (27 taxa) and emergent (26 taxa) being the most common. The aquatic environments of Chapadinha are home to a considerable number of species, families, and life forms of macrophytes. The results show that due to the lack of surveys, evidenced by the new records presented, the state aquatic flora is still underestimated. Further studies in poorly explored areas are suggested, especially in the eastern part of the state, to improve understanding of species richness. Maranhão 202 2022 3 families 4 7 catalogued 6 angiosperms them Plantaginaceae, , (Plantaginaceae) Acanthaceae, Acanthaceae (Acanthaceae) Araceae (Araceae Brazil Cyperaceae 1 seven taxa, taxa five taxa. . recorded 27 (2 26 common surveys presented underestimated suggested richness 20 (Plantaginaceae (Acanthaceae 2 (

Resumo Este trabalho teve como objetivo realizar o levantamento florístico das macrófitas aquáticas presentes no município de Chapadinha, leste do Maranhão, e classificar as formas biológicas. O estudo foi conduzido entre setembro de 2021 e setembro de 2022. Foi catalogado um total de 31 famílias, 49 gêneros e 72 espécies de macrófitas aquáticas. A grande maioria das espécies é de angiospermas, totalizando 65 espécies. Dentre elas, Bacopa stricta (Plantaginaceae), Staurogyne diantheroides (Acanthaceae) e Xanthosoma aristeguietae (Araceae) são novos registros para a flora do Maranhão, sendo as duas últimas novos registros para o Nordeste do Brasil. A família com maior número de espécies foi Cyperaceae, com 11 espécies, seguida por Plantaginaceae (sete táxons), Fabaceae (cinco táxons) e Lentibulariaceae (cinco táxons). Registramos seis formas biológicas, sendo anfíbias (27 táxons) e emergentes (26 táxons) as mais comuns. Os ambientes aquáticos de Chapadinha abrigam um número considerável de espécies, famílias e formas de vida de macrófitas aquáticas. Os resultados demonstram que, devido ao baixo número de estudos com esse escopo, conforme evidenciado pelos novos registros apresentados, a flora aquática do estado ainda está subestimada. Sugere-se a realização de novos estudos em áreas pouco exploradas, especialmente na porção leste do estado, a fim de aprimorar a compreensão da riqueza de espécies dessa região. Maranhão biológicas 202 2022 3 4 7 angiospermas 6 elas Plantaginaceae, , (Plantaginaceae) Acanthaceae (Acanthaceae Araceae (Araceae Brasil Cyperaceae 1 sete táxons, táxons cinco táxons. . 27 (2 26 comuns que escopo apresentados subestimada Sugerese Sugere se exploradas região 20 (Plantaginaceae 2 (

Resumo A endozoocoria promovida por aves aquáticas é particularmente relevante para a dispersão de invertebrados aquáticos não-voadores. Essa função ecológica exercida pelas aves tem sido demonstrada para diferentes regiões biogeográficas, porém, não existem estudos para a região neotropical. Neste trabalho nós identificamos propágulos de invertebrados encontrados em fezes de 14 espécies sintópicas de aves aquáticas da América do Sul, representando seis famílias de aves, e também invertebrados emergidos de amostras fecais cultivadas em laboratório. Testamos se a abundância, riqueza de espécies e composição de propágulos de invertebrados variavam entre as espécies de aves e entre estações. Nós encontramos 164 propágulos de invertebrados em amostras fecais de sete espécies de aves, incluindo ovos de Temnocephalida e Notonectidae, estatoblastos de briozoários (Plumatella sp.) e efípios de Cladocera. Ciliados (incluindo Paramecium sp. e Litostomatea), nematóides e rotíferos (Adineta sp. e Nottomatidae) eclodiram de amostras cultivadas. O potencial para endozoocoria foi confirmado para 12 das 14 espécies de aves aquáticas investigadas. Nossos modelos estatísticos sugerem que a riqueza e abundância de propágulos estão associadas às espécies de aves e não são afetadas pela sazonalidade. A dispersão por endozoocoria é importante para uma ampla variedade de invertebrados, sendo promovida por aves aquáticas com diferentes características ecológicas e morfológicas as quais provavelmente regulam a dispersão de invertebrados entre áreas úmidas neotropicais.

Abstract Endozoochory by waterbirds is particularly relevant to the dispersal of non-flying aquatic invertebrates. This ecological function exercised by birds has been demonstrated in different biogeographical regions, but there are no studies for the neotropical region. In this work, we identified propagules of invertebrates in faeces of 14 syntopic South American waterbird species representing six families, and hatched additional invertebrates from cultured faeces. We tested whether propagule abundance, species richness and composition varied among bird species, and between the cold and warm seasons. We found 164 invertebrate propagules in faecal samples from seven different waterbirds species, including eggs of the Temnocephalida and Notonectidae, statoblasts of bryozoans (Plumatella sp.) and ephippia of Cladocera. Ciliates (including Paramecium sp. and Litostomatea), nematodes and rotifers (Adineta sp. and Nottomatidae) hatched from cultured samples. Potential for endozoochory was confirmed for 12 of 14 waterbird species. Our statistical models suggest that richness and abundance of propagules are associated with bird species and not affected by seasonality. Dispersal by endozoochory is potentially important to a broad variety of invertebrates, being promoted by waterbirds with different ecological and morphological traits, which are likely to drive the dispersal of invertebrates in neotropical wetlands.