Although South Africa is known as one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, based on its unique plants and animals, microorganisms have received much less attention. Microorganisms in general and actinobacteria in particular are an underexplored source of new medicines. Recent studies have demonstrated the presence of diverse cultivable actinobacteria from various biomes. However, investigations of the natural product diversity associated with these microorganisms are lacking. We hereby present a review of natural products isolated from South African actinobacteria together with their biological activities. Many of these natural products are structurally novel and include compounds belonging to the following classes: anthraquinones, isoflavonoids, ketolides, macrolides, macrolactams, tripeptides and depsipeptides. They show a wide range of biological activities including antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic and antitumour activities. SIGNIFICANCE: • This review highlights the importance of actinobacteria in the discovery of new medicines and summarises the state-of-the-art on their research in South Africa. • We reveal a gap in the exploitation of this resource and emphasise the opportunities for multidisciplinary research.

Abstract Sustainable forest management requires the integration of better practices for the conservation of biological diversity. Therefore, it is necessary to know the composition and richness of wild communities in sites where different forest management practices are applied. To this end, the fauna of managed forests in the Chignahuapan region of Puebla State was sampled for four years. A total of 112 species were recorded: 13 medium and large mammals, 83 birds, four amphibians and 12 reptiles. The abundances of these observed species were used to calculate the expected richness with the non-parametric Chao1 estimator. The management method with the highest expected richness was the Silvicultural Development Method (MDS) with 113, followed by Successive Cutting (CS) with 97, and the lowest was observed in the Mexican Method for the Management of Irregular Forests (MMOBI) with 71. Sampling completeness ranged from 92 % in amphibians to 99 % in mammals. Sixteen species are in some risk category in the official Mexican standard NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010, and 25 are endemic to Mexico. Taxonomic lists contain information on conservation status, endemism and relative abundance. Intensive forest management methods, such as MDS, have a richer mammal and bird community than MMOBI and CS but are similar to protected areas. The richness and abundance of amphibians and reptiles, most of them in some risk category, are low, especially in MMOBI and CS, and almost absent in protected areas.

Resumen El manejo forestal sustentable requiere de la integración de mejores prácticas de conservación de la diversidad biológica. Para esto, es necesario conocer la composición y riqueza de las comunidades silvestres en los sitios donde se aplican diferentes prácticas silvícolas. Con esta finalidad, se muestreó durante cuatro años la fauna de bosques productivos de la región de Chignahuapan, Puebla. Se registraron 112 especies: 13 de mamíferos medianos y grandes, 83 de aves, cuatro de anfibios y 12 de reptiles. A partir de la abundancia de estas especies observadas, se determinó la riqueza esperada con el estimador no paramétrico Chao1. El método de manejo con mayor riqueza esperada fue el Método de Desarrollo Silvícola (MDS) con 113, seguido por Cortas Sucesivas (CS) con 97, y la menor se observó en el Método Mexicano de Ordenación de Bosques Irregulares (MMOBI) con 71. La completitud de los muestreos varió del 92 % en anfibios al 99 % en mamíferos. Dieciséis especies se encuentran en alguna categoría de riesgo en la norma oficial mexicana NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010, y 25 son endémicas de México. Se presentan listas taxonómicas con información sobre la situación de conservación, endemismo y abundancia relativa. Los métodos intensivos de manejo forestal, como MDS, tienen una comunidad de mamíferos y aves más rica que el MMOBI y CS, pero similar a las de áreas bajo protección. La riqueza y abundancia de anfibios y reptiles, la mayoría en alguna categoría de riesgo, son bajas, especialmente en el MMOBI y CS, y casi ausentes en zonas de protección.

Resumo A percepção tradicional de direitos e obrigações mútuos no mundo em desenvolvimento estava praticamente limitada apenas aos seres humanos. Felizmente, esse entendimento convencional está crescendo para incluir todos os seres vivos no âmbito de certos direitos básicos. Também está abordando aquelas criaturas que coexistem naturalmente com as sociedades humanas ou estão associadas à subsistência e interdependência delas. Isso significa que deve haver um corpo prescrito de regras e regulamentos para regular a conduta humana na sociedade. No Paquistão, o despertar social para os direitos dos animais, apoiado por campanhas internacionais, levou as instituições estatais a criar um corpo adequado de regras e regulamentos para a proteção dos direitos dos animais. O objetivo de desenvolver a compreensão necessária é, em primeiro lugar, esclarecer: o que é um direito e o que é uma obrigação? Em segundo lugar, qual deve ser a natureza desses direitos e obrigações? Devem ser apenas específicos dos seres humanos ou existem outros seres que também possuem certos direitos? Se outros seres vivos e espécies têm direitos, como esses direitos devem ser conferidos e regulamentados? Quem está obrigado a fornecer esses direitos? Quem é o responsável por garantir o cumprimento de tais obrigações? Está ficando mais claro que, assim como os seres humanos, os animais têm certos direitos enquanto seres vivos. Quase todas as religiões do mundo prescreveram certos direitos a eles que estão criptografados em seus livros sagrados. A maioria das pessoas está ciente do conceito básico de observar o comportamento suave e gentil apenas para animais de estimação. Hoje, sabemos cientificamente que a humanidade e os animais têm uma inevitabilidade coexistente. Ao observar o comportamento e a sensação mútuos, o mundo concedeu direitos especiais aos animais, fazendo leis e atos. A implementação desses direitos só pode ser feita por meio do entendimento mútuo dos cidadãos sob a supervisão das agências de aplicação da lei. É responsabilidade do Estado e dos cidadãos dos Estados proteger conjuntamente os animais quando seus direitos estão sendo violados.

Abstract The traditional perception of mutual rights and obligations in the developing world was practically confined to human beings only. Fortunately, this conventional understanding is growing to include all living beings in the scope of certain basic rights. It is also addressing those creatures which are co-existing with human societies naturally or are associated for their subsistence and interdependence. It means that there should be prescribed body of rules and regulations to regulate human conduct in the society. In Pakistan social awakening for animal rights supported by international campaigns have urged state institutions to make adequate body of rules and regulations for protection of animal rights. Purpose of developing required understanding, at the first place is to clarify what is a right and what is an obligation? Secondly what should be the nature of these rights and obligations. Should these be only specific to human beings or there are other beings who also possess certain rights? If other living beings, species have rights, how these rights are to be conferred and regulated? Who is under obligation to provide these rights? Who is liable and responsible to ensure observance of such obligations? It is becoming clearer that like human beings’ animals do have certain rights as living beings. All most all religions of the world have prescribed certain rights to them which are encrypted in their holy books. Most of the people are aware of basic concept of observing mild and kind behavior towards pet animals only. Today we scientifically know that humanity and animals have co-existing inevitability. By observing mutual behavior and sensation, the world has provided special rights to the animals by making laws and Acts. Implementation of those rights can only be made through mutual understanding of the citizens under the supervision of law enforcing agencies. It is the responsibility of state and citizens of the states jointly to protect the animals when their rights are being violated.

Abstract Green areas have important social, biological and aesthetical values. They might provide house and food for fauna, protect biodiversity and can provide several ecosystem services of provision, regulation, support and culture. This research aimed to analyze composition of native and exotic species in urban parks in São Paulo (Brazil), in response to variables considered drivers of diversity adapted to urban environment and to socioeconomic aspects. We expected that socio-economic factors and age and size of parks would be important determinants of species richness All county parks (municipal management) larger than 1 ha were selected, which summed 68 parks throughout São Paulo. Socioeconomic variables for this study were population, growth rate of population, average per capita income, IDH and population density. We also accessed native and exotic species richness of plants and trees from the flora list of each park. In order to determine the effects of park size and age and neighbourhood socio-economic status on richness of plants and trees we used multiple regression analyses. We found a great species richness in urban parks in São Paulo and that richness associated to park age and size, and to some socio-economic factors, especially when combined to age and size of parks. Bigger sites could offer more resources and area for the growth and establishment of native plants, and older parks in São Paulo likely had more management and interventions improving its biodiversity. Lastly, in vulnerable regions and in smaller and newer parks, we recommend improvement in plant species diversity by managers.

Caves are ecosystems and natural heritage sites with magnificent biological diversity, from microorganisms to animals, despite their selective environment for development and survival. Until now, studies on cave microbiomes have included taxonomic classification through metagenomics analysis, demonstrating microbiological heterogeneity mainly composed of prokaryotic organisms or bacteria species. The generally oligotrophic environment, with limited energy input and dark zone, is the main feature differentiating the cave microorganisms from the other microbiomes and resulting in a unique habitat, which has unexplored regard to biology and chemical diversity. Multi-omics integration is a key strategy for scanning and integrating the macro and micromolecular universe, providing a better comprehension of processes and answers of the microbiome in natural cavities. Here, we highlight the strategies employed to study the cave microbiome, from the microbial genomes to their ability to secondary metabolites production, and also the multi-omics integration to explore the chemical and biological diversity in caves. animals survival now analysis species zone habitat Multiomics Multi omics universe cavities Here production multiomics multi caves

Abstract Macrofungi, with their extraordinary diversity and ability to adapt to various substrates, play crucial ecological roles in ecosystems. However, their development is strongly influenced by the interaction of several environmental factors. Understanding these factors and their impact on the distribution of fungi is essential to understand their ecological dynamics. To obtain data how these organisms are distributed under certain topographic factors, an analysis of the species richness of macrofungi was carried out in a tropical deciduous forest on the coast of Oaxaca, taking both the eco-nutritional habits and substrate on which, they develop in response to altitude, slope and terrain orientation. A review was conducted of a field database of 251 biological samples representing 169 species of macrofungi registered in the Environmental Management Unit for the Conservation of Wildlife "Jardín Botánico-Puerto Escondido". The review was used to assigned a life form (parasitic, mutualistic micorrhiza, saprotrophic) and substrate preferences (lignicolous, humicolous, terricolous, entomopathogenic parasite). To understand the topographic characteristics of the collection sites, maps of altitude, slope and solar exposure were designed in which the geographical coordinates recorded in the database for each study sample were plotted. The results reveal a predominance of saprotrophic life form in this tropical deciduous forest, with a marked preference for edaphic substrates. In addition, more than 50% of the species analyzed show a tendency to coexist on moderate to gentle slopes, oriented to the north, and at altitudes ranging from 120 to 140 m. This study highlights the complex interactions between the diversity of macroscopic fungi, their nutritional preferences and their relationship with altitude, slope, and terrain orientation. Relevant information is provided that can be used in resource management and conservation strategies, by identifying sites within the study area with the greatest species richness.

Resumen Los hongos macroscópicos, dada su extraordinaria diversidad y capacidad de adaptación a diversos sustratos, desempeñan funciones ecológicas cruciales en los ecosistemas. No obstante, su desarrollo está fuertemente condicionado por la interacción de factores ambientales. La comprensión de esos factores y su impacto en la distribución de los hongos es esencial para entender su dinámica ecológica. Con el fin de conocer cómo se distribuyen estos organismos bajo ciertos factores topográficos, se llevó a cabo un análisis de la riqueza de macromicetos en un bosque tropical caducifolio en la costa de Oaxaca, considerando los hábitos eco-nutricionales y el sustrato donde se desarrollan, en respuesta a la altitud, pendiente y orientación del terreno. El estudio consistió en realizar una revisión de una base de datos de campo de 251 muestras biológicas que representan 169 especies de hongos macroscópicos registradas en la Unidad de Manejo Ambiental para la Conservación de la Vida Silvestre "Jardín Botánico-Puerto Escondido". La revisión permitió determinar la forma de vida (parásita, mutualista micorrícica, saprobia) y las preferencias de sustrato (lignícola, humícola, terrícola, parásito entomopatógeno) de cada uno de los especímenes. Para conocer las características topográficas de los sitios donde fueron recolectados los ejemplares, se diseñaron mapas de altitud, pendiente y exposición solar en los cuales se posicionaron las coordenadas geográficas registradas en la base de datos de cada una de las muestras de estudio. Los resultados revelan un predominio de la forma de vida saprobia en este bosque tropical caducifolio, con una marcada preferencia por sustratos edáficos. Además, más del 50% de las especies analizadas mostraron una tendencia por coexistir en laderas con pendientes medianas y suaves, orientadas hacia el norte y a altitudes que oscilan entre los 120 y 140 m. El estudio resalta las complejas interacciones entre la diversidad de macromicetos, sus preferencias nutricionales en relación con la altitud, pendiente y orientación del terreno. Se provee información relevante que puede ser utilizada en estrategias de manejo y conservación de recursos, ubicando los sitios con mayor riqueza de especies dentro de la zona de estudio.

ABSTRACT Agroecological management is considered a model of sustainable agriculture that offers social, environmental and economic benefits. The hypotheses of this study were that agroecological production systems can promote changes in the physical fractions of soil organic matter (SOM) associated with aggregates of different origins, and that the greater diversity of plant species in the production system may favour an increase in the carbon concentration of these aggregates. The aim of this study was to a) determine the mass of the free light fraction (FLF), intra-aggregate light fraction (ILF) and light organic matter fraction (LOM) of biogenic and physiogenic soil aggregates; and b) quantify the organic carbon content of the three light SOM fractions and the residual particulate SOM fraction. Five production systems were evaluated: AgF - Agroforestry system; CSun - Coffee grown in full sun; CSha - Coffee grown in shade; FLE - Flemingia grown in alleys; and NT - No-tillage. The aggregates were separated, identified and classified according to their origin or formation pathway into biogenic (formed by biological processes) or physiogenic aggregates (resulting from chemical and physical actions). From these, the mass and carbon content of the FLF, ILF, LOM and residual particulate fractions were quantified. The greater diversity of plant species found in the AgF system has not yet favoured an increase in the carbon content of the aggregates. The longer set-up time and the management practices of the CSun system has led to an increase in the carbon content of the organic fractions of the aggregates (3.44-1.63 g kg-1 for C-LOM; 1.93-1.13 g kg-1 for C-FLF). The lowest overall mean values for LOM and ILF were found mainly in the aggregates of the NT system (1.22-1.67 and 1.55-2.20 g kg-1, respectively), being associated with the shorter time and greater mobilisation of the arable layer. Biogenic aggregation afforded the highest overall mean values for LOM, and increased the mass of the light fractions (15.5%-27.8% for FLF; 23.4%-8.0% for ILF) and the carbon in the C-LOM, C-FLF and residual particulate fractions (42.3%, 12.9%, and 35.0%, respectively) in the surface layer, suggesting an improvement in soil quality.

Resumen (Introducción): Las epífitas representan hasta el 10 % de la diversidad mundial y hasta un 30 % de la diversidad de plantas en los bosques andinos, con las familias Orchidaceae, Bromeliaceae, Araceae y Gesneriaceae como las más importantes. Sus formas, colores y tamaños, así como su interacción con aves, insectos y otros invertebrados, han cautivado a especialistas, así como también a un amplio público en todo el mundo. El turismo de naturaleza se consolida en lugares que ofrecen experiencias únicas, y es un sector creciente de la economía en varios países tropicales. Las plantas epífitas se encuentran dentro de los atractivos locales con mayor potencial de avistamiento en los trópicos. (Objetivo): Presentar una metodología para documentar epífitas en fincas, reservas naturales y áreas protegidas, cuyo propósito sea mejorar la información biológica acerca de ellas, facilitar la guianza y ampliar la experiencia de los visitantes. (Metodología): Con base en años de práctica en el campo, se han adaptado algunos métodos y se han propuesto otros nuevos para mejorar la experiencia de los visitantes, con un enfoque de turismo de naturaleza. (Resultados): Se proponen cinco métodos: (transectos semidetallados, estaciones de observación, recorridos libres, árboles caídos y parcelas permanentes), y un método de conservación in situ (colección viva) para completar la caracterización. Igualmente, se presenta un análisis de las bondades, tiempos, costos y prioridades de cada uno. (Conclusiones): Estos métodos, junto con la edición de guías ilustradas de la flora y la capacitación del recurso humano local, constituyen los ejes centrales para el turismo de naturaleza, el empoderamiento comunitario y el fortalecimiento de los procesos de conservación.

Abstract (Introduction): Epiphytes represent up to 10 % of global diversity and up to 30 % of Andean forests. Orchidaceae, Bromeliaceae, Araceae and Gesneriaceae are among the most important. Their shapes, colors, and sizes, as well as their interaction with insects, birds and invertebrates have captivated specialists, but also a wide audience around the world. Nature tourism is consolidated in places that offer unique experiences and is a growing economic sector in several tropical countries. Epiphytic plants are among the local attractions with the greatest potential for sightings in the tropics. (Objective): To present a methodology to document epiphytes on farms, natural reserves, and protected areas, to improve biological information about them, facilitate guidance, and broaden the visitor experience. (Methodology): Several years of field work have allowed us to adapt some methods and propose new ones to strengthen the experience of visitors with a focus on nature tourism. (Results): Five methods are proposed (semi-detailed transects, sighting stations, ad libitum trails, fallen trees and permanent plots), and a in situ conservation method (living collection) to complete the characterization. Likewise, an analysis of the benefits, times, costs, and priorities of each one is presented. (Conclusions): These methods, along with illustrated flora guides and trained local human resources, constitute the central axes for nature tourism, community empowerment and the strengthening of the conservation processes.

Resumen Introducción. Las arvenses del cultivo de caña de azúcar pueden servir como reservorios de una gran cantidad de insectos benéficos útiles para el control biológico de plagas. Objetivo. Estudiar la asociación entre insectos benéficos y arvenses presentes en bordes de cañales. Materiales y métodos. Se realizaron visitas mensuales desde abril hasta diciembre del 2018, a dos sitios, El Palmar y Turrialba, dos regiones cañeras de Costa Rica. Se seleccionaron veinte puntos de muestreo al azar en donde se aspiraron todos los insectos contenidos en una estructura cuboide de 0,25 m3. Se identificaron las especies de plantas, así como las familias y morfoespecies de insectos presentes; estos últimos se clasificaron de acuerdo con su hábito alimenticio. Luego, se realizó un análisis de co-ocurrencia entre arvenses e insectos. Resultados. Se identificaron 140 especies de arvenses pertenecientes a 41 familias, 83 especies en El Palmar y 120 en Turrialba. La diversidad y riqueza de arvenses fue mayor en Turrialba. Se identificaron 13 689 artrópodos distribuidos en 137 familias; la diversidad, riqueza y abundancia en ambos sitios fue similar. Las familias Poaceae y Cicadellidae fueron identificadas con mayor frecuencia en ambas zonas. En el análisis de co-ocurrencia la arvense Kyllinga brevifolia Rottb., presentó una asociación positiva (p<0,05) con las familias de insectos depredadores Coccinellidae, Syrphidae y Dolichopodidae. La familia de insectos parasitoides Eulophidae se asoció con ocho especies de arvenses. Conclusiones. Se determinó asociación entre especies de arvenses e insectos benéficos en el cultivo de caña de azúcar, por lo que se puede asociar su papel al mantenimiento de las poblaciones de enemigos naturales para el control de plagas.

Abstract Introduction. Weeds in sugarcane crops can serve as reservoirs of a wide variety of beneficial insects that are useful for biological pest control. Objective. To study the association between beneficial insects and weeds present in sugarcane field edges. Materials and methods. Monthly visits were conducted from April to December 2018 in two sites, El Palmar and Turrialba, two sugarcane regions in Costa Rica. Twenty random sampling points were selected where all insects within a cubic structure of 0,25 m3 were aspirated. Plant species were identified, as well as the families and morphospecies of insects present; the latter were classified based on their feeding habits. Subsequently, a co-occurrence analysis between weeds and insects was performed. Results. A total of 140 species belonging to 41 families were identified, with 83 species in El Palmar and 120 in Turrialba. Weed diversity and richness was higher in Turrialba. A total of 13 689 arthropods distributed across 137 families were identified; the diversity, richness, and abundance showed similarity between both sites. The families Poaceae and Cicadellidae were the most frequently identified in both areas. In the co-occurrence analysis, the weed Kyllinga brevifolia Rottb. exhibited a positive association (p<0.05) with predator insect families such as Coccinellidae, Syrphidae, and Dolichopodidae. Additionally, the parasitoid insect family Eulophidae was associated with eight weed species. Conclusions. The study revealed an association between weed species and beneficial insects in sugarcane cultivars, suggesting their role in maintaining populations of natural enemies for pest control.

Abstract Forest species are a source of timber and non-timber products. In addition to being important in obtaining botanical extracts, they contain in their tissues numerous secondary metabolites that have been recognized for their diversity and biological activity, considered as an alternative against fungi that cause rot and degradation in wood (xylophagous fungi), as well as fungi that cause diseases in agricultural crops. In this sense, it was proposed to study Eysenhardtia polystachya as a natural preservative source of wood due to its high resistance to stem rot. For this, extracts were obtained from leaf, sapwood, and heartwood with solvents of different polarities. Scrutiny and selection of the extracts with greater efficacy in Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Ganoderma lucidum were carried out; they were subjected to column chromatography. The content of phenols and flavonoids was determined. The leaf extracts showed selectivity regarding mycelial inhibition in P. chrysosporium, with greater sensitivity to the extracts than G. lucidum. The synergistic effect of the compounds present favors inhibition in P. chrysosporium. Therefore, E. polystachya presents chemical compounds that can preserve the wood and prolong its use time against attack by xylophagous fungi and generate control in phytopathogenic fungi.

Resumen Las especies forestales, son fuente de productos maderables y no maderables. Además de ser importante en la obtención de extractos botánicos, contienen en sus tejidos numerosos metabolitos secundarios a los que se les han reconocido por su diversidad y actividad bilógica. considerados como una alternativa contra hongos causantes de pudrición y degradación en la madera (hongos xilófagos), así como los hongos causantes de enfermedades en cultivos agrícolas. En este sentido, se propuso el estudio de Eysenhardtia polystachya como fuente preservante natural de madera debido a su alta resistencia a la pudrición de sus tallos. Para ello, se obtuvieron extractos con disolventes de diferentes polaridades a partir de hoja, albura y duramen. Se realizó un escrutinio y selección de los extractos con mayor eficacia en Phaneroquetes crysosporum y Ganoderma lucidium; se sometió a cromatografía en columna. Se determinó el contenido de fenoles y flavonoides. Los extractos de hoja presentaron selectividad en cuanto a su inhibición micelial en P. crysosporum con mayor sensibilidad a los extractos que G. lucidium. El efecto sinérgico de los compuestos presentes favorece la inhibición en P. crysosporum. Por lo que, E. polystachya presenta compuestos químicos que pueden preservar la madera y prolongar su tiempo de uso ante el ataque por hongos xilófagos, así como generar un control en hongos fitopatógenos.

Resumen Introducción: La variabilidad en la estructura de las comunidades acuáticas se atribuye frecuentemente a cambios ambientales, no obstante, en ambientes estables como ríos regulados, las interacciones tróficas podrían ser otro factor ambiental clave determinante de la estructura de estas comunidades. Estas alteraciones podrían provocar un mayor crecimiento de algas y, a su vez, cambios en los grupos funcionales y en la composición de la comunidad de macroinvertebrados favoreciendo la dominancia de determinados grupos de organismos. Objetivo: Identificar el efecto de los cambios ambientales y de la estructura del ficoperifiton sobre la comunidad de macroinvertebrados de ríos Andinos regulados. Métodos: Se analizaron datos ambientales y biológicos recolectados en muestreos trimestrales realizados entre 2010 y 2018 en dos ríos de los Andes Centrales (Antioquia - Colombia), para un total de 27 muestras. La recolección de muestras empleó métodos estandarizados. Se utilizaron diferentes modelos estadísticos para establecer patrones espaciales y temporales de las variables ambientales, de la abundancia y/o densidad y diversidad de ficoperifiton y de los macroinvertebrados, así como las relaciones tróficas que existen entre ellos. Resultados: Se encontró que los ríos regulados presentan relativamente poca variabilidad ambiental. Los parámetros ambientales con mayor variación fueron: temperatura, turbidez y ortofosfatos; las dos últimas variables abióticas fueron las que más aportaron a la inestabilidad bentónica. Conclusión: La presencia de macroinvertebrados raspadores y recolectores fue más afectada por la estabilidad de la densidad del ficoperifiton que por las variables ambientales, evidenciando la importancia de las interacciones tróficas en ríos regulados y el control bottoom up en estos ecosistemas.

Abstract Introduction: The variability in the structure of aquatic communities is frequently attributed to environmental changes; however, in stable environments such as regulated rivers, trophic interactions could be another key environmental factor determining the structure of these communities. These alterations could cause a greater growth of algae, and in turn, changes in the functional groups and in the composition of the macroinvertebrate community favoring the dominance of certain groups of organisms. Objective: To identify the effects of environmental variations and changes in the structure of the phycoperiphyton on the macroinvertebrate community of regulated Andean rivers. Methods: We analyzed environmental and biological data collected in quarterly samples carried out between 2010 and 2018 in two rivers of the Central Andes (Antioquia - Colombia), for a total of 27 samples. Sample collections used standardized methods. Different statistical models were used to establish spatial and temporal patterns of the environmental variables, of the abundance and/or density and diversity of phycoperiphyton and macroinvertebrates, as well as the trophic relationships that exists between them. Results: We found that regulated rivers present relatively little environmental variability. The environmental parameters with the greatest variation were temperature, turbidity, and orthophosphates; these last two were the abiotic variables with the greatest contribution to benthic instability. Conclusion: The presence of scraping and foraging macroinvertebrates was more affected by the stability of the phycoperiphyton density than by environmental variables, showing the importance of trophic interactions in regulated rivers and the bottom up control in these ecosystems.

Abstract Zoogenetic resources, particularly the diversity of production-oriented domestic animal breeds, represent the primary biological capital for livestock development and are crucial for food security and sustainable rural development. The extinction of these resources implies the loss of varieties adapted to the local ecosystem. Preserving local breeds for the future enables a resilient response to unforeseen events, such as climate change. In Ecuador, there is a lack of a clear overview regarding their characterization. This study aims to elucidate the current status of the characterization of these resources by compiling and analyzing existing research. The results reveal a greater emphasis on phenotypic characterization studies than on genetic studies, with the latter exhibiting a technological dependence on foreign universities. Concerning national institutions, universities in major urban centers are notably absent from research related to this subject. Regarding the species under investigation, bovines and pigs account for more than half of the research efforts.

Resumen Los recursos zoogenéticos, en especial la diversidad de razas de animales domésticos de producción, son el principal capital biológico para el desarrollo ganadero y son vitales para la seguridad alimentaria y el desarrollo rural sostenible. La extinción de estos implica la pérdida de variedades adaptables al ecosistema local. Conservar razas locales para el futuro permitirá la respuesta a eventos imprevistos, como el cambio climático. En el Ecuador no hay un panorama claro sobre su caracterización. Este estudio pretende aclarar el estado actual de la caracterización de estos recursos, recopilando y analizando las investigaciones al respecto. Los resultados muestran un mayor desarrollo de los estudios sobre caracterización fenotípica que sobre la genética, en esta última se muestra una dependencia tecnológica de universidades extranjeras. En cuanto a las Instituciones nacionales, las universidades de grandes centros urbanos están ausentes en el trabajo relacionado a este tema. Sobre las especies estudiadas, los bovinos y los porcinos ocupan más de la mitad de las investigaciones.

Empirical studies have pointed out that academic mobility can increase social capital, contribute to collaborations, and directly influence overall career success (Dueñas-Fernández, Iglesias-Fernández &amp; Llorente-Heras, 2013). However, it is also known that both academic mobility and international scientific collaborations can be negatively impacted by gender inequality. Regarding international mobility, women are underrepresented in all areas of knowledge (Momeni et al., 2022). In science, immobility or low mobility is commonly associated with slower career progression; scarce opportunities to hold coordination and management positions ("glass ceiling"); less insertion in international collaboration networks; and even abandonment of science (Delicado &amp; Alves, 2013; van der Wal, 2021).   The overload of family functions and the partnering effect (Ackers, 2004) are among the obstacles that women may face, which can limit researchers' displacement opportunities (Momeni et al., 2022). This scenario justifies the importance of exploring the international mobility undertaken by Brazilian researchers to analyze, among other aspects, the possible gender imbalances in academic mobility.  The population investigated in this research will be comprised of Brazilians who have done postdoctoral studies abroad. This selection is because they are more advanced in their professional and training trajectories. The phase after the doctorate makes the researcher more independent and responsible for their research agenda, which would leave them better able to conduct high-impact studies (Nerad et al., 2022). The work aims to design research that evaluates the effect of postdoctoral mobility abroad on employment in the academic career, considering gender inequality and institutional and systemic aspects (such as area of knowledge, academic productivity, and career position) (Aksnes et al., 2019). For this, a consolidated database will be built based on former postdoctoral fellows of the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) and the triangulation of a set of data sources since there is no consolidated database on mobility and employment ties in the Brazilian case. Next, a comparative study with a descriptive and exploratory design will be carried out between those who had postdoctoral fellowships abroad and those who had postdoctoral fellowships in Brazil without an internship abroad, and which aims, in the future, to enable the carrying out of a quasi-experiment. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The research design is descriptive and exploratory, in which a consolidated database is built with information about employment, academic production and curriculum, as well as the completion of internships abroad. Thus, possible patterns and differentiations between the academic trajectories and the characteristics of the individuals will be investigated. The consolidated database is constructed by exploring, collecting and cross-referencing information from various data sources with quality control of the selected variables. First, we will explore the databases made available by FAPESP regarding former postdoctoral fellows to obtain information about the individuals funded between 2012 and 2017, such as name, institutional affiliation and area of knowledge. Such information is necessary for cross-referencing with other databases. In addition, other information from the researchers' records will be checked regarding the percentage of missing values such as gender, race/color, sexual orientation, and age, among others. The time frame will allow the verification of scientific production and insertion in the labor market in the post-doctorate conclusion years. Subsequently, the FAPESP database will be used for triangulation with three other data sources: (i) formal employment records from the Annual Social Information Report (RAIS) of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security; (ii) the résumés available on the Lattes platform of the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq); and (iii) the institutional affiliation in the scientific production of a bibliometric study.  FINDINGS OR EXPECTED OUTCOMES:  The results found so far show a discrepant distribution of completed fellowships by knowledge area and a high concentration of destination countries in the Global North. The expected outcomes are the obtaining of different patterns between the effects of mobility of postdoctoral fellows abroad and the effects of the characteristics of individuals (gender) in scientific production and in employment. Thus, enabling the generation and substantiation of hypotheses for future work. ORIGINALITY/VALUE:  The originality of this research is grounded on three factors. Firstly, the increase in knowledge on international mobility, emphasizing the impacts of mobility on the careers of Brazilian scientists and academics and on gender inequality, which is still little explored. Secondly, the increase in the knowledge areas studied and in the number of destination countries. Previous studies usually focused on a few areas, favoring those with low female presence (exact and biological sciences and engineering) and a small group of destination countries (mainly countries of the Global North). Thus, comprehensiveness is one of the innovations of this research, without the prior selection of areas of knowledge or countries of destination. Thirdly, the results will be based on a triangulation of four sets of information, which will complement different types of academic links, validation of research data, and greater reliability.  PRACTICAL/SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS:  Gender asymmetries in access to academic mobility highlight the disparities between men and women in career advancement possibilities, considering the relevance of international experiences in the researchers' curriculum. Along with the discussions of Responsible Research Assessment (RRA), global initiatives from groups such as the Research on Research Institute (RoRI) and the Global Research Council (GRC) are bringing the need to consider Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in research practices and activities to the debate. Thus, it is essential to expand the understanding of gender inequalities in international mobility and academic careers, especially in the Brazilian context. This will contribute to implement EDI plans and policies and create mechanisms aimed at gender equity in the generation of academic mobility opportunities in funding agencies. DIRECTIONS FOR FURTHER RESEARCH/LIMITATIONS:  It is anticipated that there will be two main limitations in the research. The first is the difficulty in obtaining information on the characteristics of individuals. Even with the triangulation of several data sources, the information is often low quality or non-existent. The second limitation stems from the need for more robust methodologies that allow greater inferences about the results, which demands future research advances, where methodologies such as the Generalized Propensity Score (GPS) are implemented.

Estudos empíricos têm apontado que a mobilidade acadêmica pode aumentar o capital social, contribuir para colaborações e influenciar diretamente o sucesso geral na carreira (Dueñas-Fernández, Iglesias-Fernández &amp; Llorente-Heras, 2013). No entanto, também se sabe que tanto a mobilidade acadêmica quanto as colaborações científicas internacionais podem ser impactadas negativamente pela desigualdade de gênero. No que diz respeito à mobilidade internacional, as mulheres estão sub-representadas em todas as áreas do conhecimento (Momeni et al., 2022). Na ciência, a imobilidade ou baixa mobilidade é comumente associada a uma progressão de carreira mais lenta; escassas oportunidades de ocupar cargos de coordenação e gerenciamento ("teto de vidro"); menor inserção em redes de colaboração internacional; e até mesmo abandono da ciência (Delicado &amp; Alves, 2013; van der Wal, 2021). A sobrecarga de funções familiares e o efeito de parceria (Ackers, 2004) estão entre os obstáculos que as mulheres podem enfrentar, o que pode limitar as oportunidades de deslocamento dos pesquisadores (Momeni et al., 2022). Esse cenário justifica a importância de explorar a mobilidade internacional realizada por pesquisadores brasileiros para analisar, entre outros aspectos, os possíveis desequilíbrios de gênero na mobilidade acadêmica. A população investigada nesta pesquisa será composta por brasileiros que realizaram estudos de pós-doutorado no exterior. Essa seleção ocorre porque eles estão mais avançados em suas trajetórias profissionais e de formação. A fase após o doutorado torna o pesquisador mais independente e responsável por sua agenda de pesquisa, o que os capacita a conduzir estudos de alto impacto (Nerad et al., 2022). O trabalho tem como objetivo elaborar uma pesquisa que avalie o efeito da mobilidade de pós-doutorado no exterior no emprego na carreira acadêmica, considerando a desigualdade de gênero e aspectos institucionais e sistêmicos (como área de conhecimento, produtividade acadêmica e posição na carreira) (Aksnes et al., 2019). Para isso, será construído um banco de dados consolidado com base em ex-bolsistas de pós-doutorado da Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) e na triangulação de um conjunto de fontes de dados, uma vez que não existe um banco de dados consolidado sobre mobilidade e vínculos de emprego no caso brasileiro. Em seguida, será realizado um estudo comparativo com um desenho descritivo e exploratório entre aqueles que tiveram bolsas de pós-doutorado no exterior e aqueles que tiveram bolsas de pós-doutorado no Brasil sem estágio no exterior, com o objetivo de possibilitar a realização de um quasi-experimento no futuro. DESENHO/METODOLOGIA/ABORDAGEM: O desenho da pesquisa é descritivo e exploratório, no qual será construído um banco de dados consolidado com informações sobre emprego, produção acadêmica e currículo, bem como a realização de estágios no exterior. Assim, serão investigados possíveis padrões e diferenciações entre as trajetórias acadêmicas e as características dos indivíduos. O banco de dados consolidado é construído explorando, coletando e cruzando informações de várias fontes de dados com controle de qualidade das variáveis selecionadas. Primeiramente, exploraremos as bases de dados disponibilizadas pela FAPESP referentes a ex-bolsistas de pós-doutorado para obter informações sobre os indivíduos financiados entre 2012 e 2017, como nome, afiliação institucional e área do conhecimento. Essas informações são necessárias para cruzar com outras bases de dados. Além disso, outras informações dos registros dos pesquisadores serão verificadas em relação à porcentagem de valores ausentes, como gênero, raça/cor, orientação sexual e idade, entre outros. O período permitirá a verificação da produção científica e inserção no mercado de trabalho nos anos de conclusão do pós-doutorado. Em seguida, a base de dados da FAPESP será utilizada para a triangulação com outras três fontes de dados: (i) registros formais de emprego do Relatório Anual de Informações Sociais (RAIS) do Ministério do Trabalho e Previdência Social; (ii) currículos disponíveis na plataforma Lattes do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq); e (iii) a afiliação institucional na produção científica de um estudo bibliométrico. RESULTADOS OU RESULTADOS ESPERADOS: Os resultados encontrados até o momento mostram uma distribuição discrepante de bolsas concluídas por área do conhecimento e uma alta concentração de países de destino no Norte Global. Os resultados esperados são a obtenção de diferentes padrões entre os efeitos da mobilidade de bolsistas de pós-doutorado no exterior e os efeitos das características dos indivíduos (gênero) na produção científica e no emprego. Isso permitirá a formulação e a fundamentação de hipóteses para trabalhos futuros. ORIGINALIDADE/VALOR: A originalidade desta pesquisa está fundamentada em três fatores. Primeiramente, o aumento do conhecimento sobre a mobilidade internacional, enfatizando os impactos da mobilidade nas carreiras de cientistas e acadêmicos brasileiros e na desigualdade de gênero, que ainda é pouco explorada. Em segundo lugar, o aumento nas áreas de conhecimento estudadas e no número de países de destino. Estudos anteriores geralmente se concentravam em algumas áreas, favorecendo aquelas com baixa presença feminina (ciências exatas, biológicas e engenharias) e um pequeno grupo de países de destino (principalmente países do Norte Global). Assim, a abrangência é uma das inovações desta pesquisa, sem a pré-seleção anterior de áreas de conhecimento ou países de destino. Em terceiro lugar, os resultados serão baseados em uma triangulação de quatro conjuntos de informações, que complementarão diferentes tipos de vínculos acadêmicos, validação dos dados de pesquisa e maior confiabilidade. IMPLICAÇÕES PRÁTICAS/SOCIAIS: As assimetrias de gênero no acesso à mobilidade acadêmica destacam as disparidades entre homens e mulheres nas possibilidades de avanço na carreira, considerando a relevância das experiências internacionais no currículo dos pesquisadores. Juntamente com as discussões sobre Avaliação Responsável da Pesquisa (RRA), iniciativas globais de grupos como o Research on Research Institute (RoRI) e o Global Research Council (GRC) estão trazendo a necessidade de considerar a Equidade, Diversidade e Inclusão (EDI) nas práticas e atividades de pesquisa para o debate. Portanto, é essencial ampliar a compreensão das desigualdades de gênero na mobilidade internacional e nas carreiras acadêmicas, especialmente no contexto brasileiro. Isso contribuirá para implementar planos e políticas de EDI e criar mecanismos voltados para a equidade de gênero na geração de oportunidades de mobilidade acadêmica em agências de financiamento. DIREÇÕES PARA PESQUISAS FUTURAS/LIMITAÇÕES: Antecipa-se que haverá duas limitações principais na pesquisa. A primeira é a dificuldade em obter informações sobre as características dos indivíduos. Mesmo com a triangulação de várias fontes de dados, as informações muitas vezes são de baixa qualidade ou inexistentes. A segunda limitação decorre da necessidade de metodologias mais robustas que permitam maiores inferências sobre os resultados, o que exige avanços em pesquisas futuras, onde metodologias como o Escore de Propensão Generalizada (GPS) são implementadas.

Resumen Introducción. Los pastos son la principal fuente de alimento en los sistemas ganaderos y pueden ser un nicho adecuado para insectos con funciones beneficiosas y dañinas. Objetivo. Estimar la entomofauna asociada a tres especies de pastos, Cenchrus ciliaris, Chloris gayana y Megathyrsus maximus, en condiciones del Caribe colombiano. Materiales y métodos. Se realizaron diez muestreos en dos estaciones contrastantes, de baja y alta precipitación (agosto a octubre de 2018 y enero a marzo de 2019), se utilizaron tres especies forrajeras (Cenchrus ciliaris, Megathyrsus maximus, Chloris gayana), en un área de 1000 m2. Los artrópodos fueron identificados por orden y familia y tipificados por grupos funcionales. Se estimaron índices de diversidad y abundancia por pastos y estaciones, así como su correlación con el clima. Se realizó un análisis de correspondencia simple. Resultados. Se recolectaron 380 insectos de siete órdenes y 35 familias, con mayor abundancia para Hemiptera y Coleoptera. El índice de diversidad de Shannon fue más alto para todos los órdenes de C. gayana, excepto para Hemiptera en C. ciliaris. Los fitófagos se encontraron en mayor porcentaje (66,84 %), seguidos de los depredadores (27,11 %). La abundancia de insectos estuvo influenciada por la interacción entre la estación y el pasto, mostró un incremento a bajas temperaturas, excepto para M. maximus. Los pastos representaron microambientes adecuados para mantener la diversidad de insectos, los órdenes Hemiptera y Coleoptera fueron los más numerosos y representativos de los grupos funcionales fitófagos y depredadores, respectivamente. Conclusión. La entomofauna de C. gayana, C. ciliaris y M. maximus fue similar en abundancia y diversidad de insectos, sin embargo, la abundancia dependió de la influencia de la estación y de los pastos.

Abstract Introduction. Pastures are the primary source of food in livestock systems and can be a suitable niche for insects with beneficial and harmful functions. Objective. To estimate the entomofauna associated with three species of pastures, Cenchrus ciliaris, Chloris gayana, and Megathyrsus maximus, in conditions of the Colombian Caribbean. Materials and methods. Ten samplings were carried out in two contrasting periods (August to October 2018 and January to March 2019), three forage species (Cenchrus ciliaris, Megathyrsus maximus, Chloris gayana) within 1000 m2 were used. Arthropods were identified by order and family and typified by functional groups. Diversity and abundance indices by pasture and season were estimated, as well as their correlation with climate. A simple correspondence analysis was performed. Results. A total of 380 insects from 7 orders and 35 families were collected, with the greatest abundance for Hemiptera and Coleoptera. The Shannon’s diversity index was higher for all orders of C. gayana, except for Hemiptera in C. ciliaris. Phytophages were found in a higher percentage (66.84 %), followed by predators (27.11 %). Insect abundance was influenced by the interaction between season and pasture, showing an increase at low temperatures, except for M. maximus. Pastures represented adequate microenvironments to maintain the diversity of insects, the Hemiptera and Coleoptera orders being the most numerous and representative of the functional groups of phytophages and predators, respectively. Conclusion. The entomofauna of C. gayana, C. ciliaris, and M. maximus was similar in insect abundance and diversity, however, insect abundance depended on the influence of the season and pastures.

Resumen: La vegetación ribereña en la cuenca del río Usumacinta en Tabasco, México constituye un ecosistema importante para el mantenimiento de la diversidad biológica, desgraciadamente es el más afectado por la expansión de la ganadería y la agricultura. Entender cómo la diversidad de murciélagos filostómidos se distribuye a lo largo de la franja de vegetación ribereña, es información para la toma de decisiones en la conservación del hábitat de la comunidad de murciélagos. El objetivo del estudio fue comparar la estructura y composición de los ensambles de murciélagos filostómidos en diferentes sitios de vegetación ribereña a lo largo del rio Usumacinta en Tabasco, México. Durante siete meses se realizaron capturas de murciélagos filostómidos con cuatro redes de niebla en seis diferentes sitios con vegetación ribereña. La estructura y composición se describió y comparó entre sitios con base en el número efectivo de especies, curvas-rango abundancia e índice de complementariedad. Se registraron 541 individuos agrupados en 15 especies, el 67% de las especies pertenecen a la subfamilia Stenodermatinae. No se encontraron diferencias entre la riqueza y diversidad de murciélagos filostómidos, sin embargo, se observó diferencias en la composición del ensamble entre sitios. El presente estudio aporta información básica que servirá en la toma de decisiones para conservar la diversidad de murciélagos en vegetación ribereña en el estado y la región.

Abstract: The riparian vegetation in the Usumacinta river basin in Tabasco, Mexico is an important ecosystem for the maintenance of biological diversity, unfortunately, it is the most affected by the expansion of livestock and agriculture. Understanding how the diversity of phyllostomid bats is distributed along the riparian vegetation strip is information for decision-making in the conservation of the habitat of the bat community. The study aimed to compare the structure and composition of phyllostomid bat assemblages at different riparian vegetation sites along the Usumacinta River in Tabasco, Mexico. For seven months, phyllostomid bats were captured with four mist nets at six riparian vegetation sites. Bat structure and composition were described and compared between sites based on the effective number of species, rank abundance curves, and complementarity index. A total of 541 individuals comprising 15 species were captured, 67% of the species belong to the subfamily Stenodermatinae. No differences were found between the richness and diversity of phyllostomid bats; however, we did observe differences in assemblage composition between sites. This study provides basic information that will serve in decision-making to conserve bat diversity in riparian vegetation strips in the State and the region.