Abstract: The text emphasizes the growing global need to integrate ecological and sustainable urban planning with contemporary demands for circulation and transportation. The importance of university education based on serious research for architects and urban planners is highlighted, promoting collaboration among all societal stakeholders. The increasing urban concentration poses challenges in mobility, sustainability, and commerce, making it essential to address these issues in education and professional practice. The "door-to-door" trend in consumer-oriented societies underscores the need to reconcile mobility with sustainable designs. ESTOA's editorial reflects on these aspects, advocating for academic forums discussing sustainable projects tailored to user needs. The issue features theoretical and practical articles exploring architecture from various angles, ranging from heritage studies to evaluations of post-COVID-19 public policies. The text underscores the importance of education and teaching in developing synergies in eco-urbanism, emphasizing the need for innovation in architectural and urban education.

Resumen: El texto destaca la creciente necesidad global de integrar el urbanismo ecológico y sostenible con las demandas contemporáneas de circulación y transporte. Se resalta la importancia de la formación universitaria basada en investigaciones serias para arquitectos y urbanistas, promoviendo la colaboración entre todos los actores de la sociedad. La concentración urbana en aumento plantea desafíos en movilidad, sostenibilidad y comercio, siendo esencial abordar estos problemas en la educación y práctica profesional. La tendencia "puerta a puerta" en una sociedad consumista enfatiza la necesidad de reconciliar la movilidad con diseños sostenibles. El editorial de ESTOA reflexiona sobre estos aspectos, abogando por foros académicos que discutan proyectos sostenibles, adaptados a las necesidades del usuario. El número presenta artículos teóricos y prácticos que exploran la arquitectura desde diversos enfoques, desde estudios sobre patrimonio hasta evaluaciones de políticas públicas post-COVID-19. Se destaca la importancia de la formación y docencia en el desarrollo de sinergias en el eco-urbanismo, subrayando la necesidad de innovación en la educación arquitectónica y urbanística.

BACKGROUND: The world is facing rapidly declining health of the climate and ecosystems on which all species depend, with wealth accumulating in the hands of a few, a result of unsustainable economic systems. Evaluation has the potential for a significant role in learning from the past and helping to guide a regenerative future, but for this, the approach to evaluation and the systems that produce them must be transformative and take on more holistic approaches to society and the planet OBJECTIVES: This study aims to explore how cases of African national evaluation systems (NESs) apply elements of a decolonised social-ecological model and how this could be strengthened METHOD: This study involves a constructive critical analysis of the South African and Benin NESs, drawing on literature on decolonising evaluation and a new institutionalism lens to the formation of post-colonial bureaucracies, tested in a webinar conversation around decolonising evaluation in November 2023 RESULTS: The African NESs have embedded learning, exhibit both machine-based and ecological-based elements, and experience some decolonised aspects. A key limitation is the lack of involvement of communities in the systems CONCLUSION: This study argues for: (1) allowing NESs to break from historical forms of bureaucratic functioning; (2) developing a systems-based approach as the basis for new thinking around NESs, strengthening their ecological aspects; (3) embracing the learning approaches we see in both countries; (4) embracing principles of participatory democracy and co-production by strengthening the voice of non-state actors, particularly citizens, in the formation of NESs and (5) changing power dynamics, in NESs and evaluations CONTRIBUTION: This article is contributing to a debate on how evaluation systems can be decolonised and power relations changed

Resumen El oxígeno se ha identificado como una de las principales causas que conducen a daños por desecación, mientras que el tiempo que el microorganismo está expuesto a condiciones ambiente puede contribuir a su degradación. En el Centro de Ingeniería Genética y Biotecnología de Camagüey, se desarrolló un producto ecológico de formulación sólida con probada acción bionematicida llamado HeberNem-S®, cuyo ingrediente activo es la bacteria Gram positiva Brevibacterium celere C-924. En el presente trabajo se realizó un estudio de estabilidad del ingrediente activo del producto HeberNem-S( a las temperaturas de 16, 28 y 37 ºC sin vacío. Como resultado del estudio se obtuvo un modelo matemático que simula la degradación que ocurre en el rango de temperaturas evaluadas y sin vacío. El modelo matemático logarítmico-exponencial obtenido permite estimar el grado de supervivencia ante modificaciones ambientales asociadas a los parámetros estudiados, sin necesidad de realizar evaluaciones experimentales de determinación de la viabilidad.

Abstract Oxygen has been identified as one of the main causes leading to desiccation damage, while the time that the microorganism is exposed to ambient conditions can contribute to its degradation. At the Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology of Camagüey, an ecological product with a solid formulation with proven bionematicidal action called HeberNem-S® was developed, whose active ingredient is the Gram-positive bacterium Brevibacterium celere C-924. In the present work, a stability study of the active ingredient of the HeberNem-S( product was carried out at temperatures of 16, 28 and 37 ºC without vacuum. As a result of the study, a mathematical model was obtained that simulates the degradation that occurs in the range of temperatures evaluated and without vacuum. The logarithmic-exponential mathematical model obtained makes it possible to estimate the degree of survival in the face of environmental modifications associated with the parameters studied, without the need to carry out experimental evaluations to determine viability.

RESUMEN El aumento de las exportaciones de lima tahití en el último año y las exigencias de calidad del mercado internacional han hecho necesario mejorar los procesos de producción para obtener frutos con características organolépticas cada vez mejores. Para ello, la base es la elección de un predio con condiciones edafoclimáticas adecuadas y un conocimiento preciso del comportamiento ecofisiológico del árbol en estas condiciones. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo documentar la fenología de la floración y estudiar las características fisicoquímicas de los frutos de lima tahití en dos ambientes de la región andina de Colombia. Se realizaron evaluaciones en ocho árboles de limón Tahití de diez años por huerto injertados en Sunki x English. Se realizaron observaciones durante doce meses de las yemas, flores y frutos de los árboles marcados en cada zona evaluada (Manizales - 2280 msnm y Santagueda 1010 msnm). Se evaluó la fenología de la floración según los estados de la escala fenológica BBCH, las características físico-químicas del fruto y las condiciones climáticas de las dos zonas evaluadas. Se utilizó un diseño experimental completamente aleatorizado y la comparación de medias de Duncan. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en diámetro polar, ácido ascórbico, sólidos solubles, rendimiento en jugo, masa de cáscara y acidez titulable según la localidad. La fenología de floración tardó menos tiempo, y la acumulación de unidades caloríficas fue mayor en la zona de menor altitud. Las características físicas y químicas de los frutos de lima tahití están influidas por el entorno en el que se desarrollan los árboles.

ABSTRACT The surge in Tahiti lime exports over the past year, combined with heightened quality standards of the international market, have made it necessary to improve production processes to obtain fruit with increasingly better organoleptic characteristics. Thus, the foundation lies in selecting a property with suitable edaphoclimatic conditions and possessing precise knowledge of the ecophysiological behavior of the tree in these specific conditions. This study aimed to document the flowering phenology and study the physicochemical characteristics of Tahiti lime fruits in two environments in the Andean region of Colombia. Evaluations were conducted on eight Tahiti lime trees (ten-year-old) per orchard grafted on Sunki x English. Observations were made for 12 months of the buds, flowers and fruits of the marked trees in each evaluated area (Manizales - 2280 m asl and Santagueda 1010 m asl). The flowering phenology according to the stages of the BBCH phenological scale, the physical-chemical characteristics of the fruit, and the climatic conditions of the two areas were evaluated. A completely randomized experimental design and Duncan's comparison of means were used. Significant differences were found in polar diameter, ascorbic acid, soluble solids, juice yield, shell mass, and titratable acidity according to locality. The Phenology of flowering took less time, and the accumulation of heat units was higher in the lower altitude zone. The physical and chemical characteristics of Tahiti lime fruits are influenced by the environment in which the trees develop.

Resumo Este artigo descreve o trabalho em rede - networking - na educação para o desenvolvimento sustentável dentro da rede austríaca de escolas-ECOLOG. Analisa os conceitos teóricos de Educação para o Desenvolvimento Sustentável e de desenvolvimento escolar do ponto de vista austríaco, bem como as redes em educação em geral e a organização da rede-ECOLOG em particular. O ECOLOG consiste num programa e numa rede para a ecologização das escolas e a educação para a sustentabilidade na Áustria. Há 25 anos que mais de 700 escolas ECOLOG e 13 escolas de formação de professores integram uma abordagem ecológica na sua vida escolar quotidiana e no desenvolvimento escolar. Desde que a rede de escolas-ECOLOG existe, tem-se produzido uma série de avaliações, inquéritos e estudos (Rauch & Pfaffenwimmer, 2020). Com base nestas avaliações e para obter dados quantitativos atuais sobre a implementação do ECOLOG nas escolas participantes, enviou-se um inquérito por questionário a todos os coordenadores de escolas ECOLOG, tendo havido 154 respondentes (taxa de resposta de 25%) no ano escolar 2018/19, com o objetivo de extrair medidas relevantes de apoio às escolas ECOLOG. Os resultados mostram que os coordenadores implementaram os princípios ECOLOG na vida escolar quotidiana através de ações ambientalmente conscientes, à medida que os estudantes aprenderam como lidar com recursos limitados e foram expostos a novas formas de pensar e de trabalhar. Porém, ainda há por onde melhorar, por exemplo na definição de cooperação com parceiros externos à escola.

Resumen Este artículo describe el trabajo en red para la educación para el desarrollo sostenible de la red de escuelas-ECOLOG de Austria. Analiza los conceptos teóricos de la Educación para el Desarrollo Sostenible y el desarrollo escolar desde el punto de vista austriaco, así como las redes en educación en general y la organización de la red ECOLOG en particular. ECOLOG es un programa y una red para la ecologización de las escuelas y la educación para la sostenibilidad en Austria. Durante 25 años, más de 700 escuelas ECOLOG y 13 escuelas de formación de profesores han integrado un enfoque ecológico en su vida escolar diaria y en el desarrollo escolar. A lo largo de la existencia de la red de escuelas-ECOLOG, se han producido una serie de evaluaciones, encuestas y estudios (Rauch & Pfaffenwimmer, 2020). Con base en estas evaluaciones y para obtener datos cuantitativos actuales sobre la implementación de ECOLOG en las escuelas participantes, se envió una encuesta a todos los coordinadores escolares de ECOLOG, con 154 encuestados (tasa de respuesta del 25%) en el año escolar 2018/19, con el objetivo de extraer medidas de apoyo relevantes para las escuelas ECOLOG. Los resultados muestran que los coordinadores implementaron los principios de ECOLOG en la vida escolar cotidiana a través de acciones ambientalmente conscientes, mientras que los alumnos aprendieron cómo lidiar con recursos limitados y fueron expuestos a nuevas formas de pensar y trabajar. Sin embargo, todavía hay margen de mejora, por ejemplo, en la configuración de la cooperación con socios extraescolares.

Abstract This paper describes networking for education for sustainable development within the Austrian ECOLOG-schools network. It discusses theoretical concepts of Education for Sustainable Development and school development from an Austrian perspective, as well as networks in education in general and the organisation of the ECOLOG-network in particular. ECOLOG is a programme and network for the greening of schools and education for sustainability in Austria. For 25 years, over 700 ECOLOG schools and 13 colleges of teacher education have been integrating an ecological approach into their everyday school life and school development. Throughout the ECOLOG-schools network's existence, a series of evaluations, inquiries, and studies have been produced (Rauch & Pfaffenwimmer, 2020). Based on these evaluations and to obtain current quantitative data on the implementation of ECOLOG at the participating schools, a questionnaire survey was sent to all ECOLOG school coordinators with 154 respondents (25% response rate) in the school year 2018/19, with the aim of deriving relevant measures to support ECOLOG schools. The results show that the coordinators implemented the ECOLOG principles in their everyday school life through environmentally conscious actions, while pupils learned how to deal with limited resources and were exposed to new ways of thinking and working. However, there is still room for improvement, for instance in shaping cooperation with out-of-school partners.

ABSTRACT Some native species of the Cerrado have great ecological and economic potential. An alternative that aims to contribute to the good performance of post-planting plants is the incorporation of biochar into the soil. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of filter cake biochar as a soil conditioner and its influence on the growth and physiology of macaúba, araçá and cajuzinho do cerrado. The experiments were set up at Fazenda Hamilton de Abreu Navarro, Federal University of Minas Gerais, where the effect of four doses of filter cake biochar (1%, 2%, 4% and 8% v/v) and two treatments were evaluated. control: one with soil correction (7.5 g of GEOX) and mineral fertilization (380 g NPK 4:14:8 per plant) and the other without fertilization. To monitor the performance of the seedlings, evaluations were carried out at 30, 60 and 120 days after transplanting, the physiological parameters (photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance, CO2 consumed, internal carbon and electron transport rate), and morphological parameters (height and diameter), at 30, 60, 90 and 120 days after transplanting. At 120 days, the production of shoot, root and total dry biomass was evaluated. For macaúba, the application of biochar, at a dose of 2%, favored its photosynthesis. As for araçá, at 30 days after transplanting, the treatment without fertilization was better for most variables, however the treatments with biochar also had satisfactory results. The cajuzinho from the cerrado also responded positively to the application of biochar at all doses. The physiological and morphological variables responded well to treatments without fertilization and with application of biochar to the soil. Therefore, filter cake biochar can be indicated in the planting of the studied species, as well as the non-application of corrective and mineral fertilizer.

RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do biochar de torta de filtro como condicionador de solo e sua influência no crescimento e na fisiologia de macaúba, araçá e cajuzinho do cerrado. Os experimentos foram montados na Fazenda Hamilton de Abreu Navarro da UFMG, onde foram avaliados o efeito de quatro doses de biochar de torta de filtro (1%, 2%, 4% e 8% v/v) e dois tratamentos controle: um com correção do solo e adubação mineral, e o outro sem adubação. Para acompanhar o desempenho das mudas, foram realizadas avaliações aos 30, 60 e 120 dias após o transplantio, dos parâmetros fisiológicos (fotossíntese, transpiração, condutância estomática, CO2 consumido, carbono interno e taxa de transporte de elétrons), e morfológicos (altura e diâmetro), aos 30, 60, 90 e 120 dias após o transplantio. Aos 120 dias, avaliou-se a produção de biomassa seca da parte aérea, de raízes e total. Para a macaúba, a aplicação de biochar, na dose de 2%, favoreceu a sua fotossíntese. Já para o araçá, aos 30 dias após o transplantio, o tratamento sem adubação foi melhor para a maioria das variáveis, entretanto os tratamentos com biochar também tiveram resultados satisfatórios. O cajuzinho do cerrado também respondeu positivamente à aplicação de biochar em todas as doses. As variáveis fisiológicas e morfológicas responderam bem aos tratamentos sem adubação e com aplicação de biochar ao solo. Portanto, o biochar de torta de filtro pode ser indicado no plantio das espécies estudadas, assim como a não aplicação de corretivo e fertilizante mineral.

Despite the ecosystem services potentially provided by urban green spaces, there are concerns about the sustainability thereof. Therefore, the nexus between development, conservation, and sense of place was explored from a geographical perspective. A Greenspace Stress Model of Urban Impact was developed through a case study of the Rietvlei Nature Reserve in Tshwane, Gauteng province, South Africa. The position of an urban green space within two rapidly expanding cities was evaluated through a case study. Methods included a literature study, an analysis of land-use changes on remote sensing images, face-to-face interviews, and focus group interviews. Findings from this research include that urban growth leads to increasing human needs and expectations regarding the ecological services provided by green spaces. Stressors within the reserve include the water quality, the presence of invasive species, development pressures intensified by the location relative to spatial development corridors and administrative boundaries, and insufficient environmental awareness. Successful local strategies support the idea that green space should be fit for purpose and meet the expectations justifying its existence. Global environmental concerns should be considered in urban planning frameworks and in management of local spaces that people know and care about. The physical characteristics and functions of an urban green space as well as the environmental perception and sense-of-place evaluations of different stakeholders are important in decision-making about, and sustainability of ecosystem services.

Leha ho na le lits'ebeletso tsa tikoloho tse ka fanoang ke libaka tsa tlholeho litoropong, ho na le matsoenyeho mabapi le ho tsoarella ha tsona. Ka hona, kamano pakeng tsa nts'etsopele, paballo, le maikutlo a sebaka e ile ea hlahlojoa ho latela sebaka. Mohlala oa Greenspace Stress Model of Urban Impact o ile oa sebelisoa ho etsa boithuto Rietvlei Nature Reserve e Tshwane, profinseng ea Gauteng, Afrika Boroa. Maemo a sebaka sa thloleho ka har'a litoropo tse peli tse ntseng li hola ka potlako a ile a batlisisoa boithutong bona. Mekhoa ea patlisiso e nee kenyellelitse boithuto ba lingoliloeng, tlhahlobo ea itsoantso tsa liphetoho tsa tsebeliso ea mobu, 'moho le lipuisano le batho ka bomong le ka lihlopha. Tse fumanehileng phuputsong ena li kenyeletsa hore kholo ea litoropo e eketsa litlhoko le litebello tsa batho mabapi le litsebeletso tsa tikoloho tse fanoang ke libaka tsa thloleho. Likhatello ka har'a sebaka sa polokelo li kenyelletsa boleng ba metsi, boteng ba mefuta e hlaselang ea limela, likhatello tsa nts'etsopele tse matlafatsoang ke sebaka se amanang le meeli ea tsamaiso, le tlhokomeliso e sa lekaneng ka tikoloho ho sechaba. Mekhoa e atlehileng ea sebaka seo e tsehetsa khopolo ea hore libaka tsa tlhloleho li lokela ho ho ananela litebello tse tiisang boteng ba tsona. Matsoenyeho a tikoloho a akaretsang lefats'e a lokela ho kenyeletsoa har'a meralo ea litoropo le taolong ea libaka tsa lehae tseo batho ba li tsebang le ho li tsotella. Litsobotsi le mesebetsi ea sebaka sa tlholeho se kahara toropo hammoho le maikutlo a tikoloho e'o, le litekolo tsa maikutlo a ba amehang ba fapaneng li bohlokoa ha ho etsoa liqeto mabapi le ho tsoarella ha litsebeletso tsa tikoloho.

Ten spyte van die ekosisteem-dienste wat stedelike groen ruimtes moontlik kan bied, is daar kommer oor die volhoubaarheid daarvan. Die wisselwerking tussen ontwikkeling, bewaring en pleksin is dus vanuit 'n geografiese perspektief ondersoek. 'n Stresmodel van stedelike impak op groen ruimtes (GSMUI) is ontwikkel deur middel van 'n gevallestudie van die Rietvlei Natuurreservaat in Tshwane, Gauteng-provinsie, Suid-Afrika. 'n Gevallestudie is gebruik om die posisie van 'n stedelike groen ruimte tussen twee snelgroeiende stede te evalueer. Metodes sluit in 'n literatuurstudie, 'n ontleding van grondgebruiksveranderinge op afstandswaarneming-beelde, persoonlike onderhoude, en fokusgroep onderhoude. Bevindings van hierdie navorsing sluit in dat stedelike groei lei tot toenemende menslike behoeftes en verwagtings rakende die ekologiese dienste wat stedelike groen ruimtes bied. Stressors in die reservaat sluit in die watergehalte, die voorkoms van indringer spesies, ontwikkelingsdruk wat vererger word deur die ligging in verhouding tot ruimtelike ontwikkelingskorridors en administratiewe grense, asook onvoldoende omgewingsbewustheid. Suksesvolle plaaslike strategieë ondersteun die idee dat groen ruimtes effektief moet wees en aan die verwagtinge wat die bestaan daarvan skep, moet voldoen. Stedelike beplanningsraamwerke en die bestuur van plaaslike ruimtes wat mense ken en waarvoor hulle omgee, behoort wêreldwye omgewingskwessies in ag te neem. Die fisiese eienskappe en funksies van stedelike groen ruimtes asook die omgewingspersepsie en pleksin-evaluerings van verskillende belanghebbers is belangrik vir die volhoubaarheid van en besluitneming oor ekosisteemdienste.

RESUMEN Esta investigación tuvo como objetivo analizar el desarrollo morfológico y el ciclo biológico de Luffa cylindrica, en diferentes tipos de fertilización (polvo basáltico y NPK), así como identificar la entomofauna visitante. Fue realizado en Canoinhas/SC, en un área de 450 m², organizado en nueve camas: tres con polvo de basalto, tres con NPK y tres sin fertilización (testigo). Las evaluaciones se realizaron quincenalmente, midiendo las variables: número de semillas germinadas, altura de la planta (cm), largo y ancho de hojas y flores (cm), largo del fruto (cm), número de flores y frutos y la presencia o ausencia de frutos dañados y, finalmente, la recolección de insectos visitantes. La especie germinó a los 60 días, sus hojas pueden alcanzar 18,67 cm de largo y 16,72 cm de ancho; 10 flores midiendo en promedio 6,67 cm y 11 frutos de 24,50 cm de largo. Hubo mayor eficiencia del polvo de basalto para altura de planta y número de frutos dañados. Para el número de flores, largo y ancho de flores, el NPK demostró ser más eficiente, en las demás variables no hubo diferencia significativa. De esta forma, el polvo de basalto es una alternativa sostenible para la fertilización, evitando los productos convencionales.

ABSTRACT This research aimed to analyze the morphological development and biological cycle of Luffa cylindrica, in different types of fertilization (basalt powder and NPK), as well as to identify the visiting entomofauna. Research was made in Canoinhas, Santa Catarina State, in a 450 m² area, held in nine flowerbeds: three with basalt powder, three with NPK and three with no fertilization (control test). Evaluations were carried out fortnightly, and variables tested were: number of germinated seeds, plant height (cm), leaves and flowers length and width (cm), fruits length (cm), number of flowers and fruits, damaged fruits (presence or absence) and, finally, collection of visiting insects. The species germinated at 60 days, its leaves can reach 18.67 cm long and 16.72 cm wide; 10 flowers, measuring on average 6.67 cm, and 11 fruits with 24.50 cm in length. Basalt powder efficiency was higher for plant height and number of damaged fruits. For flowers number, length and width of flowers, NPK was more efficient, in the other variables there was no significant difference. Thus, basalt powder is a sustainable fertilizer alternative, avoiding conventional products.

Resumen Introducción. El papayo es la tercera fruta tropical de mayor importancia a nivel mundial. Sin embargo, en la variedad silvestre, endémica de Cuba, no existen evidencias de estudios para su conservación, cultivo o programas de mejoramiento. Objetivo. Evaluar especímenes de papayo silvestre de la cuenca Almendares-Vento, con el empleo de descriptores morfoagronómicos, para contribuir a la conservación y valorar su potencial productivo y de caracteres de interés para el mejoramiento genético de C. papaya. Materiales y métodos. La investigación se desarrolló entre 2008 y 2018, in situ, en la Cuenca Almendares-Vento, Mayambeque, y condiciones tradicionales de cultivo, en el Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Agrícolas, San José de Las Lajas, Cuba. Las evaluaciones se realizaron mediante dieciséis descriptores morfoagronómicos recomendados para la especie. En el 2016 se colectaron semillas de once plantas para su evaluación individual ex situ. Los descriptores cualitativos se describieron mediante imágenes fotográficas y para los cuantitativos in situ se calcularon los estadígrafos descriptivos de cada una de las variables evaluadas. Para las evaluaciones ex situ se realizó un análisis de componentes principales y un biplot. A cada descriptor se le realizó intervalos de confianza al 95 %. Resultados. In situ la población de papayo silvestre estaba constituida por especímenes que habitaban aislados y distantes unos de otros. En condiciones de cultivo tradicional mostraron variabilidad morfoagronómica en el número de frutos y sus dimensiones, los °Brix y la acidez. Además de su valor ecológico, los caracteres antes mencionados revelaron cualidades potenciales en la identificación de genotipos promisorios, relacionados con el mercado y empleo en el mejoramiento del cultivo. Conclusión. Los frutos presentaron propiedades físicas y bromatológicas que convierten al papayo silvestre en un recurso fitogenético promisorio, para su empleo en el mejoramiento del cultivo y como una alternativa de producción en condiciones tradicionales.

Abstract Introduction. Papaya is the third most important tropical fruit worldwide. However, in the wild variety, endemic to Cuba, there is no evidence of studies for its conservation, cultivation or breeding programs. Objective. To evaluate wild papaya specimens from the Almendares-Vento basin, with the use of morphoagronomic descriptors, to contribute to the conservation and value its productive potential and characters of interest for the genetic improvement of C. papaya. Materials and methods. The research was developed between 2008 and 2018, in situ in the Almendares-Vento Basin, Mayambeque, and traditional growing conditions, at the Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Agricolas, San Jose of Las Lajas, Cuba. The evaluations were carried out using sixteen morphoagronomic descriptors recommended for the species. In 2016, seeds from eleven plants were collected for individual ex situ evaluation. The qualitative descriptors were described using photographic images and for the quantitative descriptors in situ, descriptive statistics were calculated for each of the variables evaluated. For the ex situ evaluations, a principal component analysis and a biplot were performed. For each descriptor, 95 % confidence intervals were calculated. Results. In situ, the wild papaya population was made up of specimens that lived isolated and distant from each other. Under traditional cultivation conditions, they showed morphoagronomic variability in the number of fruits and their dimensions, °Brix and acidity. In addition to their ecological value, the aforementioned characters revealed potential qualities in the identification of promising genotypes, related to the market and use in crop improvement. Conclusion. The fruits showed physical and bromatological properties that make wild papaya a promising phytogenetic resource for use in crop improvement and as a production alternative for production under traditional growing conditions.

Abstract Butia odorata (Arecaceae) is a palm species in southern Brazil and eastern Uruguay, which produces tasty fruits consumed by humans and animals. Despite the ecological and sociocultural relevance of the species, B. odorata is endangered by extinction. This study aimed to characterize physical aspects, chromatic parameters, chemical, and centesimal composition and determine the bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of fruits of B. odorata. Fifteen accessions of B. odorata from Pelotas and Capão do Leão (RS-Brazil) were evaluated for bunches weight, fruit yield, fruit diameter and height, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, total titratable acidity (TTA), TSS/TST ratio, color parameters, total phenolic compounds, total carotenoids, antioxidant activity, percentage of moisture, dry matter, vitamin C, crude fiber, fat, ash, protein and pulp yield. There was genetic variability among the analyzed accessions for several parameters. Some of them influence consumer acceptance, such as coloration and sugar content, which highlights the possibility of selection for genetic improvement. The fruits showed a rich composition in fibers, vitamin C, total carotenoids, and total phenolic content, which contribute to health maintenance. With the growing demand for functional foods, Butia fruits represent a potential product for nutritional enrichment in diets.

SUMMARY: The study of the phenological patterns of plants contributes to the understanding of their ecological functioning and related ecosystem services, especially of little-known species. Manilkara salzmannii is a tree native to the Atlantic Forest that occurs in disturbed urban expansion areas. This study aimed to characterize the phenological pattern of M. salzmannii and to correlate its phenophases with meteorological variables. Evaluations were carried out over three years, during which time reproductive and vegetative phenophases were observed in the sampled population. The activity and Fournier indices were initially considered, and circular statistics were later applied. For the correlation with climate, we used data corresponding to the month of observation, as well as one month and two months beforehand. The species has an annual pattern of reproductive events. However, there was variation in the phenological pattern over the three years regarding vegetative and reproductive phenophases. In 2016, there was barely any bud production and blooming, which negatively influenced fruiting events. Leaf senescence was more intense in periods of higher temperature and solar radiation. On the other hand, leaf shedding was more intense in periods of lower wind speed, higher humidity, and precipitation. Immature fruiting correlated positively with temperature and solar radiation, but negatively with humidity and wind speed. Among the implications for the conservation of M. salzmannii, the knowledge obtained regarding the length of the reproductive period stands out. Thus, this study’s results can guide the appropriate timing of fruit collection for seedling production programs.

RESUMEN: El patrón fenológico de las plantas contribuye a la comprensión de su funcionamiento ecológico y de los servicios ecosistémicos relacionados, especialmente, de especies poco conocidas. Manilkara salzmannii es un árbol nativo de la selva atlántica que se encuentra en áreas de expansión urbana perturbadas. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo caracterizar el patrón fenológico de M. salzmannii y correlacionar las fenofases con las variables meteorológicas. Se realizaron evaluaciones durante tres años, donde se observaron las fenofases reproductivas y vegetativas en la población muestreada. El índice de actividad y el índice de Fournier fueron los parámetros considerados inicialmente, y luego se aplicó la estadística circular. Para la correlación con el clima, se utilizaron los datos correspondientes al mes de observación, un mes antes y dos meses antes. La especie tiene un patrón anual de eventos reproductivos. Sin embargo, hubo variación en el patrón fenológico a lo largo de los tres años en lo que respecta a las fenofases vegetativa y reproductiva. En 2016, la producción de yemas y la floración prácticamente no se produjeron, influyendo negativamente en los eventos de fructificación. La senescencia foliar fue más intensa en los periodos de mayor temperatura y radiación solar. Por otro lado, la caída de hojas fue más intensa en períodos de menor velocidad del viento, mayor humedad y precipitaciones. Los frutos inmaduros se correlacionaron positivamente con la temperatura y la radiación solar, pero negativamente con la humedad y la velocidad del viento. Entre las implicaciones para la conservación de M. salzmannii, destaca el conocimiento obtenido sobre la duración del periodo reproductivo. En este sentido, los resultados de este estudio pueden orientar la recolección de frutos en el momento más adecuado para los programas de producción de plántulas.

Resumo Devido à sua natureza séssil, as plantas desenvolveram diversos mecanismos para manter sua reprodução e se defender em condições estressantes. Tanto o metabolismo primário quanto o secundário são afetados por mudanças ambientais nas diferentes fases de desenvolvimento vegetal. Sendo assim, é importante conhecer os mecanismos de defesa e resistência às intempéries ambientais de plantas adaptadas às diversas condições ambientais, a exemplo de Parkia platycephala. Essa espécie é endêmica do Brasil e apresenta diversas potencialidades de uso para fins farmacológicos, forrageiro, madeireiro, ornamental e ecológico. Dessa forma, este trabalho se propõe a analisar a relação entre sazonalidade climática, fenologia e fisiologia de Parkia platycephala. O estudo foi conduzido em área de Cerrado sensu stricto, na região da Serra da Bandeira (12º05’S e 45º02’W), Barreiras, Bahia. As fases fenológicas de Parkia platycephala foram observadas mensalmente, seguindo a metodologia de Fournier. O material vegetal (folhas) para as análises fisiológicas foi coletado dos mesmos indivíduos selecionados para fenologia, dos quais foram quantificados pigmentos fotossintéticos, teor de fenóis totais, atividade antioxidante, teor de açúcares solúveis totais (AST), açúcares redutores (AR) e açúcar não redutor (ANR). Parkia platycephala apresentou padrão vegetativo semidecidual sazonal e um padrão reprodutivo anual. A baixa disponibilidade hídrica foi o fator ambiental que mais afetou os processos fisiológicos, diminuindo a produção de clorofila a e carotenoides e promovendo o aumento na produção de clorofila b, fenóis totais e carboidratos solúveis não estruturais. No geral, a atividade antioxidante não enzimática em Parkia platycephala foi alta, sendo 3,66 vezes superior ao ácido ascórbico (Vitamina C). Dessa forma, a espécie demostrou possuir mecanismos eficazes para manter seus processos fisiológicos ativos suportando a seca e a intensa insolação durante o ano, porém a produção de carboidratos é afetada por essas variações ambientais refletindo negativamente sobre as suas fenofases, principalmente sobre a fenofase reprodutiva.

Abstract Plant species have developed a great number of mechanisms to maintain their reproduction and defend themselves during stressful conditions. Both primary and secondary metabolisms are affected by environmental changes at different stages of plant development. Thus, it is important to know plant defense and resistance mechanisms to environmental variations adapted to different environmental conditions. Parkia platycephala is an endemic species to Brazil and has several potential uses for pharmacological, forage, wood, ornamental and ecological purposes. Herein, we analyzed the relationship between climatic seasonality, phenology and physiology of Parkia platycephala. The study was carried out in a Cerrado sensu stricto area located in the region of Serra da Bandeira (12º05’S and 45º02’W), Barreiras, Bahia, Brazil. The phenological phases of Parkia platycephala were observed monthly following the methodology of Fournier. Leaves from the same individuals selected for phenological evaluations were sampled for physiological analyzes and the photosynthetic pigments, total phenol content, antioxidant activity, total soluble sugars (TSS), reducing sugars (RS) and non-reducing sugar (NRS) were quantified. Parkia platycephala presented a seasonal semi-deciduous vegetative pattern and annual reproductive pattern. The low water availability was the main environmental driver which most affected the physiological processes, reducing chlorophyll a and carotenoid production and promoting an increase in chlorophyll b, total phenol and non-structural soluble carbohydrate production. The non-enzymatic antioxidant activity in Parkia platycephala was high, presenting 3.7-times higher values than ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). Thus, this species presents effective mechanisms to maintain its active physiological processes, supporting droughts and intense sunshine throughout the year; however, its carbohydrate production is negatively affected by environmental shifts, thereby reflecting their phenophases, specifically on the reproductive phenophase.

Resumen Los incendios forestales son un factor ecológico de gran importancia en los ecosistemas. Para que un incendio forestal ocurra se requiere de material combustible, condiciones ambientales favorables y un factor de inicio. Los combustibles forestales son considerados el elemento núcleo en el manejo del fuego, ya que son los únicos que pueden manipularse y así, modificar su influencia en el comportamiento del fuego. El propósito del presente trabajo fue mostrar la variabilidad y distribución espacial de las cargas de combustibles muertos en una parcela de muestreo de una hectárea, ubicada en un bosque de pino-encino. Se utilizaron evaluaciones de campo como técnica de recolección de datos, y métodos geoestadísticos como herramientas de análisis. El promedio general de las cargas de combustible obtenido fue de 54.86 Mg ha-1, con zonas de cargas superiores a 100 Mg ha-1. Asimismo, se identificó alta variabilidad espacial e independencia de los componentes combustibles, con diferencias de cargas de hasta 116.61 Mg ha-1 a una distancia de tan solo 72.11 m. El presente estudio se visualiza como una base importante en las investigaciones de cargas de combustibles a niveles de gran detalle; cuyos resultados permitirán a las áreas operativas y tomadores de decisiones agilizar el proceso de transición hacia el manejo del fuego.

Abstract Forest fires are an ecological factor of high importance in ecosystems. A forest fire requires forest fuel, favorable environmental conditions and a starting factor in order to occur. Forest fuels are considered the core element in fire management since they are the only ones that can be handled and thus, modify their influence on fire behavior. The purpose of the present work is to show the variability and spatial distribution of dead fuel loads in a pine-oak forest plot with a surface area of one hectare. Field evaluations were used as a data collection technique, and geostatistical methods, as analysis tools. The general average of the fuel loads was 54.86 Mg ha-1, with load areas larger than 100 Mg ha-1. Moreover, high spatial variability and independence of the fuel components were identified, with load differences up to 116.61 Mg ha-1 at only 72.11 m of distance. This work is envisioned as an important basis for studies of fuel loads at a highly detailed level. This will allow operational areas and decision makers to streamline the transition process towards fire management.

ABSTRACT. “Physicochemical and microbiological quality of surface water in the Grande de Tárcoles River, Costa Rica: an ecological approach”. Introduction: The quality of the water in a hydrographic basin and its potential use are affected by anthropic and natural factors. The Tárcoles River is the final receiver of waters from the central region of Costa Rica, where the treatment of wastewater is inadequate or non-existent. Objective: To evaluate water pollution in the river and review macroinvertebrates as ecosystem bioindicators. Methods: Physicochemical, microbiological and macroinvertebrate evaluations of the surface water were done in four sites for twelve consecutive months, including two water quality indices (ICA-NSF and Dutch). Monthly visits were made for the placement and collection of artificial substrates for aquatic macroinvertebrates, and bimonthly visits for the collection of water samples for ex situ analysis of the physicochemical and microbiological parameters. In addition, the land use in the lower part of Tárcoles was characterized from cover raster files. Results: Some physicochemical variables showed similar concentrations to those reported for other Costa Rican rivers, while oxygen showed lower values. The microbiological variables indicated high pollution levels, especially in the rainy season. In the dry season, there were more aquatic macroinvertebrates, and Chironomidae, Oligochaeta and Hydrobiidae were the most abundant. River pollution is categorized as “incipient” according to the Dutch index and as “medium quality” according to the ICA-NSF. Conclusions: the pollution of the Tárcoles River is mainly due to inadequate land use and anthropic activities. We recommend a basin management plan and research on ecosystem health and conservation of vulnerable species.

RESUMEN. Introducción: La calidad del agua en una cuenca hidrográfica, y su uso potencial, se ven afectados por factores antrópicos y naturales. El río Tárcoles es el receptor final de aguas de la región central de Costa Rica, donde el tratamiento de aguas residuales es inadecuado o inexistente. Objetivo: Evaluar la contaminación del agua en el río y evaluar a los macroinvertebrados como bioindicadores del ecosistema. Métodos: Se realizaron evaluaciones fisicoquímicas, microbiológicas y de macroinvertebrados del agua superficial en cuatro sitios durante doce meses consecutivos, incluidos dos índices de calidad del agua (ICA-NSF y holandés). Hicimos visitas mensuales para la colocación y recolección de sustratos artificiales para macroinvertebrados acuáticos, y visitas bimensuales para la recolección de muestras de agua para análisis ex situ de los parámetros fisicoquímicos y microbiológicos. Además, se caracterizó el uso del suelo en la parte baja de Tárcoles a partir de archivos tipo “raster” de cobertura. Resultados: Algunas variables fisicoquímicas tuvieron concentraciones similares a las informadas para otros ríos costarricenses, mientras que el oxígeno fue inferior. Las variables microbiológicas indicaron altos niveles de contaminación, especialmente en la época de lluvias. En la estación seca, hubo más macroinvertebrados acuáticos, siendo Chironomidae, Oligochaeta e Hydrobiidae los más abundantes. La contaminación de los ríos se clasifica como "incipiente" según el índice holandés y como "calidad media" según el ICA-NSF. Conclusiones: la contaminación del río Tárcoles se debe principalmente a un uso inadecuado del suelo y actividades antrópicas. Recomendamos un plan de gestión de cuencas e investigación sobre la salud del ecosistema y la conservación de especies vulnerables.

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os métodos galharia, cobertura por plástico preto, herbicida e poleiro artificial na regeneração natural de espécies nativas em área com pastagem de Urochloa. O experimento foi conduzido entre fevereiro de 2014 e fevereiro de 2016 na Floresta Ombrófila Densa, no município de Morretes, no estado do Paraná, Brasil. Os tratamentos foram: herbicida, herbicida + poleiro, cobertura por plástico preto, cobertura por plástico preto + poleiro, galharia + herbicida, galharia + herbicida + poleiro e testemunha. As avaliações foram realizadas aos 4, 8, 12, 18 e 24 meses após a instalação do experimento, com contagem e identificação das espécies lenhosas regenerantes e estimativa visual do percentual de cobertura por herbáceas. Inicialmente, a galharia e a cobertura por plástico preto reduziram as gramíneas Urochloa; entretanto, com o decorrer do tempo, esse efeito se perdeu devido ao rápido crescimento das gramíneas das bordas para o centro das parcelas. O uso de poleiros nos tratamentos não possibilita incremento significativo de outras espécies, em razão da permanência das condições inibidoras ao estabelecimento das plântulas. O herbicida é eficiente para remover as gramíneas; contudo, o recrutamento de espécies lenhosas somente é satisfatório com o uso de poleiros para atração da fauna dispersora. Para o sucesso da restauração ecológica em pastagens, há a necessidade de eliminação local das gramíneas Urochloa.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of brushwood, black plastic mulch, herbicide, and artificial perch on the natural regeneration of native species in Urochloa grassland. The experiment was conducted between February 2014 and February 2016 in the Dense Ombrophilous Forest, in the municipality of Morretes, in the state of Paraná, Brazil. The treatments were: herbicide, herbicide + perch, black plastic mulch, black plastic mulch + perch, brushwood + herbicide, brushwood + herbicide + perch, and a control treatment. The evaluations were carried out at 4, 8, 12, 18, and 24 months after the installation of the experiment, by counting and identifying regenerating woody species and estimating visually the percentage of herbaceous coverage. Initially, brushwood and black plastic mulch reduced the Urochloa grasses; however, this effect was lost over time due to the rapid growth of the grasses from the edges to the center of the plots. The use of perches in the treatments does not allow a significant increase of other species because of the continued inhibiting conditions for the establishment of seedlings. The herbicide is effective in removing the grasses; however, the recruitment of woody species is only satisfactory when perches are used to attract the dispersing fauna. For a successful ecological restoration of pastures, there is a need for the local elimination of Urochloa grasses.