Resumen. Muchos metazoos contienen moléculas capaces de fluorescencia, absorción y reemisión de luz. Dado que la distribución anatómica, o el patrón, de estas moléculas es variable entre taxones, los patrones de fluorescencia pueden servir como una poderosa herramienta diagnóstica en taxonomía y ecología. Sin embargo, los patrones de fluorescencia específicos de especie entre invertebrados marinos están poco comprendidos. Aquí, mostramos que los hidrozoos tienen diversos patrones de fluorescencia, que pueden ser el resultado de moléculas producidas intrínsecamente u obtenidas de fuentes dietéticas. Estudiamos hidrozoos, incluidos sifonóforos, hidromedusas e hidroides, en 5 órdenes de ambientes marinos pelágicos y bentónicos en Bocas del Toro, Panamá. Nuestros hallazgos muestran que los patrones de fluorescencia son muy prevalentes y pueden variar entre especies de hidrozoos y a lo largo del desarrollo. La mayoría de los taxa de hidrozoos examinados exhibieron alguna forma de fluorescencia, con variación observada entre las etapas de vida y las partes del cuerpo. Se documentó fluorescencia en el 88% de las hidromedusas (Leptothecata, Anthoathecata, Limnomedusae y Narcomedusae), el 50% de los hidroides y el 75% de los sifonóforos que se observaron en este estudio. Nuestros resultados ilustran cómo los patrones de fluorescencia pueden servir como una herramienta diagnóstica útil para explorar la biodiversidad marina, resaltando la necesidad de una mayor documentación de los patrones de fluorescencia en la diversidad marina y de investigar las moléculas que subyacen a este fenómeno.

Abstract. Many metazoans contain molecules capable of fluorescence, which is the absorption and re-emission of light. As the anatomical distribution, or patterning, of these molecules varies across taxa, fluorescence patterns may serve as a powerful diagnostic tool in taxonomy and ecology. However, species-specific fluorescence patterns in marine invertebrates are poorly understood. Here, we show that hydrozoans exhibit diverse fluorescence patterns, which may result from molecules that are produced intrinsically or obtained from dietary sources. We surveyed 5 orders of hydrozoans, including siphonophores, hydromedusae, and hydroids, from pelagic and benthic marine environments in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Our findings show that fluorescence patterns are highly prevalent and may vary across hydrozoan species throughout development. Most hydrozoan taxa exhibited some form of fluorescence, with variation observed among life stages and body parts. Fluorescence was documented in 88% of hydromedusae (Leptothecata, Anthoathecata, Limnomedusae, and Narcomedusae), 50% of hydroids, and 75% of siphonophores. Our results illustrate how fluorescence patterns can serve as a useful diagnostic tool to explore marine biodiversity, highlighting the need for further documentation of fluorescence patterns across marine taxa and research into the molecules that underlie this phenomenon.

Abstract Introduction: Echinoderms are strictly aquatic animals and one of the groups of marine invertebrates whose ecological importance is crucial for the environments where they inhabit. The most outstanding characteristic is their pentaradial symmetry. These organisms can be distributed in a wide variety of oceanic environments, and are not exclusive inhabitants of reef formations. A total of 1 539 species have been registered, of which 717 belong to the Pacific and 60 of them have been registered for El Salvador. Objective: The objective of the work was to record the richness and density of echinoderm species in rocky reefs of Punta Amapala (La Unión). Methods: The sampling was conducted in five sites, two of them at 3 m of depth and three at 6 m. For this, snorkeling and autonomous diving were used, covering two band transects of 30 x 1 m. Within the transects, the identification (richness) and counting (abundance) of the organisms was carried out. Results: The species that presented the highest density at 3 m reefs was Echinometra vanbrunti (0.83 indv/m2), followed by the ophiuroid Ophiocomella alexandri (0.16 indv/m2) and Ophiocoma aethiops (0.16 indv/m2). And at the 6 m reefs were Ophiothela mirabilis (0.83 indv/m2), Ophionereis annulata (0.21 indv/m2), Ophiothrix rudis (0.08 indv/m2) and Ophiocomella alexandri (0.01 indv/m2). Conclusions: These organisms fulfill various ecological roles, such as being bioindicators of water quality by tolerating certain changes in physicochemical conditions and fulfilling the role of macrofauna hosts due to the cavities formed by some sea urchins. That is why sampling efforts must increase in these areas to monitor the quality and health of the rocky reefs, whose role is key, as they are, together with Los Cóbanos, the largest in the country.

Resumen Introducción: Los equinodermos son animales estrictamente acuáticos y de los grupos de invertebrados marinos cuya importancia ecológica es crucial para los ambientes en donde habitan. La característica más destacada es su simetría pentarradial. Estos organismos pueden distribuirse en una amplia variedad de ambientes oceánicos, y no ser exclusivamente habitantes de las formaciones arrecifales. Se han registrado el total de 1 539 especies, de las cuales 717 pertenecen a Pacífico y 60 de ellas se han registrado en El Salvador. Objetivo: El objetivo del trabajo fue registrar la riqueza y densidad de especies de equinodermos en arrecifes rocosos de Punta Amapala (La Unión). Métodos: El muestreo fue llevado a cabo en cinco sitios, dos a 3 m de profundidad y tres a 6 m. Para esto, se utilizó snorkeling y buceo autónomo, recorriendo dos transectos de banda de 30 x 1 m. Dentro de los transectos, se realizó la identificación (riqueza) y contabilización (abundancia) de los organismos. Resultados: La especie que presentó mayor densidad en los arrecifes de 3 m fue Echinometra vanbrunti (0.83 indv/m2), seguido por el ofiuroideo Ophiocomella alexandri (0.16 indv/m2) y Ophiocoma aethiops (0.16 indv/m2). Y en los arrecifes a 6 m fueron Ophiothela mirabilis (0.83 indv/m2), Ophionereis annulata (0.21 indv/m2), Ophiothrix rudis (0.08 indv/m2) y Ophiocomella alexandri (0.01 indv/m2). Conclusiones: Estos organismos, cumplen con diversos roles ecológicos, como ser bioindicadores de calidad de agua al tolerar ciertos cambios en las condiciones físico-químicas, así como cumplir el papel de hospederos de macrofauna por las cavidades que forman algunos erizos. Es por ello que los esfuerzos de muestreo deben incrementarse en estas zonas para monitorear la calidad y salud de los arrecifes rocosos, cuyo papel es clave, por ser junto con Los Cóbanos, los de mayor extensión en el país.

Abstract Introduction: Molecular divergence thresholds have been proposed to distinguish recently separated evolutive units, often displaying more accurate putative species assignments in taxonomic research compared to traditional morphological approaches. This makes DNA barcoding an attractive identification tool for a variety of marine invertebrates, especially for cryptic species complexes. Although GenBank and the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD) are the major sequence repositories worldwide, very few have tested their performance in the identification of echinoderm sequences. Objective: We use COI echinoderm sequences from local samples and the molecular identification platforms from GenBank and BOLD, in order to test their accuracy and reliability in the DNA barcoding identification for Central American shallow water echinoderms, at genus and species level. Methods: We conducted sampling, tissue extraction, COI amplification, sequencing, and taxonomic identification for 475 specimens. The 348 obtained sequences were individually enquired with BLAST in GenBank as well as using the Identification System (IDS) in BOLD. Query sequences were classified depending on the best match result. McNemar’s chi-squared, Kruskal-Wallis’s and Mann-Whitney’s U tests were performed to prove differences between the results from both databases. Additionally, we recorded an updated list of species reported for the shallow waters of the Central American Pacific. Results: We found 324 echinoderm species reported for Central American Pacific shallow waters. Only 118 and 110 were present in GenBank and BOLD databases respectively. We proposed 325 solved morphology-based identities and 21 provisional identifications in 50 putative taxa. GenBank retrieved 348 molecular-based identifications in 58 species, including twelve provisional identifications in tree taxa. BOLD recovered 170 COI identifications in 23 species with one provisional identification. Nevertheless, 178 sequences retrieved unmatched terms (in 34 morphology-based taxa). Only 86 sequences (25 %) were retrieved as correct identifications and 128 (37 %) as identification errors in both platforms. We include 84 sequences for eleven species not represented in GenBank and 65 sequences for ten species in BOLD Echinoderm COI databases. The identification accuracy using BLAST (175 correct and 152 incorrect identifications) was greater than with IDS engine (110 correct and 218 identification errors), therefore GenBank outperforms BOLD (Kruskal-Wallis = 41.625, df = 1, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Additional echinoderm sample references are needed to improve the utility of the evaluated DNA barcoding identification tools. Identification discordances in both databases may obey specific parameters used in each search algorithm engine and the available sequences. We recommend the use of barcoding as a complementary identification source for Central American Pacific shallow water echinoderm species.

Resumen Introducción: Se han propuesto los umbrales de divergencia molecular para distinguir unidades evolutivas recientemente separadas, que a menudo muestran asignaciones de especies putativas más precisas en la investigación taxonómica en comparación con los enfoques morfológicos tradicionales. Esto hace que los Códigos de Barras de ADN sean una herramienta de identificación atractiva para una variedad de invertebrados marinos, especialmente para complejos de especies crípticas. Aunque GenBank y Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD) son los principales repositorios de secuencias en todo el mundo, muy pocos han probado su desempeño en la identificación de secuencias de equinodermos. Objetivo: Utilizamos secuencias de equinodermos COI de muestras locales y las plataformas de identificación molecular de GenBank y BOLD, para probar su precisión y confiabilidad en la implementación de códigos de barras de ADN para equinodermos de aguas someras de Centroamérica, a nivel de género y especie. Métodos: Realizamos muestreo, extracción de tejido, amplificación de COI, secuenciación e identificación taxonómica de 475 especímenes. Las 348 secuencias obtenidas fueron consultadas individualmente con BLAST en GenBank así como utilizando el Sistema de Identificación (IDS) en BOLD. Las secuencias consultadas se clasificaron según el mejor resultado de coincidencia. Se realizaron las pruebas chi-cuadrado de McNemar, Kruskal-Wallis y U de Mann-Whitney para comprobar diferencias entre los resultados de ambas bases de datos. Además, registramos una lista actualizada de especies reportadas para las aguas someras del Pacífico Centroamericano. Resultados: Encontramos 324 especies de equinodermos reportadas para aguas someras (< 200 m) del Pacífico centroamericano. Sólo 118 y 110 estaban presentes en las bases de datos GenBank y BOLD respectivamente. Propusimos 325 identidades resueltas basadas en morfología y 21 identificaciones provisionales en 50 taxones putativos. GenBank recuperó 348 identificaciones de base molecular en 58 especies, incluidas doce identificaciones provisionales en tres taxones. BOLD recuperó 170 identificaciones de COI en 23 especies con una identificación provisional. Sin embargo, 178 secuencias recuperaron términos no coincidentes (en 34 taxones basados en morfología). Sólo 86 secuencias (25 %) se recuperaron como identificaciones correctas y 128 (37 %) como errores de identificación en ambas plataformas. Incluimos 84 secuencias para once especies no representadas en GenBank y 65 secuencias para diez especies ausentes en las bases de datos BOLD Echinoderm COI. La precisión de la identificación usando BLAST (175 identificaciones correctas y 152 incorrectas) fue mayor que con el motor IDS (110 correctas y 218 errores de identificación), por lo tanto, GenBank supera a BOLD (Kruskal-Wallis = 41.625, df = 1, p < 0.001). Conclusiones: Se necesitan muestras adicionales de equinodermos de referencia para mejorar la utilidad de las herramientas de identificación de códigos de barras de ADN evaluadas. Las discordancias de identificación en ambas bases de datos pueden obedecer a parámetros específicos utilizados en cada algoritmo de búsqueda y a las secuencias disponibles. Recomendamos el uso de códigos de barras como fuente de identificación complementaria para las especies de equinodermos de aguas someras del Pacífico centroamericano.

Abstract This study describes and illustrates the biodiversity of macroinvertebrates associated to Sargassum and Dictyota seaweed habitats in the Alcatrazes archipelago, the largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the state of São Paulo, southeast Brazil. Assemblages were sampled during the summers of 2018, 2019 and 2020 and winter of 2018 at two sites on the main island. Macroalgae containing the associated fauna were collected at approximately 10 meters deep, with six samples at each site and in each sampling campaign. Sargassum fronds prevailed during summer collections, whilst were absent in the winter campaigns, when Dictyota was the most frequent seaweed. Among invertebrates, 32 species were exclusively found on summer months, associated to Sargassum beds, while 12 species were only registered on winter collection, in association with Dictyota. In total, 91 species were identified, belonging to 60 families, 19 orders, 7 classes and 3 phyla, including Arthropoda (Malacostraca and Pycnogonida), Mollusca (Gastropoda, Bivalvia and Polyplacophora), and Echinodermata (Ophiuroidea and Echinoidea). Among the 91 species found, 73 species are new records for the Alcatrazes archipelago marine area, thus revealing the expressive invertebrate biodiversity living in association with macroalgae beds in that area, which has still been little explored. No significant difference in species diversity was found between the two sites of Alcatrazes. In addition, few specimens of two invasive species were found: Perna perna (Mollusca: Bivalvia) and Ophiothela mirabilis (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea), which underscores the importance of monitoring different habitats within MPAs to check for possible changes in the fauna over the years. As far as our knowledge, this is the first illustrated inventory of the seaweed-associated macroinvertebrate fauna within the Alcatrazes Archipelago, one of the largest MPAs in the Brazilian coast; besides unravelling its notorious biodiversity, this can act as a reference for future monitoring of local coastal diversity. MPA (MPA Paulo Brazil 201 202 island 1 deep campaign collections campaigns invertebrates months collection total 9 identified 6 families orders phyla Malacostraca Pycnogonida, Pycnogonida , Pycnogonida) Gastropoda, Gastropoda (Gastropoda Polyplacophora, Polyplacophora Polyplacophora) Ophiuroidea Echinoidea. Echinoidea . Echinoidea) area explored addition (Mollusca (Echinodermata Ophiuroidea, Ophiuroidea) years knowledge seaweedassociated Archipelago coast 20 2

Resumo Este estudo descreve e ilustra a biodiversidade de macroinvertebrados associados a habitats de macroalgas pardas marinhas dos gêneros Sargassum e Dictyota no Arquipélago de Alcatrazes, a maior Área Marinha Protegida (AMP) do estado de São Paulo, sudeste do Brasil. As assembleias foram amostradas durante os verões de 2018, 2019 e 2020 e no inverno de 2018 em dois locais na ilha principal. As macroalgas contendo a fauna associada foram coletadas a aproximadamente 10 metros de profundidade, com seis amostras em cada local e em cada campanha amostral. Frondes de Sargassum predominaram nas coletas de verão, enquanto estiveram ausentes nas campanhas de inverno, quando Dictyota foram predominantes. Entre os invertebrados, 32 espécies foram encontradas exclusivamente nos meses de verão, associadas aos bancos de Sargassum, enquanto 12 espécies foram registradas apenas na coleta de inverno, em associação com Dictyota. No total, foram identificadas 91 espécies, pertencentes a 60 famílias, 19 ordens, 7 classes e 3 filos, incluindo Arthropoda (Malacostraca e Pycnogonida), Mollusca (Gastropoda, Bivalvia e Polyplacophora) e Echinodermata (Ophiuroidea e Echinoidea). Das 91 espécies encontradas, 73 espécies são novos registos para a área marinha do arquipélago de Alcatrazes, revelando assim a expressiva biodiversidade de invertebrados que vivem em associação com bancos de macroalgas naquela área ainda pouco explorada. Nenhuma diferença significativa de diversidade de espécies foi encontrada entre os dois locais de Alcatrazes. Além disso, foram encontrados poucos exemplares de duas espécies invasoras: Perna perna (Mollusca: Bivalvia) e Ophiothela mirabilis (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea), o que ressalta a importância do monitoramento de diferentes habitats dentro das AMPs para verificar possíveis alterações na fauna ao longo dos anos. Até onde sabemos, este é o primeiro inventário ilustrado da fauna de macroinvertebrados associados a algas marinhas no Arquipélago de Alcatrazes, uma das maiores AMPs da costa brasileira; além de desvendar a sua notória biodiversidade, pode servir de referência para futuro monitoramento da diversidade costeira local. Alcatrazes AMP (AMP Paulo Brasil 201 202 principal 1 profundidade amostral verão predominantes total 9 6 famílias ordens filos Malacostraca Pycnogonida, Pycnogonida , Pycnogonida) Gastropoda, Gastropoda (Gastropoda Polyplacophora Ophiuroidea Echinoidea. Echinoidea . Echinoidea) explorada disso invasoras (Mollusca (Echinodermata Ophiuroidea, Ophiuroidea) anos sabemos brasileira 20 2

ABSTRACT Monstrilloid copepods are endoparasites of marine benthic invertebrates (i.e., polychaetes, molluscs) during their juvenile stages. A final copepodite stage V preadult leaves the host and moults into a non-feeding, reproductive planktonic adult. The taxonomy of Monstrilloid copepods has been historically complex. The current list of species of Brazilian Monstrilloida is available from the “Catálogo Taxonômico da Fauna do Brasil” website (CTFB), an on-line database with taxonomic information on the species known to occur in Brazil. Based on current taxonomical contributions, a total of 14 valid nominal species of Monstrilloida have been recorded from Brazil, including six endemic species (43%). Species of Cymbasoma (five species: 36%) and Monstrilla (six species: 43%) total up to 78% of the Brazilian monstrilloid species diversity. Monstrillopsis and Caromiobenella are both represented by three species. Records of Monstrilloida are concentrated in the East, Southeast, and Northeast regions of the country, with an absence of records for the Rio Grande region. The records of Monstrilloid copepods should be revised in the light of evidence suggesting that widespread nominal species like Cymbasoma longispinosum Bourne, 1890, Cymbasoma rigidum Thompson I.C., 1888, Monstrillopsis dubia (Scott T., 1904), and Monstrilla grandis Giesbrecht, 1891 probably represent species complexes. A better knowledge of the taxonomy, distribution, and biology of the Brazilian Monstrilloida taxa is important to support their conservation. The revision of previous records, the occurrence of species complexes among the Brazilian monstrilloid fauna, the discovery of hosts, and reliably matching males and females of monstrilloids are pending assignments to significantly improve our knowledge of the group. i.e., ie i e (i.e. polychaetes molluscs stages nonfeeding, nonfeeding non feeding, feeding non-feeding adult complex Catálogo Brasil CTFB, CTFB , (CTFB) online line Brazil contributions 1 43%. 43 43% . (43%) five 36% 36 78 diversity East Southeast country region Bourne 1890 IC I C I.C. 1888 Scott T T. 1904, 1904 1904) Giesbrecht 189 distribution conservation fauna hosts group i.e. (i.e (CTFB 4 (43% 3 7 I.C 188 190 18 i.e (43 19 (4 (

Resumo Este estudo descreve e ilustra a biodiversidade de macroinvertebrados associados a habitats de macroalgas pardas marinhas dos gêneros Sargassum e Dictyota no Arquipélago de Alcatrazes, a maior Área Marinha Protegida (AMP) do estado de São Paulo, sudeste do Brasil. As assembleias foram amostradas durante os verões de 2018, 2019 e 2020 e no inverno de 2018 em dois locais na ilha principal. As macroalgas contendo a fauna associada foram coletadas a aproximadamente 10 metros de profundidade, com seis amostras em cada local e em cada campanha amostral. Frondes de Sargassum predominaram nas coletas de verão, enquanto estiveram ausentes nas campanhas de inverno, quando Dictyota foram predominantes. Entre os invertebrados, 32 espécies foram encontradas exclusivamente nos meses de verão, associadas aos bancos de Sargassum, enquanto 12 espécies foram registradas apenas na coleta de inverno, em associação com Dictyota. No total, foram identificadas 91 espécies, pertencentes a 60 famílias, 19 ordens, 7 classes e 3 filos, incluindo Arthropoda (Malacostraca e Pycnogonida), Mollusca (Gastropoda, Bivalvia e Polyplacophora) e Echinodermata (Ophiuroidea e Echinoidea). Das 91 espécies encontradas, 73 espécies são novos registos para a área marinha do arquipélago de Alcatrazes, revelando assim a expressiva biodiversidade de invertebrados que vivem em associação com bancos de macroalgas naquela área ainda pouco explorada. Nenhuma diferença significativa de diversidade de espécies foi encontrada entre os dois locais de Alcatrazes. Além disso, foram encontrados poucos exemplares de duas espécies invasoras: Perna perna (Mollusca: Bivalvia) e Ophiothela mirabilis (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea), o que ressalta a importância do monitoramento de diferentes habitats dentro das AMPs para verificar possíveis alterações na fauna ao longo dos anos. Até onde sabemos, este é o primeiro inventário ilustrado da fauna de macroinvertebrados associados a algas marinhas no Arquipélago de Alcatrazes, uma das maiores AMPs da costa brasileira; além de desvendar a sua notória biodiversidade, pode servir de referência para futuro monitoramento da diversidade costeira local. Alcatrazes AMP (AMP Paulo Brasil 201 202 principal 1 profundidade amostral verão predominantes total 9 6 famílias ordens filos Malacostraca Pycnogonida, Pycnogonida , Pycnogonida) Gastropoda, Gastropoda (Gastropoda Polyplacophora Ophiuroidea Echinoidea. Echinoidea . Echinoidea) explorada disso invasoras (Mollusca (Echinodermata Ophiuroidea, Ophiuroidea) anos sabemos brasileira 20 2

Abstract This study describes and illustrates the biodiversity of macroinvertebrates associated to Sargassum and Dictyota seaweed habitats in the Alcatrazes archipelago, the largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) in the state of São Paulo, southeast Brazil. Assemblages were sampled during the summers of 2018, 2019 and 2020 and winter of 2018 at two sites on the main island. Macroalgae containing the associated fauna were collected at approximately 10 meters deep, with six samples at each site and in each sampling campaign. Sargassum fronds prevailed during summer collections, whilst were absent in the winter campaigns, when Dictyota was the most frequent seaweed. Among invertebrates, 32 species were exclusively found on summer months, associated to Sargassum beds, while 12 species were only registered on winter collection, in association with Dictyota. In total, 91 species were identified, belonging to 60 families, 19 orders, 7 classes and 3 phyla, including Arthropoda (Malacostraca and Pycnogonida), Mollusca (Gastropoda, Bivalvia and Polyplacophora), and Echinodermata (Ophiuroidea and Echinoidea). Among the 91 species found, 73 species are new records for the Alcatrazes archipelago marine area, thus revealing the expressive invertebrate biodiversity living in association with macroalgae beds in that area, which has still been little explored. No significant difference in species diversity was found between the two sites of Alcatrazes. In addition, few specimens of two invasive species were found: Perna perna (Mollusca: Bivalvia) and Ophiothela mirabilis (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea), which underscores the importance of monitoring different habitats within MPAs to check for possible changes in the fauna over the years. As far as our knowledge, this is the first illustrated inventory of the seaweed-associated macroinvertebrate fauna within the Alcatrazes Archipelago, one of the largest MPAs in the Brazilian coast; besides unravelling its notorious biodiversity, this can act as a reference for future monitoring of local coastal diversity. MPA (MPA Paulo Brazil 201 202 island 1 deep campaign collections campaigns invertebrates months collection total 9 identified 6 families orders phyla Malacostraca Pycnogonida, Pycnogonida , Pycnogonida) Gastropoda, Gastropoda (Gastropoda Polyplacophora, Polyplacophora Polyplacophora) Ophiuroidea Echinoidea. Echinoidea . Echinoidea) area explored addition (Mollusca (Echinodermata Ophiuroidea, Ophiuroidea) years knowledge seaweedassociated Archipelago coast 20 2

Abstract: Amphipods are present in almost all marine and estuarine ecosystems around the world. In Cuba, the members of this group of invertebrates have been highly studied in terms of their systematics. However, the total species inventory and its taxonomic diversity, as well as the incidence of the habitats in which these organisms develop have not yet been surveyed. The complete inventory of species to date is presented for the first time and the taxonomic diversity of the group is analyzed. The possible impact of habitat on the taxonomic diversity of these organisms was also evaluated. A database was created from lists of amphipod species published in the scientific literature, as well as donations of specimens collected in various areas of the marine shelf by students and colleagues, containing species occurrence and distribution data. The completeness of the inventory was assured by species accumulation curves from non-parametric estimators. Taxonomic diversity was estimated with the average taxonomic distinctiveness indices (Delta+) and its variation (Lambda+). To date, 200 species of marine amphipods have been registered, which were distributed in four suborders, 13 parvordenes, 27 superfamilies, 57 families and 109 genera, with a total inventory of 67.2%. Average taxonomic distinctiveness for the Cuban marine shelf was 77.6 and the variation was 204. Habitats did not affect the average taxonomic distinctiveness, but it did affect its variation. It is recommended to continue the systematic studies of the group, and go deeper in investigations of its ecology.

Resumen: Los anfípodos están presentes en casi todos los ecosistemas marinos y estuarinos del mundo. En Cuba, es uno de los grupos de invertebrados mejor conocidos en cuanto a su sistemática. Sin embargo, un inventario completo de especies y su diversidad taxonómica, así como la incidencia de los hábitats en los cuales se desarrollan estos organismos, aún no han sido estudiados. En el presente trabajo se presentó la totalidad de las especies inventariadas hasta la fecha. Se analizó además la diversidad taxonómica del grupo y la posible incidencia del hábitat sobre ésta. Se conformó una base de datos a partir de las listas de especies de anfípodos publicadas en la literatura científica, así como donaciones de especímenes recolectados en varias zonas de la plataforma marina por estudiantes y colegas, conteniendo datos de presencia y distribución de las especies. La verificación de logro para obtener el inventario completo se obtuvo mediante curvas de acumulación de especies, a partir de estimadores no paramétricos. La diversidad taxonómica se estimó con los índices de distinción taxonómica promedio (Delta+) y su variación (Lambda+). Hasta la fecha, se han registrado 200 especies de anfípodos marinos, que se distribuyeron en cuatro subórdenes, 13 parvordenes, 27 superfamilias, 57 familias y 109 géneros, para una totalidad del inventario del 67,2%. La distinción taxonómica promedio para la plataforma marina cubana fue de 77,6 y su variación de 204. Los hábitats no afectaron a la distinción taxonómica promedio, pero si a su variación. Se recomienda continuar los estudios sistemáticos del grupo, y profundizar en las investigaciones de su ecología.

ABSTRACT Background. Ecological Network Analysis has been used for defining aspects concerning the structure, health, and dynamics of marine ecosystems. Objectives. Evaluate the ecosystem’s structure, organization, and maturity in the shallow rocky reef ecosystem in Yelapa. Also, we determine the most affected functional groups by disturbances simulated and those which generate less resilience in the ecosystem. Methods. A mass-balance trophic model Ecopath with Ecosim, was constructed, and Ascendency›s theory was used to evaluate the ecosystem properties. A Mixed Trophic Impacts matrix was used to assess direct and indirect trophic effects on the network. The functional groups more sensitive to disturbances were determined using Ecosim dynamics simulations in the short and long term with two mortality scenarios (an increase of 25 % and 50 %). Finally, the System Recovery Timewas used as a measure of resilience. Results. The Yelapa rocky-reef ecosystem exhibits the feature of a mature, organized, and developing ecosystem but is less resistant to disturbances. Several fish groups, zooplankton, and phytoplankton produced the most remarkable effects in the trophic network. In addition, the phytoplankton, chlorophyta, and the group of other benthic invertebrates propagated more effects on other model components. Conclusions. Yelapa rocky reef would lose resilience if the functional groups eels & morays, other benthic invertebrates, snappers, and phytoplankton were disturbed.

RESUMEN Antecedentes. Los análisis ecológicos de redes han sido usados para definir aspectos relacionados a la estructura, salud y dinámica de los ecosistemas marinos. Objetivos. Evaluar la estructura, organización y madurez en el ecosistema de Yelapa, un arrecife rocoso somero. También, se determinaron los grupos funcionales que podrían ser más sensibles a perturbaciones simuladas y aquellos que generan menor resiliencia en el ecosistema. Métodos. Se construyó un modelo trófico de balance de masas Ecopath con Ecosim y se usó la teoría de Ascendency para evaluar las propiedades ecosistémicas. La matriz de Impacto Trófico Mixto evaluó los efectos tróficos directos e indirectos en la red. Se determinaron los grupos funcionales más sensibles a perturbaciones usando simulaciones dinámicas Ecosim de corto y largo tiempo con dos escenarios de mortalidad (incremento del 25 % y 50 %). Finalmente, se empleó el Tiempo de Recuperación del Sistema como una medida de resiliencia. Resultados. El ecosistema arrecifal rocoso de Yelapa exhibió características de un ecosistema maduro, organizado y desarrollado, pero a su vez menos resistente a perturbaciones. Diferentes grupos de peces, zooplancton y fitoplancton generaron los mayores efectos en la red trófica. Además, el fitoplancton, clorofitas y el grupo de otros invertebrados bentónicos propagaron los mayores efectos hacia los otros componentes del sistema. Yelapa es menos resiliente cuando son perturbados los grupos funcionales de anguilas y morenas, otros invertebrados bentónicos, pargos y fitoplancton. Conclusiones. Grupos funcionales de distintos niveles tróficos fueron prioritarios para preservar la integridad estructural del ecosistema, las condiciones de madurez, desarrollo y resiliencia. Este estudio representa el primer paso para analizar las propiedades de la red trófica y especies ecológicamente relevantes entre el ecosistema de coral somero y profundo en Yelapa.

ABSTRACT The biodiversity of epibenthic communities in rocky reefs in the Mexican tropical Pacific has been studied minimally during the past three decades. This study describes the abundance and distribution of algae and invertebrates in a deep rocky reef from this region. Samples were taken at 20 m depth in 2012 by randomly placing 50×50 cm quadrats. Also, photographs were taken of each quadrat to quantify the coverage of organisms. Throughout the study, the algae were the most abundant group (17748.5 cm m−2), of which encrusting calcified (6350.9 cm m−2), turf (3040.3 cm m−2), and larger-sized articulated corallines (2700.9 cm m−2) had the highest coverage. Regarding invertebrates, zoanthids (1153.3 cm m−2) and corals (746.7 cm m−2) had high coverage. All of the algal groups were found on vertical and horizontal substrates. The detrended correspondence analysis showed that larger-sized articulated corallines and encrusting not calcified groups were prevalent on the horizontal substrate and corals on the vertical substrate. These abundance and distribution patterns represent the first quantitative study of rocky reefs from the region. Considering the rapid influence of human activities in this coastal zone and the fact that rocky reefs have been minimally studied, there is a clear need for long-term monitoring programs to establish reef communities' patterns and processes, which are useful in conservation programs.

Abstract The genus Conus includes over 900 species of marine invertebrates known as cone snails, whose venoms are among the most powerful described so far. This potency is mainly due to the concerted action of hundreds of small bioactive peptides named conopeptides, which target different ion channels and membrane receptors and thus interfere with crucial physiological processes. By swiftly harpooning and injecting their prey and predators with such deadly cocktails, the slow-moving cone snails guarantee their survival in the harsh, competitive marine environment. Each cone snail species produces a unique venom, as the mature sequences of conopeptides from the venoms of different species share very little identity. This biochemical diversity, added to the numerous species and conopeptides contained in their venoms, results in an immense biotechnological and therapeutic potential, still largely unexplored. That is especially true regarding the bioprospection of the venoms of cone snail species found off the Brazilian coast - a region widely known for its biodiversity. Of the 31 species described in this region so far, only four - Conus cancellatus, Conus regius, Conus villepinii, and Conus ermineus - have had their venoms partially characterized, and, although many bioactive molecules have been identified, only a few have been actually isolated and studied. In addition to providing an overview on all the cone snail species found off the Brazilian coast to date, this review compiles the information on the structural and pharmacological features of conopeptides and other molecules identified in the venoms of the four aforementioned species, paving the way for future studies. 90 far processes cocktails slowmoving slow moving harsh environment venom identity diversity potential unexplored biodiversity 3 cancellatus regius villepinii characterized studied date studies 9

Abstract Teredinids are bivalves mollusks considered the most abundant of invertebrates group of marine wood borers performing an important role in the mangrove environment. This study aimed to characterize the Teredinidae species from the Acaraú River estuary in Ceará and analyse the relationship between the mangrove plant structure and the distribution of Teredinidae, according to gradients estuaries: vertical (flooding) and horizontal (salinity). The collection of mangrove logs with Teredinidae happened in three places within the estuary (inner, median, and upper); in each area, three transects were traced in which three plots were lined off, and a total of 40 logs were collected. Teredinidae species were found and identified: Nausitora fusticula; Neoteredo reynei; Teredo turnerae; Teredo cf. bartschi; Bankia bipennata; Bankia gouldi; Lirodus massa and Lyrodus cf. bipartitus. The Lyrodus cf. bipartitus, Bankia gouldi, and Teredo cf. bartschi species were registered for the first time in Ceará. The distribution and species richness of Teredinidae were directly related to the vertical gradient (flooding) and heterogeneity of the mangrove forest habitat. The data presented here are essential for comprehending the mechanisms responsible for the distribution patterns of the Teredinidae species in the mangrove, contributing to biodiversity conservation in Ceará coastal zones. environment estuaries flooding (flooding salinity. salinity . (salinity) inner, inner (inner median upper upper) area off 4 collected identified fusticula reynei turnerae cf bipennata gouldi bipartitus habitat zones (salinity

Resumo Os teredinídeos são moluscos bivalves considerados o grupo de invertebrados mais abundante de organismos perfuradores de madeira marinha, desempenhando importante papel ecológico nos ambientes de manguezais. O objetivo do estudo foi realizar a caracterização das espécies de Teredinidae do estuário do Rio Acaraú, Ceará e analisar a relação da estrutura vegetal do bosque de mangue com a distribuição dos teredinídeos de acordo com os gradientes estuarinos: vertical (inundação) e horizontal (salinidade). A coleta dos troncos de mangue com teredinídeos aconteceu em três pontos do estuário (interior, médio e superior). Em cada ponto foram traçados três transectos nos quais, foram demarcadas três parcelas das quais foram coletados o total de 40 troncos. Foram encontradas e identificadas 8 espécies de Teredinidae: Nausitora fusticula; Neoteredo reynei; Teredo turnerae; Teredo cf. bartschi; Bankia bipennata; Bankia gouldi; Lirodus massa e Lyrodus cf. bipartitus. As espécies Lyrodus cf. bipartitus, Bankia gouldi e Teredo cf. bartschi, foram registradas pela primeira vez no estado. A distribuição e riqueza de espécies de Teredinidae estiveram diretamente relacionadas com o gradiente vertical (inundação) e heterogeneidade de hábitat do bosque de mangue. Os dados aqui apresentados serão importantes para compreensão dos mecanismos responsáveis pelos padrões de distribuição das espécies de Teredinidae nos bosques de mangues, contribuindo para a conservação da biodiversidade em zonas costeiras do Ceará. marinha manguezais Acaraú estuarinos inundação (inundação salinidade. salinidade . (salinidade) interior, interior (interior superior. superior superior) 4 fusticula reynei turnerae cf bartschi bipennata bipartitus estado mangues (salinidade

Resumen La Formación San Cassiano de las Dolomitas, NE de Italia, es una unidad litoestratigráfica del Ladiniano-Carniano (Triásico Medio Superior) que pertenece al dominio del Tethys Occidental. En esta formación se han reportado numerosos grupos de invertebrados marinos de comunidades arrecifales. En particular, los braquiópodos están representados por diferentes órdenes. Los tecideidos son los más abundantes y diversos, con distintas especies del género Thecospira. A pesar de la aparente abundancia, solo existe un reporte de un tecideido del género conservado en posición de vida: Thecospira tyrolensis. En este estudio, describimos y discutimos el primer hallazgo de Thecospira semseyi y Thecospira tenuistriata en posición de vida, basado en el estudio de láminas delgadas elaboradas a partir de olistolitos Cipit. Aparentemente, las conchas de Th. semseyi no estaban firmemente adheridas al sustrato por medio de una pequeña superficie de cementación; por lo tanto, pudieron haber vivido incrustados en la matriz biogénica. Por el contrario, Th. tenuis-triata muestra una región umbonal modificada en un área de cementación, lo que permite la unión al bioconstructor. La mayoría de las muestras no presentan señal alguna de transporte, ya que todas las muestras están articuladas y aún están adheridas al sustrato. Además, las comisuras están parcialmente abiertas, libres de cualquier incrustación de crecimiento de esponjas o briozoos. La preservación de braquiópodos permite corroborar que los ejemplares de ambas especies fueron fosilizados en posición de vida. Adicionalmente, Th. semseyi y Th. tenuistriata continuaron con vida a pesar de que el tejido del huésped absorbía la valva ventral de los braquiópodos. Dicha información muestra que los tecideidos fueron componentes importantes de las comunidades del arrecife del Tethys.

Abstract The San Cassiano Formation from the Dolomites, NE Italy, is a Ladinian-Carnian (Middle - Upper Triassic) lithostratigraphic unit belonging to the Western Tethys domain. In this formation numerous groups of marine invertebrates from reef communities have been reported. In particular, brachiopods are represented by different orders. Thecideids are the most abundant and diverse, with different species of the genus Thecospira. Despite the apparent abundance, only one report exists of a thecideid of the genus preserved in life position: Thecospira tyrolensis. In this study, we describe and discuss the first finding of Thecospira semseyi and Thecospira tenuistriata in life position based on the study of thin sections of Cipit boulders. Seemingly, the Th. semseyi shells were not firmly attached to the substrate by a small cementation surface; therefore, they could have lived embedded into the biogenic matrix. By contrast, Th. tenuistriata displays an umbonal region modified in a cementation area, allowing the attachment to the bio-builder. Most samples don’t show any signal of transport since all specimens are articulated and are still attached to the substrate. Besides, the commissures are partially opened, free of any encrustation of sponge or bryozoan growing. The preservation of brachiopods suggests that the samples of both species were fossilized in life position. Moreover, Th. semseyi and Th. tenuistriata continued to live although the host’s fabric was imbibing the brachiopods’ ventral valve. This shows that thecideids were important components of Tethys reef communities.

ABSTRACT We described a new association of 10 morphospecies of crinoid columnar ossicles from eight different morphogenera. The biota includes Cylindrocauliscus fiski, Cyclocaudex cf. plenus, Cyclocaudex costatus, Preptopremnum cf. rugosum, Preptopremnum leave, Heterostelechus jeffordsi, Cycloscapus laevis, Cyclocaudiculus regularis, Nothrosterigma merum, and Cyclogrupera minor. The specimens were located in rocks from the Grupera Formation of Asselian-Sakmarian age (lower Permian). The lithostratigraphic unit belongs to the Carboniferous-Permian succession that outcrops in the Chicomuselo region in southeastern Mexico. It is recorded the first occurrence of C. costatus, P. rugosum, C. laevis, and N. merum for the Cisuralian of North America. Likewise, it highlights the first record of N. merum in Mexico, which along with P. rugosum are reported for the first time in the Cisuralian of North America. Despite controversy over the usefulness of crinoid ossicles as index fossils, it was possible relating the rocks of the locality studied to an approximate Asselian-Sakmarian age (early Cisuralian), previously suggested for the formation. Furthermore, the find of ossicles associated with other filtering marine invertebrates such as bryozoans and brachiopods, as well as preservation and lithological features of the rocks, allowed establishing that the depositional paleoenvironment was related to shallow water facies of high energy, well-illuminated, and with an important terrigenous supply. Regarding paleobiogeography, the distribution of crinoids was associated with the region’s geologic history, which was influenced by oceanic and continental changes that occurred during the formation of the Pangea supercontinent in the Late Pennsylvanian. This favored the emergence of generic and specific provincialisms in North America.

RESUMEN Se describe una nueva asociación, compuesta por 10 morfoespecies de osículos columnares de crinoideos pertenecientes a ocho morfogéneros diferentes. La biota está compuesta por Cylindrocauliscus fiski, Cyclocaudex cf. plenus, Cyclocaudex costatus, Preptopremnum cf. rugosum, Preptopremnum laeve, Heterostelechus jeffordsi, Cycloscapus laevis, Cyclocaudiculus regularis, Nothrosterigma merum y Cyclogrupera minor. Los ejemplares se encontraron en rocas de la Formación Grupera del Asseliano-Sakmariano (Pérmico inferior), perteneciente a la sucesión del Carbonífero-Pérmico que aflora en la región de Chicomuselo, al sureste del territorio mexicano. Del material descrito, se detectó la primera ocurrencia de C. costatus, P. rugosum, C. laevis y N. merum para Chiapas. Asimismo, destaca el primer registro de N. merum para México, el cual junto con P. rugosum son reportados por primera vez para el Cisuraliano de Norteamérica. Pese a la controversia sobre la utilidad de los osículos de crinoideos como fósiles índice, por sus amplios alcances estratigráficos, fue posible denotar que los taxones descritos, en conjunto, señalaban una edad aproximada del Asseliano-Sakmariano (Cisuraliano temprano), sugerida previamente para la formación. El hallazgo de los osículos, asociados a otros invertebrados marinos filtradores como briozoos y braquiópodos, aunado al tipo de conservación y las características litológicas de las rocas portadoras permitieron establecer que el paleoambiente de depósito se relacionaba con facies de aguas someras de alta energía, bien iluminadas y con un aporte constante de terrígenos. Respecto a la paleobiogeografía, se observa que la distribución de los crinoideos estuvo relacionada con la historia geológica de la región, la cual estuvo influenciada por los cambios oceánicos y continentales ocurridos a raíz de la formación del supercontinente Pangea a finales del Pensilvánico. Esto favoreció el surgimiento de provincialismos genéricos y específicos en Norteamérica.

Resumen El Caribe mexicano es la sección más extensa del mar Caribe mesoamericano con 16 áreas marinas protegidas. Durante 2015 y 2016, fueron realizadas 2 campañas de muestreo en el Parque Nacional Arrecife Puerto Morelos y la Reserva de la Biosfera Arrecife de Sian Ka’an, para determinar la biodiversidad de los anfípodos bentónicos. Además, las especies documentados previamente en éstos fueron incluidos para completar el primer listado de especies a lo largo del Caribe mexicano. El presente estudio incluye 35 familias, 70 géneros y 121 especies, dentro de las cuales, 41 no habían sido registradas en esta área y 5 correspondieron a registros nuevos de anfípodos. A la fecha y de acuerdo con la información sintetizada en este listado de especies, tanto el área natural arrecife Puerto Morelos y el arrecife de Sian Ka’an, localizados en la zonas norte y central del mar Caribe mexicano, son las 2 áreas naturales protegidas con la mayor cantidad de especies de anfípodos bentónicos.

Abstract The Mexican Caribbean Sea is the longest section of the Mesoamerican Caribbean Sea, with 16 protected marine areas. During 2015 and 2016, 2 sampling campaigns in the Puerto Morelos Coral Reef National Park and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Quintana Roo, Mexico, were carried out to determine the biodiversity of benthic amphipods. In addition, the previously documented amphipod data were included to summarize the first checklist of such amphipods along the Mexican Caribbean Sea. The present study found 35 families, 70 genera, and 121 species, of which 41 species had not been previously reported in the Mexican Caribbean Sea, and 5 species represented new records of amphipods from the Caribbean Sea. According to the information summarized in this amphipod’s inventory, both the coral reefs Puerto Morelos and Sian Ka’an, located in the north and central Mexican Caribbean Sea, represented the protected natural areas with the largest amounts of benthic amphipod species thus far.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The most significant results obtained in the course of 10 years of research, monitoring and management in the coral reefs of the Guanahacabibes National Park (PNG) are presented. The most studied zoological groups have been the coral and fish communities. In the same way, the lionfish has been deeply investigated due to the negative impact caused on invertebrates and native fish due to its status as an exotic and invasive species. Methods: The samplings have been carried out based on methodologies developed and validated by experts at the national and international level. Results: The results show that the reefs are among the most conserved and diverse in the Caribbean, even though they do not escape the degradation process faced by most of these ecosystems due to the effects of climate change. Fish populations of commercial and ecological importance (groupers, snappers, sharks, parrotfish and surgeonfish) have high density and biomass values due to the protective effect of the area. Data on bleaching events in coral communities and their resilient power are presented. The results of the reef restoration project with the Acropora cervicornis species are presented as well as the positive effect that the holding of 5 lionfish fishing tournaments has had on the control of this invasive species. Also, the tools, strategies and regulations established in the PNG management plan are shown, focused on nature tourism that has been increasing in recent years.

RESUMEN Introducción: Se presentan los resultados más significativos obtenidos en el transcurso de 10 años de investigación, monitoreo y manejo en los arrecifes coralinos del Parque Nacional Guanahacabibes (PNG). Los grupos zoológicos más estudiados han sido las comunidades de corales y peces. De igual manera, el pez león ha sido investigado a profundidad debido al impacto negativo que provoca en los invertebrados y peces nativos por su condición de especie exótica e invasora. Métodos: Los muestreos se han realizado a partir de metodologías elaboradas y validadas por expertos a nivel nacional e internacional. Resultados: Los arrecifes se encuentran entre los más conservados y diversos del Caribe, aun cuando no escapan del proceso de degradación que afrontan la mayoría de estos ecosistemas por los efectos del cambio climático. Las poblaciones de peces de importancia comercial y ecológica (meros, pargos, tiburones, loros y barberos) cuentan con elevados valores de densidad y biomasa debido al efecto protector del área. Se exponen datos de los eventos de blanqueamientos en las comunidades de corales y su poder resiliente. Se presentan los resultados del proyecto de restauración de arrecifes con la especie Acropora cervicornis, así como el efecto positivo que ha tenido la realización de 5 torneos de pesca de pez león en el control de esta especie invasora. También, se muestran las herramientas, estrategias y regulaciones establecidas en el plan de manejo del PNG, enfocadas en el turismo de naturaleza que ha ido en incremento en los últimos años.