Abstract Habitat choice is fundamental for an animal foraging, defense, and reproduction. Ogre-faced spiders are known for their unusual morphology, natural history, and rarity. They are sit-and-wait predators that build net-like webs that are manipulated by spiders and thrown at their prey. Hunting behavior includes selecting microhabitats for web construction that reduces the likelihood of damage or entanglement in the substrate during prey capture. Therefore, we expect that Deinopis cf. cylindracea selects smooth surfaces to forage on. We observed D. cf. cylindracea associated with smooth trunks of Plinia cauliflora (Myrtaceae) in the natural environment and actively selecting smooth trunks over rough trunks or litter in controlled experiments. Such selection is likely to maximize the foraging strategy of launching the web towards the substrate. Aggregations had occurred more often in the 50 cm trunk closest to the ground, where the prey community is largest. During the day, this spider appears to choose sites where it can adopt a stick-like posture upon the vegetation near the ground. Hunting at night and resting cryptically during the day appears to be shaped by natural selection for the survival and reproduction of this spider species. defense Ogrefaced Ogre faced morphology history rarity sitandwait sit wait netlike net like capture Therefore cf on D Myrtaceae (Myrtaceae experiments 5 ground largest sticklike stick species

Resumo A escolha do habitat é fundamental para a busca de alimento, defesa e reprodução de um animal. As aranhas ogro são conhecidas por sua morfologia incomum, história natural e raridade. Elas são predadoras que ficam sentadas e esperam, construindo teias semelhantes a redes que são manipuladas por aranhas e lançadas em suas presas. O comportamento de caça inclui selecionar microhabitats para construção de teias que reduz a probabilidade de danos ou emaranhamento no substrato durante a captura da presa. Portanto, esperamos que Deinopis cf. cylindracea selecione superfícies lisas para forragear. Observamos D. cf. cylindracea associada a troncos lisos de Plinia cauliflora (Myrtaceae) no ambiente natural e selecionando ativamente troncos lisos em vez de troncos ásperos ou serapilheira em experimentos controlados. Essa seleção provavelmente maximiza a estratégia de forrageamento de lançar a teia em direção ao substrato. As agregações das aranhas ocorreram com mais frequência no tronco de 50 cm mais próximo do solo, onde a comunidade de presas é maior. Durante o dia, essa aranha parece escolher locais onde pode adotar uma postura semelhante a um graveto sobre a vegetação perto do chão. Caçar à noite e descansar enigmaticamente durante o dia parece ser moldado pela seleção natural para a sobrevivência e reprodução dessa espécie de aranha. alimento animal incomum raridade esperam presa Portanto cf forragear D Myrtaceae (Myrtaceae controlados 5 solo maior chão

Abstract The family Physaraceae (Physarales, Myxomycetes) is represented in Brazil by eight genera and 75 species. Based on data obtained from the GBIF, SpeciesLink, Flora and Funga do Brasil platforms, collections from the IPA and URM Herbaria and material collected since 1960 deposited in the UFP Herbarium, the microhabitats and distribution of Badhamiopsis (1sp.) and Badhamia (10 spp.) in Brazilian biomes are commented. An identification key for the species and the first report of B. melanospora from the state of Paraíba, B. panicea from the state of Paraná and B. ovispora from Brazil are presented. Physarales, Physarales (Physarales Myxomycetes 7 GBIF SpeciesLink platforms 196 Herbarium 1sp. 1sp sp (1sp. 10 (1 spp. spp commented B Paraíba presented 19 (1sp 1 (

Abstract Many species of Bromeliaceae store water among their leaves creating microhabitats for several biological groups. Using bromeliads in enrichment of reforestation offers an opportunity to understand the occupation of tank habitat, and the impacts of these plants in increasing biodiversity. We translocated 20 rescued individuals of tank-bromeliad Hohenbergia ramageana to enrich a reforested area in Atlantic Forest. Then, we recorded the visiting dynamics of animals in the tank habitat of H. ramageana. Ten orders of vertebrates and invertebrates visited nine terrestrial and eight epiphyte tank-habitats just one month after the translocation. Richness and composition were similar between epiphyte and terrestrial translocations. We found that precipitation explained a significant proportion of variation of the number of visited plants and richness of animal orders. Our results confirm the importance of using tank-bromeliads in reforested ecosystems and bring novelty that reintroduced bromeliads in alternative habitats also play the same role for animal groups as in their original habitat. This knowledge will orientate future plans of conservation of bromeliads and of ecosystem restoration. biodiversity 2 tankbromeliad bromeliad Forest Then H tankhabitats translocation translocations tankbromeliads restoration

Resumo Muitas espécies de Bromeliaceae armazenam água entre suas folhas criando microhabitats para diversos grupos biológicos. O uso de bromélias no enriquecimento de reflorestamentos oferece uma oportunidade para entender a ocupação do habitat tanque e os impactos dessas plantas no aumento da biodiversidade. Foram translocados 20 indivíduos resgatados da bromélia-tanque Hohenbergia ramageana para enriquecimento de uma área reflorestada de Mata Atlântica. Em seguida, foi gravada a dinâmica de visitação de animais no habitat tanque de H. ramageana. Dez ordens de vertebrados e invertebrados visitaram nove habitats tanques terrícolas e oito epífitos apenas um mês após a translocação. A riqueza e a composição foram semelhantes entre as translocações epífitas e terrícolas. Descobrimos que a precipitação explicou uma proporção significativa de variação do número de plantas visitadas e da riqueza de ordens de animais. Nossos resultados confirmam a importância do uso de bromélias-tanque em ecossistemas reflorestados e trazem novas evidências de que as bromélias reintroduzidas em habitats alternativos também desempenham o mesmo papel para grupos de animais que em seu habitat original. Esse conhecimento orientará planos futuros de conservação de bromélias e de restauração de ecossistemas. biológicos biodiversidade 2 broméliatanque bromélia Atlântica seguida H translocação broméliastanque original

Abstract Fish make use of different microhabitats, such as submerged trunks, branches, foliage, crevices and stones, with different purposes, in search of shelter, refuge, food and even as a substrate for reproduction. The present study aimed to increase the knowledge about fish species that make use of the micro-habitat of trunks on the banks of streams in the protected area known as the Tupé Sustainable Development Reserve, Lower Negro River region, Amazonas. The data analyzed come from two days of collections, carried out in the falling water periods of 2020 in the Central stream. Six species, Pseudanos trimaculatus, Tatia strigata, Trachelyopterichthys taeniatus, Trachelyopterichthys sp. "negro", Ancistrus dolichopterus and A. hoplogenys were captured inside the submerged trunks. The order Siluriformes was the most abundant and represented (83.33%) of all individuals. The most abundant species were T. strigata (N=46), followed by A. dolichopterus (N=35). Although most species belonged to the order Siluriformes, it is worth mentioning the sampling of one Characiformes, P. trimaculatus (N=1). In addition, an individual of A. hoplogenys was found in association with eggs deposited and fixed within a trunk, displaying protective behavior. The record of these species inside trunks may be associated with their foraging site, refuge and parental care to increase the chances of survival of the offspring. Therefore, the conservation of these microhabitats is important for the maintenance of some fish species. branches foliage stones purposes shelter reproduction microhabitat micro habitat Reserve region Amazonas collections 202 stream taeniatus sp negro, negro , "negro" A 83.33% 8333 83 33 (83.33% individuals T N=46, N46 N N=46 46 (N=46) N=35. N35 N=35 . 35 (N=35) Characiformes P N=1. N1 N=1 1 (N=1) addition trunk behavior site offspring Therefore 20 "negro 83.33 833 8 3 (83.33 N4 N=4 4 (N=46 N3 N=3 (N=35 N= (N=1 2 83.3 (83.3 (N=4 (N=3 (N= 83. (83. (N (83 (8 (

Resumo Os peixes fazem uso de diferentes microhabitats, como troncos submersos, galhos, folhagens, fendas e entre pedras, com diversas finalidades, seja em busca de abrigo, refúgio, alimento e até como substrato para reprodução. O presente estudo teve como objetivo ampliar o conhecimento sobre as espécies de peixes que fazem uso do micro-habitat de troncos às margens dos riachos da unidade de conservação (UC) conhecida como Reserva de Desenvolvimento Sustentável do Tupé, região do Baixo Rio Negro, Amazonas. Os dados analisados são provenientes de dois dias de coletas, realizadas nos períodos de vazantes de 2020 no igarapé Central. Seis espécies, Pseudanos trimaculatus, Tatia strigata, Trachelyopterichthys taeniatus, Trachelyopterichthys sp. "negro", Ancistrus dolichopterus e A. hoplogenys foram capturados dentro dos troncos submersos. A ordem Siluriformes foi a mais abundante e representada (83,33%) da amostra. As espécies mais abundantes foram T. strigata (N=46), seguida por A. dolichopterus (N=35). Embora a maioria das espécies seja da ordem Siluriformes, vale ressaltar o encontro de uma espécie de Characiforme, P. trimaculatus (N=1). Além disso, foi encontrado um indivíduo de A. hoplogenys associado a ovos depositados e fixados dentro de um tronco, realizando comportamento de cuidado e proteção. O encontro dessas espécies no interior de troncos pode estar associado ao local de forrageamento, refúgio e cuidado parental, a fim de aumentar as chances de sobrevivência da prole. Portanto, a conservação desses microhabitats é importante para a manutenção dos organismos aquáticos. submersos galhos folhagens pedras finalidades abrigo reprodução microhabitat micro habitat UC (UC Tupé Negro Amazonas coletas 202 Central taeniatus sp negro, negro , "negro" 83,33% 8333 83 33 (83,33% amostra T N=46, N46 N N=46 46 (N=46) N=35. N35 N=35 . 35 (N=35) Characiforme P N=1. N1 N=1 1 (N=1) disso tronco proteção forrageamento parental prole Portanto aquáticos 20 "negro 83,33 833 8 3 (83,33 N4 N=4 4 (N=46 N3 N=3 (N=35 N= (N=1 2 83,3 (83,3 (N=4 (N=3 (N= 83, (83, (N (83 (8 (

ABSTRACT The increase in urbanization poses a significant threat to biodiversity, leading to the alteration of natural habitats and intensified competition between native and exotic species. The house sparrow, Passer domesticus (Linnaeus, 1758) is a globally widespread exotic and invasive species known for its environmental adaptability. However, recent studies have indicated that degrees of urbanization and microhabitat characteristics can influence house sparrow populations in diverse ways. In this study, we investigated the abundance, temporal variation, and microhabitat use of house sparrows across three areas with varying degrees of urbanization: urban areas (consisting of residential areas, paved streets, and squares), anthropic fields (including pastures and cultivated fields), and forests in Jacaraú, Northeastern Brazil. From October 2017 to September 2018, we employed the point count method to compare the abundance of house sparrows among the different areas. A total of 1880 records of house sparrows were obtained, with 56.3% observed in urban areas, 43.7% in anthropic fields, and none in the forest, indicating significant variations among the study areas. Throughout the year, active birds were observed in both urban areas and anthropic fields. Although no variations in bird abundance were found among the months in urban areas, a significant difference was observed in March (higher abundance) and October (lower abundance) in anthropic fields. The most frequently utilized microhabitats by house sparrows were ground surfaces, man-made structures, and artificial perches, whereas trees were the least used microhabitats. Our findings confirm that both habitat and microhabitat characteristics play crucial roles in determining the abundance and distribution patterns of the species in Brazil. Furthermore, our results suggest that house sparrows avoid using forests, and these environments can act as barriers to the species’ distribution. These findings enhance our understanding of the ecological dynamics of house sparrows in Brazil and provide valuable insights for management. biodiversity Linnaeus, Linnaeus (Linnaeus 1758 adaptability However ways variation consisting streets squares, squares , squares) including fields) Jacaraú 201 2018 188 obtained 563 56 3 56.3 437 43 7 43.7 forest year higher lower surfaces manmade man made structures perches Furthermore management 175 20 18 5 56. 4 43. 17 2 1

Resumo Os sistemas costeiros abrangem uma variedade de ecótonos que são importantes para as espécies de peixes, fornecendo diversos micro-habitats e áreas para alimentação, proteção contra predação, reprodução e áreas para recrutamento. No entanto, a maioria desses sistemas enfrenta grandes ameaças de atividades humanas. Considerando os níveis crescentes de perturbação humana nos ecossistemas costeiros, a compreensão das associações peixe-habitat pode fornecer informações importantes sobre os padrões de ocorrência e distribuição de espécies em sistemas afetados pelo homem, que podem apoiar o desenvolvimento de medidas eficazes de conservação e gestão. Neste contexto, investigamos a relação entre os cavalos-marinhos (Hippocampus reidi) e a complexidade do habitat e diferentes espécies de fixação, para determinar a possível variação entre locais e entre estações do ano. Os dados foram obtidos nos recifes rochosos das baías de Guanabara (Praia da Urca) e Sepetiba (Ilha das Duas Irmãs), no sudeste do Brasil, por mergulho livre ao longo de transectos fixos. Os cavalos-marinhos foram contados, e o substrato usado por cada indivíduo foi registrado e identificado como espécie ou atribuído a um grupo morfofuncional. As praias diferiram quanto à composição e grupos morfofuncionais, embora compartilhando alguns grupos morfofuncionais. Os cavalos-marinhos foram mais frequentemente associados a substratos arborescentes/ramificados em ambos os locais, a foliáceos e maciços. A associação com algas foi particularmente encontrada na Urca, enquanto o coral Carijoa riisei na Ilha de Duas Irmãs. peixes microhabitats micro habitats alimentação predação recrutamento entanto humanas peixehabitat peixe homem gestão contexto cavalosmarinhos cavalos marinhos Hippocampus reidi fixação ano Praia Urca Irmãs, Irmãs , Irmãs) Brasil fixos contados morfofuncional morfofuncionais arborescentesramificados arborescentes ramificados maciços

Abstract Coastal systems encompass a range of ecotones that are important for fish species, providing diverse micro-habitats and grounds for foraging, protection from predation, reproduction and areas for recruitment. However, most of these systems face major threats from human activities. Considering the increasing levels of human disturbance in coastal ecosystems, understanding fish-habitat associations may provide important insights into patterns of species occurrence and distribution in human-impacted systems, which can support the development of effective conservation and management measures. In this context, we investigated the relationship between seahorses (Hippocampus reidi) and both habitat complexity and different holdfast species, to determine possible variation between locations and among seasons. Data were obtained from the rocky reefs of Guanabara (Urca Beach) and Sepetiba (Duas Irmãs Island) bays, in southeastern Brazil. Seahorses were counted, and the holdfast being used by each individual was recorded and identified to species or assigned to a morphofunctional group. The beaches differed in holdfast composition and morphofunctional groups, yet sharing some morphofunctional groups. Seahorses were more frequently associated with branching holdfasts at both sites, and also with foliaceous and massive. Association with algae were particularly found in Urca, while the coral Carijoa riisei in Duas Irmãs Island. microhabitats micro habitats foraging predation recruitment However activities ecosystems fishhabitat humanimpacted impacted measures context Hippocampus reidi seasons Urca Beach Island bays Brazil counted group groups sites massive

Abstract Bryophytes are taxa mainly related to sites with water availability, however, it is possible to find them in arid areas growing freely, although even in these areas there are different microhabitats. The bryophytes sample collected along an altitude gradient in a tourist area called Puente de Ojuela were identified and their habitat preference was also established. A total of 17 species of bryophytes were identified in an altitudinal range of 1 353 to 1 850 meters above sea level, which showed that as altitude increased, the diversity of bryophytes did so proportionally. Of the 17 species identified, seven are new records for the zone. The bryofloristic diversity in interest area increases with the altitude, rather than with the direct presence of the water resource. The aforementioned, gap in knowledge of said diversity is covered. The study is considered fundamental for new lines of research involving Bryophyta taxa in semiarid environments.

Resumen Las briofitas son taxones relacionados principalmente a sitios con disponibilidad de agua, sin embargo, es posible encontrarlas en zonas áridas creciendo libremente, aunque incluso en estas áreas existen diferentes microhábitats. Se identificaron las muestras de briófitas recolectadas a lo largo de un gradiente de altitud en una zona turística denominada Puente de Ojuela y además se estableció su preferencia de hábitat. Se identificaron un total de 17 especies de briófitas en un rango altitudinal de 353 a 1 850 m.s.n.m., lo que mostró que a medida que aumentaba la altitud, la diversidad de briófitas lo hacía de manera proporcional. De las 17 especies identificadas, siete son nuevos registros para la zona. La diversidad brioflorística en la zona de interés aumenta con la altitud, más que con la presencia directa del recurso hídrico. Lo antes mencionado, cubre la brecha en el conocimiento de dicha diversidad. El estudio se considera fundamental para nuevas líneas de investigación que involucren a los taxones Bryophyta en ambientes semiáridos.

Resumen Introducción: Las ciénagas hacen parte de la llanura de inundación de un río y son influenciadas por el pulso de inundación, fuerza que modula los cambios anuales en las variables bióticas y abióticas. Los ensambles biológicos tienen diferentes respuestas a este pulso y podrían presentar cambios en la composición y abundancia. Objetivo: Evaluar cómo se modifican las condiciones físico-químicas en los microambientes de vegetación flotante y el ensamble de ostrácodos a lo largo de un pulso de inundación en la Ciénaga Río Viejo, Santander, Colombia. Métodos: Se caracterizaron las variables físico-químicas de los microambientes de plantas acuáticas flotantes durante las cuatro fases hidrológicas del pulso de inundación: aguas bajas, altas, ascenso y descenso, en tres estaciones donde el pulso tuvo mayor efecto. Ostrácodos dulceacuícolas fueron recolectados de estos microambientes, identificados y contados. Resultados: Las condiciones ambientales dentro de los microhábitats fluctuaron siguiendo el pulso de inundación en el sistema. Se encontraron tres familias taxonómicas y seis especies de ostrácodos. No hubo diferencias en la composición y abundancia del ensamble de ostrácodos en el espacio y el tiempo, lo que sugiere que están protegidas contra los cambios ambientales causados por las fluctuaciones hidrológicas. La abundancia de especies cambió en respuesta a la variabilidad ambiental. Strandesia cf. sphaeroidea y Keysercypria sp. 2 están asociadas con aguas más someras y con mayor cobertura de vegetación acuática densa. Otras especies mostraron ser tolerantes a fluctuaciones hidrológicas y pueden estar relacionadas con la plasticidad ecológica, como Cytheridella ilosvayi, Diaphanocypris meridana y Stenocypris major, que han sido registradas en una variedad de ambientes acuáticos y con distribuciones a escala continental. Conclusiones: Los pulsos de inundación indujeron cambios ambientales en la Ciénaga de Río Viejo, pero los microhábitats con cobertura de vegetación flotante parecen estar protegidos contra el pulso hidrológico, permitiendo así que las comunidades de ostrácodos permanezcan casi sin alteraciones durante un pulso de inundación. Este conjunto de datos actualizado de agua dulce tropical contribuye a llenar los vacíos de conocimiento relacionados con la idoneidad del hábitat y la distribución de las comunidades de ostrácodos en Colombia.

Abstract Introduction: Swamps are lowland shallow tropical lakes in rivers floodplains, characterized by annual flood pulses that modulate changes in biotic and abiotic variables. Biological assemblages have different responses to flood pulses, remaining either undisturbed or with significant changes in composition and abundance. Objective: To evaluate how physical and chemical conditions are modified in mixed macrophytes microenvironments and ostracod species assemblages throughout a flood pulse in Rio Viejo swamp, Santander, Colombia. Methods: We characterized physical and chemical variables of microenvironments of aquatic floating plants, during four different hydrologic periods of the flood pulse: low, high, rising, and descending waters, at three stations where the flood pulse have the most important effect. Freshwater ostracods were collected from such microenvironments, identified, and counted. Results: Environmental conditions within microhabitats fluctuated following the flood pulse in the system. Three taxonomic families and six species of ostracods were observed. No differences in the composition and abundance of the spatio-temporal ostracod assemblages were observed, suggesting that they are buffered against environmental changes driven by hydrological fluctuations. Species abundance changed in response to environmental variability. Species such as Keysercypria sp. and Keysercypria sp. 2 are associated to shallower waters and more likely to dense aquatic vegetation cover. Other species showed to be more tolerant to hydrological fluctuations and may be related to ecological plasticity, species such as Cytheridella ilosvayi, Diaphanocypris meridana and Stenocypris major that have been recorded in a variety of aquatic environments and with distributions at continental scale. Conclusions: Flood pulses induced environmental changes in Rio Viejo Swamp, but microhabitats in mixed macrophyte cover seems to be buffered against the hydrological pulse, thus allowing almost undisturbed ostracod assemblages throughout a flood pulse. This updated tropical freshwater dataset contributes towards filling the knowledge gaps related to habitat suitability and distribution of ostracods communities in Colombia.

Resumen Introducción: Muchos fenómenos naturales estudiados en ecología (como lluvia de semillas y producción de hojarasca) requieren métodos cuantitativos que recolecten datos in absentia, por ejemplo, las trampas. Las trampas varían en forma, tamaño y material, y se debe considerar cuidadosamente su selección. Hay pocos estudios que comparen el desempeño de trampas de diferentes tamaños y su efecto en las estimaciones. Objetivo: Comparar dos tamaños de una trampa común diseñada para cuantificar la caída de material vegetal. Métodos: En un parque urbano tropical en San José, Costa Rica, colocamos un total de 74 trampas cuadradas (trampa grande = 0,50m2, con una subsección concéntrica de 0,25m2 que representa la trampa pequeña) en tres microhábitats (pasto; borde del bosque y bajo árboles aislados). Desde julio de 2021 hasta junio de 2022, recolectamos el contenido de las trampas dos veces al mes (esfuerzo de muestreo anual: 144 horas por trampa). Resultados: la trampa grande da como resultado estimaciones de densidad más bajas, lo que genera errores y desviaciones estándar más altos. La trampa pequeña estima densidades más altas, pero reduce la desviación estándar y el error. Los coeficientes de variación de ambas trampas fueron similares. Conclusión: Los estudios con trampas de vegetación deben considerar el efecto del tamaño de trampa en las estimaciones de densidad, el error estimado y las desviaciones estándar.

Abstract Introduction: Many natural phenomena studied by ecologists (e.g. seed rain, litter production) require quantitative methods that collect data in the absence of the researcher, favoring for example traps. Traps vary in shape, size, and material, and their selection should be carefully considered. There are few studies that compare the performance of traps of different sizes and their effect on estimates. Objective: To compare two sizes of a common trap designed to quantify the fall of plant material. Methods: In a tropical urban park in San José, Costa Rica, we placed a total of 74 square traps (large trap= 0,50m2, with a concentric 0,25m2 subsection representing the small trap) in three microhabitats (grass; forest edge and under isolated trees). From July 2021 to June 2022 we collected the tramp contents twice a month (annual sampling effort: 144 hours per trap). Results: The large trap results in lower density estimates, leading to higher errors and standard deviations. The small trap estimates higher densities but reduces the standard deviation and error. The coefficients of variation of both traps were similar. Conclusion: Vegetation trap studies must consider the effect of trap size on density estimates, error estimates and standard deviations.

Abstract Scorpions and assassin bugs are arthropod predators that may impact in trophic chain, coexisting in similar microhabitats and exhibiting antagonistic interactions. This study reports the first case of predation of the scorpion Physoctonus debilis by the assassin bug Microtomus tibialis in a Brazilian Seasonal Dry Tropical Forest biome. During a nocturnal collection, an adult individual of M. tibialis was observed, with the head and body facing downwards, while holding a female of P. debilis, with the aid of the mouthparts under the vegetation. Reports like these are important to understand the evolutionary dynamics and natural history of predators that cohabit in the same microhabitat.

Resumen Los escorpiones y las chinches asesinas son artrópodos depredadores que pueden impactar en la cadena trófica, coexistiendo en microhábitats similares y exhibiendo interacciones antagónicas. Este estudio reporta el primer caso de depredación del escorpión Physoctonus debilis por la chinche asesina Microtomus tibialis en un bioma de Bosque Tropical Seco Estacional Brasileño. Durante una colecta nocturna, se observó un individuo adulto de M. tibialis con la cabeza y el cuerpo hacia abajo, mientras sujetaba a una hembra de P. debilis con la ayuda del aparato bucal bajo la vegetación. Informes como estos son importantes para comprender la dinámica evolutiva y la historia natural de los depredadores que cohabitan en el mismo microhábitat.

Abstract The Maguari Stork (Ciconia maguari) is one of the three species of the family Ciconiidae that occur in South America. Despite abundant in landscapes dominated by wetlands and grasslands, detailed studies on its biology are scarce. This study is aimed at investigating aspects of the breeding of Maguari Storks in Brazil. Photographic records were searched in the WikiAves database. A total of 65 records, obtained by citizens along 13 years in 32 municipalities, showed evidences of breeding activities in Brazil. Most (86%) of these records were gathered in the Pampa biome, in southern Brazil. Nests were large platforms and contained 1-3 young. Nests built on the ground were in grasslands or reed patches. Those built on shrubs were at boundaries between lakes and grasslands, and were often in colonial nesting sites with egrets and herons. Incubation occurred between July and November, and nestlings were found between August and December. Juveniles able to fly were recorded between late October and February. Most records of breeding activities were obtained at sites located < 300 m above sea level. As the Maguari Stork is a conspicuous and charismatic species, its conservation could substantially benefit from the awareness of landowners to promote eco-tourism in their properties, attracting birdwatchers. For this, it should be ensured the integrity of grasslands, marshes, and lakes with microhabitats often used for nesting (woody plants and reed patches). Ciconia maguari America scarce Brazil database 6 1 3 municipalities 86% 86 (86% biome 1- young patches herons November December February 30 level ecotourism eco tourism properties birdwatchers this marshes woody . patches) 8 (86 (8 (

Abstract The construction of highways is responsible for access to previously protected areas, resulting in changes in landscape and dynamics of the animal populations that live in these areas. These enterprises are the major responsible for the mortality of wild animals, surpassing hunting and even the trafficking of animals. The objective of this study was to make a list that reflects the diversity of amphibians and reptile’s road-killed along the BR-040, a highway that crosses the threaten lowland Atlantic Forest in Southeastern region of Brazil, including the use of microhabitats, lifestyle, activity pattern, reproductive cycles, and possible rare or endangered species. The study area consists of 180,4 km of highways. Monitoring began in 2006 and continues to the present day. A total of 1,410 individuals from 60 species were recorded in this study. The reptiles were more frequent in number of individuals and species. The commonest species recorded were Crotalus durissus and Dipsas mikanii. We have registered a single endangered species: Ranacephala hogei. The highest rates of road-kill were recorded during the wet season. Road-kills of fauna is a major threat to species, studies are of great importance to define plans that seek to mitigate the effects generated by these enterprises. areas animals reptile s roadkilled road killed BR040, BR040 BR 040, 040 BR-040 Brazil microhabitats lifestyle pattern cycles 1804 180 4 180, 200 day 1410 1 410 1,41 6 mikanii hogei roadkill kill season Roadkills Road kills BR04 04 BR-04 18 20 141 41 1,4 BR0 0 BR-0 2 14 1, BR-

Resumo A construção de rodovias é responsável pelo acesso a áreas anteriormente protegidas, resultando em alterações na paisagem e na dinâmica das populações animais que vivem nessas áreas. Esses empreendimentos são os maiores responsáveis pela mortalidade de animais silvestres, superando a caça e até mesmo o tráfico de animais. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma lista que reflita a diversidade de anfíbios e répteis atropelados ao longo da BR-040, uma rodovia que atravessa a ameaçada Mata Atlântica na região Sudeste do Brasil, incluindo o uso de microhabitats, estilo de vida, padrão de atividade, ciclos reprodutivos, e possíveis espécies raras ou ameaçadas. A área de estudo é constituída por 180,4 km de rodovias. O monitoramento começou em 2006 e segue até os dias atuais. Ao todo 1.410 indivíduos de 60 espécies foram registrados nesse estudo. Os répteis foram mais frequentes, em número de indivíduos e espécies. As espécies mais comumente registradas foram Crotalus durissus e Dipsas mikanii. Registramos uma espécie ameaçada de extinção: Ranacephala hogei. A maior taxa de atropelamento foi registrada durante a estação chuvosa. O atropelamento de fauna é uma grande ameaça as espécies, sendo de grande importância estudos para definição de planos que busquem mitigar os efeitos gerados por esses empreendimentos. protegidas silvestres BR040, BR040 BR 040, 040 BR-040 Brasil microhabitats vida atividade reprodutivos ameaçadas 1804 180 4 180, 200 atuais 1410 1 410 1.41 6 frequentes mikanii extinção hogei chuvosa BR04 04 BR-04 18 20 141 41 1.4 BR0 0 BR-0 2 14 1. BR-

Resumen Las tierras altas de Costa Rica son consideradas un punto caliente de diversidad y endemismo, pero los estudios sobre roedores son escasos. Comparamos la riqueza y abundancia de ratones entre el bosque de robledal y el páramo en la cima de la Cordillera de Talamanca. Seleccionamos dos sitios de estudio en la Cordillera de Talamanca: la Estación Biológica Cerro de la Muerte y el páramo. El primero es un bosque montano dominado por robles, y el segundo está dominado por una vegetación herbácea y algunos parches dispersos de arbustos. Capturamos ratones en dos microhábitats diferentes en el robledal y el páramo. Por lo que tuvimos cuatro microhábitats de muestreo: (1) páramo-arbustos, (2) páramo-Chusquea, (3) bosque montano-arbustos, y (4) bosque montano-Chusquea. Los ratones fueron marcados para identificar recapturas. Capturamos cuatro especies de ratones y sus abundancias variaron considerablemente entre hábitats y microhábitats (Tabla 1). La especie más abundante, con 85 % del total de capturas, fue Peromyscus nudipes. Los ratones fueron más abundantes en el robledal que en el páramo. Dentro del robledal, los ratones fueron más abundantes en el microhábitat compuesto por arbustos. El bosque montano posee una estructura vegetal más compleja, con mayor diversidad de recursos alimenticios y refugios que el páramo. Al igual que a nivel de hábitat, discutimos que las diferencias en abundancia entre microhábitats están directamente relacionadas con la estructura de la vegetación. Un hábitat con una estructura más compleja es de esperar que provea a los roedores de mejores condiciones.

Abstract The Costa Rican highlands are considered hotspots of diversity and endemism, but studies on rodents are scarce. We compared the richness and abundance of mice between the montane forest and the paramo at the summit of the Talamanca mountain range. We selected two study sites within the Talamanca mountain range: the Cerro de la Muerte Biological Station and the paramo. The former is a montane forest dominated by oaks, and the latter is dominated by an herbaceous layer, and some scattered bushy patches. We captured mice in two different microhabitats within each montane forest and paramo, so we had four different sampling microhabitats: (1) paramo-bush, (2) paramo-Chusquea, (3) montane forest-bush, and (4) montane forest-Chusquea. Mice were marked to identify recaptures. We captured four mouse species and their abundance varied largely between habitats and among microhabitats (Table 1). The most abundant species, representing 85 % of all mouse captures, was Peromyscus nudipes. Mice were more abundant in the montane forest than in the paramo. Within the montane forest, mice were more abundant in the microhabitat containing bushes. The montane forest has a more complex vegetation structure with more diversity of food resources and shelters than the paramo. As well as at the habitat level, we argue that differences in abundance among microhabitats are directly related with the structure of vegetation. A more complex habitat structure may provide rodents with better conditions.

BACKGROUND: Much of the Grassland Biome in South Africa is prone to shrub encroachment, leading to loss of ecosystem services, habitat heterogeneity and species diversity. Burrowing mammals are an important component of grasslands as these animals create microhabitats for other taxa, including smaller mammal species, birds, reptiles and invertebrates. However, our understanding of how shrub encroachment affects burrowing mammals is poor OBJECTIVES: Here we assessed the relationship between burrow abundance and bankrupt bush, Seriphium plumosum, encroachment as well as burrowing mammal diversity in bankrupt bush encroached and non-encroached grasslands METHOD: Shrub density, medium and large mammal burrow abundance and density were measured in 24 encroached and 24 non-encroached areas randomly selected in the Telperion Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga, South Africa. In addition, burrowing mammal diversity was assessed using camera traps in a subset of six encroached and six non-encroached areas RESULTS: Our results show that the abundance and density of medium and large burrows were significantly lower in encroached areas than in non-encroached areas (p = 0.011 and p < 0.001, respectively). The relationship between burrow abundance and bankrupt bush encroachment was negative (rho = -0.456, p = 0.001). However, burrowing mammal diversity had no significant difference between encroached and non-encroached areas CONCLUSION: Our data, therefore, suggest that with increasing bankrupt bush encroachment and a decreased abundance in burrowing mammal ecosystem services, a negative effect will occur on burrowing mammal communities, leading to the reduction in species-specific habitat heterogeneity and possibly animal biodiversity

Abstract: Background and Aims: Bahia is one of the Brazilian states with the greatest diversity of orchids. Species restricted to microhabitats or forming small populations, being subject to local suppression, have been reported for restingas of the state. The north coast of Bahia has recently been exposed to intense anthropic pressures, including disordered occupation of land and predatory tourism. In order to encourage the adoption of regional conservation strategies, we carried out a survey of the orchid flora in the Parque Natural Municipal da Restinga de Praia do Forte (PNMR Praia do Forte), a fragment of restinga on the north coast of the state. Methods: Field work was conducted monthly from September 2016 to December 2017, and in July 2020 and August 2022, by employing the walking survey method. We consulted collections of the herbaria ALCB, HRB, HUEFS, and RB in person, as well as digital images of type specimens deposited in European herbaria and the Environmental Information Reference Center database. Phenological and distribution data of the species in the phytophysiognomies of PNMR Praia do Forte were mostly obtained in the field. Key results: Orchidaceae is represented by 14 genera and 16 species in the PNMR Praia do Forte, most of which are native to the Neotropics (14 spp., including eight endemic to Brazil), mainly terrestrial (six spp.), occurring exclusively in restinga forest formations (eight spp.). Epistephium williamsii, Gomesa barbata, Oeceoclades maculata, Pachygenium parvum, Polystachya concreta and Prescottia leptostachya (restricted to Bahia state) form small populations (<50 individuals). Conclusions: The orchid flora of the PNMR Praia do Forte, especially the aforementioned species, requires the attention from managers, in order to implement possible management and conservation actions and prevent them from being suppressed locally. We suggest greater surveillance actions in the park and environmental education actions among local residents and tourists.

Resumen: Antecedentes y Objetivos: Bahía es uno de los estados brasileños con mayor diversidad de orquídeas. Para restingas del estado se han reportado especies restringidas a microhábitats o que forman pequeñas poblaciones, estando sujetas a supresión local. La costa norte de Bahía ha estado expuesta recientemente a intensas presiones antrópicas, incluida la ocupación desordenada de la tierra y el turismo depredador. Con el fin de fomentar la adopción de estrategias de conservación regionales, llevamos a cabo un estudio de la flora de orquídeas en el Parque Natural Municipal da Restinga de Praia do Forte (PNMR Praia do Forte), un fragmento de restinga en la costa norte del estado. Métodos: El trabajo de campo se realizó mensualmente desde septiembre 2016 a diciembre 2017, así como en julio 2020 y agosto 2022, empleando el método de caminata libre. Consultamos personalmente las colecciones de los herbarios ALCB, HRB, HUEFS y RB, así como la base de datos del Centro de Referencia de Información Ambiental e imágenes digitales de especímenes tipo depositados en herbarios europeos. Los datos fenológicos y de distribución de las especies en las fitofisonomías del PNMR Praia do Forte se obtuvieron principalmente en el campo. Resultados clave: Orchidaceae está representada por 14 géneros y 16 especies en el PNMR Praia do Forte, en su mayoría nativas del Neotropico (14 spp., incluidas ocho endémicas de Brasil), principalmente terrestres (seis spp.), ocurriendo exclusivamente en formaciones forestales de restinga (ocho spp.). Epistephium williamsii, Gomesa barbata, Oeceoclades maculata, Pachygenium parvum, Polystachya concreta y Prescottia leptostachya (restringida al estado de Bahía) forman poblaciones pequeñas (<50 individuos). Conclusiones: La flora orquidológica del PNMR Praia do Forte, especialmente las especies antes mencionadas, requiere la atención de los gestores, para implementar posibles acciones de manejo y conservación y evitar su supresión local. Sugerimos mayores acciones de vigilancia en el parque y educación ambiental entre residentes locales y turistas.