Resumen Introducción: Las enfermedades vectoriales son prevalentes en las regiones amazónica y costera de Ecuador. Sin embargo, hay una escasez de estudios de ecología de mosquitos en estas áreas. En el país se ha reportado 8 tribus, 22 géneros y 200 especies. Objetivos: Documentar las especies de Culicidae encontradas en el Parque Amazónico La Isla, Napo, Ecuador, incluyendo aquellas con importancia epidemiológica; y analizar su composición, abundancia y diversidad, enfocándose en los hábitats de las larvas durante los períodos seco y lluvioso. Métodos: Evaluamos diferentes hábitats larvarios, con la duración de la recolecta como criterio. Las trampas CDC y Shannon recolectaron mosquitos adultos durante los períodos seco y lluvioso. Evaluamos la riqueza de especies con curvas de acumulación y estimadores no paramétricos, mientras que determinamos la diversidad con los números de Hill. Además, utilizamos los índices de Berger-Parker y Pielou para evaluar la dominancia y la uniformidad de las especies. Realizamos análisis de conglomerados y la prueba ANOSIM para evaluar la similitud entre hábitats y estaciones, así como las diferencias en la composición taxonómica, respectivamente. Resultados: Recolectamos un total de 802 individuos de 15 especies y 4 unidades taxonómicas, 5 géneros y 4 tribus. Este podría ser el primer registro de Wyeomyia felicia Dyar & Núñez Tovar y Culex derivator Dyar & Knab en Ecuador. Además, la presencia de Culex dunni Dyar y Psorophora ferox von Humboldt (ambos potenciales vectores) se correlacionó con el aumento de las precipitaciones. Conclusiones: El aumento de la abundancia de mosquitos durante el periodo lluvioso indica un mayor riesgo de transmisión de patógenos. Sin embargo, la relación entre la cantidad de precipitaciones y los patrones de diversidad no está bien definida.

Abstract Introduction: Vector-borne diseases are prevalent in the Amazon and Coastal regions of Ecuador. However, there is a scarcity of mosquito ecology studies in these areas. The most recent list of species reported for the country comprises 8 tribes, 22 genera, and 200 species. Objectives: To document the Culicidae species found in La Isla Amazon Park, Napo, Ecuador, including those with epidemiological significance; and to analyze their composition, abundance, and diversity, focusing on larval habitats during the dry and rainy periods. Methods: We evaluated different larval habitats, considering collection duration as the primary criterion. We used CDC and Shannon traps to collect adult mosquitoes during both rainy and dry periods. To assess sampling effort, we used accumulation curves and non-parametric estimators of species richness, while we employed Hill numbers to determine diversity. Additionally, we used the Berger-Parker and Pielou indices to evaluate species dominance and evenness. We conducted cluster analysis and ANOSIM tests to assess the similarity between habitats and the differences in taxonomic composition between periods. Results: We collected a total of 802 individuals from 15 species and 4 taxonomic units, 5 genera, and 4 tribes. Notably, this may be the first records of Wyeomyia felicia Dyar & Núñez Tovar and Culex derivator Dyar & Knab from Ecuador. Additionally, the presence of Culex dunni Dyar and Psorophora ferox von Humboldt (both recognized as vectors) was correlated with increased rainfall. Conclusions: The abundance of mosquitoes, including potential vector species, increased during the rainy season, indicating a higher risk of pathogen transmission. However, the relationship between rainfall amount and diversity patterns is not well-defined.

Abstract Temporary waters are common environments found in physical and biological substrates. Among them, some bromeliads species are known to hold water in their tanks, in a habitat called phytotelmata. Phytotelmata serve as habitats for several organisms, from bacteria and protists to arthropods and anurans. Peritrich ciliates are often found as epibionts on aquatic invertebrates in these environments. Here, we report two cases of epibiosis involving Lagenophrys sp. attached to ostracods (Elpidium spp.) and Rhabdostyla sp. colonizing hydrachnid mites in the tanks of two bromeliad species. In our analysis, we measured the frequency of epibiosis considering the presence of both basibiont and epibiont in the samples. The results shown a significant difference between Elpidium sp. and Lagenophrys sp. compared to hydrachnid mites and Rhabdostyla sp. (87.5% and 19%, respectively), supported by the Kruskal-Walis test (p = 0.0003, Chi-square = 9.687). These reports are important since the knowledge of phytotelmata communities from tropical and subtropical areas is incipient, although it has been increasing over the last years. It also shows that epibiosis doesn’t always represent a beneficial relationship. These two epibiosis systems found in bromeliad tanks raise questions about organism’s dispersal throughout other phytotelmata and other temporary water habitats.

Resumen Los mosquitos tienen un papel importante en la transmisión de parásitos y patógenos con efectos en la salud humana y animal, y algunos son también indicadores de la salud de los ecosistemas. Aunque se ha estudiado bastante la presencia y la distribución de estos insectos para entender la dinámica de las enfermedades que transmiten y diseñar estrategias para su monitoreo y el estudio de sus especies, se conoce relativamente poco sobre su ecología en muchas regiones tropicales. El género Trichoprosopon Theobald, de la tribu Sabethini, incluye unas 13 especies de mosquitos con distribución en el Neotrópico en hábitats principalmente rurales y selváticos. Algunas especies se han encontrado infectadas con arbovirus como el Bussuquara, el de la encefalitis de San Luis, el Ilhéus, el Pixuna y el Wyeomyia, en tanto que otras se consideran indicadores biológicos por su asociación con ecosistemas particulares en microambientes naturales de parques urbanos o áreas conservadas con presencia de plantas epífitas como las bromelias. En la presente revisión se actualiza la información sobre el género Trichoprosopon en Colombia, especialmente en lo relativo a su importancia médica y los registros históricos de las especies con presencia en el país, adicionando algunos nuevos a partir de muestreos en las costas Caribe y del Pacífico, en las montañas altoandinas y los valles interandinos (periodo 2009-2018). Se presenta la lista de especies con su distribución y notas ecológicas, registrándose siete especies válidas en diez departamentos que ocupan hábitats con criaderos en plantas fitotelmata: [Tr andinum Leví-Castillo, Tr. compressum Lutz, Tr. digitatum (Rondani), Tr. evansae Antunes, Tr. lampropus Howard, Dyar & Knab, Tr. lanei (Antunes) y Tr. pallidiventer (Lutz)]; así mismo, se registran dos nuevas especies que harían parte de los complejos descritos en ecosistemas cafeteros andinos.

Abstract Mosquitoes play an important role in the transmission of parasites and pathogens affecting human and animal health, which also serve as indicators of the health of ecosystems. Although there is a number of studies on mosquito presence and distribution, and their importance in diseases dynamics or in the design of strategies to monitor and study their species, there are few with updated information on their distribution and ecology in Neotropical countries. The genus Trichoprosopon Theobald includes 13 species of mosquitoes with distribution in the Neotropics, mainly in rural and sylvatic habitats. Some species have been found infected with arboviruses as the Bussuquara, the Saint Louis encephalitis virus, the Ilhéus, the Pixuna, and the Wyeomyia, and others are considered biological indicators due to their association with ecosystems such as microhabitats with epiphytes plants and other phytotelmate. Here we present an updated review of the genus in Colombia especially focused on the medical importance and historical records of the species complemented with new records from entomological surveys in the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, and the high Andean and inter-Andean valleys. We include the list of seven Trichoprosopon species with their distribution and ecological notes in ten Colombian departments with natural breeding sites in phytotelmata plants: [Tr. andinum Leví-Castillo, Tr. compressum Lutz, Tr. digitatum (Rondani), Tr. evansae Antunes, Tr. lampropus Howard, Dyar & Knab, Tr. lanei (Antunes), and Tr. pallidiventer (Lutz)]. We also include two new species found in Andean coffee ecosystems in southwestern Antioquia.

RESUMO Trachycephalus cunauaru é um hilídeo amazônico que utiliza fitotelmatas para se reproduzir. Existem relativamente poucas informações sobre a espécie, principalmente devido à dificuldade de acesso aos seus sítios reprodutivos. Nesse trabalho, reunimos dados de ecologia e história natural de T. cunauaru em uma área da Amazônia meridional, no estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil. Além de fitotelmatas naturais, utilizamos baldes instalados a uma altura de 10 m como fitotelmatas artificiais. Comparamos características físicas e químicas, bem como a presença e ausência de girinos, entre fitotelmatas naturais e artificiais. Também coletamos dados sobre o comportamento reprodutivo da espécie por meio de armadilhas fotográficas. Registramos uma densidade de 14,1 sítios reprodutivos por km2. Os parâmetros ambientais diferiram significativamente entre fitotelmatas artificiais e naturais. Em sítios artificiais a presença de girinos esteve diretamente relacionada à árvores com maior diâmetro. Registramos, pela primeira vez, oofagia para a espécie e observamos que machos podem utilizar mais de um fitotelmata. Também registramos a presença de cobras nos sítios reprodutivos. Constatamos que sítios artificiais e armadilhas fotográficas representam uma alternativa satisfatória para registros comportamentais para T. cunauaru e, possivelmente, para outras espécies com hábitos similares.

ABSTRACT Trachycephalus cunauaru is an Amazonian hylid that uses phytotelmata to reproduce. There is relatively little information about the species, mainly due to the difficulty of accessing their reproductive sites. In this study, we gathered data on the ecology and natural history of T. cunauaru in the southern Amazon, in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. In addition to natural phytotelmata, we used buckets installed at a height of 10 m as artificial phytotelmata. We compared physical and chemical characteristics, as well as the presence of tadpoles between natural and artificial phytotelmata. We also collected data on the reproductive behavior of the species through the use of camera traps. We recorded a density of 14.1 reproductive sites per km². Environmental parameters differed significantly between artificial and natural phytotelmata. In artificial sites, the presence of tadpoles was directly related to trees with a larger diameter. We registered oophagy for the first time for the species and observed that males can use more than one phytotelm. We also recorded the presence of snakes within the reproductive sites. We determined that artificial sites and digital camera traps are a satisfactory alternative for behavioral observations of T. cunauaru and possibly for other species with a similar habit.

ABSTRACT Quichuana Knab, 1913 is a Neotropical genus of flower flies (Diptera: Syrphidae) with 50 valid species. Adults of this genus are flower visitors and their larvae are usually associated with the phytotelmata of bromeliads and heliconias, actively participating in the recycling of nutrients in forest environments. Despite their importance in ecosystem dynamics, Quichuana larvae are poorly known. Herein we describe the immature stages of Quichuana pogonosa Fluke, 1937 from samples collected from the phytotelmata of two terrestrial bromeliad species in the state of Paraná, Brazil. We provide illustrations of the egg, third instar larva and puparium, as well as information on the life cycle of the species. Additionally, we describe and illustrate the male genitalia and present the DNA-barcoding based on larva and adult specimens.

Resumo: As bromélias são numerosas em diversidade e abundância na Mata Atlântica, um dos biomas mais ameaçados do planeta. Elas também são um habitat importante para várias espécies de animais que vivem na água retida por sua estrutura em roseta. Neste estudo, objetivamos caracterizar e comparar a comunidade de macroinvertebrados de duas espécies de bromélias de fragmentos de Mata Atlântica. Uma é característica de Floresta Ombrófila Densa, Aechmea ornata, e a outra ocorre em Floresta Ombrófila Mista, Aechmea recurvata. Amostramos e identificamos macroinvertebrados de 24 bromélias, 12 de cada espécie. No total foram registrados 19 táxons e 656 espécimes. No geral, Diptera foi a ordem de inseto mais abundante (n = 417), representada principalmente por culicídeos (n = 227) e quironomídeos (n = 107), seguidos por besouros Scirtidae (n = 216). Comparativamente a A. recurvata, A. ornata apresentou maior abundância e menor riqueza de invertebrados. Sete táxons foram exclusivos de A. recurvata, oito foram comuns a ambas e quatro, incluindo uma esponja, ocorreram apenas em A. ornata. Até onde sabemos, este é o primeiro registro de esponjas em bromélias. Observamos que os táxons de invertebrados mais abundantes eram comuns a ambas as bromélias e são considerados típicos de ambientes lênticos. Por outro lado, o elevado número de táxons exclusivos indica que os esforços de conservação devem incluir bromélias dessas duas fitofisionomias para garantir a diversidade das comunidades de fitotelmatas.

Abstract: Bromeliads are numerous both in diversity and abundance in the Atlantic Rainforest, one of the most threatened biomes on Earth. They are also an important habitat for several animal species that live in the water retained by its rosette structure. In this study, we aimed to characterize and compare the macroinvertebrate community of two bromeliad species from Atlantic forest fragments. One is characteristic of Dense Ombrophilous Forests, Aechmea ornata, and the other occurs in Mixed Ombrophilous Forests, Aechmea recurvata. We sampled and identified macroinvertebrates form 24 bromeliads, 12 of each species. A total of 19 taxa and 656 specimens were sampled. In both bromeliad species, Diptera was the most abundant insect order (n=417), represented mostly by mosquitoes (n=227) and non-biting midges (n=107), followed by Scirtidae marsh beetles (n=216). Aechmea ornata presented higher abundance and lower invertebrate richness compared to Aechmea recurvata. Seven taxa were exclusive of A. recurvata, eight were common to both, and four, including a sponge, occurred only in A. ornata. The most abundant invertebrate taxa were common to both bromeliads and are regarded as typical of lentic environments. On the other hand, the high number of exclusive species indicates that conservation efforts should include bromeliads from these two phytophysiognomies to secure protecting the diversity of phytotelmata communities.

Resumo Em sua superfície externa, muitas plantas podem acumular água da chuva formando fitotelmata, ou seja, micro-habitat aquáticos colonizados por diversos organismos, entre eles, os flagelados protistas. Fez-se um inventário de flagelados heterotróficos associados ao fitotelmata da bromélia Aechmea distichantha Lem., encontrada em paredões rochosos em um trecho da bacia do alto rio Paraná. As bromélias foram retiradas manualmente de paredão rochoso e, em laboratório, a água foi retirada dos tanques de cada planta, e foram montadas culturas dos organismos em placas de Petri. Os flagelados heterotróficos foram, então, observados in vivo sob microscópio óptico Olympus BX51, com sistema de contraste de interferência diferencial (DIC) acoplado. Dezesseis espécies flagelados heterotróficos foram registradas, desenhadas e descritas, sendo uma espécie pertencente ao Domínio Amorpha e 15 espécies ao Domínio Diaphoretiches. Os grupos mais especiosos foram Euglenida e Kinetoplastea. A diversidade relativamente reduzida de flagelados heterotróficos, quando comparada ao plâncton de lagos e reservatórios, pode estar relacionada ao fato de os fitotelmata serem habitats limitados, com condições ambientais extremas, selecionando, assim, organismos tolerantes a esses ambientes.

Abstract Many plants may accumulate rainwater, forming phytotelmata, aquatic microhabitats inhabited by various organisms. The aim of this study was to conduct an inventory of heterotrophic flagellates associated with phytotelmata of the bromeliad Aechmea distichantha Lem., found in rocky cliffs on the Upper Paraná River. The bromeliads were removed manually from the rocky wall, the water was removed and cultures of organisms of each plant were mounted in Petri dishes. Sixteen species of heterotrophic flagellate were recorded, drawn and described, among them one species belonging to the Amorpha Domain and 15 species to the Diaphoretiches Domain. The groups with most species were Euglenida and Kinetoplastea. The low diversity of heterotrophic flagellates recorded in this study, compared to the plankton of lakes and reservoirs, is probably related to the fact that phytotelmata are habitats with extreme environmental conditions, thus selecting organisms tolerant to these environments.

Abstract Phylloicus bromeliarium (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) is recorded for the first time in Venezuela. Larvae of this species were collected in leaf axils of the phytotelmata Guzmania cylindrica (Bromeliaceae), inside a cloud forest at 2000 m.a.s.l.

Resumen Phylloicus bromeliarium (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) es registrada por primera vez en Venezuela. Larvas de esta especie fueron recolectadas en brácteas de la fitotelmata Guzmania cylindrica (Bromeliaceae), dentro de un bosque nublado a 2000 m.s.n.m.

Resumen Introducción: las ranas de bosque que se desarrollan directamente (sin etapa de renacuajo) dependen en gran medida de los microhábitats húmedos para sobrevivir. Objetivo: describir la abundancia y el uso de microhábitats y algunos aspectos del comportamiento reproductivo ante la amenaza de la rana del bosque Platymantis hazelae en el Parque Natural Twin Lakes Balinsasayao, Isla Negros, Filipinas. Métodos: de septiembre 2016 a febrero 2017, examinamos Platymantis hazelae utilizando 27 parcelas (400 m2) en el Parque Natural Twin Lakes Balinsasayao-Danao en Negros Oriental, Filipinas. Resultados: Después de un muestreo total de seis meses, se encontró que P. hazelae era abundante en la zona montañosa, con una densidad media que oscila entre 30.56±6.94 y 86.11±15.65 ind./ha. Catorce variables ambientales se midieron y se sometieron a un análisis de componentes principales multivariantes (PCA). El PCA reveló que la lluvia, la altitud, la humedad relativa y la temperatura del aire influyeron en la densidad de P. hazelae. Los microhábitats preferidos para la especie fueron las axilas foliares y hojas (51.56 %) y las hojas de palma (14 %). También se describen los detalles de los caracteres físicos de embriones y ranas. Conclusiones: P. hazelae se encontró abundante en elevaciones más altas (zonas sub-montanas y montanas) donde la temperatura ambiente fue generalmente más baja, las precipitaciones y la humedad relativa más altas y los microhábitats (por ejemplo, screwpines) permanecen intactos y abundantes.

Abstract Introduction: Forest frogs that undergo direct development (no tadpole stage) rely heavily on moist microhabitats for their survival. Objective: To describe the abundance and microhabitat use and some aspects of the breeding behaviour of the threatened forest frog Platymantis hazelae at Twin Lakes Balinsasayao Natural Park, Negros Island, Philippines. Methods: From September 2016 to February 2017, we surveyed Platymantis hazelae using 27 (400 m2) plots in Twin Lakes Balinsasayao-Danao Natural Park in Negros Oriental, Philippines. Results: After a total of six months survey P. hazelae was found abundant in the montane zone with mean density ranging from 30.56±6.94 to 86.11±15.65 ind./ha. Fourteen environmental variables were measured and subjected to multivariate principal component analysis (PCA). PCA revealed that rainfall, altitude, relative humidity, and air temperature influenced the density of P. hazelae. Screwpines (Pandanus) leaf axils and leaves (51.56 %) and palm leaves (14 %) were the preferred microhabitats for the species. Details of physical characters of embryos and froglets are also described. Conclusions: P. hazelae was found abundant in higher elevations (sub-montane and montane zones) where ambient temperature was generally lower, higher rainfall and relative humidity and microhabitats (e.g. screwpines) remain intact and abundant.

Resumo Objetivo Fitotelma desempenha um papel importante no crescimento das plantas e funcionamento do ecossistema, mas este microcosmo aquático natural é pouco investigado. O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar as variações sazonais (estações seca e chuvosa) e espaciais (trilha florestal e córrego) do fitotelma de Nidularium longiflorum, bromélia que ocorre na Mata Atlântica. Métodos As variáveis bióticas e abióticas foram analisadas em fitotelmas de bromélias-tanque. A biomassa foi analisada pela massa seca livre de cinzas e concentração de clorofila-a. Resultados As variáveis abióticas no ambiente fitotélmico das bromélias variaram entre locais de amostragem e estações. Os valores de temperatura, condutividade elétrica e de nitrogênio total foram significativamente diferentes entre períodos climáticos e locais. A clorofila-a e a massa seca livre de cinzas (matéria orgânica) no fitotelma foram significativamente diferentes entre os locais de amostragem. Foram identificados 11 gêneros de algas no fitotelma. A ordenação unidades amostrais no eixo 1 da PCA evidenciou a variação sazonal das condições ambientais. Conclusões Nossos resultados indicam que as condições ambientais e microambientais não favorecem o desenvolvimento da comunidade de algas no fitotelma. Biomassa e variáveis abióticas no fitotelma de Nidularium longiflorum mudaram sazonalmente, porém a acumulação de biomassa foi fortemente influenciada pelas características locais.

Abstract Aim Phytotelm plays an important role in plant growth and ecosystem functioning, but this natural aquatic microcosm is poorly known. We evaluated the seasonal (dry and rainy seasons) and spatial variations (forest trail and stream sites) of the phytotelm in Nidularium longiflorum, bromeliad that occurs in the Atlantic Forest. Methods Abiotic and biotic variables were measured in tank-bromeliad phytotelms. The biomass was analyzed by ash-free dry mass and chlorophyll-a concentration. Results Abiotic variables measured in the phytotelmic environment of bromeliads varied between sampling sites and seasons. Temperature, electrical conductivity and total nitrogen values were significantly different between seasons and sites. Chlorophyll-a and ash-free dry mass (organic matter) in phytotelm were significantly different between sampling sites. Eleven genera of algae in the phytotelm were identified. PCA axis 1 ordination evidenced the seasonal variation of environmental conditions. Conclusions Our findings suggest that environmental and micro-environmental conditions do not favor the development of algal community in the phytotelm. Biomass and abiotic variables in phytotelm of Nidularium longiflorum change seasonally, however biomass accumulation was strongly influenced by site characteristics.

ABSTRACT Knowledge of algal and cyanobacterial diversity of phytotelmata remains poorly-known, especially for bromeliads from different vegetation formations. We investigated the microalgae communities of four species of tank bromeliads from different vegetation formations in Bahia State, Northeast Brazil, highlighting the composition, richness and diversity of taxa. Sampling of water stored in bromeliads was carried out quarterly between 2014 and 2016, and abiotic variables and morphometric attributes of bromeliads were measured. A total of 89 taxa of algae and cyanobacteria were recorded for the four bromeliad species studied. The microalgae communities of the phytotelmata varied among vegetation formations, with one tank bromeliad, Alcantarea nahoumii, with more complex architecture (higher number of leaves and thus more cavities), being distinguished by its high species richness (73 taxa). The bromeliads exhibited little similarity in species composition, with only one species (Phacus polytrophos) occurring in all four species. Throughout the entire sampling period, classes with higher species richness, especially due to A. nahoumii, were Zygnematophyceae, Cyanophyceae and Chlorophyceae, which accounted for about 80 % of all species inventoried. Our results contribute to the knowledge of microalga communities of bromeliad phytotelmata in Brazil with regard to species richness and composition, as well as significant environmental characteristics.

Resumo O presente estudo refere-se ao levantamento das espécies de algas verdes (Chlorophyta) ocorrentes em ambientes fitotelmatas bromelícolas de áreas de afloramentos rochosos (Serra da Jibóia) e restinga (Parque das Dunas), Bahia, Brasil. Foram identificados 23 táxons incluindo três espécies (Asterococcus superbus, Gongrosira papuasica e Lagerhemia chodatti) que estão sendo registradas pela primeira vez para o Brasil e duas espécies de Oedogonium (Oedogonium pulchrum and O. areschougii) que foram novamente coletadas para o Brasil após 115 anos.

Abstract A floristic survey for green algae (Chlorophyta) from bromeliad phytotelmata of areas of rocky outcrop (Serra da Jibóia) and "restinga" (Parque das Dunas), Bahia state, Brazil is presented here. A total of twenty-three taxa were identified, including three species (Asterococcus superbus, Gongrosira papuasica and Lagerhemia chodatti) that are newly reported for Brazil and two Oedogonium species (Oedogonium pulchrum and O. areschougii) that were recollected in Brazilian territory after 115 years.

Resumen Objetivo: Se evaluó la variación de la estructura poblacional de M. ornata en dos fragmentos (La Montaña y Sarmiento) de bosque seco tropical en el departamento del Atlántico, Colombia. Alcance: Determinar las variaciones espaciales y temporales de la abundancia de M. ornata y su relación con las variables ambientales; así como la disponibilidad de fitotelmas y la estructura de la vegetación. Metodología: Se realizaron 26 muestreos (13 por fragmento) cada 8 días entre las 8:00 hasta las 17:00 horas (9 horas/hombre/fragmento). Por fragmento se estableció un área de 600 m de largo por 30 m de ancho, donde se marcaron 10 puntos distanciados 50 m uno del otro y de esta forma se obtuvieron 10 tramos con igual longitud. Los odonatos fueron capturados con redes entomológicas, usando el método de marcaje y recaptura. Por otro lado, en cada tramo se midió la temperatura ambiente, humedad relativa y la intensidad lumínica; así como el número de fitotelmas y algunas de sus características (altura, densidad, volumen) y la estructura de la vegetación (densidad de árboles, cobertura vegetal, área basal y altura promedio). Principales resultados: En La Montaña fueron capturados y liberados 90 individuos (35 ♂, 55 ♀), de los cuales 40 fueron recapturados (15 ♂, 25 ♀) una o más veces. El mayor número de capturas (19) se presentó en el muestreo 2 realizado en marzo (7 ♂, 12 ♀); mientras en Sarmiento, fueron capturados y liberados 31 individuos (14 ♂, 17 ♀). En este fragmento, el mayor número de capturas se registró en el evento 1 realizado en marzo (3 ♂, 4 ♀). Teniendo en cuenta las proporciones sexuales, en La Montaña fueron 2:1 (80♀, 50♂) con diferencias significativas (X2=23,403, p=0,02449), mientras en Sarmiento fueron 27♀ y 29 ♂ (proporción 1:1) y sin diferencias. Con el análisis de componentes principales (ACP), se determinó que la variación del número de individuos entre los puntos y fragmentos de muestreo, puede ser explicada en un 59,76% por las variables vegetales y la de las fitotelmas. Conclusiones: Se determinó que la temperatura y la intensidad lumínica son factores abióticos que juegan un papel importante en la dinámica temporal de la abundancia de esta especie en el área de estudio. Adicionalmente, la disposición no aleatoria de las especies vegetales y la cobertura vegetal, así como la altura de las fitotelmas influyen en la variación espacial de M. ornata en la zona.

Abstract Objective: The variation of the population structure of M. ornata was evaluated in two fragments (La Montaña and Sarmiento) of Tropical Dry Forest in the Department of Atlántico, Colombia. Scope: To determinate the spatial and temporal variations of M. ornata abundance and its relationship with environmental variables, as well as the availability of phytotelmata and the structure of the vegetation. Methodology: 26 samplings were taken (13 per fragment) every 8 days between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (9 hours/man/fragment). A 600 m long and 30 m large area was established per fragment, where 10 points were marked 50 m apart from each other and in this way, 10 stretches with equal length were obtained. Odonata were captured with entomologic nets using a mark and recapture method. On the other hand, environmental temperature, relative moisture, and light intensity were measured in each stretch, as well as the number of phytotelmata and some of their characteristics (height, density, volume) and the structure of the vegetation (density of trees, vegetal cover, basal area and average height). Main results: A total of 90 individuals were captured in La Montaña and released (35 ♂, 55 ♀), 40 of which were recaptured (15 ♂, 25 ♀) once or more times. The highest number of captures (19) ocurred in sampling 2 carried out in March (7 ♂, 12 ♀). In Sarmiento, 31 individuals were captured and released (14 ♂, 17 ♀). In this fragment, the major number of captures was registered in event 1 carried out in March. Taking into account the sex proportions, in La Montaña it was 2:1 (80 ♀, 50 ♂) with significant differences (X2=23.403, p=0.02449), whereas in Sarmiento it was 27 ♀ and 29 ♂ (proportion 1:1) and without differences. With the principal component analysis (PCA), it was determined that the variation in the number of individuals between the places and fragments of sampling, can be explained in 59.76% because of vegetation variables as well as phytotelmata variables. Conclusions: it was established that temperature and light intensity are abiotic factors playing an important role in the temporal dynamics of the abundance of this species in the area of study. Additionally, the non random disposition of plant species and vegetation cover, as well as the height of phytotelmata influence the spatial variation of M. ornata in the area.

Rural roadsides (RRS) are key elements for conserving biodiversity and ecosystem services in agricultural landscapes. Their restoration and management require simple protocols to assess (diagnose) their conservation status and ecological functionality. We elaborated a conservation value index (CVI) of RRS by constructing a decision tree based on the experts' opinion. The index, which can range between 4 and 30, evaluates the conservation status and ecological functionality of RRS according to 11 attributes related to vegetation structure. The CVI was applied to 30 RRS in southeastern Buenos Aires (Argentina). Values ranged from 4 to 29, being the cropped RRS those with the lowest value. The RRS with the highest CVI (>21) were those characterized by higher richness of native, entomophily and cultural value species, higher coverage of native species and perennial grasses, lower coverage of weeds and invasive species, and presence of at least a vulnerable and/or phytotelmata species. This index represents a first contribution applicable to the diagnosis of the conservation status of RRS through the identification of key aributes of vegetation structure suggested by experts. In addition, the index provides relatively synthetic information about the status of RRS, which in spite of their multiple ecological functions are seldom taken into account for their conservation within territorial planning.

Los bordes de caminos rurales (BCR) son elementos clave para conservar la biodiversidad y los servicios ecosistémicos en los paisajes agrícolas. Su restauración y manejo requieren de protocolos sencillos que valoren (diagnostiquen) su estado de conservación y funcionalidad ecológica. En este trabajo elaboramos un índice del valor de conservación (IVC) de los BCR por medio de la construcción de un árbol de decisiones realizado a partir de la consulta a expertos. El índice, que puede asumir valores entre 4 y 30, evalúa el estado de conservación y la funcionalidad ecológica de los BCR según 11 atributos relacionados principalmente con la estructura de la vegetación. El IVC fue aplicado a 30 BCR del sudeste bonaerense (Argentina). Sus valores oscilaron entre 4 y 29. Los BCR cultivados fueron los de menor valor. Los BCR con IVC más alto (>21) se caracterizaron por la mayor riqueza de especies nativas, entomófilas y de valor cultural, la mayor cobertura de especies nativas y pastos perennes, la menor cobertura de malezas y especies invasoras, y la presencia de al menos una especie vulnerable y/o fitotelmata. Este índice representa una primera contribución aplicable al diagnóstico del estado de conservación de los BCR a través de la identificación de atributos claves de la estructura de la vegetación sugeridos por expertos. Además, el índice provee información relativamente sintética sobre el estado de los BCR, los que, pese a sus múltiples funciones ecológicas, rara vez son tenidos en cuenta para su conservación dentro de la planificación territorial.

Resumo A. macrorrhizos (Araceae) é cultivada e se prolifera naturalmente em locais sombreados em diversos fragmentos de mata na zona urbana de Manaus. A planta adulta apresenta axilas que acumulam água da chuva (phytotelmata) e servem de criadouro para diversas famílias de insetos aquáticos. O objetivo do trabalho foi conhecer a composição da entomofauna associada às axilas de A. macrorrhizos, na área urbana de Manaus, Amazonas, Brasil. Entre 2005 e 2007, indivíduos de A. macrorrhizos foram amostrados em cinco fragmentos urbanos de mata, totalizando 184 unidades amostrais. Uma mangueira de sucção manual foi utilizada para coletar a fauna associada. Um total de 1.941 imaturos de Diptera foram coletadas, representadas pelas seguintes famílias: Culicidae (96,5%), Chironomidae (2%), Psychodidae (0,7%), Ephydridae (0,7%) e Corethrellidae (0,1%). Foram identificadas cinco espécies de Culicidae: Wyeomyia melanocephala Dyar & Knab, 1906 (91,7%), Wy. ypsipola Dyar, 1922 (4,3%), Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) (2,3%), Ae. aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) (1,5%) e Johnbelkinia longipes (Fabricius, 1805) (0,1%). Os representantes de Culicidae foram os mais abundantes confirmando a importância desse grupo nas comunidades associadas a fitotelmatas, com relação positiva com o volume de água por planta (p < 0.05). A ocorrência de Ae. aegypti e Ae. albopictus nas axilas de A. macrorrhizos demonstra o potencial dessa Araceae como criadouro para estas espécies de importância médica. Contudo, a real contribuição dessa Araceae na manutenção e dispersão populacional dessas duas espécies de mosquitos ao longo do ano precisa ser melhor estudada.

Abstract Alocasia macrorrhizos (L.) G.Don grows and proliferates in shaded areas in several forest fragments in urban zones. The adult plant has axils that accumulate rain water (phytotelmata) and serve as breeding sites for several families of aquatic insects. The objective of this study was to determine the composition of the entomofauna associated with water accumulations in axils of A. macrorrhizos in urban areas of Manaus, Brazil. Individuals of A. macrorrhizos were sampled in five forest fragments, between April/2005 and March/2007 in urban areas of Manaus, totaling 184 sampling units. A manual suction hose was used for the removal of entomofauna. A total of 1,941 immatures of Diptera were collected representing the following families: Culicidae (96.5%), Chironomidae (2%), Psychodidae (0.7%), Ephydridae (0.7%) and Corethrellidae (0.1%). Five Culicidae species were identified: Wyeomyia melanocephala Dyar & Knab, 1906 (91.7%), Wy. ypsipola Dyar, 1922 (4.3%), Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) (2.3%), Ae. aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) (1.5%) and Johnbelkinia longipes (Fabricius, 1805) (0.1%). The members of Culicidae were the most abundant, confirming the importance of this group in communities associated with phytotelmata, with a positive relation to the volume of water (p < 0.05). The occurrence of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus in axils of A. macrorrhizos demonstrates the potential of this Araceae as a breeding site of these medically important species. However, the real contribution of this Araceae in the maintenance and dispersion of populations of these two species of mosquitoes throughout the year should be further studied.