Abstract Background: The Myrtaceae family represents one of the most diverse groups in South America. Yet, there are few studies on their reproductive characteristics. Among the species with limited information on their reproductive behavior are Myrceugenia euosma (O. Berg) D. Legrand and Siphoneugena reitzii D. Legrand. Questions: What are the floral attractions and resources of M. euosma and S. reitzii for pollinators? Who are the pollinators of these species? What is the predominant reproductive system in both species? Studied species: M. euosma and S. reitzii, two sympatric Myrtaceae from southern Brazil. Study site and dates: Urubici, Painel, and Rio Rufino, Santa Catarina state, southern Brazil. November 2021 - February 2022. Methods: Information was obtained on morphological aspects, anthesis time, stigmatic viability, floral resources, structures attractive to visitors, olfactory testing, observation and identification of floral visitors, and reproductive system testing. Results: The flowers of M. euosma opens between 11 am and 17 pm (- 20 pm), with full opening occurring mostly at night; S. reitzii flowers open between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m., with a highest peak by 8 a.m. Flowers of both species have receptive stigmas until senescence. Pollen is the primary floral reward and the scent coming from the anthers combined with the floral display attract native bees and Apis mellifera, legitimate pollinators of both species. The lack of fruit development in the self-pollination tests support cross reproduction in both taxa. Conclusions: Both species exhibit traits consistent with melittophily syndrome and potential self-incompatibility. These results are essential for conservation efforts.

Resumen Antecedentes: La familia Myrtaceae es una de las más diversas en América del Sur, pero sus características reproductivas están poco estudiadas. Myrceugenia euosma (O. Berg) D. Legrand y Siphoneugena reitzii D. Legrand son dos especies con información limitada sobre su comportamiento reproductivo. Preguntas: ¿Cuáles son las atracciones florales y los recursos de M. euosma y S. reitzii para los polinizadores? ¿Quiénes son los polinizadores de estas especies? ¿Cuál es el sistema reproductivo predominante en ambas especies? Especies estudiadas: M. euosma y S. reitzii, dos Myrtaceae simpátricas del sur de Brasil. Sitio y años de estudio: Urubici, Painel y Río Rufino, Santa Catarina, Sur de Brasil. Noviembre de 2021 - febrero de 2022. Métodos: Se analizaron aspectos morfológicos, tiempo de antesis, viabilidad estigmática, recursos florales, estructuras atractivas para visitantes florales, pruebas olfativas, identificación de visitantes florales y ensayos del sistema reproductivo. Resultados: Las flores de M. euosma se abren entre las 11 am y las 5 pm (completamente durante la noche), y las de S. reitzii entre las 4 am y las 8 am. Ambas especies tienen estigmas receptivos hasta la senescencia. El polen es la principal recompensa floral, y el aroma de las anteras, junto con la visualización floral, atrae a abejas nativas y Apis mellifera, sus polinizadores legítimos. La autopolinización no resultó en frutos, lo que sugiere la predominancia de la reproducción cruzada en ambas especies. Conclusiones: M. euosma y S. reitzii muestran características de melitofilia y potencial autoincompatibilidad, lo que es crucial para su conservación.

Resumen Las orquídeas son un grupo diverso de plantas, manifestado además en su gran diversidad de flores. A pesar de esto, las orquídeas son polinizadas ya sea mediante autogamia o alogamia (geitonogamia y xenogamia). Si bien existen algunas orquídeas autógamas, la mayoría son alógamas, principalmente polinizadas por xenogamia, ya que presentan barreras físicas o genéticas que evitan la autopolinización. Además, las orquídeas son conocidas por su capacidad de polinización interespecífica, la cual podría influenciar la producción de frutos (metaxenia) y de semillas (xenia). Su capacidad de hibridación representa una oportunidad para producir organismos tolerantes a estrés biótico o abiótico, además de exhibir nuevas formas, colores y fragancias; esto sería importante en horticultura, donde la selección adecuada de los parentales proporciona esas ventajas a los híbridos descendientes. En esta revisión se abordan las características de cada tipo de sistema de reproducción en orquídeas, así como sus ventajas y desventajas. A su vez, se propone el estudio del efecto de inducción de metaxenia y xenia en esta familia. Finalmente, se contextualiza la producción de híbridos de orquídeas, y las oportunidades de este enfoque en el futuro próximo.

Abstract Orchids are a diverse group of plants, also manifested in their great diversity of flowers. Despite this, orchids are pollinated either through autogamy or allogamy (geitonogamy and xenogamy). Although there are some autogamous orchids, the majority are allogamous, mainly pollinated by xenogamy since they present physical or genetic barriers that prevent self-pollination. In addition, orchids are known for their capacity for interspecific pollination, which could influence fruits (metaxenia) and seeds (xenia) production. Its capacity for hybridization represents an opportunity to produce organisms tolerant to biotic or abiotic stress, in addition to exhibiting new shapes, colors and fragrances; this would be important in horticulture, where the proper selection of parents provides those advantages to the descendant hybrids. This review addresses the characteristics of each type of reproduction systems in orchids, as well as their advantages and disadvantages. At the same time, the study of the induction effect of metaxenia and xenia in this family is proposed. Finally, the production of orchid hybrids is contextualized and the opportunities of this approach in the near future.

SUMMARY: Eremanthus incanus is a native tree of Brazil with economic, ecological, and social importance, but it faces risks due to predatory exploitation and a lack of research. The objective of this study is to evaluate the biometrics and seed germination of different mother trees in order to contribute to the valorization, conservation, and cultivation of the species. Phenotypically, 10 mother trees were selected from a Candeia population located in the Diamantina region of Minas Gerais, from which seeds resulting from open pollination were collected. For the biometric analysis, 100 seeds from each mother tree were randomly sampled, distributed on millimeter paper in four repetitions of 25 units each, and evaluated for weight, length, and width. The germination study began with disinfestation and selection of seeds using the densimetric method. Subsequently, the material was placed in germination boxes containing germitest paper. The experiment was set up in BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) germination chambers following a randomized block design, with ten mother trees and four repetitions of 25 seeds per plot. Germination was evaluated on alternate days, until a constant point was reached. Significant effects of E. incanus mother trees were observed on biometric variables as well as on the germination rate and germination speed index of the seeds. Understanding these effects advances knowledge about the species and its potentialities, contributing to the development of more efficient propagation and conservation strategies.

RESUMEN: Eremanthus incanus es un árbol nativo de Brasil con importancia económica, ecológica y social, pero enfrenta riesgos debido a la explotación predatoria y a la falta de investigaciones. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar la biometría y la germinación de semillas de diferentes árboles madre, con el fin de contribuir a la valorización, conservación y cultivo de la especie. Fenotípicamente, se seleccionaron 10 árboles madres de una población de candeia ubicada en la región de Diamantina, Minas Gerais, de los cuales se recolectaron semillas resultantes de polinización abierta. Para el análisis biométrico, se muestrearon aleatoriamente 100 semillas de cada árbol madre, distribuidas sobre papel milimetrado en cuatro repeticiones de 25 unidades, y se evaluaron en cuanto a peso, longitud y ancho. Para el estudio de germinación, se inició con la desinfestación y selección de semillas mediante el método densimétrico. Posteriormente, el material se colocó en cajas de germinación con papel germitest. El experimento se instaló en cámaras de germinación DBO (Demanda Bioquímica de Oxígeno) siguiendo un diseño de bloques al azar, con diez árboles madre y cuatro repeticiones de 25 semillas por parcela. La germinación se evaluó en días alternos hasta alcanzar un punto constante. Se observaron efectos significativos de las madres de E. incanus en las variables biométricas, así como en la tasa y el índice de velocidad de germinación de las semillas. La comprensión de estos efectos avanza el conocimiento sobre la especie y sus potencialidades, contribuyendo al desarrollo de estrategias de propagación y conservación más eficientes.

Abstract Background: Floral microstructure, with multiple functions, is very important in pollination biology. Questions: Are the expected general characteristics of corolla micromorphology fulfilled in the selected species with different pollination systems? Studied species: Agave americana, Arbutus unedo, Aristolochia paucinervis, Cestrum nocturnum, Cytinus hypocistis subsp. macranthus, C. ruber, Dianthus lusitanus, Grevillea robusta, Musa x paradisiaca, Nicotiana glauca, Stellaria media and Teucrium fruticans. Study site and dates: Southern Spain, 2017-2019. Methods: Floral micromorphological characters were studied by light and scanning electron microscopy and analyzed using different statistical tests. Results: The adaxial side of the corolla lobes in melittophilous, myrmecophilous, psychophilous and sapromyophilous species showed papillose cells, and the same was true of the sphingophilous species Cestrum nocturnum and hummingbird-pollinated Nicotiana glauca. In contrast, tabular cells were observed in the perching-pollinator ornithophilous species Grevillea robusta, the two studied chiropterophilous species, and autogamous Stellaria media. In addition, corolla mesophyll was thicker in chiropterophilous species. Furthermore, differences were detected in cell turgidity (in protogynous Aristolochia paucinervis) and in mesophyll thickness between male and female flowers (Cytinus). Conclusions: Papillose cells were present in corollas in physical contact with pollinators, as expected, but also appeared in corollas of some other species without such contact. We recommend that studies of dichogamous and unisexual species include comparisons of corolla micromorphology between sexual states, as differences may exist in cell turgidity or mesophyll thickness. We also caution against the widespread view that certain types of pollinators do not mechanically interact with the epidermal surface of the corolla.

Resumen: Antecedentes: La microestructura floral posee gran importancia en biología de la polinización, con múltiples funciones. Preguntas: ¿Se cumplen los patrones esperados de micromorfología de la corola en las especies seleccionadas? Especies de estudio: Agave americana, Arbutus unedo, Aristolochia paucinervis, Cestrum nocturnum, Cytinus hypocistis subsp. macranthus, C. ruber, Dianthus lusitanus, Grevillea robusta, Musa x paradisiaca, Nicotiana glauca, Stellaria media y Teucrium fruticans. Sitio y años de estudio: Sur de España, 2017-2019. Métodos: Micromorfología floral estudiada a MO y MEB y analizada mediante pruebas estadísticas. Resultados: La cara adaxial de los lóbulos corolinos en las especies melitófilas, mirmecófilas, psicófilas y sapromófilas mostró células papilosas, pero también en la esfingófila Cestrum nocturnum y en la ornitófila por colibríes Nicotiana glauca. Presentaron células tabulares la ornitófila perchera Grevillea robusta, las dos especies quiropterófilas y la autógama Stellaria media. Además, el mesofilo de las quiropterófilas fue más grueso. Finalmente, hubo diferencias en la turgencia celular (A. paucinervis, protógina) y en el grosor del mesofilo entre las flores masculinas y femeninas (Cytinus). Conclusiones: Se cumplió el patrón esperado de existencia de células papilosas en corolas que contactan físicamente con los polinizadores, pero también aparecieron en corolas sin tal contacto. En especies con dicogamia y unisexualidad es aconsejable estudiar la microestructura corolina diferenciando entre los dos estados sexuales, ya que la turgencia celular o el grosor del mesofilo podrían diferenciarlos. También advertimos contra la amplia opinión de que ciertos tipos de polinizadores no interaccionan mecánicamente con la superficie epidérmica de la corola.

ABSTRACT Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni (Asteraceae) is a diploid species (2n=2x=22) with sexual and asexual reproduction. The sexual propagules are seeds produced by cross-pollination (allogamy) whereas the asexual propagules are either vegetative shoots or apomictic seeds. Various authors have reported that allogamy in this species is promoted by the expression of a sporophytic self-incompatibility (SSI) system. To introduce the cultivation of S. rebaudiana as a production alternative in Tucumán, Argentina, a germplasm collection of this species was established with accessions from four Argentinian provinces in the Famaillá Agropecuarian Experimental Station (EEA Famaillá), National Institute of Agropecuarian Technology (INTA). The reproductive biology of the collection was studied between 2014 and 2021 to develop strategies for breeding and conservation of these genetic resources. Fifty-six genotypes were analyzed, all of them were 2n=2x=22. Pollen viability was high (69.4 to 99.6%) in all the genotypes except in four of them, which exhibited low viability (36.0 to 51.5%) in 2015 and 2017. Forty-eight genotypic combinations were obtained by manual controlled crosses. In 12 of these combinations, one pollen tube was observed in the style zone and, in four of them, one pollen tube was observed in the embryo sac; these observations indicate, respectively, incompatible and compatible pollen-pistil relationships. Normal plump seeds were obtained in all compatible genotypic combinations. The observed incompatibility might be due to the functioning of the sporophytic homomorphic system and/or a cross-incompatibility system. The observed compatibility will allow the planification of controlled crosses within and between accessions of different geographical origins to generate genetically variable progenies for breeding purposes.

RESUMEN Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni (Asteraceae) es una especie diploide (2n=2x=22) con reproducción sexual y asexual. Los propágulos sexuales son semillas producidas por polinización cruzada (alogamia), mientras que los propágulos asexuales son brotes vegetativos y semillas apomםcticas. Varios autores han seסalado que la alogamia en esta especie se ve favorecida por la expresión de un sistema de autoincompatibilidad esporofםtica (SSI). Para introducir el cultivo de S. rebaudiana como alternativa productiva en Tucumán, Argentina, se estableció una colección de germoplasma de esta especie proveniente de cuatro provincias de la Argentina en la Estación Experimental Agropecuaria (EEA) Famaillá, Instituto Nacional de Tecnologםa Agropecuaria (INTA). Se estudió la biología reproductiva de la colección entre 2014 y 2021 para desarrollar estrategias de mejoramiento y conservación de estos recursos genéticos. Se analizaron 56 genotipos, que fueron 2n=2x=22. La viabilidad del polen fue alta (69,4 a 99,6%) excepto en cuatro de ellos que exhibieron baja viabilidad (36,0 a 51,5%) en 2015 y 2017. Se obtuvieron 48 combinaciones genotópicas mediante cruzamientos controlados manuales. En 12 de estas combinaciones, se observó un tubo polםnico en la zona estilar y, en cuatro de ellas, un tubo polםnico en el saco embrionario; estas observaciones indican, respectivamente, relaciones polen-pistilo incompatibles y compatibles. Se obtuvieron semillas rellenas normales en todas las combinaciones genotópicas compatibles. La incompatibilidad observada podría deberse al funcionamiento del sistema de autoincompatibilidad homomórfica esporofítica, un sistema de incompatibilidad cruzada, o ambos. La compatibilidad observada permitirá la planificación de cruzamientos controlados dentro y entre introducciones de diferentes orígenes geográficos para generar progenies genéticamente variables con fines de mejoramiento genético.

ABSTRACT The common race of sunflower chlorotic mottle virus (SCMoV-C) can cause severe yield losses in susceptible genotypes of sunflowers if infection occurs at early plant stages. In Argentina, SCMoV-C is widespread in sunflower production fields and even if its incidence is generally low, in some cases it can reach up to 95%. To date, no complete resistance to SCMoV-C has been detected in commercial cultivars. In the search for resistant germplasm, wild sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) populations from Argentina were tested, as they were exposed to natural selective pressure during their naturalization. After artificial inoculation with SCMoV-C, symptom-free plants were selected and grown for controlled self-pollination, sibling crosses and crosses with inbred lines. Recurrent selection for non-symptomatic plants and self-fertility significantly increased the frequency of asymptomatic individuals after SCMoV-C inoculation in the development germplasm. After eight generations of recurrent selection and controlled crosses, four genetic stocks with complete SCMoV-C resistance were developed. These genetic stocks could be used for breeding programs and genetic studies. The genetic stocks were registered in the Active Sunflower Germplasm Bank of the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA, EEA-Manfredi), for maintenance and public distribution.

RESUMEN En los genotipos susceptibles de girasol, la cepa común del Virus del moteado clorótico del girasol (SCMoV-C) puede causar graves pérdidas de rendimiento si la infección ocurre en las primeras etapas del desarrollo de la planta. En Argentina, el SCMoV-C está muy extendido en los campos de producción de girasol y aunque su incidencia es generalmente baja, en algunos casos puede llegar hasta el 95%. Hasta ahora, no se ha detectado resistencia completa a SCMoV-C en cultivares comerciales. En la búsqueda de germoplasma resistente, poblaciones de girasol silvestre (Helianthus annuus L.) de Argentina fueron testeadas, ya que durante su naturalización estuvieron expuestas a presión selectiva natural. Después de la inoculación artificial con SCMoV-C, se seleccionaron y cultivaron plantas libres de síntomas y se realizaron cruzamientos controlados, entre hermanos, con líneas endogámicas y autofecundaciones. La selección recurrente de plantas asintomáticas y autofértiles aumentaron considerablemente la frecuencia de individuos asintomáticos después de la inoculación con SCMoV-C en el germoplasma en desarrollo. Después de ocho generaciones de selección recurrente y cruces controlados, se desarrollaron cuatro stocks genéticos con resistencia completa a SCMoV-C. Este germoplasma podría utilizarse para programas de mejoramiento y estudios genéticos. Los stocks genéticos fueron registrados en el Banco de Germoplasma Activo de Girasol del Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA, EEA-Manfredi), para su mantenimiento y distribución pública.

Insects are one of the most species-rich groups on Earth. They comprise much of animal diversity and play vital roles in ecosystems, including pollination, pest control, and decomposition. However, only a fraction of this diversity has been formally described. South Africa is recognised as one of the most biologically diverse countries globally, with an estimated 44 000 insect species. Many crops rely on insect pollinators, including canola, apples, oranges, and sunflowers. A shortage of wild pollinators currently threatens crop yields, yet our knowledge of insect diversity within South Africa is sparse. There are few taxonomic specialists relative to South Africa's biodiversity, and the methods used for insect identification can be time-consuming and expensive. DNA barcoding provides an important research tool to accelerate insect biodiversity research. In this review, we queried the public DNA barcoding BOLD (Barcode of Life Data System) database for records of "Insecta" within South Africa, and 416 211 published records assigned to 28 239 unique BINs (Barcode Index Numbers) were returned. We identified five taxonomic orders with more BINs than known species in southern Africa (Hymenoptera, Diptera, Thysanoptera, Plecoptera, and Strepsiptera). Most of the barcoded records were derived from Malaise trap sampling in Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo, while the rest of South Africa remains poorly sampled. We suggest that there is a need for a comprehensive national sampling effort alongside increased investment in taxonomic expertise to generate critical baseline data on insect biodiversity before species are lost to extinction. SIGNIFICANCE: Insects provide critical ecosystem services, but our knowledge of insect biodiversity is limited. DNA barcoding can help fill biodiversity knowledge gaps; however, within South Africa, sampling has been uneven. Well-sampled provinces include Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo, while the Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape, North-West and Western Cape remain under-sampled. We argue for a broad national Malaise trapping effort to generate crucial baseline data on insect biodiversity. Without urgent investment in taxonomic expertise and biomonitoring, we risk losing much of our biodiversity before it is even described.

RESUMEN Es conocido que los bosques, según su estado de conservación, influyen en la calidad ecológica de la red hídrica, en especial las aguas para mantenimiento de la humedad del suelo, si éstas poseen calidad, se atenúan los efectos de la sequía, favoreciendo también la calidad de los suelos; el servicio ecosistémico de biodiversidad con la presencia de un adecuado índice de diversidad de especies, tanto de la flora como de la fauna, garantiza los procesos necesarios relacionados con la polinización, el control natural de plagas, y la calidad estética del paisaje. Para ello, se evaluó el papel de bosques y algunos de sus servicios ecosistémicos, dentro de un polígono demostrativo, para presentar a una propuesta de medidas que favorezcan los mismos, identificándose indicadores y variables de cada servicio ecosistémico estudiado, teniendo en cuenta las problemáticas de cada uno; permitiendo la operacionalización de las variables durante la evaluación, con el fin de mejorar el estado del agua, los suelos y la biodiversidad en el polígono demostrativo Los Monsegui.

RESUMO Sabe-se que as florestas, dependendo de seu estado de conservação, influenciam a qualidade ecológica da rede hídrica, especialmente a água utilizada para manter a umidade do solo; se forem de boa qualidade, os efeitos da seca são atenuados, favorecendo também a qualidade do solo; o serviço ecossistêmico da biodiversidade, com a presença de um índice adequado de diversidade de espécies, tanto da flora quanto da fauna, garante os processos necessários relacionados à polinização, ao controle natural de pragas e à qualidade estética da paisagem. Para isso, o papel das florestas e alguns de seus serviços ecossistêmicos foram avaliados em um polígono de demonstração, a fim de apresentar uma proposta de medidas que os favoreçam, identificando indicadores e variáveis para cada serviço ecossistêmico estudado, levando em conta os problemas de cada um deles; permitindo a operacionalização das variáveis durante a avaliação, com o objetivo de melhorar o estado da água, dos solos e da biodiversidade no polígono de demonstração de Los Monsegui.

ABSTRACT It is known that forests, depending on their state of conservation, influence the ecological quality of the water network, especially the waters to maintain soil humidity. If these have quality, the effects of drought are attenuated, also favoring the soil quality. The ecosystem service of biodiversity with the presence of an adequate index of species diversity, both flora and fauna, guarantees the necessary processes related to pollination, natural pest control, and the aesthetic quality of the landscape. For this, the role of forests and some of their ecosystem services were evaluated, within a demonstrative polygon, to present a proposal for measures that favor them, identifying indicators and variables of each ecosystem service studied, taking into account the problems of each one; allowing the operationalization of the variables during the evaluation, in order to improve the state of water, soils and biodiversity in the Los Monsegui demonstration site.

Abstract Background: Conservation and breeding programs for forest species require efficient pollen quality monitoring strategies to maximize collection, storage and pollination efforts. Question: Can the ImageJ image analysis software be implemented to efficiently monitor pollen viability and germinability for quality testing? Studied species: Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco Methods: Tetrazolium staining and germination on 10 % Brewback media was used to test Douglas fir pollen quality. Two macros for automated counting were developed with ImageJ free software using digitized microscopic images, and were tested to evaluate provenances, germination in different media, dehydration/rehydration and freeze-storage treatments, and finally to compare pollen quality between mature trees and GA-induced strobili from juvenile trees. Results: Automated monitoring of pollen quality was feasible because the software suitably distinguishes viable from non-viable pollen grains due to differential tetrazolium staining that translates into pixel density, whereas germinability was assayed based on pollen size and circularity. This tool was used to guide the selection of appropriate pollen handling conditions and compare pollen production in adult and GA-induced juvenile trees. Pollen flash-freezing and storage at -80 °C showed recovery between 74 and 98 % of its initial germinability after rehydration; however, viability detected by tetrazolium is reduced, suggesting that handling and storage affect the reliability of the test. Conclusions: The flexibility of the Fiji software allowed the development of an efficient and accurate macro for monitoring P. menziesii pollen quality, reducing invested time and effort involved, which supports future research on its conservation physiology and its successful application for germplasm production.

Resumen Antecedentes: Los programas de conservación y producción de semilla en especies forestales requieren estrategias eficientes para el monitoreo de polen que maximicen los esfuerzos de recolección, almacenamiento y polinización. Pregunta: ¿Puede implementarse el software de análisis de imágenes Image J para monitorear eficientemente la viabilidad y germinabilidad del polen? Especie de estudio: Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco Métodos: Se utilizó tinción por tetrazolio y el medio Brewback 10 % para evaluar la calidad de polen. Se desarrollaron macros para la automatización del conteo mediante el software libre Image J usando imágenes digitalizadas. Se comparó el polen de distintas procedencias, madurez de árboles, medios de germinación, deshidratación/rehidratación y almacenamiento por congelación. Resultados: El software distingue adecuadamente polen viable del no viable mediante la tinción diferencial que se traduce en densidad de pixeles, mientras que para germinación se consideró el tamaño y circularidad. La herramienta permitió guiar la selección de condiciones apropiadas para el manejo de polen, así como comparar la producción de árboles adultos y juveniles inducidos con GA. El congelamiento de polen permitió recuperar entre 74 y 98 % de la germinación después de la rehidratación; aunque la detección de viabilidad por tetrazolio disminuyó, mostrando que el manejo y almacenamiento afectan la confiabilidad de la prueba. Conclusiones: La flexibilidad del software Fiji permitió el desarrollo de macros eficientes y precisas para monitorear la calidad del polen de P. menziesii, al reducir el tiempo y esfuerzo implicados. Esto apoya investigaciones futuras sobre la fisiología de su conservación y aplicación exitosa para la producción de germoplasma.

Abstract Background: Gymnopodium floribundum is a dominant tree in the seasonally tropical dry forests of Yucatan, Mexico. This species shows a large floral display size during short periods, but a very low seed-set has been reported. Questions: What type of dichogamy does G. floribundum exhibit? What is its compatibility system? Study species: G. floribundum, a dichogamous tree of importance in beekeeping. Study sites and dates: Xtmakuil, Yucatan. February-March and November-December 2022. Methods: Floral sexual function synchrony and sexual expression was recorded during the flowering season. The compatibility system was evaluated with a hand-pollination experiment. Results: Intra-floral overlap of sexual functions was low (< 2 %), but relatively high between flowers of different inflorescences (0.48 ± 0.13, Mean ± SD) and between flowers of different trees (0.64 ± 0.11, Mean ± SD). Mature fruit production by hand self-pollination was low (ca. 3 %) and 6 times lower with respect to cross. Conclusions: G. floribundum shows complete intrafloral dichogamy, but incomplete intra- and interindividual dichogamy. Sexual expression changed throughout flowering, from predominant male bias to female. Although G. floribundum is self-compatible, the results suggest a wide advantage of cross-pollination over self-pollination.

Resumen Antecedentes: Gymnopodium floribundum es un árbol dominante de las selvas bajas caducifolias de Yucatán. Produce una gran cantidad de flores en cortos periodos varias veces al año, pero su producción de semillas se ha reportado como baja. Preguntas: ¿Qué tipo de dicogamia presenta G. floribundum? ¿Cuál es su sistema de compatibilidad? Especie de estudio: G. floribundum, árbol dicógamo de importancia en la apicultura. Sitio y años de estudio: Xtmakuil, Yucatán. Febrero-marzo y noviembre-diciembre del 2022. Métodos: Se registró diariamente la fase sexual de las flores y mediante polinizaciones manuales se determinó su sistema de compatibilidad. Resultados: La sincronía intrafloral de las funciones sexuales fue baja (< 2 %), pero relativamente alta entre flores de distintas inflorescencias (0.48 ± 0.13, Media ± DE) y entre flores de diferentes árboles (0.64 ± 0.11, Media ± DE). La producción de frutos maduros por autopolinización manual fue baja (ca. 3 %) y 6 veces menor respecto a la de entrecruza. Conclusiones: G. floribundum presentó dicogamia intrafloral completa, pero incompleta a nivel intra e interindividual, mostrando además un cambio en la expresión sexual de la población a lo largo de la floración de predominantemente masculino a femenino. Aunque G. floribundum es autocompatible los resultados sugieren una amplia ventaja de la polinización de entrecruza respecto de la de autocruza.

Abstract Spontaneous flora of vineyards in the Mediterranean region has lately been receiving much attention, due to the increasing awareness of their benefits for agroecosystems, soils, and for provisioning multiple Ecosystem Services (ES). However, initiatives for valuing flora often clash with the potential losses by interference with vines, but in an extent difficult to evaluate. We developed the index VIFLORES - VIneyard FLORa Value for Ecosystem Services -, aiming to assess the value of spontaneous plant species for ES provision in vineyards. VIFLORES ranges from 0 (lowest value) to 1 (maximum), calculated by the average of the contribution of the co-occurring species to the three ES categories: Provisioning (e.g. medicinal use), Regulation and Maintenance (e.g. pollination), and Cultural Services (e.g. landscape aesthetics). To map and compare the floristic values of vineyards, we propose an integration of species abundance, phenology and VIFLORES. To test this approach, we carried out 192 floristic surveys in Spring 2021 for three vineyards located in the Alentejo winegrowing region (South of Portugal) with different production management systems, namely Conventional (CPS), Integrated in Optidose (IPS), and Organic (OPS). IPS and OPS inter rows were significantly more diverse than CPS and had a high VIFLORES value. OPS vineyard rows had significantly higher diversity and indicator values than CPS and IPS, which is likely related to soil management. While VIFLORES approach guides to fostering of multifunctional vineyards, it is still limited in incorporating the seasonality of weedy flora and needs validated thresholds for better decisions on soil management.

Resumo A flora espontânea das vinhas na região mediterrânea tem sucitado grande interesse recentemente, devido à crescente consciencialização dos seus benefícios para os agroecossistemas, o solo e no fornecimento de Serviços dos Ecossistemas (SE). No entanto, é comum estas iniciativas de valorização da flora colidirem com as perdas por interferência com as videiras. Neste trabalho, desenvolveu-se o indicador VIFLORES- Valor da Flora das Vinhas para Serviços dos Ecossistemas-, com o objetivo de avaliar a importância da flora das vinhas. O VIFLORES varia de 0 a 1 e é calculado pela média da contribuição das espécies para três categorias de SE: Provisão (ex. uso medicinal), Regulação e Manutenção (ex. polinização) e Serviços Culturais (ex. estética da paisagem). Para mapear e comparar os valores florísticos das vinhas, propomos uma integração da densidade das espécies, da fenologia e do VIFLORES. Para testar esta abordagem, realizámos 192 levantamentos florísticos na primavera de 2021 em três vinhas da região vinícola do Alentejo, sul de Portugal, com diferentes modos de produção: Convencional (CPS), Integrado em Optidose (IPS) e Biológico (BPS). As entrelinhas das vinhas IPS e BPS foram significativamente mais diversas que as CPS e apresentaram um maior VIFLORES. As linhas BPS apresentaram valores de diversidade e indicadores significativamente mais elevados que as CPS e IPS, o que poderá estar relacionado com a gestão do solo. Embora a abordagem VIFLORES oriente para a promoção de vinhas multifuncionais, ainda é limitada na incorporação da sazonalidade da flora espontânea e necessita de validação para uma melhor decisão na gestão do solo.

Abstract Weeds play an important role in the trophic network of agroecosystems since they interact directly or indirectly with other of their components and offer a wide spectrum of ecological functions. The objective of this work was to determine the relationship between plant species and pollinating insects in the autonomous community of Aragón, Spain. Based on a list of 354 species found by the authors in winter cereal fields and adjacent margins during vegetation sampling in recent decades, a bibliographic search was carried out using 6 databases and other sources of information for each species plant to determine the associated insects. The species found mostly corresponded to the botanical families Poaceae, Asteraceae, Fabaceae, and Brassicaceae. 80.5% of species presented entomophilous pollination, where bees were the main pollinating insects (23%), followed by lepidopterans (11%). Both types of insects were reported in a large number of plant species (21.5%). The difficulty of finding information for typical plant species in the region justifies the compilation work and motivates its continuity, which in addition to pollinators, will cover other functional groups of insects such as pests, natural enemies, and virus vectors. These preliminary results aid to know which weed species with flowers potentially attractive to insects should be conserved within and around agroecosystems, as they can favour the provision of the ecosystem service of pollination, contributing to the correct functioning of ecosystems and to food production.

Resumen Las especies arvenses (malas hierbas) desempeñan un papel importante en la red trófica de los agroecosistemas, ya que interaccionan directa o indirectamente con otros de sus componentes y ofrecen un amplio espectro de funciones ecológicas. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la relación entre especies vegetales arvenses e insectos polinizadores en la comunidad autónoma de Aragón, España. A partir de un listado de 354 especies vegetales encontradas por los autores en campos de cereal de invierno y en márgenes colindantes durante los muestreos de vegetación de las últimas décadas, se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica utilizando 6 bases de datos y otras fuentes de información por cada especie vegetal para determinar los insectos asociados. Las especies encontradas correspondieron en su mayoría a las familias botánicas Poaceae, Asteracea, Fabaceae y Brassicaceae. Un 80,5% presentó polinización entomófila, donde las abejas fueron los principales insectos polinizadores (23%), seguido de lepidópteros (11%). En una gran cantidad de especies (21,5%) se reportaron ambos tipos de insectos. La dificultad de encontrar información para especies vegetales típicas de la región justifica el trabajo de recopilación iniciado y motiva su continuidad, que además de polinizadores, abarcará otros grupos funcionales de insectos, como plagas, enemigos naturales y vectores de virus. Estos resultados preliminares ayudan a conocer qué especies arvenses conviene conservar por tener flores potencialmente atractivas para insectos, dentro y alrededor de los agroecosistemas, favoreciendo la prestación del servicio ecosistémico de polinización y contribuyendo al correcto funcionamiento de los ecosistemas y a la producción de alimentos.

Abstract Supporting sustainable strategies to promote functional biodiversity in agroforestry systems is a priority for increasing biological conservation protection against enemies of existing crops and forest species. For the Conservation biological control, it is important to implement management practices that maintain and contribute to enhancing the reproduction, survival and efficiency of both pollinators and beneficial entomofauna that regulate the population of crop enemies. Plant species suitable for promoting increased population levels of these natural enemies and pollinators, ensuring their food needs (e.g. pollen, nectar, honeydew) and shelter (alternative hosts), are fundamental. In this context, regarding pollinating insects and, in particular, the domestic bee, Apis mellifera iberiensis, this work aims to contribute to the knowledge of the flora that meet these requirements, and at the same time, contribute to increasing the value of the domestic bee for the Ecosystem Services.

Resumo Apoiar estratégias sustentáveis para o fomento da biodiversidade funcional nos sistemas agroflorestais é uma prioridade para o incremento da proteção biológica de conservação contra os inimigos das culturas e espécies florestais existentes. Para o controlo biológico de conservação, é importante a implementação de práticas de gestão que mantenham e contribuam para potenciar a reprodução, sobrevivência e eficiência, tanto dos polinizadores quanto da entomofauna benéfica que regula a população dos inimigos das culturas. As espécies de plantas adequadas para fomentar o aumento dos níveis populacionais destes inimigos naturais e dos polinizadores, garantindo as suas necessidades alimentares (por exemplo, pólen, néctar, melada) e abrigo (hospedeiros alternativos), são fundamentais. Neste contexto, relativamente a insetos polinizadores e, em particular à abelha doméstica, Apis mellifera iberiensis, pretende-se, com este trabalho, contribuir para um melhor conhecimento sobre a flora associada e, ao mesmo tempo, contribuir para incrementar o valor da abelha doméstica nos Serviços dos Ecossistemas.

Abstract Animal pollination plays a key role in global agricultural production and especially of monoecious crops, which are essentially dependent on pollinators. The West Indian gherkin fruit (Cucumis anguria L., Cucurbitaceae) is a monoecious vegetable adaptable to adverse abiotic conditions, resistant to diseases, and rich in minerals and vitamins, thus being a relevant alternative for improving nutritional security of socioeconomically vulnerable populations. The knowledge on the influence of pollination and of specific pollinators on chemical characteristics of fruits would help pollinators’ management, but it is still poorly understood. In this study we investigated the influence of pollination on quantitative and qualitative aspects of fruits fruits of West Indian gherkin fruits (Cucumis anguria L., Cucurbitaceae) in the Brazilian semi-arid region. Data on pollination biology and on fruits resulted from controlled crosses (open-OP, cross-CP and Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758 pollinations) were compared among crosses: number, length, weight, number of seeds, firmness and chemical traits related to flavor and shelf life. Flowers were pollinated by four bee species, and Apis mellifera was the most frequent. followed by two native bee species. OP and A. mellifera resulted in more fruits than CP. Fruits resulting from OP were heavier than CP and had similar weight when compared to A. mellifera. The other variables did not differ between treatments. The better performance of OP and A. mellifera when compared to CP is probably related to the xenia, i.e., the influence of tissues bearing paternal genes (pollen and pollen tube) in maternal tissues. OP and A. mellifera experiments apparently resulted in the deposition of a greater genotypic diversity of the pollen loads when compared to CP. This result is also explained by the higher functional diversity of pollinators related to OP when compared to CP. This study not only elucidates immediate impacts on yield but also emphasizes the deeper connections between floral biology, pollinator diversity, and sustainable crop production, once West Indian gherkin profit was enhanced by bee pollination. crops Cucumis L L. Cucurbitaceae conditions diseases vitamins populations management understood semiarid semi arid region openOP, openOP open OP, (open-OP crossCP cross Linnaeus 175 pollinations length seeds life species frequent A treatments xenia ie i e i.e. tube 17 i.e 1

Resumo A polinização animal desempenha um papel fundamental na produção agrícola global e especialmente nas culturas monóicas, que são essencialmente dependentes de polinizadores. O maxixe das Índias Ocidentais (Cucumis anguria L., Cucurbitaceae) é uma hortaliça monóica adaptável a condições abióticas adversas, resistente a doenças e rica em minerais e vitaminas, sendo assim uma alternativa relevante para melhorar a segurança nutricional de populações socioeconomicamente vulneráveis. O conhecimento sobre a influência da polinização e de polinizadores específicos nas características químicas dos frutos ajudaria no manejo dos polinizadores, mas é pouco compreendido. Neste estudo investigamos a influência da polinização nos aspectos quantitativos e qualitativos de frutos do semiárido brasileiro. Dados de biologia da polinização e de frutos resultantes de cruzamentos controlados (OP-polinização aberta, CP-cruzada e Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758) foram comparados entre cruzamentos: número, comprimento, peso, número de sementes, firmeza e características químicas relacionadas ao sabor e prazo de validade. As flores foram polinizadas por quatro espécies de abelhas, sendo Apis mellifera a mais frequente. OP e A. mellifera resultaram em mais frutos que CP. Os frutos resultantes de OP foram mais pesados que os de CP e apresentaram peso semelhante quando comparados aos de A. mellifera. As demais variáveis não diferiram entre os tratamentos. O melhor desempenho de OP e A. mellifera quando comparado ao CP provavelmente está relacionado à xenia, ou seja, à influência dos tecidos portadores de genes paternos (pólen e tubo polínico) nos tecidos maternos. Experimentos com OP e A. mellifera aparentemente resultaram na deposição de maior diversidade genotípica das cargas polínicas quando comparados com CP. Este resultado também é explicado pela maior diversidade funcional dos polinizadores relacionados ao OP quando comparado ao CP. Este estudo não apenas elucida os impactos imediatos no rendimento, mas também enfatiza as conexões mais profundas entre a biologia floral, a diversidade de polinizadores e a produção agrícola sustentável, uma vez que o lucro do maxixe das Índias Ocidentais foi aumentado mesmo quando polinizado por uma espécie de abelha exótica. monóicas Cucumis L L. Cucurbitaceae adversas vitaminas vulneráveis compreendido brasileiro OPpolinização aberta CPcruzada cruzada Linnaeus 1758 comprimento sementes validade abelhas frequente tratamentos xenia seja pólen polínico maternos rendimento floral sustentável exótica 175 17 1

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to analyze data of the genus Melocactus (Cactaceae) in the Caatinga biome using a virtual herbarium, determine its reproductive aspects, and establish its geographical distribution. Data were collected from the SpeciesLink platform. Notes on exsiccata labels were analyzed to assess reproductive characteristics. Coordinate information was used to develop a distribution map for the genus in the Caatinga biome. A total of 469 records were found in 35 herbaria in Brazil. Melocactus zehntneri stood out with 208 records, followed by M. ernestii, and M. bahiensis. The data were concentrated in a few herbaria, mainly in the Herbarium of the State University of Feira de Santana, which had 28% of the records. Collections were carried out in June (63 records) and in July (59 records). Regarding the reproductive period, Melocactus was active throughout the year, but more concentrated from June to October. The genus is composed of species that depend on animal pollination and dispersal, according to coloration and visitation data. Melocactus is widely distributed throughout the Caatinga, with a tendency to concentrated in drier areas of the biome, in the states of Bahia, Pernambuco, and Paraiba. Herbaria are valuable tools for ecological investigations; therefore, promoting the digitalization of collections and improving the quality and quantity of annotations on specimens are necessary. The genus Melocactus has several characteristics that make it an essential group for maintaining biodiversity in the Caatinga biome. Cactaceae (Cactaceae herbarium aspects platform 46 3 Brazil 20 M ernestii bahiensis Santana 28 63 (6 59 (5 . period year October dispersal Bahia Pernambuco Paraiba investigations therefore necessary 4 2 6 ( 5

RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi analisar os dados do gênero Melocactus (Caatinga) na Caatinga em herbário virtual e avaliar seus aspectos reprodutivos e estabelecer a sua distribuição geográfica. Para tanto, foram coletadas informações na plataforma SpeciesLink. As exsicatas foram analisadas quanto às notas em suas etiquetas para a avaliação dos aspectos reprodutivos. A partir das informações das coordenadas, foi elaborado um mapa da distribuição do gênero ao longo da Caatinga. Um total de 469 registros foram encontrados em 35 herbários brasileiros. Melocactus zehntneri se destacou com 208 registros, seguido por M. ernestii, e M. bahiensis. Os dados estiveram concentrados em poucos herbários, com destaque ao HUEFS, que liderou com 28% dos registros. Verificou-se 63 registros nos meses de junho e 59 em julho, referentes à quantidade de coletas realizada por mês. Em período reprodutivo Melocactus foi ativo ao longo do ano inteiro, porém com concentração de junho a outubro. O gênero é composto por espécies que dependem da polinização e da dispersão realizada por animais, de acordo com os dados de coloração e de visitação. Melocactus é amplamente distribuído pela Caatinga, com tendência de concentração em áreas mais secas dentro do bioma, nos estados da Bahia, Pernambuco e Paraíba. Os herbários são ferramentas valiosas para investigações ecológicas, portanto é necessário promover a digitalização dos acervos, bem como melhorar a qualidade e quantidade das anotações sobre os espécimes. O gênero Melocactus apresenta diversas características que o torna um grupo essencial para a manutenção da biodiversidade da Caatinga. (Caatinga geográfica tanto SpeciesLink coordenadas 46 3 brasileiros 20 M ernestii bahiensis HUEFS 28 Verificouse Verificou 6 5 julho mês inteiro outubro animais visitação bioma Bahia Paraíba ecológicas acervos espécimes 4 2