Abstract The use of alternative tree and shrub species such as Hibiscus rosa sinensis L, for feeding ruminants, can provide high amounts of feed biomass and high protein content. The most commonly used propagation methods for the production of seedlings of this species are by grafting, layering and cuttings, with the latter method standing out, because it allows obtaining a greater number of seedlings per branch in less time. The objective of the research was to evaluate the effect of alternative rooting agents on wasp flower (H. rosa-sinensis L.) cuttings, under nursery conditions. Five rooting agents were evaluated consisting of Aloe vera, cinnamon, Aloe + molasses + egg (A+M+E), Moringa oleífera and the antagonistic fungus Trichoderma sp, plus a control consisting of the addition of water. The variables evaluated were number of roots per plant, root length, number of regrowths, fresh root weight per plant, dry root weight per plant, root biomass and survival percentage. The data were organized in a Microsoft Excel 2013 spreadsheet, then analyzed in the statistical program InfoStat 2020. The treatment with Trichoderma sp favors the vegetative growth of H. rosa-sinensis, followed by the A+M+E, Moringa and cinnamon treatments. The treatments with the highest percentage of survival were Moringa, cinnamon, Aloe, and Trichoderma sp, considered as excellent, while the A+M+H and control treatments were considered good.

Resumen El uso de las especies alternativas de árboles y arbustos como son Hibiscus rosa sinensis L, para la alimentación de rumiantes, puede proporcionar altas cantidades de biomasa alimenticia y alto contenido de proteína. Los métodos de propagación más utilizados para la producción de plántulas de esta especie son por injerto, acodo y esquejes, destacándose este último método, porque permite obtener un mayor número de plántulas por rama en menor tiempo. El objetivo de la investigación fue evaluar el efecto de enraizadores alternativos sobre esquejes de flor de avispa (H. rosa-sinensis L.), bajo condiciones de vivero. Se evaluaron cinco enraizadores que consistieron en aloe vera, canela, aloe + melaza + huevo (A+M+H), Moringa oleifera y el hongo antagonista Trichoderma sp, además de un testigo que consistió en la adición de agua. Las variables evaluadas fueron número de raíces por planta, longitud de raíces, número de rebrotes, peso fresco de raíz por planta, peso seco de raíz por planta, biomasa de raíces y porcentaje de sobrevivencia. Los datos fueron organizados en una hoja de cálculo de Microsoft Excel 2013, posteriormente fueron analizados en el programa estadístico InfoStat 2020. El tratamiento con Trichoderma sp favorece el crecimiento vegetativo de H. rosa-sinensis, seguido de los tratamientos A+M+H, Moringa y canela. Los tratamientos con mayor porcentaje de sobrevivencia fueron Moringa, canela, aloe y Trichoderma sp, considerados como excelentes, mientras que los tratamientos A+M+H y testigo fueron considerados buenos.

Abstract: Background: Coccoloba is a Neotropical genus of trees, shrubs, and lianas with approximately 150 species. Reviewed Mexican specimens of Coccoloba do not correspond to any recognized species within the genus, so they are proposed as new species. Question: What are the morphological characteristics that differentiate the two new species from other Coccoloba species? What is its distribution and conservation status? Studied species: Species of Coccoloba sect. Coccoloba endemic to Mexico. Study site and dates: Chiapas and Veracruz, Mexico, 2022-2023. Methods: All available information for Coccoloba, including herbarium specimens and online databases, was reviewed. Subsequently, a comparative analysis was carried out including the two new species proposed and the recognized species in the genus. Geographic distribution maps were prepared and the conservation status of the new species was determined, following the IUCN guidelines. Results: Coccoloba burkeae and C. najarroi are described and illustrated as new species. Both are endemic to Mexico. C. burkeae is distributed in the humid forests of the Tuxtlas region in Veracruz and is morphologically similar to C. barbadensis, C. hondurensis and C. spicata; this species is considered in the Endangered (EN) category. C. najarroi is restricted to the humid forests of Chiapas and is similar to C. ascendens and C. ibarrae. This species is considered Critically Endangered (CR). Conclusions: The morphological characteristics of the fruit, the inflorescence and the leaves are important to diagnose the two new species of Coccoloba; both being endemic to Mexico.

Resumen: Antecedentes: Coccoloba es un género Neotropical de árboles, arbustos y lianas con aproximadamente 150 especies. Ejemplares mexicanos de Coccoloba revisados no corresponden a ninguna especie reconocida dentro del género, por lo que se proponen como especies nuevas. Pregunta: ¿Cuáles son las características morfológicas que diferencian a las dos nuevas especies con respecto a otras especies de Coccoloba? ¿Cuál es su distribución y estado de conservación? Especies de estudio: Especies de Coccoloba sect. Coccoloba endémicas de México. Sitio de estudio: Chiapas y Veracruz, México, 2022-2023. Métodos: Se revisó toda la información disponible para Coccoloba, incluyendo especímenes de herbario y bases de datos en línea. Posteriormente se realizó un análisis comparativo incluyendo las dos especies nuevas propuestas y las especies reconocidas. Se elaboraron mapas de distribución geográfica y se determinó el estatus de conservación de las especies nuevas, siguiendo las pautas de IUCN. Resultados: Coccoloba burkeae y C. najarroi son descritas e ilustradas como especies nuevas. Ambas son endémicas de México. C. burkeae se distribuye en las selvas húmedas de la región de los Tuxtlas en Veracruz y es morfológicamente similar a C. barbadensis, C. hondurensis y C. spicata; esta especie es considerada en la categoría de En Peligro (EN). C. najarroi se restringe a las selvas húmedas de Chiapas y es similar a C. ascendens y C. ibarrae; es considerada como En Peligro Crítico (CR). Conclusiones: Las características morfológicas del fruto, la inflorescencia y las hojas son importantes para diagnosticar las dos especies nuevas de Coccoloba; siendo ambas endémicas de México.

Resumen Los minerales son necesarios en la dieta de los animales para su mantenimiento, desarrollo y reproducción. El objetivo fue determinar el contenido de minerales en arbustos que consumen las cabras en una zona árida en tres sistemas de producción, durante las estaciones húmeda y seca. Las hojas, vainas tallos o flores y un suplemento se muestrearon y se determinó en 34 arbustos Ca, Mg, K, Na, P, N, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B y Cl. Los arbustos en los sistemas de producción mostraron suficiente K, Ca, K, Mg, Na, B, Cl y N para las necesidades de las cabras; sin embargo, el contenido de P fue bajo. El contenido de Zn, Cu, Fe y Mn fue menor en todos los arbustos. Los resultados sugieren que, en la zona de estudio es posible utilizar forrajes no leguminosos en la dieta para mejorar su valor nutricional, debido a su contenido mayor en minerales. El sistema de producción semi-intensivo mostró que, el 58% de los minerales fue mayor en este sistema, considerado como el mejor. El contenido mineral en L. brevipes, T. lobaeformis y A. barclayana en el semi-intensivo fueron adecuados para las cabras, mientras que en el extensivo el contenido mineral fue de buena calidad nutricional con S. thurberi y C. gayana para el sistema intensivo. Los arbustos mostraron diferencias entre los macrominerales y la cantidad/calidad nutricional de estos para las cabras difiere en función del sistema de producción, la estación y los tipos de arbustos.

Abstract Minerals are needed in the diet of animals for maintenance, development, and reproduction. The aim was to determine mineral content of shrubs consumed by goats in an arid area from three production systems, during wet and dry seasons. The leaves, pods, stems, or flowers of 34 shrubs and one supplement were sampled manually and analyzed Ca, Mg, K, Na, P, N, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, and Cl. The shrubs showed enough K Ca, K, Mg, Na, B, Cl and N for goat requirements for all production systems; however, P was lower. The Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn contents were lower in all shrubs. The results suggest that in the study area more non-legumes could be used in the goat diet to enhance nutritional value because of their higher mineral content. Considering the status of mineral content, 58% of all minerals had higher content in the semi-intensive production system, and possibly, it is the best production system. Adequate values of mineral content 58% of all minerals had higher content in the semi-intensive production system, and possibly, it is the best production system. Adequate values of mineral content were found in L. brevipes, T. lobaeformis and A. barclayana in the semi-intensive system, while in the extensive system the mineral content was of good nutritional quality with S. thurberi and C. gayana for the intensive system. The 35 shrubs showed differences among macrominerals and the nutritional quantity/quality of these minerals for goats varied depending on production system, season, and types of shrubs.

Resumen Se evaluó la composición florística de un fragmento de matorral espinoso tamaulipeco restaurado y la respuesta de seis especies leñosas nativas empleadas para dicho fin, además de dos establecidas de forma natural, a través de los atributos de la comunidad y las variables dasométricas de las especies utilizadas (cobertura de copa, altura total, diámetro normal y volumen). Se muestrearon 12 sitios de 10 x 10 m, donde se evaluaron la cobertura (m2), el diámetro normal (cm), la altura total (m) y el volumen (m3) para las ocho especies estudiadas. Los resultados indican que las ocho especies presentan diferencias estadísticas significativas en su cobertura de copa, altura, diámetro normal y volumen. Las especies que presentaron mayores valores en sus variables dasométricas fueron Parkinsonia aculeata y Acacia farnesiana.

Abstract The floristic composition of a fragment of restored Tamaulipan thornscrub and the response of six native woody species used for this purpose were evaluated, as well as two that were established naturally, through the attributes of the community and the dasometric variables of the species used (crown cover, height, normal diameter, and volume). 12 sites of 10 x 10 m were sampled, where tree cover (m2), normal diameter (cm), total height (m), and volume (m3) were evaluated for the eight studied species. The results indicate that the eight species exhibit statistically significant differences in their crown cover, height, normal diameter, and volume. The species with higher values regarding their dasometric variables were Parkinsonia aculeata and Acacia farnesiana.

Abstract Background: Plant-plant facilitation provides benefits to the protected species since the host species reduces the intensity of stressful physical conditions. However, it has been hypothesized that the outcome of the interaction could be regulated by the characteristics of the interacting species and that herbivores could counteract the benefits of protective plants. Question: Can cactus size and identity of neighboring plants influence the herbivory of the columnar cactus P. leucocephalus? Studied species / Mathematical model: Pilosocereus leucocephalus (Poselg.) Byles & G.D. Rowley /One-way ANOVA, Repeated measures ANOVA, Analysis of covariance and linear regression. Study site and dates: San Ignacio, Veracruz, Mexico. April to May 2019. Methods: We randomly selected 60 P. leucocephalus plants growing underneath the canopy of seven species of shrubs and P. leucocephalus plants growing ≥ 3 m away from other species and exposed to full sunlight conditions. We obtained the size of the P. leucocephalus plants (size of main stem from ground to apex) and determined the intensity (number of bites on the stem) of vertebrate herbivory. Results: The number of bite scars by small vertebrate species was significantly higher on the stems of cacti established in open spaces than on those underneath the canopy of seven shrub species and increased significantly with the stem size of the protected species. Conclusions: We conclude that herbivory damage by rodents on a giant cactus in a dry tropical forest depends on cactus size and the identity, but not the shade, of the nearest neighbor.

Resumen Antecedentes: La facilitación planta-planta implica beneficios para las especies protegidas mediante una reducción en intensidad de las condiciones físicas estresantes por las facilitadoras. Sin embargo, se plantea la hipótesis que el resultado de la interacción estaría regulado por características de las especies que interactúan y los herbívoros contrarrestarían la ayuda de las facilitadoras. Pregunta: ¿Pueden el tamaño y la identidad de las plantas vecinas influir en la herbivoría del cactus columnar P. leucocephalus? Especie de estudio / Modelo matemático: Pilosocereus leucocephalus (POSELG.) BYLES & G.D. Rowley / ANOVA de una vía, ANOVA de medidas repetidas, Análisis de covarianza y regresión lineal. Sitio y fechas de estudio: San Ignacio, Veracruz, México. Abril- mayo 2019. Métodos: Elegimos aleatoriamente 60 plantas de P. leucocephalus que crecen bajo el dosel de siete especies de arbustos y plantas que crecen a ≥ 3 m de distancia de otras especies, expuestas a luz solar directa. Estas plantas fueron medidas (altura del tallo principal desde el suelo hasta el ápice) para determinar la intensidad (número de mordidas en el tallo) de la herbivoría por vertebrados. Resultados: El número de cicatrices de mordeduras por especies de vertebrados fue significativamente mayor en cactus establecidos en espacios abiertos que debajo del dosel de siete especies de arbustos. El daño dependió de la especie nodriza y aumentó con la altura del cactus. Conclusiones: El daño por herbivoría de roedores en el cactus depende de la altura e identidad del vecino más cercano, pero no de la sombra, en un bosque tropical seco.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the behaviour and physiological response of Brahman cows grazing in silvopastoral arrangements with scattered trees. The study was conducted in Puerto Nare, Antioquia, Colombia. Two productive systems were typified: a system with relevant shade cover with discontinuous trees and shrubs and a central alley of trees (protocol A) and a control system with scarce tree cover (protocol B). Each system included 19 Brahman cows with calves at foot. Lower environmental temperature was recorded in the paddocks of protocol A (p=0.04) and a higher respiratory rate in cows of protocol B (p=0.0001). There were no differences in dry matter intake (p=0.40), but there was more time dedicated to night grazing by cows from Protocol B (p=0.0017). It is concluded that silvopastoral systems with an adequate offer of shade allow to reduce the ambient temperature by up to 2°C, promoting welfare and comfort to Bos indicus cattle reared in tropical conditions.

RESUMEN El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el comportamiento y respuesta fisiológica en pastoreo de vacas Brahman en arreglos silvopastoriles con árboles dispersos. El estudio se realizó en Puerto Nare, Antioquia, Colombia. Se tipificaron dos sistemas productivos: un sistema con revestimiento pertinente de sombra con árboles y arbustos discontinuos y un callejón central de árboles (protocolo A) y un sistema control con escasa cubierta de árboles (protocolo B). Cada sistema incluyó a 19 vacas Brahman con sus crías. Se registró menor temperatura ambiental en los potreros del protocolo A (p=0.04) y una frecuencia respiratoria mayor en las vacas del protocolo B (p=0.0001). No hubo diferencias en la ingesta de materia seca (p=0.40), pero hubo mayor tiempo dedicado al pastoreo nocturno en las vacas del Protocolo B (p=0.0017). Se concluye que los sistemas silvopastoriles con adecuada oferta de sombra permiten reducir la temperatura ambiente hasta en 2° C, propiciando mayor bienestar y comodidad a bovinos Bos indicus alojados en condiciones de trópico.

Resumen Hemos investigado la influencia de las plantas de jardín en las comunidades de artrópodos que habitan en el suelo dentro de los pastos y hemos probado la hipótesis de que la biodiversidad de los artrópodos aumenta con la heterogeneidad de la vegetación. La caracterización de la comunidad y la biodiversidad de los artrópodos en un pastizal se compararon con las de las comunidades que tienen plantas de jardín, incluidos los reductos forestales, Forsythia koreana y Prunus serotina. La abundancia total de ácaros era mayor dentro de los reductos forestales que dentro del pastizal; sin embargo, la abundancia de insectos y arañas no difirió. El escalamiento multidimensional no métrico y el procedimiento de permutación de respuesta múltiple revelaron que la composición de la comunidad de insectos y arañas difería en función del tipo de vegetación. La abundancia de Teleogryllus emma fue mayor dentro de la comunidad de reductos forestales, lo que sugiere que la especie depende del tipo de vegetación. La riqueza de especies y el índice de Shannon aumentaron dentro de F. koreana pero no dentro de P. serotina en comparación con los del pasto. Este dato sugiere que los cinturones de arbustos podrían tener un mayor efecto impulsor sobre la biodiversidad de insectos que los cinturones de árboles. La riqueza de especies y el índice de Shannon en arañas no difirieron por tipo de vegetación. La cantidad total de especies de insectos y de arañas dentro del área de estudio aumentó 2,8 y 3,5 veces, respectivamente, al establecerse tres tipos de vegetación. Estos resultados sugieren que el aumento de la heterogeneidad de la vegetación mediante el establecimiento de plantas de jardín es una buena opción para conservar la biodiversidad de insectos y arañas en los pastos.

Abstract We investigated the association of landscaping plants with the communities of ground-dwelling arthropods within pastures and tested the hypothesis that arthropod biodiversity increases with vegetation heterogeneity. The community characterization and biodiversity of arthropods in a pasture were compared with those within communities with landscaping plants, including forest remnants, Forsythia koreana and Prunus serotina. The total abundance of mites was greater within the forest remnants than within the pasture; however, the abundance of insects and spiders did not differ. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling and the multiresponse permutation procedure revealed that the community composition of insects and spiders differed according to vegetation type. The abundance of Teleogryllus emma was highest within the forest remnant community, which suggested the species’ dependency on vegetation type. Species richness and the Shannon index of insects increased within F. koreana but not within P. serotina compared with the pasture. This suggested that belts of shrubs might have a greater promoting effect on insect biodiversity than belts of trees. Species richness of spiders did not differ by vegetation type. The total number of insect and spider species within the study area increased by 2.8 and 3.5 times, respectively, by establishing three types of vegetation. These results suggested that increasing vegetation heterogeneity by establishing landscaping plants is a good option for conserving insect and spider biodiversity in pastures.

Abstract Seed dormancy is a mechanism of long survival that is ecologically important for seed propagation and dispersal and the expansion of plant populations. The impermeability of the seed coat in the Fabaceae family is due to a layer of sclerotic cells. Two experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of different seed treatment on germination parameters and seedling growth in Cercis siliquastrum and Spartium junceum. Experimental treatments comprised of chemical and thermal scarification treatment consisting of boiling water (2, 5, 10 min), H2SO4 (30, 60 min) and GA (0, 500 and 1,000 mg L−1) in C. siliquastrum and boiling water (2, 5, 10 min), H2SO4 (2, 5 min) in S. junceum. The results presented here indicate that chemical scarification by soaking in sulfuric acid for 30 min and 2 min in C. siliquastrum and S. junceum, respectively were the most efficient methods to breaking the seed dormancy. The application of these methods promoted the highest values of indices seedlings. In the light of the found results, it revealed that C. siliquastrum and S. junceum seeds are affected by a coat dormancy, which can be removed by a chemical-thermal scarification with sulfuric acid and boiling water. The data obtained contribute to a better comprehension of propagation and establishment of these shrubs ornamental by seedling.

Resumo A dormência das sementes é um mecanismo de longa sobrevivência que é ecologicamente importante para a propagação e dispersão das sementes e expansão das populações de plantas. A impermeabilidade do tegumento da semente da família Fabaceae se deve à camada de células escleróticas. Dois experimentos foram conduzidos para investigar o efeito de diferentes tratamentos de sementes nos parâmetros de germinação e crescimento de plântulas em Cercis siliquastrum e Spartium junceum. Os tratamentos experimentais consistiram de escarificação química e térmica com água fervente (2, 5, 10 min), H2SO4 (30, 60 min) e GA (0, 500 e 1.000 mg L−1) em C. siliquastrum e água fervente (2, 5, 10 min), H2SO4 (2, 5 min) em S. junceum. Os resultados indicam que a escarificação química por imersão em ácido sulfúrico por 30 min e 2 min em C. siliquastrum e S. junceum, respectivamente, foram os métodos mais eficientes para quebrar a dormência das sementes. A aplicação desses métodos promoveu os maiores valores de índices de mudas. Diante dos resultados encontrados, revelou-se que sementes de C. siliquastrum e S. junceum apresentam dormência tegumentar, que pode ser removida por escarificação químico-térmica com ácido sulfúrico e água fervente. Os dados contribuem para melhor compreensão da propagação e estabelecimento por mudas desses arbustos ornamentais.

Resumo A trepadeira Rufous (Dendrocitta vagabunda) pertence à família corvidae, ordem Passeriformes que inclui cerca de 100 espécies. O estudo atual foi realizado para reunir informações sobre a distribuição da população e análise do habitat de D. vagabunda no distrito de Abbottabad, Paquistão. Os dados foram coletados mensalmente pela manhã e à noite (2018-2019). O “método de contagem de pontos” foi usado para estimativa da população e o “método dos quadrados” para análise de habitat da área de estudo. O resultado mostra que uma densidade populacional média mensal de D. vagabunda foi máxima em Jhangra 0,14 ± 0,039 / ha, enquanto a mínima em Havelian 0,11 ± 0,022/ha. Não houve diferença significativa (p> 0,05) entre as densidades populacionais mensais de D. vagabunda, entretanto foi encontrada diferença significativa (p <0,05) entre os períodos matutino e noturno da população da espécie. O presente estudo revelou que o índice de valor de importância (IVI) das espécies de plantas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 59,6 ± 12,6, 50,1 ± 6,9, 53,4 ± 6,3, 66,8 ± 10 e 60,1 ± 7,7. Da mesma forma, a frequência de arbustos em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi de: 33,3 ± 4,2, 45 ± 9,4, 46,7 ± 8,2, 55,6 ± 22,2 e 37,5 ± 8,5. Da mesma forma, a frequência de ervas em Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra e Jhangra foi: 40,4 ± 6,0, 37,5 ± 5,6, 53,3 ± 7,4, 48,5 ± 5,2 e 46,9 ± 7,4, respectivamente. Nossos resultados mostram a área de estudo como habitat adequado para D. vagabunda.

Abstract The Rufous treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) belongs to family corvidae, order Passeriformes which includes about 100 species. The current study was conducted to gather information about the Population distribution and habitat analysis of D. vagabunda at District Abbottabad, Pakistan. The data were collected on monthly basis both morning and evening times (2018-2019). “The ‘’Point count Method” was used for population estimation and ‘’Quadrates Method” for habitat analysis of study area. The result shows an average month-wise population density of D. vagabunda was maximum at Jhangra 0.14±0.039/ha, whereas minimum at Havelian 0.11±0.022/ha. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) among monthly population densities of D. vagabunda, however, a significant difference (p<0.05) was found between morning and evening times population of the specie. The present study revealed that importance value index (IVI) of plants species at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 59.6±12.6, 50.1±6.9, 53.4±6.3, 66.8±10 and 60.1±7.7. Likewise, the frequency of shrubs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 33.3±4.2, 45±9.4, 46.7±8.2, 55.6±22.2 and 37.5±8.5. Similarly, the frequency of herbs at Sherwan, Bakot, Havelian, Langra and Jhangra were 40.4±6.0, 37.5±5.6, 53.3±7.4, 48.5±5.2 and 46.9±7.4 respectively. Our results show the study area as suitable habitat for D. vagabunda.

Resumo O urso-negro asiático está presente em uma variedade de habitats, como folhas largas e florestas de coníferas, estendendo-se do nível do mar até 4.300 m de altitude e mudando seu habitat para fins alimentares sazonalmente. O presente estudo foi conduzido nos vales Kaghan e Siran, distrito de Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão, para avaliar o habitat do urso preto. O método de transecto linear foi usado para a observação de sinais do urso. Parcelas de raio circular de 12 m foram selecionadas para a vegetação de preocupação, ou seja, árvores, arbustos e ervas, e 3 a 6 parcelas foram colocadas em cada transecto. No resultado da pesquisa de sinais, 13 categorias diferentes de sinais de urso foram registradas e a taxa de encontro foi calculada para cada sinal. Um total de 1858 sinais foi observado durante os levantamentos de campo. O total (81%) de espécies de coníferas foi recodificado entre as árvores, com maior aparecimento de Pinus wallichiana (34,22%) e Spruce spp (27,76%); árvores de folhas largas (18,56%) também foram recodificadas em parcelas de habitat. A maioria dos sinais foi encontrada em áreas com arbustos, enquanto um alto número de Viburnum spp (60,29%) estava presente. É indicado que o urso-negro prefere a mistura de árvores coníferas, espécies de viburnos e samambaias; provavelmente porque essas plantas fornecem alimento suficiente, proteção e abrigo meticuloso porque mais de 80% do habitat é composto por essas três espécies. Atualmente, a destruição do habitat e o aumento da população humana são questões crescentes para os animais selvagens, especialmente o urso-negro asiático, que é altamente sensível a esses problemas. Altos níveis de esforços de conservação são recomendados para a proteção do habitat do urso-negro e para evitar a interferência humana em seu território.

Abstract Asiatic black bear is present in variety of habitats like broad-leaves and coniferous forests, extending form sea level to 4300m elevation and change their habitat for food purpose seasonally. The present study was conducted at Kaghan and Siran Valleys, District Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan to assess habitat of black bear. Line transect method was used for observation of bear signs. Twelve meter circular radius plots were selected for the concern vegetation’s i.e. (trees, shrubs and herbs) and three to six plots were placed in each transect. At the result of sign survey, thirteen different categories of bear signs were recorded and encounter rate was calculated for each sign. A total of 1858 signs were observed during field surveys. Total (81%) coniferous species were recoded among trees, with the highest appearance of Pinus wallichiana (34.22%) and Spruce spp (27.76%), similarly broad leaves trees (18.56%) were also recoded from habitat plots. Most of the signs were encountered in bushy areas, whereas high number of Viburnum Spp (60.29%) was present. It is indicated that black bear prefers blend of Coniferous Trees, Viburnum and Ferns Species; probably because these plants provide enough food, protection, and meticulous shelter because more than 80% of habitat composed of these three species. Currently habitat destruction and increase in human population are the up-growing issues for wild animals (especially Asiatic black bear), which is highly sensitive to such problems. High levels of conservation efforts are recommended for the protection of black bear habitat and to avoid human interference in their territory.

Abstract The barbary sheep (Ammotragus lervia Pallas, 1777) is an exotic herbivore considered an invasive species in northeastern Mexico, for which the effects of herbivory on native vegetation and competition with native ungulates are unknown. The objective of the study was to identify the composition and seasonal diversity of the diet of a population of A. lervia in the UMA Rancho San Juan, municipality of Monclova, Coahuila, Mexico. During the period October 2018-August 2019, lines were established where the fecal samples were collected, processed and classified, and a photographic catalog of plant cell structures of the plants present in the habitat was generated. Using the microhistological technique, the species of plants consumed were identified and classified by season: autumn (October 2018), winter (February 2019), spring (May 2019) and summer (August 2019) and biological form (shrubs, herbaceous, grasses and succulents). The diet was expressed in relative frequency based on the Fracker and Brischle table. The diversity of the diet was estimated with the Shannon index. In the diet of A. lervia, 64 species and 21 families were identified, being the families Poaceae (15), Fabaceae (9 spp.), Asteraceae (8 spp.) and Euphorbiaceae (7 spp.) the most representative. Likewise, Vachellia rigidula, Tiquilia canescens, Medicago sativa and Opuntia engelmannii together represented 46.49% of the diet. In the year, the diet was made up of 36% shrubby plants, 30% herbaceous, 22% grasses and 12% succulents. Shrubs predominated in spring (54.80%), herbaceous plants (46.39 and 37.90%, respectively) in summer and winter, and grasses (35.19%) in autumn. The diversity of the diet was H’ = 2.89 ± 0.13 species, higher than that reported in its natural habitat. The composition of the diet of A. lervia was similar to that reported for other wild herbivores of desert scrub in Mexico and the United States, this implies a condition of overlapping diet, but more studies on the diet of sympatric herbivores of northeastern Mexico are required.

Resumen El borrego berberisco (Ammotragus lervia Pallas, 1777) es un herbívoro exótico considerado una especie invasora en el noreste de México del que no se conocen los efectos de la herbivoría sobre la vegetación nativa y la competencia con los ungulados nativos. El objetivo del estudio fue identificar la composición y diversidad estacional de la dieta de una población de A. lervia en la UMA Rancho San Juan, municipio de Monclova, Coahuila, México. Durante el periodo octubre 2018-agosto 2019, se establecieron líneas donde se recolectaron, procesaron y clasificaron las muestras fecales, y se generó un catálogo fotográfico de estructuras celulares vegetales de las plantas presentes en el hábitat. Mediante la técnica microhistológica se identificaron las especies de plantas consumidas y se clasificaron por estación: otoño (octubre 2018), invierno (febrero 2019), primavera (mayo 2019) y verano (agosto 2019), y forma biológica (arbustivas, herbáceas, pastos y suculentas). La dieta se expresó en frecuencia relativa con base en el cuadro de Fracker y Brischle. La diversidad de la dieta se estimó con el índice de Shannon. En la dieta de A. lervia se identificaron 64 especies y 21 familias, siendo las familias Poaceae (15), Fabaceae (9 spp.), Asteraceae (8 spp.) y Euphorbiaceae (7 spp.) las más representativas. Asimismo, Vachellia rigidula, Tiquilia canescens, Medicago sativa y Opuntia engelmannii, representaron en conjunto el 46.49 % de la dieta. En el año, la dieta se conformó de 36 % de plantas de porte arbustivo, 30 % herbáceas, 22 % pastos y 12 % suculentas. En primavera predominaron las arbustivas (54.80 %), en verano e invierno las herbáceas (46.39 y 37.90 %, respectivamente) y en otoño los pastos (35.19 %). La diversidad de la dieta fue H’ = 2.89 ± 0.13 especies, mayor a lo reportado en su hábitat natural. La composición de la dieta de A. lervia fue similar a lo reportado para otros herbívoros silvestres de matorrales desérticos en México y Estados Unidos, esto implica una condición de traslape de dieta, pero se requieren de más estudios sobre dieta de herbívoros simpátricos del noreste de México.

ABSTRACT The Great Horned Owl Bubo virginianus (Gmelin, 1788) has a wide distribution through Americas, from Canada and Alaska to Argentina and Uruguay. Beside common, several aspects of its natural history are still poorly known, especially at Neotropical Region. The aim of this study was to obtain data regarding to the home range, nesting and feeding habits of Bubo virginianus in the Brazilian Pampas. This study was conducted from April 2015 to April 2018, in Santa Margarida do Sul, central region of Rio Grande do Sul State, southern Brazil. The study area presents patches of Eucaliptus spp. tree, under which the vegetation is composed by grass with some spine bushes. The surrounding area of the main patch of Eucaliptus is used for extensive cattle ranch and rice and soy crops. Data was collected by direct observation, with unless one visit each 15 days during the non-reproductive period, and unless one visit per week during the breeding season. In these observations we checked the use of the nest and the use of diurnal resting perches, where we collected pellets for diet analyses. Considering 95% of locations, the home range of the pair of great horned owl was estimated as 0.35 km² considering MCP method or 0.41 km² considering Kernel estimates. Individuals seem interested in bordering locations of the home range during night and the center of the area for resting during the daylight. The nest was used for a period of three months, in three consecutive breeding seasons. Breeding season is related to the austral winter, with one or two chicks hatching near late winter. The juveniles stayed with the parents for up to 10 months (7 to 10 months) and dispersed from the parents’ home range in the autumn of the next year. Furthermore, diet was based in rodents, especially Holochilus vulpinus (Brants, 1827), and birds, following a common pattern for this species.

RESUMO O jacurutu Bubo virginianus (Gmelin, 1788) tem ampla distribuição pela América, estendendo-se desde o Alasca e norte do Canadá, até o centro da Argentina e Uruguai. Apesar de relativamente comum, diferentes aspectos da história natural desta espécie ainda permanecem pouco conhecidos, sobretudo na Região Neotropical. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi obter informações referentes à área de vida utilizada por B. virginianus, sua biologia reprodutiva e dieta no Pampa brasileiro. O estudo foi realizado entre abril de 2015 e abril de 2018, no município de Santa Margarida do Sul, região central do Pampa brasileiro, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. A área de estudo conta com capões de Eucaliptus spp., sob os quais a vegetação é predominantemente formada por gramíneas, com manchas de arbustos espinhosos em pontos específicos. Os arredores do capão principal são utilizados para criação extensiva de gado em campo nativo além de cultivos de soja e arroz. A coleta de dados foi baseada no acompanhamento visual dos indivíduos com ao menos uma observação quinzenal durante o período não reprodutivo, e ao menos uma observação semanal durante o período de utilização do ninho. Além do ninho, foram verificados os poleiros de descanso dos indivíduos monitorados e coletadas as egagrópilas regurgitadas, para posterior estudo de seus hábitos alimentares. A área de vida utilizada pelo casal foi estimada em 0,35 km² pelo método do MCP, ou 0,41 km² baseado em estimativas pelo método de Kernel. Os indivíduos parecem demonstrar interesse por locais limítrofes da área de vida durante a noite e preferindo a parte central da mesma para abrigo/descanso durante o dia. O tempo de utilização do ninho foi de três meses em todos os períodos reprodutivos. A estação reprodutiva da espécie está relacionada ao pico do inverno, com um a dois filhotes nascendo próximo ao final da estação. Os filhotes permaneceram na área de vida dos pais por um período de sete até dez de meses, dispersando durante os meses do outono do ano seguinte. Por fim, a dieta foi baseada em roedores, sobretudo Holochilus vulpinus (Brants, 1827) e aves, seguindo um padrão já conhecido para espécie.

Abstract Here we present a taxonomic treatment of the subfamily Celastroideae (Celastraceae) in the state of Espírito Santo, southeastern Brazil, as a part of the ongoing project Flora do Espírito Santo. The work is based on analyses of herbaria specimens and fieldwork since 2012. Two genera and thirteen species are reported for Espírito Santo, covering all the vegetation formations found in the state. Celastrus is represented by one species, C. liebmannii, the unique climbing species of the subfamily in Brazil. Monteverdia are shrubs and trees characterized by fruits 2-valved, pericarp coriaceous and white aril. The genus is represented by twelve species, corresponding nearly to one third of the Brazilian species. Celastrus liebmannii is formally reported by the first time to Espírito Santo. Morphological descriptions, comments, color photographs plates, and identification keys for genera and Monteverdia species are provided.

Resumo Apresentamos aqui o tratamento taxonômico da subfamília Celastroideae (Celastraceae) no estado do Espírito Santo, como parte da contribuição para o projeto Flora do Espírto Santo. Este trabalho é baseado na análise de espécimes de herbário e trabalhos de campo realizado pelos autores a partir de 2012. Dois gêneros e treze espécies são aqui reportados para o Espírito Santo, presente em todas as formações vegetacionais encontradas no estado. Celastrus está representado por uma espécie, C. liebmannii, a única espécie trepadeira da subfamília no Brasil. Monteverdia incluem arbustos e árvores caracterizados por frutos 2-valvados, pericarpo coriáceo e arilo branco. O gênero está representado por doze espécies, correspondendo a quase um terço das espécies brasileiras. Celastrus liebmannii é formalmente registrada pela primeira vez para o Espírito Santo. Descrições morfológicas, comentários, pranchas com imagens coloridas, e chaves de identificação para os gêneros e as espécies de Monteverdia são fornecidas.

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the pruning management of the BRS Tupy and Brazos blackberry cultivars, in order to extend their harvest seasonality and fruit yield. The experiment was performed in an altitude subtropical region in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Bushes were grown at 3.0x0.5 m spacing. The treatments consisted of the four following pruning seasons: one conventional pruning, with suppression of the produced stems in February and reduction of the stems in July; and three drastic pruning performed in the first two weeks of January, March, and May, with the application of 10% urea and 3% hydrogenated cyanamide five months later. The experimental design was in randomized complete blocks, in a 2x4 factorial arrangement, with two cultivars and four pruning managements, with four blocks. Fruit phenology, yield, and physicochemical quality were evaluated in two production cycles. It is possible to extend the harvest season of blackberry up to five months, in an altitude subtropical region in Lavras, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, with drastic pruning in January and no irrigation. Drastic pruning in January or March increases the yield of the BRS Tupy and Brazos blackberry cultivars. The extended harvest season does not affect the quality of blackberries and does not create challenges for harvesting operations.

Resumo O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o manejo da poda das cultivares de amoreira-preta BRS Tupy e Brazos, para prolongar sua época de colheita e produtividade de frutos. O experimento foi realizado em uma região subtropical de altitude, no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Os arbustos foram conduzidos em espaçamento 3.0x0.5 m. Os tratamentos consistiram das seguintes quatro épocas de poda: uma poda convencional, com supressão das hastes produzidas em fevereiro e redução das hastes em julho; e três podas drásticas realizadas nas primeiras duas semanas de janeiro, março e maio, com aplicação de ureia a 10% e cianamida hidrogenada a 3% cinco meses depois. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, em arranjo fatorial 2x4, com duas cultivares e quatro manejos de podas, com quatro blocos. A fenologia, a produção e a qualidade físico-química das frutas foram avaliadas em dois ciclos produtivos. É possível estender a época da colheita da amora preta para cinco meses, na região subtropical de altitude de Lavras, no estado de Minas Gerais, com poda drástica em janeiro e sem irrigação. A poda drástica em janeiro ou março aumenta a produção das cultivares de amora-preta BRS Tupy e Brazos. O período prolongado de colheita não afeta a qualidade das amoras e não cria desafios para as operações de colheita.

Resumen Durante finales del año 2019 e inicios del 2020 ocurrieron incendios de pastizales en las inmediaciones de la ciudad de Las Grutas (Río Negro, Argentina) que afectaron una amplia extensión y generaron impacto en el paisaje local. Un año después recorrimos algunos de estos sectores con el objetivo de realizar un reconocimiento del posible impacto del fuego sobre el registro arqueológico superficial. Si bien en las áreas de observación el material era escaso, se identificaron alteraciones producto del daño térmico en guijarros, tales como cambios de coloración y fracturas in situ sobre diferentes rocas, algunas aptas para la talla. Asimismo, se registraron otros indicadores del efecto del fuego, como madera carbonizada y rubefacción del sedimento de superficie alrededor de arbustos quemados. La extensión y efectos en el paisaje de este evento puntual permiten reflexionar sobre las implicancias que tienen estos sucesos estivales sobre el registro arqueológico superficial en Patagonia. En este caso, la generación de pseudoartefactos producto de las fracturas, y la identificación errónea de estructuras de combustión ante la presencia de agrupamientos de guijarros. Además, estos fenómenos representan un sesgo potencial en la identificación del tratamiento térmico en artefactos líticos, ya que estos pudieron estar expuestos al fuego una vez descartados.

Abstract During late 2019 and early 2020, grassland fires occurred in the vicinity of Las Grutas city (Río Negro, Argentina), which affected a wide area and generated an impact on the local landscape. A year later we walked across some of these areas to recognize the possible impact of the fire on the surface archaeological record. Although the material was scarce in the observation areas, signs of alterations resulting from thermal damage in pebbles were identified, such as changes in color and in situ fractures on different rocks, some of them suitable for knapping. Likewise, other indicators of the effect of the fire were recorded, such as charred wood and reddening of the surface sediment around burned bushes. The extension and effects on the landscape of this punctual event allow us to think about the implications that these summer events have on the superficial archaeological record in Patagonia. In this case, the generation of pseudo-artifacts due to thermal fractures, and the misidentification of clusters of pebbles as combustion structures. In addition, these phenomena represent a potential bias in the identification of heat treatment in lithic artifacts, since these could have been exposed to fire once discarded.