bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerobic Heterotrophic Bacterial and Fungal Communities in the Topsoil of Omo Biosphere Reserve in Southwestern Nigeria1
Authors: Okoh A. I. , Babalola G. O. , Olaniran A. O.
Published: March 2006

As a part of the surveillance effort to monitor the ecological status of Omo Biosphere Reserve in the southwestern region of Nigeria, the aerobic heterotrophic bacterial and fungal communities of the topsoil were investigated in March 1995 and April 1996, before the onset of the rainy season. Four distinct wood‐tree plantations, a core strict nature reserve (SNR) area, and a buffer zone were sampled. The topsoil samples (7.5 cm depth), including the litter, were taken with an auger (8 cm diameter) and transported to the laboratory in polyethylene bags. One‐gram dry weight equivalent of sample was suspended in 10 ml sterile water, and serial dilutions from it were used for the estimation of bacterial and fungal densities. The bacterial and fungal densities ranged in the order of 106 and 103 cfu/g, respectively. Out of the 18 bacterial and 16 fungal species that were obtained, 13 and 12, respectively, were isolated from the core SNR. About 46 to 69 percent of the bacteria and 50 to 83 percent of the fungi species found in the SNR were absent in different combinations in the plantations and the buffer zone; these variations were significant among the sites monitored. The bacterial and fungal species compositions were significantly different between the SNR and each of the other sites. Proportional distributions within the sites were significant only for the bacterial communities. It would appear that plantation and human activities have caused significant changes in the distribution and species richness of the heterotrophic bacterial and fungal communities relative to the undisturbed SNR area of the Omo Biosphere Reserve.
Genetic Diversity of a Tropical Tree Species, Shorea leprosula Miq. (Dipterocarpaceae), in Malaysia: Implications for Conservation of Genetic Resources and Tree Improvement1
Authors: Lee S. L. , Wickneswari R. , Mahani M. C. , Zakri A. H.
Published: March 2006

Genetic diversity and population genetic structure of Shorea leprosula was investigated using seven natural populations distributed throughout Peninsular Malaysia and one natural population from Borneo. The mean population and species level genetic diversity were exceptionally high (He= 0.369 ± 0.025 and 0.406 ± 0.070, respectively). Heterozygosity varied among populations, ranging from 0.326 to 0.400, with the highest values found in the populations from central Peninsular Malaysia. Correlations among ecological factors (longitude, latitude, and annual rainfall) were not significant (P > 0.05), indicating that these ecological variables were not responsible for the observed genetic differences among populations. The Bangi adult population exhibited a higher level of observed heterozygosity but lower fixation indices in comparison to its seedling population. All other seedling populations also showed positive fixation indices (f), indicating a general excess of homozygotes. This also may suggest selection against homozygotes between the seedling and adult stages. A low level of population differentiation was detected (GST= 0.117 with the Lambir population and GST= 0.085 without the Lambir population). Furthermore, gene flow (Nm) between populations was not significantly correlated with geographical distances for the populations within Peninsular Malaysia. Cluster analysis also did not reflect geographical proximity and gave little insight into the genetic relatedness of the populations. This may indicate that the populations sampled are part of a continuous population with fragmentation having occurred in the recent past.
Population Structure and Growth Patterns of Opuntia echios var. gigantea along an Elevational Gradient in the Galípagos Islands1
Authors: Hicks David J. , Mauchamp Andre
Published: March 2006

Cacti growing in forests potentially experience growth limitation due to reduced light availability. To test this hypothesis, we studied the population structure of Opuntia echios var. gigantea at 15 sites on the south side of Isla Santa Cruz, Galípagos Islands, Ecuador. Populations were located in communities ranging from arid scrub at low elevations to closed‐canopy tropical dry forest at higher elevations. Ordination confirmed the existence of a strong elevation‐vegetation gradient. Opuntia abundance peaked at lower elevations (ca 30 m), with lower densities in closed‐canopy sites. For populations in scrub vegetation, density declined fairly regularly with plant height. Populations in forested sites had few plants of intermediate height, suggesting periodic recruitment. Scrub populations had random dispersion, while those in forests were aggregated. The change in spatial pattern may be related to a change in primary reproductive mode from asexual propagation via fallen fruits to propagation via fallen cladodes. Height was significantly correlated with stem diameter. Intercepts of these relationships increased toward higher elevations, probably in response to the increasing height of the surrounding canopy.
Phenology of Tree Species in Bolivian Dry Forests
Authors: Justiniano Marcos Joaquín , Fredericksen Todd S.
Published: March 2006

Phenological characteristics of 453 individuals representing 39 tree species were investigated in two dry forests of the Lomerío region, Department of Santa Cruz, Bolivia. The leaf, flower, and fruit production of canopy and sub–canopy forest tree species were recorded monthly over a two–year period. Most canopy species lost their leaves during the dry season, whereas nearly all sub–canopy species retained their leaves. Peak leaf fall for canopy trees coincided with the peak of the dry season in July and August. Flushing of new leaves was complete by November in the early rainy season. Flowering and fruiting were bimodal, with a major peak occurring at the end of the dry season (August–October) and a minor peak during the rainy season (January). Fruit development was sufficiently long in this forest that fruiting peaks actually tended to precede flowering peaks by one month. A scarcity of fruit was observed in May, corresponding to the end of the rainy season. With the exception of figs (Ficus), most species had fairly synchronous fruit production. Most canopy trees had small, wind dispersed seeds or fruits that matured during the latter part of the dry season, whereas many sub–canopy tree species produced larger animal– or gravity–dispersed fruits that matured during the peak of the rainy season. Most species produced fruit annually. Lomerio received less rainfall than other tropical dry forests in which phenological studies have been conducted, but rainfall can be plentiful during the dry season in association with the passage of Antarctic cold fronts. Still, phenological patterns in Bolivian dry forests appear to be similar to those of other Neotropical dry forests.
Comparison of Herbivores and Herbivory in the Canopy and Understory for Two Tropical Tree Species1
Authors: Barone John A.
Published: March 2006

The Janzen–Connell model of tropical forest tree diversity predicts that seedlings and young trees growing close to conspecific adults should experience higher levels of damage and mortality from herbivorous insects, with the adult trees acting as either an attractant or source of the herbivores. Previous research in a seasonal forest showed that this pattern of distance‐dependent herbivory occurred in the early wet season during the peak of new leaf production. I hypothesized that distance‐dependent herbivory may occur at this time because the new foliage in the canopy attracts high numbers of herbivores that are limited to feeding on young leaves. As a consequence, seedlings and saplings growing close to these adults are more likely to be discovered and damaged by these herbivores. In the late wet season, when there is little leaf production in the canopy, leaf damage is spread more evenly throughout the forest and distance dependence disappears. I tested three predictions based on this hypothesis: (1) the same species of insect herbivores attack young and adult trees of a given plant species; (2) herbivore densities increase on adult trees during leaf production; and (3) herbivore densities in the understory rise during the course of the wet season. Censuses were conducted on adults and saplings of two tree species, raribea asterolepis and Alseis blackiana. Adults and saplings of both species had largely the same suite of chewing herbivore species. On adults of Q. asterolepis, the density of chewing herbivores increased 6–10 times during leaf production, but there was no increase in herbivore density on adults of A. blackiana. Herbivore densities increased 4.5 times on A. blackiana saplings and 8.9 times on Q. asterolepis saplings during the wet season, but there were no clear trends on the adults of either species. These results suggest that the potential of adult trees as a source of herbivores on saplings depends on the value of new leaves to a tree species' herbivores, which may differ across tree species.
The Influence of Topography on Tree Growth, Mortality, and Recruitment in a Tropical Montane Forest1
Authors: Bellingham P. J. , Tanner E. V. J.
Published: March 2006

To determine if there were consistent differences in growth, mortality, and recruitment on slopes and ridge crests in tropical montane forests, which could explain the (frequent but not universal) low stature of trees in the ridgetop forests, we analyzed data from long‐term plots in Jamaica (1990–1994; sixteen 200‐m2 plots, six on ridge crests and five each on north and south slopes). Mortality was higher on north slopes, while growth and recruitment rates were not significantly different among positions. Soil pH and effects of recent disturbance by Hurricane Gilbert were positively correlated with growth and recruitment, while slope angle and disturbance effects were the best predictors of mortality. The patterns we found in Jamaica, that growth and recruitment were not higher on ridge crests than slopes, are different than those found by Herwitz and Young in Australia where growth and turnover were greater on a ridge crest. Therefore, it is not possible at present to make simple generalizations about dynamics of ridge crest versus slope forests in the montane tropics.
A Contribution to the Life History of the Rare Indonesian Holoparasite Rafflesia patma (Rafflesiaceae)1
Authors: Hidayati Siti N. , Meijer Willem , Baskin Jerry M. , Walck Jeffrey L.
Published: March 2006

Fates and growth ofRafflesia patmabuds and insect visitation to the flowers were monitored in an evergreen tropical rain forest in the Pangandaran Nature Reserve, Java, Indonesia, Of 59 buds marked in December 1985, 44 percent died before flowering, 7 percent flowered, and 49 percent were still in bud in May 1986. Mammals and birds caused the deaths of buds before they reached maturity. Only four buds flowered between December 1985 and May 1986; all were male. Rate of increase in diameter (cm/d) was much faster in large than in small buds. Once opening began, the flower opened fully in 24 to 48 hours; the flower remained open for three to five days before rotting. Only two genera of insects visited a male flower ofR. patma: LuciliaandSarcophaga(Diptera). Insect visitation was highest in the afternoon (1300–1700 h) and on the second or third day after flower opening. The increased number of flies visiting the flower coincided with the increasing odor emitted from it. Results of the present study were combined with information from the literature to construct a life cycle diagram ofR. patma.
Effects of Dispersal Pattern and Mammalian Herbivores on Seedling Recruitment for Virola michelii (Myristicaceae) in French Guiana1
Authors: Forget Pierre‐Michel , Milleron Tarek , Feer Franćois , Henry Olivier , Dubost Gérard
Published: March 2006

The effects of dispersal pattern (seeds in small clumps vs. seeds scattered in pairs) and distance to the nearest Carapa procera (Meliaceae; a tree that produces seeds preferred by terrestrial vertebrates) on survival of seeds and seedlings were examined for the animal–dispersed tree species Virola michelii (Myristicaceae) in a mature forest‘at Paracou, French Guiana, in 1992 and 1993. We assessed the putative role of ground–dwelling mammalian herbivores, rodents, and ungulates that filter the seed shadow, acting either as dispersers or predators and thus modifying the original pattern of seed dispersal made by frugivores. We measured the effects of simulated seed burial by rodents using marked seeds and quantified the effect of protecting seeds and seedlings from ground–dwelling vertebrates on seedling germination and survival with fence exclosures in 1992. Dispersal pattern had short–term but no long–term effects on the proportion of V. michelii seeds that survived one year later as seedlings. In the short term, within six weeks, clumped seeds survived better than scattered seeds in both years. Marked seeds that were removed from their site of dispersal were eaten; rodents only rarely buried seeds of V. michelii, and seed burial reduced seed and seedling survivorship. The combined effect of the factors year and Carapa proximity significantly affected seed survival within six weeks. Although six–week seed survival was greater in 1993 than in 1992, seedling establishment was lower in 1993 than in 1992 following a lower rainfall regime during the key period of seed germination (February). One–year seed and seedling survivorship was similar between treatments and years. Seed survival and seedling establishment in V. michelii was dependent on vertebrates in the short term and on climate in the long term. Overall, seed and seedling survivorship depended on a combination of these factors.
Variation in Gender and Flower‐Size Dimorphism in the Dioecious Tree Dombeya ciliata, an Endemic to La Reunion Island1
Authors: Humeau Laurence , Pailler Thierry , Thompson John D.
Published: March 2006

The genus Dombeya is an important component of tropical forests in west Africa, Madagascar, and the Mascarene islands, but little is known about the reproductive biology of its members. In this study, we quantified gender variation and flower‐size variation in three populations of the dioecious tree Dombeya ciliata, an endemic of La Reunion Island (Indian Ocean). Variation among the three populations was observed for three characters. First, the high elevation population had strict males and females, whereas in the two low elevation populations, males were inconstant, with > 50 percent of the males set a small number of fruit. Second, females showed greater seed production at high elevation. Third, flower‐size dimorphism was greater at high elevation because male flowers were larger than female flowers.
Nutritional Values of 14 Fig Species and Bat Feeding Preferences in Panama1
Authors: Wendeln Marcia C. , Runkle James R. , Kalko Elisabeth K. V.
Published: March 2006

Figs are a critical resource for many tropical frugivores, yet they often are referred to as low quality fruits. To determine their nutritional value, both as a group and for individual species, we analyzed 14 fig species from Barro Colorado Island (BCI), Panama, for fiber, tannins, lipids, protein, carbohydrates, amino acids, and minerals. Seeds and pulp were analyzed separately. Fig fruit pulp consisted of about one‐third digestible components, mostly carbohydrates with some lipids and proteins. Tannin, lignin, and water‐soluble carbohydrates showed considerable variation among species, as did fruit size. Figs contained high amounts of amino acids, such as leucine, lysine, valine, and arginine, and minerals, such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and phosphorus. One species, Ficus insipida, contained the highest concentrations of almost all amino acids, many minerals, and protein. Small figs had as much nutritional value per gram as large figs. Free‐standing figs had higher percentages of protein, complex carbohydrates, and ash than strangler figs, which had higher percentages of water‐soluble carbohydrates, tannins, and hemicellulose. The guild of fruit‐eating bats on BCI included ten common species with diets dominated by figs. Fecal analyses and captures at ripe fig trees showed a consistent pattern of resource partitioning. Small bats preferentially ate small‐fruited and strangler figs while large bats consumed mostly large‐fruited and free‐standing figs. Small bats most often ate F. bullenei, which has high levels of lipid and carbohydrates, and F. yoponensis, which has high levels of protein. Medium and large bats most often ate F. insipida, a nutritionally superior species; their second most eaten species was F. obtusifolia, in which the large size may make it efficient to eat. Each bat ate a variety of fig species, supporting the idea that although no single species of fig may be sufficient to sustain frugivores, a mix of fig species can provide a complete set of nutrients.
Phenology of Atlantic Rain Forest Trees: A Comparative Study1
Authors: Morellato L. Patnicia C. , Talora Daniela C. , Takahasi Adrians , Bencke Cinara C. , Romera Eliane C. , Zipparro Valescka B.
Published: March 2006

This paper describes the phenology of leaf, flower, and fruit phenology in the Atlantic rain forests of southeastern Brazil. For 17 months, we observed the phenological patterns of trees from two Atlantic forest types at four sites: premontane forest (Sites I and IV; the “typical” Atlantic rain forest) and coastal plain forest (Sites II and III). All sites experience a nonseasonal, tropical wet climate, characterized by an annual rainfall usually > 2000 mm and lacking a dry season. We tested for the occurrence (or absence) of seasonal phenological patterns within each site and compared the patterns detected among the four different forest sites using circular statistics. The expected weakly seasonal phenological patterns were not observed for these forests. Flowering and leaf flush patterns of Atlantic rain forest trees were significantly seasonal, concentrated at the beginning of the wettest season, and were significantly correlated with day length and temperature. These results stress the influence that seasonal variation in day length has on ever‐wet forest tree phenology. Fruiting phenologies were aseasonal in all four forests. Flowering patterns did not differ significantly among three of the four forest sites analyzed, suggesting the occurrence of a general flowering pattern for Atlantic rain forest trees.
Management and Conservation of Natural Populations in Atlantic Rain Forest: The Case Study of Palm Heart (Euterpe edulis Martius)1
Authors: dos Reis Maurício Sedrez , Fantini Alfredo Celso , Nodari Rubens Onofre , Reis Ademir , Guerra Miguel Pedro , Mantovani Adelar
Published: March 2006

Euterpe edulis (Martius) is a single‐stemmed, abundant Neotropical palm of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica). The species produces the heart of palm, locally called palmito, which is an important source of income for forest owners. Because of its high market value, its short‐term demands of the forest environment, and its important interactions with animal species, this palm is suitable for sustainable management and conservation purposes. In this paper, we present the results from a 15‐year investigation of this species, synthesizing results on its demography, seed dispersion, reproductive biology, genetics, and economics. We have linked these results in a proposal for the species' sustainable management and conservation.
Population Viabilities and Conservation Implications for Muriquis (Brachyteles arachnoids) in Brazil's Atlantic Forest1
Authors: Strier Karen B.
Published: March 2006

Muriquis (Brachyteles arachnoids) are endemic to the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil, where an estimated 1200 individuals are distributed unevenly among only 19 populations. Despite the fact that over two–thirds of all muriquis live at low densities in large and protected, undisturbed forests, virtually nothing is known about the demography of these populations. Consideration of the mechanisms underlying the low extinction probabilities simulated for muriquis inhabiting the small, disturbed forest at the EstaÇão Biologica de Caratinga (EEC), Minas Gerais, where long–term demographic and behavioral studies have been conducted, provides disturbing predictions about the viability of other populations living at lower densities. Local resource competition may be responsible for the female–biased infant sex ratio documented at the EBC under the female–biased dispersal regime exhibited by muriquis. At lower population densities, however, release from competition may lead to male–biased infant sex ratios, and correspondingly slower population growth rates. High densities at the EBC also result in frequent intergroup encounters, permitting muriquis there to avoid close inbreeding through extra‐group copulations; but at low densities, opportunities to avoid inbreeding may be more limited. Finally, habitat heterogeneity at the EBC, particularly the greater dietary diversity supported by secondary and regenerating vegetation in disturbed forests, not only may support higher muriqui densities but also provide greater dietary buffers against catastrophic fruit scarcities compared to undisturbed forests. Comparative demographic data on muriqui populations inhabiting undisturbed forests are critically needed to evaluate these predictions and to develop informed management plans for this endangered primate.
Forest Succession in Tropical Hardwood Hammocks of the Florida Keys: Effects of Direct Mortality from Hurricane Andrew1
Authors: Ross Michael S. , Carrlngton Mary , Flynn Laura J. , Ruiz Pablo L.
Published: March 2006

A tree species replacement sequence for dry broadleaved forests (tropical hardwood hammocks) in the upper Florida Keys was inferred from species abundances in stands abandoned from agriculture or other anthropogenic acitivities at different times in the past. Stands were sampled soon after Hurricane Andrew, with live and hurricane‐killed trees recorded separately; thus it was also possible to assess the immediate effect of Hurricane Andrew on stand successional status. We used weighted averaging regression to calculate successional age optima and tolerances for all species, based on the species composition of the pre‐hurricane stands. Then we used weighted averaging calibration to calculate and compare inferred successional ages for stands based on (1) the species composition of the pre‐hurricane stands and (2) the hurricane‐killed species assemblages. Species characteristic of the earliest stages of post‐agricultural stand development remains a significant component of the forest for many years, but are gradually replaced by taxa not present, even as seedlings, during the first few decades. This compositional sequence of a century or more is characterized by the replacement of deciduous by evergreen species, which is hypothesized to be driven by increasing moisture storage capacity in the young organic soils. Mortality from Hurricane Andrew was concentrated among early‐successional species, thus tending to amplify the long‐term trend in species composition.
Landscape Heterogeneity and Diurnal Raptor Diversity in Honduras: The Role of Indigenous Shifting Cultivation1
Authors: Anderson David L.
Published: March 2006

I studied the relationship between diurnal raptor diversity, density, and richness, and landscape heterogeneity in continuous primary forests and forests farmed by native Amerindians in the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve of northeastern Honduras from January to June 1996 and 1997. I estimated landscape heterogeneity–the variability in naturally occurring and/or anthropogenic habitat mosaics–by mapping the extent and distribution of five human‐modified and natural habitats in 24 1 km2 survey plots. I used the Shannon index to calculate landscape heterogeneity values for the respective plots based on the proportion of total area of each habitat within each plot. Diurnal raptor surveys from canopy‐emergent viewpoints in these plots resulted in 137 observations of 18 species of raptors. Four species (Coragyps atratus, Ictinia plumbea, Leucopternis albicollis, and Buteo magnirostris) differed significantly in abundance among heterogeneity classes. Raptor diversity, density, and richness all increased directly with increasing landscape heterogeneity. Landscape heterogeneity was more important in explaining differences in raptor species diversity than the presence or extent of any single habitat or combination of habitats. In contrast to previous studies, my results indicate the importance of indigenous shifting cultivation in altering the naturally occurring patterns of habitat mosaics in lowland rain forest and its effect on bird species abundance and diversity in a rain forest ecosystem.

RESUMES

Estudié la relación entre la diversidad, densidad y la riqueza de especies de rapaces diurnas con la heterogeinidad de paisajes en bosques primaries contínues y bosques donde practican la agricultura migratoria indígenas de la Reserva de Biósfera del Río Plátano al noreste de Honduras entre los meses de enero a junio de 1996 y 1997. Evalué la heterogeneidad de paisajes‐la variabilidad en mosaicos de hábitats naturales o antropogínicos‐con mapas de cinco hábitats en 24 parcelas de 1 km2. Usé el Indice de Shannon para calcular valores de la heterogeneidad de cada parcela, basado en la proporción de cada hábitat. Desde el dosel, hice conteos de rapaces en las 24 parcelas que resukaron en 137 observaciones de 18 especies. Cuatro especies (Coragyps atratus, Ictinia plumbea, Leocopternis albicollis, y Buteo magnirostris) difirieron significativamente en abundancia entre los grupos de heterogeneidad del paisaje. La diversidad, densidad y riqueza de especies aumentaron conjuntamente con la heterogeneidad del paisaje. La heterogeneidad del paisaje rue mas importante para explicar la diversidad de rapaces que la presencia o el área de cualquier hábitat o combinación de hábitats. En contraste con estudios anteriores, mis resultados sugieron la importancia de la agricultura migratoria indigena en la alteracíon de mosaicos de hábitats naturales en los bosques hiimedos bajos, y su efecto en la abundancia y diversidad de aves de un ecosistema forestal.
The Role of Fruits and Insects in the Nutrition of Frugivorous Bats: Evaluating the Use of Stable Isotope Models1
Authors: Herrera M. L. Gerardo , Hobson Keith A. , Manzo A Adriana , Estrada B Daniel , Sánchez‐Cordero Victor , Méndez C. Germán
Published: March 2006

We estimated the relative contribution of fruits and insects as sources of dietary protein in two species of Neotropical frugivorous bats (Artibeus jamaicensis and Sturnira lilium) using stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analyses. An insectivorous species (Pteronotus parnellii) was also included for comparison. We found constant patterns in stable carbon and nitrogen isotope composition in blood that separated the two species of frugivorous bats from the insectivorous bat. When we used these isotopic values (combined with those of dietary fruits and insects) to estimate the percent contribution of fruits and insects to the diet of the bats, we obtained different results, depending on assumptions and model adopted. We tested models using both 8“N and 8′3C results simultaneously and separately and further used diet‐tissue fractionation factors of 3%o for nitrogen and 1 and 3.5%o for carbon. We found that a carbon‐based model with a diet‐blood enrichment factor of 3.5%o produced the most parsimonious results. The model estimated that A. jamaicensis and S. lilium obtained most of their protein requirements from fruits, whereas P. parnellii fed mostly on insects. No sexual or seasonal variations in the diet of the two frugivorous species were detected. We found no evidence that the diet of sexually active females differed from that of nonsexually active females in the two species of frugivorous bats. We suggest that future studies better define isotopic fractionation between diet and tissues of bats using captive rearing and controlled diets.
Effects of Multiple Disturbances (Fire and Hurricane) on Epiphyte Community Dynamics in a Subtropical Forest, Florida, U.S.A.1
Authors: Robertson Kevin M. , Platt William J.
Published: March 2006

We addressed the interacting effects of a natural large–scale fire and a subsequent major hurricane on relative positions of epiphytes in a subtropical forest. In Everglades National Park, subtropical hammocks (hardwood tree “islands”; burned and unburned) during the Ingraham Fire (1989) were surveyed for trees and epiphytic bromeliads (Tillandsia spp.) one year before, as well as one and five years after, Hurricane Andrew (1992). We measured trees (species, diameter, and status [alive/dead]) and epiphytes (species, height, host tree characteristics, substrate life status, and density). The fire decreased the height of epiphytes during the hurricane because branches and bark of trees killed by the fire were unstable epiphyte substrates in the high winds. Proportions of epiphytes on Quercus virginiana were equally increased after the hurricane in both unburned and burned hammocks; the large size and bark characteristics resulted in greater proportional survival of epiphytes on this species. During the five years following the hurricane, changes in the distributions of epiphytes generally were toward pre–hurricane distributions, but recovery was faster in unburned than burned hammocks. We conclude that disturbances that kill trees are likely to amplify the vertical reduction of epiphytes during a subsequent hurricane and that effects of a single disturbance on plant populations can be influenced by the disturbance history of the system, including different types of disturbances.
Poachers and Forest Fragmentation Alter Seed Dispersal, Seed Survival, and Seedling Recruitment in the Palm Attalea butyraceae, with Implications for Tropical Tree Diversity1
Authors: Wright S. Joseph , Duber Herbert C.
Published: March 2006

We examined the interaction between a palm and two bruchid beetles along with several mammal species to explore how poachers and habitat fragmentation may indirectly alter the spatial pattern of seed dispersal, seed predation, and seedling recruitment in central Panama. The large, stony endocarps of Attalea butyraceae decay slowly and bear distinctive scars when opened by rodents or beetles. We determined the final distance between endocarps and reproductive trees (which we call an ecologically effective dispersal distance), the predation status of each endocarp, and the distance between seedlings and reproductive trees. The 68 focal trees were divided among 14 sites and four levels of anthropogenic disturbance. Levels of disturbance included full protection from poachers, light and heavy pressure from poachers, and small island habitat fragments. Ecologically effective seed dispersal distances were greatest for protected sites, intermediate for lightly poached sites, and shortest for heavily poached sites and habitat fragments. Seed predation by rodents increased with distance to the nearest reproductive Attalea and was greatest for fully protected sites, intermediate for lightly poached sites, and least for heavily poached sites and habitat fragments. Seed predation by beetles reversed the patterns described for seed predation by rodents. Total seed predation by beetles and rodents combined was independent of distance, greatest for fully protected sites, and lower for poached sites and habitat fragments. Seedling densities were always greatest close to reproductive trees; however, the increase in seedling densities close to reproductive trees was minimal for fully protected sites, clearly evident for poached sites, and pronounced for habitat fragments. Increased seedling recruitment near conspecific trees may in time reduce tree diversity where humans disrupt mammal communities.
Variation in Post‐dispersal Seed Predation in Mature Peruvian Lowland Tropical Forest and Fallow Agricultural Sites1
Authors: Notman Evan , Gorchov David L.
Published: March 2006

Variation in post‐dispersal seed predation between mature forest and fallow swidden agriculture sites (young forest) was examined for 26 tree and liana species in Peruvian lowland tropical forest. Exclosures were also used to determine the relative importance of vertebrate and invertebrate seed predators. Although species differed significantly in levels of predation, predation of seeds exposed to vertebrates was high (>75%) for all species, while seed predation by invertebrates was lower and more variable. Seed and seedling predation by insects was significantly higher in mature forest, while seed predation by rodents was higher in fallow areas. Other sources of mortality (primarily desiccation) were higher for seeds in fallow areas. The percentage of seeds moved was significantly different among species but not between forests.

RESUMES

La variación en depredación de semillas, después de dispersadas, se examinó en el bosque maduro y la purma (áreas de agricultura en sucesión) para 26 especies de árboles y lianas en un bosque tropical de bajura en Perú. Se utilizaron tratamientos de exclusión para determinar la importancia relativa de depredadores de semillas vertebrados e inverte‐brados. Aunque las especies difirieron significativamente en niveles de depredación, la depredación de las semillas expuestas a vertebrados fue alta (>75%) para todas las especies, mientras que la depredación de semillas por inver‐tebrados fue más baja y más variable. La depredación de semillas y plántulas por insectos fue significativamente mas alta en el bosque maduro, mientras que la depredación de semillas por roedores fue más alta en purmas. Otras causas de mortalidad (principalmente desecación) fueron más comunes en las purmas. El porcentaje de semillas movidas difirió significativamente entre especies pero no entre los dos tipos de bosque.
North—South Patterns within Arboreal Ant Assemblages from Rain Forests in Eastern Australia1
Authors: Majer J. D. , Kitching R. L. , Heterick B. E. , Hurley K. , Brennan K. E. C.
Published: March 2006

This paper describes the ant assemblages sampled from rain forest canopies ranging from southern Victoria through to Cape York Peninsula, Australia, and also in Brunei. Specifically, it examines the influence of decreasing latitude and variations in elevation on the character, richness, and abundance of the arboreal rain forest ant fauna, and also the relative contribution of ants to the total arthropod community. The sites that were examined included: cool temperate Nothofagus cunninghamii forest from a range of locations in Victoria; cool temperate N. moorei forest at both Werrikimbe and Styx River, New South Wales; notophyll vine forest in Lamington National Park, southeast Queensland; high elevation notophyll vine forest in Eungella National Park, central Queensland; complex notophyll vine forest at Robson Creek, Atherton Tablelands, north Queensland; complex mesophyll vine forest at Cape Tribulation, north Queensland; and mixed dipterocarp forest in Brunei. Although these sites represent a gradient increasingly tropical in character, botanically speaking, Eungella is less tropical than Lamington because of its high elevation. All samples were obtained by fogging the canopy with a rapid‐knockdown pyrethrin pesticide. In all cases, circular funnels were suspended beneath the foliage of individual trees or small plots of mixed canopy. Arthropods were collected four hours after fogging. Following ordinal sorting, ants were identified and counted to morphospecies level. The resulting catch were then standardized across sites as numbers caught per 0.5 m2 sampling funnel. Generic and species richness were higher at the lowland tropical Cape Tribulation sites than at the sites to the south and was comparable with values in the Brunei site. Species richness was negatively correlated with latitude and elevation. Within the Australian rain forest, the lowland/highland break appears to be the strongest predictor of ant relative abundance, with a weaker latitudinal relationship superimposed.
The Behavior and Interactions of Birds Visiting Erythrina fusca Flowers in the Colombian Amazon1
Authors: Cotton Peter A.
Published: March 2006

I observed 22 species of birds visiting flowering Erythrina fusca trees at Matamatá, Amazonas, Colombia. The large orange flowers of E. fusca are adapted for pollination by birds and are protected from illegitimate visits by a petal that covers the nectaries and anthers until displaced by a foraging bird. Experiments with flowers bagged to exclude potential pollinators demonstrated that the flowers do not open without assistance. At Matamatá, parrots are the most frequent visitors to flowering E. fusca, and two species, Dusky‐headed Parakeet (Aratinga weddellii) and Cobalt‐winged Parakeet (Brotogeris cyanoptera), appear to be the main pollinators. This is only the fourth report of Neotropical parrots acting as pollinating agents. At least five other parrot species fed on the nectar or flowers of E. fusca but destroyed the flowers in the process. Orange‐backed Troupials (Icterus jamacaii) were the only other species observed opening E. fusca flowers nondestructively and are likely to be pollinators. Hummingbirds were common visitors to E. fusca flowers and some species were found to carry E. fusca pollen; however, hummingbirds were unable to open the flowers themselves and relied on other visitors to open the flowers for them. The number of hummingbird visits to a flowering E. fusca tree was positively correlated with the number of visits by parrots and icterids, but not with the number of mature flowers, indicating that legitimate visitors facilitate access by hummingbirds.
Soil Phosphorus Fractionation during Forest Development on Landslide Scars in the Luquillo Mountains, Puerto Rico1
Authors: Frizano Jacqueline , Johnson Arthur H. , Vann David R. , Scatena Frederick N.
Published: March 2006

Mineral soils from a chronosequence of landslide scars ranging in age from 1 to more than 55 years in a subtropical montane rain forest of eastern Puerto Rico were used to determine the rate at which labile P capital recovers during primary succession. Nine organic and inorganic soil P fractions were measured using the Hedley sequential extraction procedure. Deep soil cores (9 m) from a nearby site were also analyzed to determine the distribution of P fractions below the solum. Litterfall P was measured for two years in the landslide scars to estimate allochthonous litter P inputs, and published precipitation data were used to estimate annual atmospheric inputs of P to the recovering forests. In the upper solum (0–10 cm), organic matter increased with landslide age, as did resin‐Pi, labile P (defined here as resin‐Pi + HCO3‐Pi + HCO3‐Po) and total organic P. Occluded P decreased with increasing landslide age. No significant changes in P concentrations or pools were observed in 10 to 35 or in 35 to 60 cm depth intervals across the chronosequence. Labile soil P increased to approximately two‐thirds of the pre‐disturbance levels in the oldest landslide scar (>55 yr). Thus, plants, their associated microflora/fauna, and P inputs from off‐site substantially altered the distribution of soil P fractions during forest recovery. Across the chronosequence, the increase in labile P accumulated in soil and biomass appeared to be greater than the estimated allochthonous inputs from litter and precipitation, indicating that as the forest developed, some occluded P may have been released for use by soil biota. Resin‐Pi and labile P were correlated with soil organic matter content, suggesting, as in other highly weathered soils, organic matter accumulation and turnover are important in maintaining labile P pools. Primary mineral P (apatite) was scarce, even in deep soil cores.
Phenology of Gallery and Montane Forest in the Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brazil1
Authors: Funch Ligia Silveira , Punch Roy , Barroso Graziela Maciel
Published: March 2006

Phenological studies were carried out in gallery and montane forests along the Lençóis River in the Chapada Diamantina mountains, state of Bahia, Brazil, between January 1993 and March 1998. Leaf flush, leaf fall, flowering, and fruiting were followed in 54 tree species (N= 243 trees tagged along trails following the river margin and the valley sides). Both gallery and montane forests exhibited a moderate peak in leaf fall during die dry season (August–October), as well as increased leaf flushing in the rainy season (December–April). Three basic modes of leafing activity were noted, although most trees in the gallery forest and in the montane forest were evergreen (82.3 and 57.8% relative frequency, respectively). In both forest types, flowering and fruiting modes were annual, with peaks of activity during the rainy season. The predominantly evergreen mode of leaf fall and leaf flush found in this study was most similar to that seen in tropical wet forests, while the flowering and fruiting modes were more similar to that of dry forests.

RESUMES

Foi desenvolvido um estudo fenológico em mata ciliar e mata de encosta adjacentes ao rio Lençóis, Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brasil entre Janeiro de 1993 a março de 1998 em 54 espécies de árvores, atentando‐se para as fenofases queda e brotamento de folhas, floração e frutificação. Foram acompanhados 243 individuos marcados ao longo de trilhas seguindo as margens do rio e na encosta. Em ambas as matas, verificou‐se um pico moderado de queda foliar durante a estação seca (agosto‐outubro) e maior brotamento durante a estação chuvosa (dezembro‐abril). Foram reconhecidos três padrões de queda e brotamento foliar, sendo os padrões perenifólios predominantes tanto na mata ciliar quanto na mata de encosta (82.3 e 57.8% Freqüência Relativa, respectivamente). Em ambas as matas, os padrões de floração e frutificação foram anuais, com picos de atividade durante a estação chuvosa. Os padrões de queda e produção foliar assemelharam‐se queles encontrados em matas umidas, sendo o perenifólio predominante; enquanto padrões de floração e frutificação são similares ao de matas secas.
Distress Calls of Birds in a Neotropical Cloud Forest1
Authors: Neudorf Diane L. , Sealy Spencer G.
Published: March 2006

Distress calls are loud, harsh calls given by some species of birds when they are captured by a predator or handled by humans. We recorded the frequency of distress calls and struggling behavior in 40 species of birds captured in mist nets during the dry season in a Costa Rica cloud forest. We tested the following hypotheses proposed to explain the function of distress calls: (1) calling for help from kin or reciprocal altruists; (2) warning kin; (3) eliciting mobbing behavior; (4) startling the predator; and (5) distracting the predator through attraction of additional predators. Our results did not support the calling‐for‐help, warning kin, or mobbing hypotheses. Indeed, genera that regularly occurred with kin or in flocks were not more likely to call than non‐flocking genera. There was no relationship between calling frequency and struggling behavior as predicted by the predator startle hypothesis. Genera of larger birds tended to call more than smaller birds, providing some support for both the predator distraction hypothesis and predator startle hypotheses. Calls of higher amplitude may be more effective in startling the predator. Distress calls of larger birds may also travel greater distances than those of smaller birds, supporting the predator manipulation hypothesis, but this requires further testing.
Nutritional Evaluation of Terrestrial Invertebrates as Traditional Food in Amazonia1
Authors: Marconi Stefania , Manzi Pamela , Pizzoferrato Laura , Buscardo Erika , Cerda Hugo , Hernandez Danilo Lopez , Paoletti Maurizio G.
Published: March 2006

In tropical areas worldwide, more than 1000 terrestrial species of invertebrates are used as food. For populations of Amazonian areas, different species of insects and other invertebrates serve as nourishing food sources. Here, we document the composition and nutritional quality of some invertebrates consumed in Venezuelan Amazonia, including termites (Isoptera) and earthworms (Glossoscolecidae) eaten by the Ye'Kuana (Makiritare) and caterpillars (Lepidoptera) and grubs (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) consumed by the Yanomamo. Consumption of 100 g of any of these invertebrates contributed 1.2–9.4 percent of the daily fat requirement and 26–144 percent of the protein daily requirement for an adult male. The sample of caterpillars regularly eaten by these peoples was rich in beta carotene (provitamin A), and a 100 g ingestion guaranteed 323 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A. The greatest amount of alpha tocopherol was provided by the consumption of the smoked earthworms (36.7%). Earthworms and termites contained high levels of sterols, mainly cholesterol. The consumption of these animals by tropical human populations represents not only an important traditional habit but also, considering their nutritional composition, a substantial contribution to the human diet.
The Structure of Ground Beetle Assemblages (Coleoptera: Carabidae) at Fruit Falls of Melastomataceae Trees in a Brazilian Terra Firme Rain Forest1
Authors: Paarmann Wilfried , Gutzmann Burkhard , Stumpe Philipp , Bolte Hubertus , Küppers Steffen , Holzkamp Karsten , Niers Clemens , Adis Joachim , Stork Nigel E. , da Fonseca Claudlo R. V.
Published: March 2006

Although most Carabidae are recognized as predacious, recent studies have shown that some tropical rain forest Carabidae use the small seeds of fallen fruit from some tree species as a key food resource (particularly figs [Moraceae] but also those from other families). Assemblages of carabid beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) at fruit falls of the Melastomataceae tree genera, Bellucia, Loreya, and Miconia, were studied in a terra firme rain forest near Manaus (Amazonia, Brazil) from February 1992 to August 1996. Of 5483 specimens of 14 carabid species collected at 53 fruit falls, 98.2 percent of the collected beetles represented the seed‐feeding genus Notiobia. Four of the 7 Notiobia species were found to reproduce at Melastomataceae fruit falls. The most abundant species, N. glabrata, was found to be a Melastomataceae seed generalise while N. maxima seemed to prefer the seeds of Bellucia, and N. aulica and Af. umbrifera the seeds of Miconia. The presence of larvae indicated reproduction of N. glabrata at fruit falls of all three tree genera and reproduction of N. maxima at those of Bellucia. Fruit falls of different species and genera of Melastomataceae appeared to occur at different times of die year and not continuously throughout the year. The seed‐feeding Notiobia species, which specialize on Melastomataceae, used fruit falls of figs as migratory “stepping stones” during periods when there were no Melastomataceae fruit falls. The comparable suite of fig seed‐feeding specialist species of Notiobia did not appear to do the reverse and seemed to avoid Melastomataceae fruit falls. The carabid assemblage at fig fruit falls was more diverse than the assemblage at those of Melastomataceae. Among the Melastomataceae, carabid species richness was highest at Miconia fruit falls and lowest at Loreya fruit falls. The three most common predatory species caught at Ficus fruit falls were also caught at those of Melastomataceae and appeared to reproduce at both fruit fall types. The proportion of the carabid assemblage accounted by predatory species was much lower at Melastomataceae (1.8%) than at fig fruit falls (8%).