bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Butterflies from the Uberlândia region, Central Brazil: species list and biological comments
Authors: MOTTA P. C.
Published: April 2005

A total of 251 butterfly species were recorded in Uberlândia region, with collecting concentrated mainly in forest areas. Aspects of geographic distribution of some Ithomiinae, as well as interactions of both adults and immatures with plants, and reproduction periods for the more abundant species are discussed. Collections in open, riverside, and wetland areas, as well as the use of bait, should substantially increase the number of species.
Population dynamics of calyptrate diptera (Muscidae and Sarcophagidae) at the Rio-Zoo Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
Authors: OLIVEIRA V. C. , D'ALMEIDA J. M. , PAES M. J. , SANAVRIA A.
Published: April 2005

Twenty-seven species of calyptrate muscoids (Muscidae and Sarcophagidae) were collected from December 1993 to November 1994 with wind oriented traps (W.O.T.) baited with decomposing beef liver at the Rio de Janeiro Zoo. The most abundant species found were Musca domestica (57.84%), Peckia chrysostoma (28.16%), Ophyra aenescens (17.11%), Oxysarcodexia thornax (17.82%), Synthesiomyia nudiseta (13.05%), and Oxysarcodexia diana (14.52%).
Natural enemies of the gall-maker Eugeniamyia dispar (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae): predatory ants and parasitoids
Authors: MENDONÇA M. de S., Jr. , ROMANOWSKI H. P.
Published: April 2005

Natural enemies of the gall maker Eugeniamyia dispar (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) were studied on the urban area of Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil from October 1993 to March 1996. Galls and associated arthropods were followed weekly in the field on individual host plants (Eugenia uniflora, Myrtaceae) and also in the laboratory. Three species of ants attacked the galls, the most common being Pseudomyrmex sp. A proportion of galls was parasitised by Rileya sp. (Eurytomidae). The adults of this solitary ectoparasitoid were also attacked by the ants and fell prey to spider webs.
Fruiting phenology and consumption by birds in Ficus calyptroceras (Miq.) Miq. (Moraceae)
Authors: RAGUSA-NETTO J.
Published: April 2005

Figs are a remarkable food resource to frugivores, mainly in periods of general fruit scarcity. Ficus calyptroceras Miq. (Moraceae) is the only fig species in a type of dry forest in western Brazil. In this study I examined the fruiting pattern as well as fig consumption by birds in F. calyptroceras. Although rainfall was highly seasonal, fruiting was aseasonal, since the monthly proportion of fruiting trees ranged from 4% to 14% (N = 50 trees). I recorded 22 bird species feeding on figs. In the wet season 20 bird species ate figs, while in the dry season 13 did. Parrots were the most important consumers. This group removed 72% and 40% of the figs consumed in the wet and dry seasons, respectively. No bird species increases fig consumption from dry to wet season. However, a group of bird species assumed as seed dispersers largely increases fig consumption from wet to dry season, suggesting the importance of this resource in the period of fruit scarcity. The results of this study points out the remarkable role that F. calyptroceras plays to frugivorous birds, in such a dry forest, since its fruits were widely consumed and were available all year round.
Screening for exopolysaccharide-producing bacteria from sub-tropical polluted groundwater
Authors: FUSCONI R. , GODINHO M. J. L.
Published: April 2005

A selection of exopolysaccharide (EPS) -- producing bacterial strains was conducted in groundwater adjacent to an old controlled landfill in the City of São Carlos (São Paulo, Brazil). The strains were isolated in P and E media under aerobic and microaerophilic conditions at 25ºC. A total of 26 strains were isolated and based on the mucoid mode of the colonies, 6 were selected and their morphological, physiological and biochemical aspects were characterized. All strains presented pigmentation, ranging from yellow to orange and from pink to salmon, with a shiny glistening aspect in all tested media. Strains Lb, Lc and Lg, which excelled the others with regard to the mucoid mode of the colonies, were selected to be cultured in E medium with alternate sucrose and glucose as carbon sources in anaerobiosis at 25ºC to analyze the production of EPS. Strains Lc and Lg were classified as being of order Actinomycelates, suborder Corynebacterineae. Lg strain was identified as Gordonia polyisoprenivorans and Lc strain did not correspond to a known description and therefore a more detailed study is under preparation. Considering all ecological aspects and the metabolic potential associated with the microorganisms of the environment studied, as well as the capacity to produce pigment and EPS, and the presence of G. polyisoprenivorans, a rubber degrader bacterium, the potential of the groundwater analyzed is evident as a source of microorganisms to be utilized in studies related to environmental remediation.
The effects of treatment with melatonin on the ultrastructure of mouse leydig cells: a quantitative study
Authors: REDINS C. A. , REDINS G. M. , NOVAES J. C.
Published: April 2005

Both the presence of receptors for gonadal steroids in the pineal gland and in vitro observations of direct action of melatonin upon Leydig cells, inhibiting testosterone secretion, indicate a direct connection between pineal gland and gonadal function. In the present study, we used a transmission electron microscope to analyze the morphologic parameters of Leydig cells from adult Swiss outbred white mice treated with daily subcutaneous injections of 100 µg of melatonin (N-acetyl, 5-methoxytryptamine), during 22 consecutive days, compared with sham-control animals which had only received the melatonin vehicle. The melatonin group of mice showed a decrease in nuclear volume and fractional nuclear volume; smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum; mitochondria; and Golgi complex. Our data also showed an increase in cytoplasmic volume, fractional cytoplasmic volume, and lysosomes in these same animals. The results suggest that melatonin, directly or indirectly, alters the ultrastructure of mouse Leydig cells and possibly influences their secretory activity by inhibiting their capacity to secrete steroids.
Composition and abundance of zooplankton in the limnetic zone of seven reservoirs of the Paranapanema River, Brazil
Authors: SAMPAIO E. V. , ROCHA O. , MATSUMURA-TUNDISI T. , TUNDISI J. G.
Published: April 2005

The species composition and abundance of the zooplankton community of seven reservoirs of the Paranapanema River, located between 22º37'-23º11'S and 48º55'-50º32'W, were analysed over four periods, in the year of 1979. The zooplankton community was composed of 76 species of Rotifera, 26 species of Cladocera and 7 species of Copepoda. For a large part of the period under study the Rotifera were dominant, followed by Copepoda. The Piraju and Salto Grande reservoirs, which occupy intermediate positions in the cascade of reservoirs, were richest in species, most of them belonging to Rotifera and Cladocera. In the reservoirs Rio Pari and Rio Novo, lateral to the cascade of reservoirs, a lower species richness was observed, although higher densities of organisms were found than in the other reservoirs located in the main river body. Different rotifer species occurred in succession, being abundant in different periods, with no defined pattern. Among the copepods, Thermocyclops decipiens predominated in the majority of the reservoirs. Ceriodaphnia cornuta was the most abundant cladoceran in the intermediate reservoirs of the cascade, and Daphnia gessneri, Bosminopsis deitersi and Moina minuta, in the reservoirs lateral to the cascade. The most frequent zooplankton species were Notodiaptomus conifer, Thermocyclops decipiens, Ceriodaphnia cornuta cornuta and C. cornuta rigaudi, Daphnia gessneri, Bosmina hagmanni, Keratella cochlearis and Polyarthra vulgaris. Some relationships were found between the trophic state of the reservoirs and the zooplankton community.
Evaluation of the courtship and of the hybrid male sterility among Drosophila buzzatii cluster species (Diptera, Drosophilidae)
Authors: MACHADO L. P. de B. , CASTRO J. P.de , MADI-RAVAZZI L.
Published: April 2005

In the Drosophila repleta group the establishment of subgroups and complexes made on the basis of morphological and cytological evidences is supported by tests of reproductive isolation. Among species in the repleta group, the buzzatii cluster, due to its polymorphism and polytipism, is an excellent material for ecological and speciation studies. Some interspecific crosses involving Drosophila seriema, Drosophila sp. B, D. koepferae and D. buzzatii strains were completely sterile while others involving strains from these species produced F1 hybrids that did not yield F2. In the present work, data on courtship duration and copula occurrence obtained in the analysis of flies from parental sterile crosses and on spermatozoon mobility observed in F1 hybrids that did not yield F2 are presented. Copula did not occur during one hour of observation and the spermatozoon also did not show mobility at any of the analyzed stages (3, 7, 9 and 10 days old). There was a high variation in courtship average duration and in the percentage of males that courted the females. The reproductive isolation mechanisms indicated by these observations were pre and post-zygotic, as supported by the absence of copula and male sterility. Data obtained also showed the occurrence of different degrees of reproductive compatibility among the strains classified as the same species but from distinct geographic localities.
Mating influence in the ovary differentiation in adult queens of Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Authors: PATRÍCIO K. , CRUZ-LANDIM C.
Published: April 2005

The present results show that in the ovarioles of a newly emerged (0 day) queen of A. mellifera only two regions may be distinguished: a proximal, short germarium and a very long distal, terminal filament. As the queen matures and gets ready for the nupcial flight, the germarium increases in lenght, advancing towered the distal end, as the terminal filament shortens. The ovarioles of queens ready to mate (6 to 8 days old) have, already one or two ovarian follicles, i.e. a very short proximal vitellarium, but a real vitellogenesis only starts after the fecundation. If the queen does not mate the ovarioles structure is disrupted (12-16 days old). In mated queen eggs the ovarioles present three differentiated regions, from the apice to the basis: a short terminal filament, a medium size germarium, and a very long basal vitellarium. As the eggs are laid, the emptied follicle collapses, degenerates and produces a corpus luteum.
Host plant use among closely related Anaea butterfly species (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Charaxinae)
Authors: QUEIROZ J. M.
Published: April 2005

There is a great number of Charaxinae (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) species in the tropics whose larvae feed on several plant families. However the genus Anaea is almost always associated with Croton species (Euphorbiaceae). This work describes patterns of host plant use by immature and adult abundance on different vertical strata of sympatric Anaea species in a forest of Southeastern Brazil. Quantitative samples of leaves were taken in April/1999 and May/2000 to collect eggs and larvae of four Anaea species on C.alchorneicarpus, C. floribundus and C. salutaris in a semideciduous forest. Sampled leaves were divided into three classes of plant phenological stage: saplings, shrubs and trees. The results showed that the butterfly species are segregating in host plant use on two scales: host plant species and plant phenological stages. C. alchorneicarpus was used by only one Anaea species, whereas C. floribundus was used by three species and C. salutaris by four Anaea species. There was one Anaea species concentrated on sapling, another on sapling/shrub and two others on shrub/tree leaves. Adults of Anaea were more frequent at canopy traps but there were no differences among species caught in traps at different vertical positions. This work supplements early studies on host plant use among Charaxinae species and it describes how a guild of closely related butterfly species may be organized in a complex tropical habitat.
Intraspecific variation in Trichogramma bruni Nagaraja, 1983 (Hymanoptera: Trichogrammatidae) associated with different hosts
Authors: QUERINO R. B. , ZUCCHI R. A.
Published: April 2005

Trichogramma bruni is an insufficienty studied South American species whose limits are still not well defined. Thus, the objective of the present study was to characterize T. bruni taxonomically and to determine the association between morphological variations as well as host and habitat, based on morphological and biological studies. Specimens from the Escola Superior de Agricultura "Luiz de Queiroz" (ESALQ) collection, and from the University of California Riverside (UCR) and specimens collected from the vegetation of forest parks with native areas planted with eucalyptus in Piracicaba and Itatinga, State of São Paulo, were also analyzed. The holotype deposited at Univeridade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) collection was also examined. The variability in the genital capsule of T. bruni observed both among individuals of the same progeny and among specimens from different hosts is remarkable and is mainly related to the dorsal lamina. Therefore, an association of diagnostic characters rather than the dorsal lamina alone should be used for the identification of T. bruni and intraspecific variations should be considered. The intraspecific variation observed for T. bruni is a factor that should be considered for its identification, since the influence of the environment (habitat + host) and the variation among individuals itself is responsible for the plasticity observed in the genital capsule. Heliconius erato phyllis, Hamadryas feronia, Erosina hyberniata and Mechanitis lysiminia are new hosts of T. bruni.
Population growth and development of two species of Cladocera, Moina micrura and Diaphanosoma birgei, in laboratory
Authors: SIPAÚBA-TAVARES L. H. , BACHION M. A.
Published: April 2005

The objective of the present work was to investigate the influence of four diets on population growth, development, total length, dry weight, and nutritional value of two zooplanktonic species, Moina micrura and Diaphanosoma birgei. The four dietary treatments were: algae alone (A); algae + vitamins (AV); algae + ration (AR); and algae + ration + vitamins (ARV). Growth rate peak for both species occurred faster with AV treatment. In general, AV treatment for M. micrura showed better results for intrinsic rate, fecundity, and embryonic and post-embryonic development. On the other hand, longevity and total spawning number were better with AR treatment (p < 0.05). Vitamin and ration treatments produced the best results in D. birgei species (p < 0.05). The highest percentage of protein and lipids for both cladocerans was verified for ration treatments. Carbohydrate was higher for the treatment containing algae alone (p < 0.05). Generally, diets containing ration and vitamin showed better results in cladocerans development, with water quality adequate for culture systems. Ration and vitamin diets may also be used in high-density cultures in the laboratory.
The effects of constant and alternating temperatures on the reproductive potential, life span, and life expectancy of Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann) (Dipteria: Tephritidae)
Authors: CARDOSO V. V. , FERREIRA M. P. , MONTAGNER J. M. , FERNANDEZ C. G. , MOREIRA J. C. , OLIVEIRA A. K.
Published: April 2005

Ovarian development, oviposition, larval eclosion, ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity, ovarian, testis and ejaculatory apodeme measurements (length, width, and area), and the number of spermatozoa of Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann) were analyzed at alternating (20º/6ºC and 20º/13°C) and constant (6°C; 25°C) temperatures. Life span and life expectancy were also analyzed for both genders. All the results suggest that temperature, especially alternating temperatures, increase not only male and female reproductive potential but also their life span and life expectancy. These changes can be a powerful strategy triggered by A. fraterculus as a means to survive the stressful temperature conditions found in winter in the apple production region in Brazil, enabling this species to increase its population density and cause apple damage when spring begins.
Movement pattern of Spartocera dentiventris (Berg) (Hemiptera: Coreidae) in an experimental crop of Nicotiana tabacum L. (Solanaceae)
Authors: JESUS C. R. , ROMANOWSKI H. P. , REDAELLI L. R.
Published: April 2005

In the present work we investigated the movement pattern of Spartocera (=Corecoris) dentiventris (Berg) (Hemiptera: Coreidae) adults through the mark-release-recapture method in an experimental tobacco crop (Nicotiana tabacum L., Solanaceae) in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. We marked 217 specimens from August 1999 to April 2000. Females moved 2.94 ± 0.198 times and males 1.46 ± 0.171 times among host plants. The number of movements per capture was 0.53 ±0.03 for females and 0.54 ± 0.06 for males. Newly recruited adults took 12.75 ± 0.919 days to leave their original plant, females moved 9.87 ± 0.711 m and males 9.16 ± 1.29 m in this first movement. We estimate that females move an average of 26.22 m and males 13.89 m during their permanence in the area.
Preliminary identification and quantification of the age-pigment lipofuscin in the brain of Farfantepenaeus paulensis (Crustacea: Decapoda)
Authors: Peixoto S. , Aguado N. , D'Incao F. , Wasielesky W. , Cousin J. C.
Published: April 2005

A preliminary study was done on the age-pigment lipofuscin content in the brains of captive Farfantepenaeus paulensis juveniles (5 months old) and wild adults (estimated age of 12-15 months). Random samples of 6 individuals were obtained from each group (juvenile and adult) for histological analysis. Serial sections (6 mum) of the brains were mounted without staining and observed in an epifluorescent microscope. The fluorescent images of the five most central sections of the olfactory lobe cell mass (OLCM) of each individual were digitized for image analysis. The lipofuscin granule mean diameter was similar in both groups (p > 0.05), however the lipofuscin area fraction (percentage of the OLCM occupied by pigment granules) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the adult shrimp. The detection of lipofuscin granules in 5 month old F. paulensis indicates that lipofuscin deposition probably takes place even earlier in the juvenile phase. Our results suggested that the amount of granules in the F. paulensis OLCM is related to age, but further studies are necessary to evaluate the relationship between lipofuscin content and the age of captive F. paulensis.
Genetic analysis of Melipona quadrifasciata Lep. (Hymenoptera: Apidae, Meliponinae) with RAPD markers
Authors: WALDSCHMIDT A. M. , MARCO-JUNIOR P. , BARROS E. G. , CAMPOS L. A. O.
Published: April 2005

Melipona quadrifasciata ("mandaçaia") can be subdivided into two subspecies: M. q. anthidioides and M. q. quadrifasciata. In the present study we used RAPD markers to estimate intercolonial genetic variation among 69 colonies of Melipona quadrifasciata. Ten workers per colony were analyzed. The intercolony genetic distances based on RAPD markers ranged from 29.5% (colonies collected in the State of São Paulo vs colonies from the State of Minas Gerais) to 34.2% (São Paulo vs Santa Catarina). These results indicate a high genetic similarity among the colonies analyzed.According to the genetic distances two different groups could be distinguished. The first containing the samples from Santa Catarina region and the second, samples from Paraná, São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Espírito Santo. Based on the molecular analysis, bees belonging to the different subspecies M. q. quadrifasciata (from Santa Catarina) and M. q. anthidioides (from the other regions) were distinguished.
Isoform expression in the multiple soluble malate dehydrogenase of Hoplias malabaricus (Erythrinidae, Characiformes)
Authors: Aquino-Silva M. R. , Schwantes M. L. B. , Schwantes A. R.
Published: April 2005

Kinetic properties and thermal stabilities of Hoplias malabaricus liver and skeletal muscle unfractionated malate dehydrogenase (MDH, EC 1.1.1.37) and its isolated isoforms were analyzed to further study the possible sMDH-A* locus duplication evolved from a recent tandem duplication. Both A (A1 and A2) and B isoforms had similar optima pH (7.5-8.0). While Hoplias A isoform could not be characterized as thermostable, B could as thermolabile. A isoforms differed from B isoform in having higher Km values for oxaloacetate. The possibly duplicated A2 isoform showed higher substrate affinity than the A1. Hoplias duplicated A isoforms may influence the direction of carbon flow between glycolisis and gluconeogenesis.
Water uptake, priming, drying and storage effects inCassia excelsa Schrad seeds
Authors: Jeller H. , Perez S. C. J. G. A. , Raizer J.
Published: April 2005

The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of osmotic potential on the water uptake curvein Cassia excelsa seeds and use the results to analyze the effects of dehydration and storage on primed seed germination. Seeds were imbibed in distillad water and polyethylene glicol (PEG 6000) osmotic solutions at -0.2, -0.4, and -0.6 MPa, at 20ºC. The radicle emergence and seed moisture content were evaluated at 6-hour intervals during 240 hours. Afterwards, seeds were primed in distillad water and PEG 6000 solutions at -0.2, -0.4, and -0.6 MPa for 48, 72, 96, and 168 hours at 20ºC, followed by air drying and storage for 15 days at 5ºC. The lower the osmotic potential, the higher the time required for priming. The osmoconditioning yields benefits with PEG solutions at 0.0 and -0.2 MPa; seed improvements were maintained during storage for 15 days at 5ºC, but were reverted by seed drying.
Responses of leaf processing to impacts in streams in Atlantic rain Forest, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - a test of the biodiversity-ecosystem functioning relationship?
Authors: Moulton T. P. , Magalhães S. A. P.
Published: April 2005

The relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning has been intensely debated and researched in recent times. It is generally agreed that there is redundancy of species in ecosystems such that loss of species does not necessarily result in change in the functioning of the ecosystem in which they occur. However the state of our knowledge does not allow prediction of sensitivity or specificity of this relationship for any particular ecosystem. A widely-held opinion is that ecosystem functioning is relatively stable to environmental impact, whereas biodiversity is more sensitive. We tested this in streams of the Atlantic forest using leaf decomposition as an aspect of ecosystem functioning and measuring the diversity of the associated fauna. In lightly impacted streams of the urban park Parque Estadual da Pedra Branca, RJ, leaf processing rate of a hard-leaf species, Myrcia rostrata (Myrtaceae) was more than 50% slower than in "intact" streams at the biological reserve of Ilha Grande, RJ. Taxon diversity of fauna of the leaves was not significantly lower in the impacted than the intact streams. We construe this as preliminary evidence contrary to the notion that ecosystem functioning is less sensitive than biodiversity to impacts in this system.
Ovarian growth during larval development of queen and worker of Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera: Apidae): a morphometric and histological study
Authors: Reginato R. D. , Cruz-Landim C.
Published: April 2005

The present work reports the differences between the ovarian grow in queen and worker larvae of A. mellifera, from the start of differential feeding. The observations made of the growth rates in larvae of both castes showed that the queen and worker larvae have the same rates of cephalic capsule growth from one instar to another but the weight gain is greater in queens. In the same way, the draw areas of ovaries of queens increase more and continuously, while from the 5th instar on the ovaries of workers decrease in size. The decrease is due to a loss of ovariole numbers that starts early in the worker larvae and increases in the 4th-5th instar. The ovarian shape in queens and workers became different in the last larval instars.
Oviposition behaviour of Gryon gallardoi (Hym.; Scelionidae) on eggs of Spartocera dentiventris (Hem.; Coreidae)
Authors: Wiedemann L. M. , Canto-Silva C. R. , Romanowski H. P. , Redaelli L. R.
Published: April 2005

The oviposition behaviour of Gryon gallardoi (Hymenoptera; Scelionidae) on Spartocera dentiventris (Hemiptera; Coreidae) host eggs was investigated in the laboratory. Masses of 12 non-parasitized freshly laid (less than 24 h old) eggs were exposed to 2-5 days old mated females with previous oviposition experience (n = 10). Behaviour was observed for 2 h under the stereomicroscope. The eggs were Then kept individually at 25º ± 1ºC/12 h photophase till hatching. The mean number of parasitized eggs was 7.8 ± 0.81 (IMG01 ± SE). Five distinct kinds of behaviour were observed: drumming with antennae on the eggs, ovipositor insertion, egg marking, walking and resting. On average, ovipositor insertion was not followed by marking 4.3 ± 0.76 times per female. In nearly all of these events, parasitism was unsuccessful. Walking and resting were observed less frequently than the other behaviours (1.6 ± 0.56 and 2.1 ± 0.48 times/female, respectively). Superparasitism occurred on average 3.6 ± 0.88 times per egg mass, with 2.7 ± 0.57 eggs being superparasitized. Among these, on average 87.4 ± 5.37% led to successful development of an adult parasitoid. The average time spent on the each kind of oviposition behaviour was 1.5 ± 0.57 min for drumming, 3.9 ± 0.56 min for ovipositor insertion and 0.4 ± 0.06 min for marking. There was no significant variation on the duration of each behaviour as the parasitoid progressed in parasitizing an egg mass. Ovipositor insertion almost always (87.58%) occurred in the longitudinal extremities of the egg. In average 31.1 ± 7.21% of the individual emerging per egg mass were males, the larger proportion of males originating from the 2nd oviposition. The results show a range of oviposition behaviours common to the Scelionidae family. Egg marking behaviour was a good indicator of the effective oviposition by females. Superparasitism is only partially avoided, but its occurrence does not imply a failure of parasitoid emergence. The sex ratio is skewed towards females, and most males come from the first ovipositions.
Endoparasite infracommunities of Hemisorubim platyrhynchos (Valenciennes, 1840) (Pisces: Pimelodidae) of the Baía River, upper Paraná River floodplain, Brazil: specific composition and ecological aspects
Authors: Guidelli G. M. , Isaac A. , Takemoto R. M. , Pavanelli G. C.
Published: April 2005

Parasites of 136 specimens of Hemisorubim platyrhynchos, popularly called jurupoca, were analyzed. Fourteen parasite species were recorded: four digeneans (Crocodilicola pseudostoma, one Gorgoderidae species, Sanguinicola platyrhynchi, and Sphincterodiplostomum sp.); three cestodes (Goezeella paranaensis, Spatulifer maringaensis, and Mariauxiella piscatorum); five nematodes (Contracaecum Type 1 larvae of Moravec, Kohn, & Fernandes, 1993; Contracaecum Type 2 larvae of Moravec, Kohn, & Fernandes, 1993; Cucullanus (Cucullanus) zungaro; Eustrongylides ignotus; and Goezia sp.); one acanthocephalan (Quadrigyrus machadoi), and one pentastomid (Sebekia sp.). Most of the helminth specimens were found in larval stages, confirming that H. platyrhynchos is a significant source of their transmission. No dominance was reported. With the exception of Contracaecum Type 2 (featuring random dispersion), the species had a clumped pattern of dispersion in the host sample. Evidence of competition among parasite species was not reported. Several species of parasites were correlated with host size and sex. This fact may be explained by increase in food content and possible behavioral modifications of male and female hosts. Infracommunity diversity was not related to host size or sex.
Carbon sources and trophic position of the main species of fishes of Baía River, Paraná River floodplain, Brazil
Authors: Manetta G. I. , Benedito-Cecilio E. , Martinelli M.
Published: April 2005

In order to verify the carbon source and trophic position of the main species of fishes, of the Paraná River floodplain, we analysed the proportion of stable carbon (delta13C) and nitrogen (delta15N) isotopes in muscle of fishes sampled in the rainy season. We analyzed adult individuals of Loricariichthys platymetopon, Schizodon borellii, Leporinus lacustris, Auchenipterus osteomystax, Iheringichthys labrosus, Leporinus friderici, and Serrasalmus marginatus. These data were compared with the results obtained by the analyzing stomach contents. The primary producers found in the Baía River were the C3 plants (riparian vegetation, macrophytes, periphyton, and phytoplankton) and the C4 plants (macrophytes). The results of the contribution analysis revealed that the carbon used by the species was derived from C3 plants. According to the trophic position estimates (diet and delta15N), the species primarily consumed Loricariichthys platymetopon, Schizodon borellii, Leporinus lacustris, and Leporinus friderici and, secondarily Auchenipterus osteomystax, Iheringichthys labrosus, and Serrasalmus marginatus. There was no significant difference between the two methods utilized.
Ecology of a stream from upper Paraná River basin inhabited by Aspidoras fuscoguttatus Nijssen & Isbrüker, 1976 (Siluriformes, Callichthyidae)
Authors: Araujo R. B. de , Garutti V.
Published: April 2005

ABSTRACT Most information on catfishes of the genus Aspidoras has focused species kept in aquaria, in non-natural conditions. Biotic and abiotic parameters of environment inhabited by Aspidoras fuscoguttatus, associated ichthyofauna, as well as strategies involved in the successful occupation of different microhabitats in a first order stream, located in São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo State, were investigated. Data collection was monthly performed at three segments (headwaters, middle course, and mouth) from August 1999 to July 2000. The greatest values of water temperature, conductivity, turbidity, alkalinity, width, depth, and current velocity were obtained in the rainy season. Dissolved oxygen levels showed significant differences among three segments in all sampling months, except for September. Substrate composition was predominantly sandy, followed by silt and clay in middle course and mouth in rainy as much as in dry seasons. In headwaters a large increase of the sandy fraction occurred in the rainy season. In the marginal and aquatic vegetation 30 species of macrophytes and 5 of macroalgae were identified. The fauna included tadpoles of Anura and macroinvertebrates (Mollusca, Crustacea, Arachnida, and 8 orders of Insecta). A. fuscoguttatus was found throughout the entire stream in sympatry with 6 fish species. In middle course, cluster analysis revealed an association between A. fuscoguttatus immatures and low depth, suggesting a probable function of depth in that stage of ontogenetic development of catfishes. The results indicate that A. fuscoguttatus present plasticity in terms of microhabitat, including air breathing behavior in hypoxic conditions, previously unknown in genus Aspidoras.
Methodological tests of a heterotrophy index for aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Antonio R. M. , Bianchini Jr. I.
Published: April 2005

Experiments in glucose mineralization were carried out to investigate the effects caused by natural forcing functions on both the decomposition rates and heterotrophy capacity of aquatic ecosystems. In addition, the methodology used could show connections between mineralization rates measured in both laboratory and field work with those measured in aquatic ecosystems. Water samples from Infernão lagoon (21º35'S and 47º51'W) were collected, filtered, enriched with glucose, and incubated under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. The glucose concentration variation, dissolved oxygen (DO) consumption, pH, electric conductivity, and total CO2 amount in the water were determined for sixteen days. In the period with intense oxygen consumption there was also an evident glucose demand and the dissolved oxygen consumption rate was approximately the same as that for glucose mineralization. The process in the aerobic chambers was 2.2 times faster than that in the anaerobic chambers. An initial acidification of the water samples, probably due to microbial carbonic acid liberation, was noted. A rise in pH values was also observed at the end of the process. The electric conductivity was low for both aerobic and anaerobic chambers, indicating a probable ion uptake by microbial organisms due to the presence of carbon sources. The glucose content variations corresponded to both CO2 formation and dissolved oxygen consumption. It was estimated that 19.4% of the initial glucose content turned into CO2 and the remaining 80.6% into humic compounds and microbial biomass. This experiment showed that glucose can be used as a substrate indicating the heterotrophy of a given aquatic ecosystem.
Bioacoustic analysis of advertisement call in Hyla nana and Hyla sanborni (Anura, Hylidae) in Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Martins I. A. , Jim J.
Published: April 2005

Vocal communication traits of Hyla nana and Hyla sanborni, of the nana species group, were studied from August 1997 until June 1999 in two large permanent ponds located in an open field in Botucatu, São Paulo State. One hundred thirty-one individuals, 71 of H. nana and 58 of H. sanborni, were recorded in the beginning of their vocalization activity and during chorus vocalization. The rhythms of sound emission on the two occasions were different. An advertisement call consists in a consecutive series of simple notes in rapid succession. Both species have two types of notes in their advertisement calls, here named types A and B. Type A notes are introductory and have a longer and higher pulse number and are emitted more frequently in the beginning of vocalization activity. Introductory notes are the first to be emitted in chorus activity. Type B notes are secondary, of shorter duration and lower pulse number, and are emitted during chorus vocalization. The notes of both types differ significantly in their temporal structure. Both species present acoustic segregation in both spectral and temporal structure.
Seasonal diet shifts of seven fish species in an Atlantic rainforest stream in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Deus C. P. , Petrere-Junior M.
Published: April 2005

We analyzed the stomach contents of 116 individuals belonging to seven fishes species in order to investigate seasonal changes in feeding strategy and how trophic interactions between species affect community structure in an Atlantic rainforest stream in Southeastern Brazil. Oligosarcus hepsetus and Pimelodus sp. consumed fewer items during the winter. Phalloceros caudimaculatus switched feeding habits from detritus during summer to algae during winter. These examples are related to variations in food availability and species feeding selectivity. The highest diet overlap values, for most species, as measured using Schoener's index, were observed in summer, along with a species tendency to be more generalist. Feeding pattern variation may influence the fish community structure.
Interaction between visiting bees (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) and flowers of Ludwigia elegans (Camb.) hara (Onagraceae) during the year in two different areas in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Gimenes M.
Published: April 2005

This study was designed to characterize the interactions between Ludwigia elegans flowers and visiting bees during two years in two areas 200 km apart, at the same latitude (approximately 22º48'S) but at different altitudes (Alumínio, 600 m, and Campos do Jordão, 1500 m), in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. As these flowers open simultaneously in the morning and lose their petals by sunset, interaction with bees occurs only during the photophase. Flowers of L. elegans were mainly visited by bees, the most frequent species being: Tetraglossula anthracina (Michener, 1989) (Colletidae), Rhophitulus sp. (Andrenidae), and Pseudagapostemon spp. (Halictidae), all considered specialized bees for collecting pollen and nectar from these flowers, as well as the generalist bee Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758 (Apidae). The specialist bees were temporally adjusted to the opening schedule of the flower, which occurs primarily in the morning, but shows a circannual variation. T. anthracina appears in both study areas, but only between December and April. The annual activity patterns of these specialist bees are synchronized to the phenology of L. elegans. Photoperiod and temperature cycles are suggested as the main synchronizers of both bees and plants.
Photoperiod influence on the biology and phenological characteristics of Dichelops melacanthus (Dallas, 1851) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Chocorosqui V. R. , Panizzi A. R.
Published: April 2005

The influence of the photoperiod on the biology and seasonal morphs of Dichelops melacanthus (Dallas, 1851) was studied in the laboratory. Four different photoperiods (11, 12, 13, and 14 hL = hours of light) were tested, keeping the temperature at 25 ± 1ºC and the relative humidity at 65 ± 5%. Nymph developmental time tended to be longer under shorter photophases (11 and 12 hL). The 14-hour photophase (long day) resulted in lower nymph mortality rates. Females maintained at 13 and 14 hL showed greater weight gain (1st-28th day) than females under 12 hL. D. melacanthus showed reproductive oligopause induced by short photophases, especially when exposed to 11 hL. Under 13 and 14 hL, 85% and 65% of females oviposited, respectively, in comparison to 10% and 15% of females ovipositing under 11 and 12 hL, respectively. Fecundity (number of egg masses and number of eggs/female) was greater in the longer than under the shorter photophases. Seasonal dimorphism induced by photoperiod was observed in D. melacanthus adults. Under short-day conditions (11 and 12 hL), adults showed short and rounded shoulder spines, grayish brown abdomen (mainly in 11 hL), high lipid contents, and lower percentage of mature reproductive organs. Under long-day conditions (13 and 14 hL), the stink bugs showed greatly developed shoulder spines, green abdomen, low lipid contents, and mature reproductive organs.
Financial comparisons of the artisanal fisheries in Urubupungá Complex in the middle Paraná River (Brazil)
Authors: Ceregato S. A. , Petrere Jr. M.
Published: April 2005

The main objective of this study was a bio-economic survey of artisanal fishing so as to compare average profit of the fishermen, in two different environments (reservoirs and river) and seasons (dry and rainy). To carry out financial comparisons of artisanal fisheries in Urubupungá Complex in the middle Paraná River (Brazil), three habitats were considered: I) Ilha Solteira and Jupiá reservoirs; II) the Paraná River between the Jupiá and Primavera dams; III) the Paraná River downstream from the Primavera dam. Data collection was done through questionnaires addressed to a total of 187 fishersmen; just 164 of the resulting interviews were considered valid. They were held in July 1998 (dry season) and February 1999 (rainy season). The daily average profit of the resevoir fisherman was R$ 13.19 during the dry and R$ 19.54 during the rainy season; R$ 4.10 and R$ 12.92 for fishermen located on the Paraná River between Jupiá and Primavera dam; and R$ 1.48 and R$ 23.01 for those located on the Paraná River below Primavera dam (R$ 1.00 = US$ 0.86 during the dry season; R$ 1.00 = US$ 0.52 during the rainy season). A linear model had been tried to explain the profit variable, in relation to those variables directly linked to fishing (e.g., as habitats; seasons, dry or rainy; gear used; days spent fishing) as well as several sociological variables (age, marital states, number of dependents, and education). However, due to large variability in profits, the proposed model only explained 48.4% of variability, and the only significant factors were education, type of gear, and covariant fishing days.
Anurans from a local assemblage in Central Brazil: linking local processes with macroecological patterns
Authors: Diniz-Filho J. A. F. , Bini L. M. , Bastos R. P. , Vieira C. M. , Souza M. C. , Motta J. A. O. , Pombal J. P. Jr. , Peixoto J. C.
Published: April 2005

Macroecological variables of Anuran species found in a local assemblage from Central Brazil (Silvânia, Goiás State) were linked to population dynamics statistics of these species. Geographical range size (GRS), body size, and species' midpoints were the macroecological variables investigated for those species found in the local assemblage and for all other species (105 in the total) found in the Cerrado biome. For each species found in the local assemblage, data on abundance was obtained. Using this data, local population variability as expressed by the coefficient of variation was estimated. Distribution of means, medians, maximum, variances, and skewness (g1), for both GRS and body size, estimated in the local assemblage were compared, using null models, with the data extracted from the overall Cerrado species pool. The results indicated a clear macroecological relationship between GRS and body size and a decrease in local abundance when distance between the locality analyzed and species midpoint increased. According to null models, both body size and GRS values measured in the local assemblage can be considered a random sample from the regional species pool (Cerrado region). Finally, a three-dimensional analysis using body size, GRS, and local population estimates (abundance and variability), indicated that less abundant and more fluctuating species fell near the lower boundary of the polygonal relationship between GRS and body size. Thus, macroecological results linked with local data on population dynamics supported the minimum viable population model.
Morphological abnormalities in the cladoceran Ilyocryptus spinifer (Apipucos Reservoir, Pernambuco State, Brazil)
Authors: Elmoor-Loureiro L. M. A.
Published: April 2005

In a sample taken from Apipucos Reservoir (Recife, PE, Brazil) for taxonomic study, a high percentage (40%) was found of cladoceran Ilyocryptus spinifer individuals with morphological abnormalities on their postabdomen. There was not a fixed pattern of the malformations, which varied in gravity, and could affect the postanal spines or terminal claws. The postabdominal abnormalities are described and compared to the ones described in the literature. The hypothesis of the morphological abnormalities being induced by an occasional environmental toxicant is discussed.
Induction of oocyte maturation in the white croaker Micropogonias furnieri (Pisces: Sciaenidae) by human chorionic gonadotropin
Authors: García-Alonso J. , Vizziano D.
Published: April 2005

The present work aimed to identify the best doses of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) needed to induce oocyte maturation of Micropogonias furnieri and to characterize ovarian dynamics during the periovulatory period. Adult M. furnieri females with fully developed ovaries were injected intraperitoneally with four different doses of hCG. The gonadotropin response was suceeded by analyzing morphologically gonadal biopsies and following the postinjection changes in follicle diameter. Oocyte maturation was induced by three doses used: 100, 300, and 500 IU of hCG kg bw-1, and was reached 48 h after treatment with 300 and 500 IU of hCG kg bw-1, and 72 h after treatment with 100 IU of hCG kg bw-1. Concerning ovarian dynamics, only 100 and 300 IU of hCG kg bw-1 mimicked the natural ones which have a synchronic group maturation. In conclusion, the dose mimicking natural ovarian dynamics and inducing oocyte maturation more quickly is 300 IU of hCG kg bw-1.
Spatial distribution of chromium and lead in the benthic environment of coastal areas of the Río de la Plata estuary (Montevideo, Uruguai)
Authors: Muniz P , Venturini N. , Gómez-Erache M.
Published: April 2005

Twenty-four sediment samples were collected seasonally during one year from the partially closed Montevideo Bay and the adjacent coastal zone, in Uruguay, in order to determine the impact of chromium and lead in the sediments. Analysis of related environmental variables included bottom water temperature, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, and several sedimentological variables such as redox potential and total organic matter. Concentrations and range of variation of these two metals were similar to those found in urbanized and industrialized estuarine environments. Metal enrichment is higher in the bay than in the adjacent coastal zone, however an important increase especially in Pb content was detected in an area previously considered as a pristine one. Considering both metal content and benthic environment characteristics, the study area can be clearly divided in at least two well-defined regions. One is the inner region of the bay near the streams, and the outermost stations of the bay and the adjacent coastal zone form the other. The first one can be considered highly polluted and the other moderately polluted. The values of the metals studied indicated that adverse biological effects are probably occurring, specially in the innermost region of Montevideo Bay.
Ecological correlates of polyphenism and gregarious roosting in the grass yellow butterfly Eurema elathea (Pieridae)
Authors: Ruszczyk A. , Motta P. C. , Barros R. L. , Araújo A. M.
Published: April 2005

Eurema elathea adults were censused weekly (1992-1994) in six night-roosts around a forest fragment on a farm, and in two roosts in the urban area of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Males were grouped in six phenotypic classes. These were based on a range between having a conspicuous wide black bar at the dorsal forewing inner margin (wet season dark morphs) and the absence of that bar (dry season light morphs). The body mass and wing area of co-occurring morphs were compared: differents morphs showed similar means. The abundance of butterflies and morph frequencies varied in close relation to humidity (rainfall). Individuals were infrequent and monomorphically dark in the wet season while light morphs predominated in dry periods when population peaked. A lower fraction of recaptured individuals and higher recruitment were recorded compared to other night-roosting butterflies. Dispersal potential was similar between the sexes and varied seasonally with a more sedentary population in dry periods. The maximum residence time recorded was 91 days for a female and 84 days for a male. The fraction of individuals that moved from one roosting site to another was similar in both sexes and male morphs, but significantly higher on the farm than in the urban area. Also, a significantly higher fraction (21.3%) of marked butterflies was recaptured in the urban area than on the farm (15.6%), suggesting a behavioral modification for sedentariness in the urban individuals. The selective forces shaping a gregarious roosting habit in E. elathea and other butterflies are discussed and a protocooperational strategy for saving energy is proposed.
Chirocentrodon bleekerianus (Teleostei: Clupeiformes: Pristigasteridae), a small predaceous herring with folded and distinctively oriented prey in stomach
Authors: Sazima C. , Moura R. L. , Sazima I.
Published: April 2005

Predaceous fish-eating species of the order Clupeiformes have a large mouth with well-developed teeth, and reach the greatest sizes within their families (up to 90 cm). We found that the pristigasterid Chirocentrodon bleekerianus, a small clupeiform (about 10 cm) from the tropical SW Atlantic, is able to prey on proportionally large clupeoid fishes and caridean shrimps. Fish preys are folded in the stomach of this herring, their heads and tails pointing toward the predator's head. This distinctive orientation of fish prey is also recorded for some small to medium-sized, fish-eating species of the tropical freshwater order Characiformes with canine-like teeth similar to those found in C. bleekerianus.