bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial patterns and relations with site factors in a campos grassland under grazing
Authors: Focht T. , Pillar V. D.
Published: April 2005

Spatial distribution patterns and their relations with environmental factors at different scales were identified in ca. 100-ha grassland under cattle and sheep grazing, in Eldorado do Sul, RS, Brazil (30º05'S, 51º40'W). The field survey used 138 0.5 x 0.5 m quadrats located systematically on transects along relief gradients. The quadrats were arranged in groups of 3 contiguous quadrats, which were pooled for the analysis, thus forming 46 quadrats 1.5 x 0.5 m, in this way defining two observation scales. Vegetation description involved recording the presence and the visual estimation of cover-abundance of species in each quadrat. A total of 148 species belonging to 30 families was detected. The environmental conditions at each site were described by 30 variables related to soil chemical and physical properties, slope, exposure and relief position. Data analysis used cluster analysis, evaluation of group partition sharpness, ordination, significance of ordination axes, evaluation of environmental congruence and randomization testing. The results of the analysis with 46 quadrats supported those found with 138 quadrats. The vegetation patterns in the study area are associated to relief position and other related factors such as soil moisture. Two clearly defined grassland community types were detected, one occurring on the slopes and another on the wet lowlands.
Current State and projection of the probable original vegetation of the São Carlos region of São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Soares J. J. , Silva D. W. da , Lima M. I. S.
Published: April 2005

A map of the native vegetation remaining in São Carlos County was built based on aerial images, satellite images, and field observations, and a projection of the probable original vegetation was made by checking it against soil and relief surveys. The existing vegetation is very fragmented and impoverished, consisting predominantly of cerrados (savanna vegetation of various physiognomies), semideciduous and riparian forest, and regeneration areas. Araucaria angustifolia (Bertol.) Kuntze, found in patches inside the semideciduous forest beginning at a minimum altitude of 850 m, has practically disappeared. By evaluating areas on the map for different forms of vegetation, we obtained the following results for original coverage: 27% cerrado (sparsely arboreal and short-shrub savanna, and wet meadows); 16% cerradão (arboreal savanna); 55% semideciduous and riparian forests; and 2% forest with A. angustifolia. There are now 2% cerrados; 2.5% cerradão; 1% semideciduous forest and riparian forests; 1.5% regeneration areas; and 0% forest with A. angustifolia.
Sex ratio and size structure of Micropogonias furnieri (Desmarest, 1823) (Perciformes, Sciaenidae) in Sepetiba Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Vicentini R. N. , Araújo F. G.
Published: April 2005

Sex ratio and size structure constitute basic information in assessing reproductive potential and estimating stock size in fish populations. One hundred fifty-one individuals of Micropogonias furnieri caught by experimental otter trawls, in three zones (inner, central, and outer) of Sepetiba Bay between October 1998 and September 1999 were examined. Males outnumbered females (1.3:1.0) in all zones but no significant differences were detected. Only in the outer zone (5.0:1.0) were male/female rates significantly different according to the chi-square test. No temporal differences were observed in sex ratio. Fish size ranged from 81 to 244 mm total length (TL) with significant differences in 155 to 185 mm TL size classes, where males predominated, and a slightly higher number of females were observed for the smaller size class (TL = 95-150 mm). Size distribution varied according to the zone, with juveniles predominating in the inner and adults in the outer zone. Spatial difference in size structure observed in this study indicates that the inner bay is a rearing ground during the first life-cycle period, and movement toward the sea occurs as fish increase in size.
Ultrastructure of the midgut endocrine cells in Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Authors: Neves C. A. , Gitirana L. B. , Serrão J. E.
Published: April 2005

In this study we describe the ultrastructure of the endocrine cells observed in the midgut of M. quadrifasciata anthidioides. This bee has two types of endocrine cells, which are numerous on the posterior midgut region. Cells of the closed type are smaller and have irregular secretory granules with lower electrondensity than those of the open cell type. The open cell type has elongated mitochondria mainly on the basal area, where most of the secretory granules are also found. Besides the secretion granules and mitochondria, endocrine cells in this species have well-developed autophagic vacuoles and Golgi complex elements.
Morphometry of the eyes in regenerant of genus Dugesia (Platyhelminthes, Turbellaria, Dugesiidae)
Authors: Campos-Velho N. M. R. de , Lopes K. A. R. , Hauser J.
Published: April 2005

The photodocumentation technique was used weekly to observe until the end of the regenerative process of eyes in three species of Dugesia. Morphometric data based on the measurement of 96 samples of the species: Dugesia tigrina, D. schubarti, and D. anderlani were analyzed A comparative analysis was made through graphic representation of statistical parameters of the following morphometric characters: the length of the transversal and longitudinal axes of the macula alba, pigment spot, and ocular opening. An interesting feature appeared in D. schubarti: the average of ocular opening during the regenerative process is bigger than in the original samples.
Ground-dwelling ant fauna of sites with high levels of copper
Authors: Diehl E. , Sanhudo C. E. D. , Diehl-Fleig Ed.
Published: April 2005

Richness and diversity of ant species are related to environmental factors such as vegetation, soil, presence of heavy metals, and insecticides, which allow the use of the assemblage members as terrestrial indicators of environmental conservation status. This study presents the results of ground ants surveyed in Minas do Camaquã in the municipality of Caçapava do Sul (Camaquã Basin), State of Rio Grande do Sul. Collections were performed in four sites, with high levels of copper in the soil, three of which - a mine, a liquid reject, and a solid reject -, had sparse or no plant cover, and one site where Pinus has been used for rehabilitation. Parque das Guaritas was the control site, since it presented normal levels of copper and a dense savanna cover. For each site, three transect lines extending 100 m were draw, and at each 10 m sardine baits were distributed; after two hours the ants present were collected. Hand collections in all five sites were performed during one hour (capture effort). A total of 51 species belonging to 17 genera were collected. The control site was the richest in ant species (r = 45). Sites with high level of copper and poor plant cover presented the lowest richness: mine (r = 14), solid reject (r = 15), and liquid reject (r = 16). In contrast, the site planted with Pinus presented an increment in richness (r = 24) of ground-dwelling ants, suggesting a reahabilitation process.
Phytoplankton nyctemeral variation at a tropical river estuary (Itamaracá - Pernambuco - Brazil)
Authors: Lacerda S. R. , Koening M. L. , Neumann-Leitão S. , Flores-Montes M. J.
Published: April 2005

The Botafogo estuary is of socio-economical importance for Pernambuco State. It is located at the north of Santa Cruz Channel, Itamaracá, Pernambuco, Brazil (07º42'50"S and 34º52'10"W). There is a critical need to understand its functioning because of the rate at which this area is being converted to land uses. The phytoplankton dynamics was studied to enhance the knowledge of and verify the possible changes which have occurred in this ecosystem. Sampling was carried out with a plankton net 65 micrometers mesh size for qualitative data, and a Van Dorn bottle for quantitative data. Concurrent hydrological and chlorophyll-a data were collected. Samplings were made in one fixed station in July 1996 (rainy season) and December 1996 (dry season), at 3-hour intervals during 24 hours. Eighty-seven specific and infra-specific taxa were identified from net plankton samples. Diatoms were most frequent, mainly Coscinodiscus centralis and Odontella regia in the rainy and dry seasons, respectively. Phytoplankton density varied from 205,000 to 1,210,000 cell.L-1 in the dry season, and from 230,000 to 2,510,000 cell.L-1 in the rainy season, indicating eutrophic conditions. Most numerically abundant were the diatoms Cyclotella meneghiniana and Cylindrotheca closterium and the phytoflagellates. The ecosystem is polluted, and deleterious effects are minimized by the marine influence which allows periodic water renewal.
Diet shifts related to body size of the pirambeba Serrasalmus brandtii Lütken, 1875 (Osteichthyes, Serrasalminae) in the Cajuru Reservoir, São Francisco River Basin, Brazil
Authors: Oliveira A. K. , Alvim M. C.C. , Peret A. C. , Alves C. B. M.
Published: April 2005

This study aimed to identify shifts in the Serrasalmus brandtii Lütken, 1875 diet related to body size. Specimens were collected from April 1992 to January 1993 at the Cajuru Reservoir, in the Pará River, São Francisco River Basin, by seining the shore with nets of nylon, 1 mm opening, and with gill nets. Stomach contents of 152 individuals measuring 15-192 mm SL were examined. Food items were identified and weighed separately. For qualitative analysis, the frequency of occurrence method was used. The relative importance of each food component was determined based on the alimentary index (IAi). The frequencies of occurrence data were subjected to cluster analysis using the Canberra coefficient of dissimilarity and UPGMA as the cluster method. Distinctive gradual changes in food habits, associated with body size, were identified in this species. The smaller individuals fed predominantly on microcrustaceans and insect larvae. The intermediate size classes ingested insects, fish fins, fish scales, and chunks of fish flesh, in this order of importance. For the larger pirambebas, fish was the most abundant food category identified, followed by insects.
Age and growth of the Duckbill Catfish (Sorubim cf. lima) in the Pantanal
Authors: Penha J. M. F. , Mateus L. A. F. , Barbieri G.
Published: April 2005

The Duckbill Catfish, Sorubim lima, is a predator of large South American rivers. The age and growth of S. lima were studied based on the pectoral fin-spines of samples collected from the Cuiabá River, Pantanal. The samples were taken from commercial and experimental hook-and-line fishing. An analysis of the marginal increment suggests that the growth rings are formed once a year during the dry season, from July to September (ANOVA type I: F = 4.183; g.l. = 3 and 104; p = 0.008). The estimate of the parameters that describe von Bertalanffy's growth curve by nonlinear regression of the observed lengths in the age were: L¥ = 56.0 cm (fork length); k = 0.245 year-1; t o = -2.605 years. The animals were estimated to have a life span of 9.6 years. The findings indicate that the fork length is a good predictor of the age of individuals of this fish species.
Macrothrix flabelligera, a newly-recorded Cladocera Macrothricidae in Brazilian freshwaters
Authors: Güntzel A. M. , Matsumura-Tundisi T. , Rocha O.
Published: April 2005

A short characterization of Macrothrix flabelligera Smirnov, 1992 (Cladocera, Macrothricidae) is presented, following a recent record of this species in Brazil. General aspects and morphological details of the body of parthenogenetic and ephippial females, as well as of males, are described and illustrated.
Comparative biology of two populations of Lutzomyia umbratilis (Diptera: Psychodidae) of Central Amazonia, Brazil, under laboratory conditions
Authors: Justiniano S. C. B. , Chagas A. C. , Pessoa F. A. C. , Queiroz R. G.
Published: April 2005

Lutzomyia umbratilis is the main vector of cutaneous leishmaniasis due to Leishmania guyanensis in northern South America. It has been found naturally infected with this species of Leishmania only east of the Rio Negro and north of the Rio Amazonas. However, populations of this sand fly species are also present in areas south of the Amazon river system, which may act as a geographical barrier to the Leishmania guyanensis cycle. With the aim of looking for possible biological differences between populations of L. umbratilis from each side of this river system, their biology in the laboratory was investigated. Progenitors collected on tree bases in Manaus and Manacapuru (east and west, respectively, of the Rio Negro) were reared in the laboratory. Results from observations of the life cycle, fecundity, fertility, and adult longevity at 27ºC and 92% RH were analyzed by descriptive statistics and z, t, U, and chi2 tests. Although the Manaus and Manacapuru colonies showed a longer developmental time than most Lutzomyia species reared at similar temperatures, length of time of egg and 4th instar larva of the two populations differed significantly (p < 0.01). Females of the latter retained significantly (p < 0.001) less mature oocytes, and the general productivity (% adults from a known number of eggs) of the colony was significantly (p < 0.01) higher than that of the former. These results show that the L. umbratilis population of Manaus is more productive, and thus a better candidate for future mass-rearing attempts. The two populations differ in their life cycle, fecundity, fertility, adult longevity, and emergence. These differences may reflect some divergence of intrinsic biological features evolved as a result of their geographical isolation by the Rio Negro. It is expected that further investigations on morphometry, cuticular hydrocarbon, isoenzyme, molecular and chromossomal analyses, infection, and cross-mating experiments with these and other allopatric populations of both margins of the Amazon river system will help reveal whether or not L. umbratilis has genetically diverged into two or more reproductively isolated populations of vectors or non-vectors of Leishmania guyanensis.
Age, growth and yield per recruit analysis of the pintado Pseudoplatystoma corruscans (Agassiz, 1829) in the Cuiabá River basin, Pantanal Matogrossense, Brazil
Authors: Mateus L. A. F. , Petrere Jr. M.
Published: April 2005

The age and growth of the pintado Pseudoplatystoma corruscans were studied during the period from May 1994 to May 1995. The standard length ranged from 52 to 145 cm and the weight from 1.3 to 41 kg. The biometric relationship between the standard length (Ls) and total length (Ltotal) and between the total weight (Wt) and the standard length (Ls) were obtained for the species, being respectively: Ltotal = 3.296 + 1.069 * Ls and Wt = 0.00624 * Ls3.134.The condition factor calculated monthly suggests the spawning season to be between the months of February and March. The age was estimated by counting growth rings present in the spines of the pectoral fins, and 10 age classes were detected. The mean distance of the last ring until the border of the spine suggests that the period of least growth is between July and September (dry period). Von Bertalaffy's equation describing the growth of the pintado is: Lt = 183 * [1 - exp - 0.085 * (t + 3.274)]. Total mortality was Z = 0.24 year-1 and natural mortality M = 0.20 year-1. As the present level of exploitation, F = Z - M = 0.04 year-1, we conclude that the pintado stock was still underexploited in the Pantanal in the sampled period.
Functional response of Cosmoclopius nigroannulatus (Hem.: Reduviidae) to different densities of Spartocera dentiventris (Hem.: Coreidae) nymphae
Authors: Rocha L. da , Redaelli L. R.
Published: April 2005

This study evaluated the functional response of the predator Cosmoclopius nigroannulatus on first instar nymphae of Spartocera dentiventris, both species associated with Nicotina tabacum. The experiment was carried out in laboratory conditions: 27 ± 1ºC; 80 ± 5%, RH; 12 h, photophase. Ten newly emerged adults of each sex of C. nigroannulatus were used in each of five densities (5, 15, 25, 35, and 45 individuals) of S. dentiventris nymphae. The predators were observed every 24 h for five days, when the number of dead and/or consumed nymphae was recorded. The results showed a positive correlation between the number of ingested nymphae and the increase in prey density. Females ingested more nymphae than the males. The estimated handling time per prey (Th) was higher in males (3.07 h) than in females (1.93 h), with total handling time (Th x Na) increased with density. Other components of the functional response, such as attack rate (a'), searching time (Ts), and search efficiency (E) showed, in neither males nor females, a negative correlation regarding density. The results indicated a higher predatory efficiency in the females. The components of the functional response fitted significantly the randomic model of the Holling discs equation (Na = N {1 - exp[- a'(T - ThNa)]}), evidencing a functional response of type II.
A study of the fish community structure in a tidal creek
Authors: Spach H. L. , Santos C. , Godefroid R. S. , Nardi M. , Cunha F.
Published: April 2005

The fish assemblage in a mangrove tidal creek was studied in monthly collections between August 1998 and July 1999 in the quadrature low tide and high tide, using a fyke net of 30 m x 1.5 m and meshes of 8 and 10 mm. Simultaneously with the biological collections, temperature, salinity, pH, water transparency, and current speed data were obtained. The collections resulted in the capture of 36,873 fish representing 22 families and 52 species. Immature individuals abounded (63.8%), and among the adult specimens there was a larger number of females. The species Anchoa parva, Harengula clupeola, Genidens genidens, and Bairdiella ronchus, contributed to 84.9% of the total capture of fish, however the contribution in mass was of 55.2%, indicating a predominance of small individuals. A smaller number of fish and species seem to occupy the area in the period between August and December, in comparison to the period between February and July, when the larger aggregations appear, mainly of the species Anchoa parva, Harengula clupeola, Opisthonema oglinum, Genidens genidens, Diapterus rhombeus, and Bairdiella ronchus. The environmental factors, pH, water transparency, and rainfall seem to have an influence in the structure of the observed biological patterns.
Ichthyofauna from the Emas National Park region: composition and structure
Authors: Benedito-Cecilio E. , Minte-Vera C. V. , Zawadzki C. H. , Pavanelli C. S. , Rodrigues F. H. G. , Gimenes M. F.
Published: April 2005

The relationship between habitats and the ichthyofauna composition in the Parque Nacional das Emas (PNE) and adjacent areas (the Araguaia and Sucuriú rivers) are provided and could be applied in determining the Park's future zoning. Samples of the ichthyofauna and limnological parameters were obtained during both dry (September 1999) and wet (December 1999) seasons. Ichthyofauna collections resulted in the capture of 4,740 specimens of 22 species. The most abundant species in the Araguaia River during the two sampling seasons were Astyanax sp. 2 and Hasemania sp. In the Sucuriú River and PNE, Astyanax scabripinnis cf. paranae and Hoplias aff. malabaricus were the most frequent species. The largest number of species and diversity index were recorded for the Araguaia River. However, sound management policies require more detailed studies on the fish communities of the Cerrado biome.
Insect galls from Serra de São José (Tiradentes, MG, Brazil)
Authors: Maia V. C. , Fernandes G. W.
Published: April 2005

One hundred thirty-seven morphotypes of insect galls were found on 73 plant species (47 genera and 30 families) in Serra de São José, in Tiradentes, MG, Brazil. Fabaceae, Myrtaceae, Asteraceae, and Melastomataceae were the plant families that supported most of the galls (49.6% of the total). Galls were mostly found on leaves and stems (66.4% and 25.5%, respectively). Galls were induced by Diptera, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera (Sternorrhyncha), Hymenoptera, and Thysanoptera. The majority of them (73.7%) were induced by gall midges (Cecidomyiidae: Diptera). Besides the gall inducers, other insects found associated with the galls were parasitoids (Hymenoptera), inquilines (Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera, and Hemiptera), and predators (Diptera).
Fish diversity along spatial gradients in the Itaipu Reservoir, Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Oliveira E. F. , Goulart E. , Minte-Vera C. V.
Published: April 2005

Local and turnover patterns of fish diversity in the Itaipu Reservoir were evaluated and related to a longitudinal or river-dam gradient (composed of riverine, transitional, and lacustrine zones) and to transversal or upstream-downstream gradients of the tributaries (composed of lotic and lentic stretches of tributaries and reservoir shores). Thirteen stations were sampled quarterly during 2 years. A total of 85 fish species were caught. Local (alpha) and turnover (beta) patterns of fish diversity showed significant differences in reservoir spatial gradients. Along the longitudinal gradient, total and alpha-diversity were the highest in the riverine and transitional zones of the reservoir and lowest in the lacustrine zone. Along the transversal gradient, total and alpha-diversity increased from the lotic stretches of the tributaries to the reservoir shores. The lotic and lentic stretches of the tributaries presented the highest beta-diversity values, indicating heterogeneity in species compositions among the sub-basins. We conclude with recommendations for reservoir management based on the results of this study.
Ciliate protists from Cabiúnas Lagoon (Restinga de Jurubatiba, Macaé, Rio de Janeiro) with emphasis on water quality indicator species and description of Oxytricha marcili sp. n.
Authors: Paiva T. S. , Silva-Neto I. D.
Published: April 2005

We found 34 species of ciliate protists in the samples collected by the margins of Cabiúnas Lagoon during 2001. The ciliates were cultivated in the laboratory, where they were examined in vivo and identified through silver impregnation techniques. A new species, Oxytricha marcili (Ciliophora, Oxytrichidae), was found and characterized as follows: in vivo length about 60-80 mum x 30-40 mum wide; on average 22 adoral membranelles; 18 left marginal cirri; 18 right marginal cirri; and 3 small caudal cirri. All specimens analyzed presented 7 frontal cirri (3 anterior + 4 posterior), 1 buccal cirrus, 4 ventral cirri (3 postoral + 1 pre-transverse), and 5 transverse cirri. Among the species found, some are considered as water quality indicators ranging from alpha-mesosaprobity to polysaprobity and isosaprobity.
Parasitoids of Tuta absoluta (Meyrick, 1917) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) collected on tomato plants in Lavras, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Marchiori C. H. , Silva C. G. , Lobo A. P.
Published: April 2005

The objective of this paper was to report on the occurrence of parasitoids of Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) on tomato plants, under greenhouse conditions, in Lavras County (21º14'43"S; 44º59'59"W), State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, from August 2001 to February 2002. Three groups of parasitoids were collected: 21 specimens of Bracon sp. (Braconidae), one specimen of Earinus sp. (Braconidae), and 13 specimens of Conura sp. (Chalcididae). The rate of parasitism for the three species was 4.2%, 0.2%, and 2.6%, respectively. This is the first reported occurrence of Earinus sp. parasitizing Tuta absoluta in Brazil.
Cytogenetics of the Brazilian whiptail lizard Cnemidophorus littoralis (Teiidae) from a restinga area (Barra de Maricá) in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Peccinini-Seale D. , Rocha C. F. D. , Almeida T. M. B. , Araújo A. F. B. , De Sena M. A.
Published: April 2005

Chromosomes of Cnemidophorus littoralis, a new species of teiid lizard recently described, were studied. The animals are from a restinga area in Barra de Maricá, RJ. The karyotype presents a diploid number of 2n = 46 chromosomes and a chromosomal sex determination mechanism of the type XX:XY. Nucleolar organizer regions, Ag-NORs, are at the sixth pair of chromosomes; there is variability of size and number of the Ag-stained nucleoli on the 50 interphase nuclei for each specimen analyzed. These nucleoli are related to NOR patterns that also demonstrated variability in size and number. This paper presents the first description of the karyotype of Cnemidophorus littoralis and of a chromosomal sex determination mechanism of the XX:XY type in the genus Cnemidophorus from Southeastern Brazil.
Co-infestation of gills by different parasite groups in the mullet, Mugil platanus Günther, 1880 (Osteichthyes, Mugilidae): effects on relative condition factor
Authors: Ranzani-Paiva M. J. T. , Silva-Souza A. T.
Published: April 2005

This study involved 334 specimens of mullet, Mugil platanus, captured monthly in the estuarine region of Cananéia, São Paulo State, Brazil, from July 1988 to June 1989, and examined for the presence of gill parasites. Parasitological inspections revealed the occurrence of the following groups: Trichodina sp., Monogenoidea, Copepoda, and Hirudinea. Only four mullets were not parasitized. Total weight and total length of all 334 mullet specimens examined were used for adjusting the weight-length relationship curve and calculating the relative condition factor (Kn). The 118 specimens infested with monogenoideans on average had lower weights than expected (Kn < 1.0), and the 81 fish co-infested with Copepoda, Monogenoidea, and Trichodina sp. showed a Kn < 1.0. The other infested and non-infested mullets had a Kn > 1.0. It was possible to infer that gill infestation with monogenoideans alters mullet weight, especially in the presence of co-infestation with Trichodina sp. and copepods.
Effect of the juvenile hormone on the development of the mandibular gland in workers' pupae of Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera, Apidae)
Authors: Salles H. C. , Cruz-Landim C.
Published: April 2005

Insect mandibular glands are exocrine organs that produce chemical substances known as pheromones that play an important role in intra-specific communication of insects. The mandibular glands of Apis mellifera, which are more highly developed in queens than in workers, present caste-specific polymorphism which seems to be regulated by the juvenile hormone (JH). These glands develop at the pupation stage, during which the titer of JH is higher in queens. In spite of this observation, application recounted here of juvenile hormone on 5th-instar workers' larvae of Apis mellifera did not produce a significant effect on the size of the mandibular glands. Therefore, we may conclude that the response of insect organs to the exogenous application of JH varies according to the type of organ, its developmental program, and its developmental stage, as well as to the amount of hormone applied.
A new occurrence of Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker 1856) (Bivalvia, Mytilidae) in the State of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Avelar W. E. P. , Martim S. L. , Vianna M. P.
Published: April 2005

The freshwater mussel Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker 1856) (Bivalvia, Mytilidae) has been found in the Paraná river, near Rosana, São Paulo. This is the first record of this specie in São Paulo State. This population of Limnoperna fortunei seems to be young and in a colonization process.
Ichthyofauna of two streams (silted and reference) in the Upper Paraná river basin, Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Casatti L.
Published: April 2005

In this study the fish assemblages of the silted Águas Claras stream (AC) was compared with that of a reference, the São Carlos stream (SC), so as to identify potential fish indicators of integrity or degradation. Both streams, located about 5 km from one another, are part of the Upper Paraná river basin, Brazil, and present similar physiographical features. Twenty-one species were collected in AC (1,271 specimens) and 18 in SC (940 specimens). In AC, dominant species e.g., Corydoras aeneus (sandy pools), Serrapinnus notomelas, and Pyrrhulina australis (warm marginal shallow pools) were those favored by new microhabitats linked to siltation and removal of the riparian vegetation. Changes in the composition of the marginal vegetation resulted in dominance of species such as Hisonotus francirochai (marginal grasses). In SC the dominant species was Phalloceros caudimacultus, abundant in marginal shallow pools, and Trichomycterus diabolus. and Hypostomus nigromaculatus, exclusively riffle-dwelling species, which were absent in AC. Fish assemblage monitoring is recommended for use in riparian management programs in order to evaluate negative instream sedimentation effects.
Expression of heat shock protein and trehalose-6-phosphate synthase homologues induced during water deficit in cotton
Authors: Nepomuceno Alexandre Lima , Oosterhuis Derrick , Stewart James McD , Turley Rickie , Neumaier Norman , Farias José Renato Bouças
Published: April 2005

Tolerance to drought in plants is not a simple trait, but a complex of mechanisms working in combination to avoid or to resist water deficit. Genotypes that differ in tolerance to water deficit may show qualitative and quantitative differences in gene expression when submitted to drought periods. Four cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) genotypes (Siokra L-23, Stoneville 506, CS 50 and T-1521) with contrasting responses to water deficit stress were studied using the Differential Display (DD) technique to identify and isolate genes which may differ among them. Fifty-two cDNA fragments differentially expressed during water deficit were isolated, cloned and sequenced. Search of gene bank databases showed that two cDNA clones, A12B15-6 and A12B13-1, have high homology with a heat shock protein that binds to calmodulin found in Nicotiana tabacum (2.9e-32 P(N)) and with an Arabidopsis thaliana trehalose-6-phosphate synthase enzyme (9.0e-37 P(N)), respectively. One of the presumed functions of heat shock proteins is related to prevention of protein denaturation during cellular dehydration. Trehalose-6-phosphate synthase is involved in the production of trehalose, a disaccharide known to osmotically protect cell membranes during dehydration. The HSP homologue was found to be differentially expressed during the drought period in two drought tolerant genotypes but not in drought-sensitive genotypes. The trehalose-6-phosphate synthase homologue was also up-regulated during water deficit stress, however, all four genotypes were induced to express this homologue. Ribonuclease protection assays confirmed these results. This is an important finding since there are only few reports of trehalose presence in higher plants and none in cotton.
The metabolic response of plants to oxygen deficiency
Authors: Sousa Carlos Antônio Ferreira de , Sodek Ladaslav
Published: April 2005

Plants, under natural or experimental conditions, can be subject to a range of O2 concentrations from normal (normoxia) through deficient (hypoxia) to total absence (anoxia). Many metabolic processes are affected by O2 deficiency but the most studied events are those related to respiration and metabolism of N. In the absence of a terminal electron acceptor for the electron transport chain, the tricarboxylic acid cycle functions only partially and in both directions. Acidification of the cytosol occurs and pyruvate, the product of glycolysis, is transformed to lactate and ethanol, which represent the main fermentation reactions in plants. Alanine is the third most important product of anaerobic metabolism, resulting from high rates of amino acid interconversion in which transaminases such as alanine aminotransferase play an important role. The role of alanine accumulation under anaerobiosis is not clear and appears to be independent of the source of N whether NO3-, NH4+ or N2. How nitrate exerts its beneficial effect on tolerance of root hypoxia in waterlogged plants is still not clearly understood. Such aspects of N metabolism pose interesting challenges for future research on metabolic responses of plants to oxygen deficiency.
The effect of zinc supply and succinate treatment on plant growth and mineral uptake in pea plant
Authors: Stoyanova Zlatimira , Doncheva Snejana
Published: April 2005

The influence of succinate treatment on Zn toxicity was investigated using plant growth and mineral uptake as stress indicators. Pea plants (Pisum sativum L., cv. Citrine) were treated with various Zn concentrations (0.67 to 700 muM Zn) in the presence and absence of 0.2 mM Na-succinate. Plants pre-treated with succinate and then exposed to Zn exhibited higher dry root, stem and leaf weight than the plants treated with Zn alone. An increase in Zn supply resulted in a decrease in the concentrations of Ca, Mg, P in the roots and an increase of Ca and N levels in the stems and leaves. The amount of Zn in the roots, stems and leaves increased with greater Zn rates. The succinate treatment increased P in the roots but did not affect the Ca, N and Mg contents in Zn-treated plants. Most of the Zn taken up was retained in the roots after succinate treatment. The ameliorative effect of succinate on plant growth could be due to a lower Zn translocation in the leaves and stems and increased Zn accumulation in the roots. Lower Zn translocation in aboveground parts seemed to result from Zn complexing by organic anion in the roots. This probably caused less Zn transport to the stems and leaves and suggested that succinate has potential for complexing with Zn and may play a role in tolerance to high Zn levels.
Tropical seed species' responses to liquid nitrogen exposure
Authors: Salomão Antonieta Nassif
Published: April 2005

The ability to tolerate ultra-low temperature (-196 ºC) exposure was evaluated in 66 tropical orthodox seed species of 21 botanical families from the Cerrado (Brazilian Savannah) and Atlantic Forest Brazilian biomes. Liquid nitrogen had no effect on the germinability of 51 seed species. The stimulatory effect of cryogenic temperature on germinability, with or without subsequent chemical scarification, was observed in nine seed species with deep physical dormancy, or heterogeneous levels of seed hardness, or with no dormancy. Significant reduction in germinability occurred in six seed species, presumably because of factors acting individually or in combination on these seeds, such as inappropriate moisture content, or the potentially detrimental effect of rapid cooling (263 ºC.min-1) or fungal contamination. The results obtained suggest that cryopreservation may be a promising alternative for storing most of the seed species tested.
Small heat shock proteins genes are differentially expressed in distinct varieties of common bean
Authors: Simões-Araújo Jean Luiz , Rumjanek Norma Gouvêa , Margis-Pinheiro Márcia
Published: April 2005

Plants respond to temperature stress by synthesizing a set of heat shock proteins (HSPs), which may be responsible for the acquisition of thermotolerance. In this study, the induction of small HSPs (sHSPs) in eight common bean varieties was evaluated by Northern blot analysis using the W HSP 16.9 cDNA as heterologous probe. Cowpea was used, as a positive control since this plant, as opposed to common bean, is known to grow well under high temperature regimes such as that found in the Brazilian semi-arid region. After the growth period, the plants were submitted to two h of heat shock at 40 ºC. All varieties tested were able to induce sHSP mRNAs that hybridized with W HSP 16.9 probe. However, significant kinetic differences were found when comparing different varieties. SHSP mRNA levels induced after heat shock in cowpea was higher than the levels observed on the bean varieties displaying the highest expression of these proteins. Besides, the sHSP expression was also assessed at the protein accumulation level by Western-blot analysis for cowpea and both IPA 7 and Negro Argel varieties of bean plants. The revealed protein pattern confirmed that sHSPs are differentially expressed in distinct varieties of common bean according their heat stress tolerance.
Molecular cloning of a full-length cDNA and gene from Coffea arabica encoding a protein homologous to the yeast translation initiation factor SUI1: expression analysis in plant organs
Authors: Gaborit Charlotte , Caillet Victoria , Deshayes Alain , Marraccini Pierre
Published: April 2005

A full-length cDNA (CaSUI1) was isolated from a Coffea arabica cDNA library from beans during maturation. Its putative translational product is highly homologous to the SUI1 protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae which functions in concert with eIF2 and the initiator tRNA-Methionin in directing the ribosome to the proper start site of translation. The corresponding gene from coffee was also cloned and sequenced. Its organization is very similar to what observed for the same gene from rice (Oryza sativa) particularly regarding the position and length of its introns. The expression of CaSUI1 gene was also checked and showed that it was highly expressed in all coffee tissues analyzed, therefore confirming the essential role of the SUI1 protein in cell housekeeping functions.
Osmotic adjustment in roots and leaves of two sorghum genotypes under NaCl stress
Authors: Lacerda Claudivan Feitosa de , Cambraia José , Oliva Marco Antonio , Ruiz Hugo Alberto
Published: April 2005

Seedlings of two sorghum genotypes [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], one salt tolerant (CSF 20) and the other salt sensitive (CSF 18) were grown in nutrient solution containing 0, 50 and 100 mmol.L-1 NaCl for seven days and the osmotic potential (Ys) and the contribution of organic and inorganic solutes to the Ys were determined in the leaves and roots. Salinity reduced the Ys of the cellular sap of leaves and roots in both genotypes, mainly in the salt sensitive one. The higher decrease in the Ys in the salt sensitive genotype was mostly due to higher accumulation of Na+ and Cl- that probably exceeded the amount needed for the osmotic adjustment. Among the inorganic solutes, K+ contributed the most to the Ys in control unstressed seedlings, but its contribution decreased as salt stress increased, especially in the salt sensitive genotype. Soluble carbohydrates and amino acids were the organic solutes that contributed the most to the leaf and root Ys, respectively. No statistically significant difference in these organic solute contributions to the leaf Ys between genotypes was observed. Their contributions to the root Ys, however, were higher in the salt tolerant genotype, especially at higher NaCl concentration. Proline contribution to leaf and root Ys was quite small in both genotypes and its accumulation was not related to salt tolerance. Our results suggest that the salt tolerant genotype was able to maintain a more adequate osmotic pool in the leaves and roots under salt stress than the salt sensitive genotype.
Induction of chalcone synthase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase by salicylic acid and Colletotrichum lindemuthianum in common bean
Authors: Campos Ângela Diniz , Ferreira Alfredo Gui , Hampe Magdolna Maria Vozári , Antunes Irajá Ferreira , Brancão Nely , Silveira Expedito P. , Silva João Batista da , Osório Vera Algayer
Published: April 2005

The activities of the enzymes chalcone synthase (CHS) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) were measured in leaf extracts obtained from four cultivars of the common bean (AB 136, Rio Tibagi, Carioca and Macanudo). Two stages of plant development were examined: plantlets (V2) and the onset of blooming (R6). Initially, the plants were either treated with salicylic acid or inoculated with the delta race of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum (inductive fungus) and after three days they were evaluated for enzyme activity. Afterwards, all plants were inoculated (challenged) with the virulent pathotype 33/95 of C. lindemuthianum except for the water control. Five days later, the activities of PAL and CHS were evaluated. There were significant changes in the activities of both enzymes three days after treatment with salicylic acid or inductive fungus when compared to the control. Five days after inoculation with with the virulent pathotype 33/95 of C. lindemuthianum CHS activity in the Macanudo was similar to control plants that were not treated with salicylic acid or the inductive fungus but inoculated with 33/95 C. lindemuthianum. The increase in enzyme activity after challenge with 33/95 C. lindemuthianum was greatest for the salicylic acid treatment in the cultivar AB 136, followed by Rio Tibagi and Carioca.
The effect of lead on the phytochemistry of Tithonia diversifolia exposed to roadside automotive pollution or grown in pots of Pb-supplemented soil
Authors: Olivares Elizabeth
Published: April 2005

Tithonia diversifolia, a ruderal weedy species utilized in agroforestry, is widely distributed in the tropics, often being found in wasteland, margins of polluted city rivers and roadsides. The objective of this study was to compare plants sampled at a light and heavy traffic roadside for metal concentration and foliar compounds which may be related to senescence and/or detoxification of metals. The field survey was followed by an experiment in pots of Pb-acetate-supplemented soil to verify if the same response is obtained under controlled conditions with regard to Pb. The concentration of Pb in leaves and roots of plants sampled at a heavy traffic roadside was higher than in samples from a light traffic site. The content of Cr, Al, Fe, Cu and Ni was also higher in leaves but not of roots in plants from the pollutedsite. No significant differences were found in the concentrations of chlorophyll, carotenoids, UV-absorbing compounds and proteins, nor in the chlorophyll a/b ratio and lipid peroxidation of leaves collected at both sites. On the other hand, Pb-contaminated leaves and roots showed higher acid phosphatase activity while the foliar nitrate reductase activity and specific leaf mass were lower. An increase of leaf phenol concentration, thought to be involved in the detoxification of metals, was observed in the polluted field plants and in roots in the pot experiment, where Pb-acetatewas supplied to the soil, but the changes observed in acid phosphatase and specific leaf mass in the field were not found in the pot experiment.
Effect of cobalt on growth, pigments and the photosynthetic electron transport in Monoraphidium minutum and Nitzchia perminuta
Authors: El-Sheekh M.M. , El-Naggar A.H. , Osman M.E.H. , El-Mazaly E.
Published: April 2005

The unicellular green alga Monoraphidium minutum and the diatom Nitzschia perminuta were cultured under different concentrations of Co2+. Growth and pigment content were slightly increased at low concentrations and inhibited by high Co2+ concentrations. The results concerning the effect of different concentrations of Co2+ on photosynthetic O2 evolution showed a reduction in the amount of O2 evolved by each alga in response to increasing Co2+ concentrations. However, an increase in O2 evolution for both M. minutum and N. perminuta was observed at relatively low Co2+ concentrations. Photosynthetic electron transport in M. minutum was more sensitive to Co2+ toxicity than in N. perminuta. On the other hand, the effect of the heavy metal on respiration showed that higher Co2+ concentrations were inhibitory to O2 uptake by the two algal species. Low Co2+ concentrations stimulated O2 uptake by M. minutum throughout the experimental period. However, in N. perminuta, different concentrations of Co2+ led to a reduction of O2 uptake. To localize the action site of Co2+ in the photosynthetic electron transport chain, the fluorescence induction technique was carried out. According to the results obtained, the inhibitory action of Co2+ is located on the acceptor side of PSII for both M. minutum and N. perminuta.
Seasonal leaf gas exchange and water potential in a woody cerrado species community
Authors: Prado Carlos Henrique Britto de Assis , Wenhui Zhang , Cardoza Rojas Manuel Humberto , Souza Gustavo Maia
Published: April 2005

Predawn leaf water potential (psipd) and morning values of leaf gas exchange, as net photosynthesis (A), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration (E), and morning leaf water potential (psimn) were determined seasonally in 22 woody cerrado species growing under natural conditions. Despite the lower mean values of psipd in the dry season (-0.35 ± 0.23 MPa) compared to the wet season (-0.08 ± 0.03 MPa), the lowest psipd in the dry season (-0.90 ± 0.00 MPa) still showed a good nocturnal leaf water status recovery for all species studied through out the year. Mean gs values dropped 78 % in the dry season, when the vapor pressure of the air was 80% greater than in the wet season. This reduction in gs led to an average reduction of 33% in both A and E, enabling the maintainance of water use efficiency (WUE) during the dry season. Network connectance analysis detected a change in the relationship between leaf gas exchange and psimn in the dry season, mainly between gs-E and E-WUE. A slight global connectance value increase (7.25 %) suggested there was no severe water stress during the dry season. Multivariate analysis showed no link between seasonal response and species deciduousness, suggesting similar behavior in remaining leaves for most of the studied species concerning leaf gas exchange and psimn under natural drought.
Inhibition of the water splitting system by sodium chloride stress in the green alga Chlorella vulgari
Authors: EL-Sheekh Mostafa M.
Published: April 2005

The effect of sodium chloride on the photosynthetic electron transport chain was investigated in the freshwater green alga Chlorella vulgaris. It was found that the rate of oxygen evolution under steady state and flash light conditions diminished by increasing salt concentrations. Salt treatment of cells also decreased the fluorescence and delayed luminescence yields. However, the fluorescence yield was almost completely restored by the addition of an artificial electron donor to the NaCl-treated cells. The oscillation pattern of the thermoluminescence B band as a function of flash number indicated that the S2®S3 transition of the water splitting system is inhibited by NaCl treatment.
Growth and total-N content of Prosopis juliflora (SW) D. C. are stimulated by low NaCl levels
Authors: Viégas Ricardo Almeida , Fausto Maria José Martins , Queiroz José Elenildo , Rocha Iza Marineves Almeida , Silveira Joaquim Albenísio Gomes , Viégas Pedro Roberto Almeida
Published: April 2005

In this study the early effects of salinity on growth, total N and ion accumulation and partitioning in Prosopis juliflora (common name algaroba) were studied with 30-day-old plants grown for 8 days in aerated nutrient solution (NS) free of (control) or supplied with 25, 50, 75 and 100 mmol.L-1 NaCl. Plants grown in 25 and 50 mmol.L-1 NaCl accumulated a total dry mass (DM) and shoot N content greater than the control. However, at 75 and 100 mmol.L-1 NaCl such parameters were diminished. Whole plant transpiration rates were higher with 25 and 50 mmol.L-1 NaCl and lower with 75 and 100 mmol.L-1 NaCl. Salinity did not influence shoot (80%) and root (70%) water content (WC) but reduced the K+ content of shoot while that of root was not affected. Increasing external NaCl concentrations increased K+/Na+ ratios of both plant parts. The data support the hypothesis that increase in transpiration rates and in shoot total N may account for growth stimulation of algaroba under mild salinity.