2026-10-08T22:10:26Z https://neotropical.pensoft.net/oai.php

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34828 2019-04-11 neotropical

Diet and habitat use by two sympatric canids in the Pampas of South America Porto,Lucas Rui,Ana Maria Canidae Cerdocyon thous feeding habits foxes fruit consumption Lycalopex gymnocercus Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 1-12 The crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) and the Pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) are two canids with very similar food and habitat requirements, which live in sympatry across parts of their distributions. Here we describe the diet and habitat use of both canids in the Pampas biome. The study took place in southern Brazil from December 2012 to December 2013. Diet and habitat use analyses were based on fecal samples, footprints and direct visualizations. Diet overlap was measured using Pianka’s index, while habitat use was measured using presence records from three different environments; forests, edges and open areas. Both canids feed on invertebrates and vertebrates but have preferences for fruits, especially Syagrus romanzoffiana. Pianka’s index showed a high overlap of their diets throughout the year, with the exception of autumn. Regarding habitat use, C  . thous preferred to inhabit forested areas while L. gymnocercus was more active in open areas. Our results showed that fruits were the most consumed food item in the Pampas biome. Our findings suggest that habitat use by these two canids is affected by seasonal variation in fruit abundance, but other factors, such as parental care, should be taken into account when explaining how they behave throughout the year. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34828 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34828 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34828/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34828/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34829 2019-04-11 neotropical

Environmental factors modulating the bathymetric distribution of the demographic groups of Achelous spinimanus (Crustacea) Bernardo,Camila H. Pereira Bernardes,Veronica de Sousa,Aline Nonato Barros Rodrigues,Gabriel Fellipe da Silva,Thiago Elias Fransozo,Adilson Seasonal migration SACW ecological niche interspecific relations Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 13-28 The spatio-temporal distribution of Achelous spinimanus demographic groups (juveniles, and adult males and females) and its relation with environmental factors was analyzed in the region of Ubatuba, southeastern Brazil. We performed the samplings from January to December 2000, at eight sites of different depths. A total of 402 specimens of A. spinimanus was captured. The lowest abundance of all demographic groups occurred in summer, while in winter and spring the abundance of adults was very high. Spatially, juveniles were found at 5 to 35m of depth, while adults at 15 to 40m, but were more abundant at 25m. The low abundance of all demographic groups during summer is probably due to the arrival of the South Atlantic Central Water in the region, which decreased the water temperature and salinity. These changes caused the migration of A. spinimanus to more sheltered places of the bay, possibly due to more favorable environmental conditions. The high abundance of the demographic groups at 25m of depth was due to its more heterogeneous sediment, and to avoid competition with other species more abundant in shallower areas. Therefore, the factors that modulate the distribution of A. spinimanus may differ depending on the ontogenetic phase. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34829 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34829 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34829/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34829/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34835 2019-04-11 neotropical

Medium- and large-sized mammals in forest remnants of the southern Cerrado: diversity and ecology Oliveira,Roniel Freitas Ribeiro de Morais,Alessandro Terribile,Levi Carina Endangered species frequency inventory Puma yagouaroundi Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 29-42 Here we present a complete data set on the richness of medium- and large- sized mammals from a fragmented area of the southern Brazilian savanna (Cerrado). We described the frequency, occurrence status and activity period of the most common species. In each remnant, the community of medium- and large-sized mammals was inventoried across the following methods: tracks/prints, vocalizations, sightings, burrows, and camera trap images between August 2016 and January 2017. We recorded 23 species of medium- and large-sized mammals, of which seven are threatened. The study area presented a great potential, where we recorded 45.1% of all medium- and large-sized mammal species occurring in the Cerrado. Myrmecophaga tridactyla, Dasypus novemcinctus, Tapirus terrestris, Cerdocyon thous and Cuniculus paca were classified as common, which was expected since they have large habitat range, and therefore, can be recorded more frequently. Species with large body size, such as T. terrestris, M. tridactyla and C. thous, were also the ones with the greatest variation in time period of activity, occurring both in nocturnal and diurnal time periods. Therefore, our study underscores that this transition area, although fragmented, still maintains an expressive fauna of medium- and large-sized mammals, including endangered species. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34835 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34835 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34835/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34835/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34836 2019-04-11 neotropical

Effect of sand granulometry on the egg hatchling success of the sea turtle Caretta caretta Tacchi,Maria Fernanda Peres Quirino,Fernanda Martins Ferreira,Diego Júnior Gomes Afonso,Lílian Tognin,Federico Negreiros,Daniel Аbiotic factors conservation nest sand stillbirth rate Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 43-54 The environmental characteristics of nesting sites of sea turtles may directly interfere with the egg hatchling success. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the factors that affect the success of hatchling in the nests of the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). Data from 37 nests of C. caretta from the coast of Mata de São João, Bahia, northeastern Brazil, were obtained from TAMAR, Sauípe station. Samples of sand were collected in each nest to determine the granulometry. A significant negative relationship was found between the stillborn rate and the fine sand ratio (r2 = 0.119; p = 0.036), indicating that a larger fraction of fine sand had a positive effect on nest hatchling success. The egg laying date also had a significant influence on the rate of stillbirths (r2 = 0.163; p = 0.013), with a trend towards a higher stillbirth rate, the later the laying date of the eggs. There is indication that the transfer of eggs to sites with more favorable characteristics may be considered as a potential alternative to increase the hatchling success rate of C. caretta eggs. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34836 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34836 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34836/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34836/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34837 2019-04-11 neotropical

Bat Fauna (Chiroptera) in an urban environment in the Atlantic Forest, northeastern Brazil Barbosa Leal,Edson Silva de Queiróz Guerra Filho,Deoclécio de Figueiredo Ramalho,Daniel da Silva,Julianne Moura Sales Bandeira,Rafael Menezes da Silva,Luiz Augustinho Borstelmann de Oliveira,Maria Adélia Atlantic Forest Chiropterans Inventory UFRPE Urban area Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 55-82 In Brazil, only few works have been conducted regarding urban bats and information about richness, composition and ecological interactions in urban areas is little known. Additional studies are important to understand the dynamic of urban bats and offer strategies for their protection. In this paper, we present the results of a bat inventory at the Dois Irmãos campus of UFRPE, Recife, Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil, with analyzes of the composition, richness, diversity, and seasonal variation. From May 2006 to April 2007, we captured 950 bats from 16 species (five families). Frugivores bats accounted for 84.42% of the captures, followed by insectivores, piscivorous, nectarivores, omnivores, and hematophages. The species Artibeus planirostris was the most abundant. There was no significant difference (t = 0.35443, p = 0.7257) on abundance between the seasons of the year. We observed a richer and more diverse bat fauna as one would expect in an urban area, which suggests that the campus is being used for foraging, commuting, or as shelters for these animals. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34837 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34837 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34837/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34837/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34838 2019-04-11 neotropical

Bird breeding biology and homogenization process in an urban green area at Atlantic rainforest of Southeastern Brazil Santos,Gabriel Colonna Ribeiro,Isael D'Avila Centoducatte,Luana Lucena Mendes,Sérgio Urban birds breeding biology urbanization anthropization homogenization Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 83-98 Urbanization is a major cause of biotic homogenization, once it modifies species habitat and creates new environments in which only a few species are able to survive. However, many authors propose that planned green areas within the bounds of urban centers work real islands, providing shelter for several animal species. In this study, we verified the reproductive pattern of a community of birds within an urban green area in southeastern Brazil. Also, we compared the composition of breeding sites and reproductive activities of birds in different environments available and provided insights about how homogenization process affects birds in the study site. We recorded 359 reproductive sites of 36 species. Our data represents 48% of bird species recorded by previous reports at this study site. Out of the total reproductive records, 68.5% were found in wooded areas, even though this land cover class represents only 26.8% of the analyzed landscape. The proportion and the uniqueness of species at this study site show its importance to maintenance of the local diversity of birds. Our results indicate that a local bird diversity homogenization is in process and they provide subsidies for better management practices of green areas within urban centers. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34838 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34838 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34838/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34838/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34839 2019-04-11 neotropical

Cavity-tree use and frequency of response to playback by the Tropical Screech-Owl in northwestern Argentina Schaaf,Alejandro A. Tallei,Ever Politi,Natalia Rivera,Luis Cavity-nesting birds Forest management Neotropical Owls Yungas Argentina Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 99-107 The Tropical Screech-Owl (Megascops choliba) is a nocturnal raptor with a wide distribution across the Neotropics, which uses cavity trees as nesting and roosting sites. Our objectives were to address cavity use by the Tropical Screech-Owl in the piedmont forest of Argentina and to evaluate if logging affects the availability of suitable cavities for nesting and roosting and the frequency of response of the species to playback. The Tropical Screech-Owl used trees with DBH values > 46 cm of three tree species (69% Calycophyllum multiflorum, 15% Phyllostylon rhamnoides, and 8% Cedrela angustifolia), besides standing dead trees (8%). The density of suitable cavities was significantly lower in logged forests than in the control site. The frequency of response of the species to playback was significantly lower at one logged site. Our results can contribute to delineate sustainable forest management to ensure the conservation of this owl in logged forest. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34839 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34839 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34839/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34839/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34840 2019-04-11 neotropical

Acari of lizards from Atlantic Forest in northeastern Brazil Oliveira,Camila N. Mendes Pinto Campos,Ikaro Henrique Bianque de Oliveira,Jaqueline de Moura,Geraldo Jorge Barbosa Eutrombicula Geckobia hemidactyli Geckobiella harrisi mites Squamata Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 109-116 Although mites are often associated with reptiles, there is little information available about parasites of lizards in Brazil. The aim of this study was to identify the ectoparasites of the lizards Kentropyx calcarata (Squamata: Teiidae), Hemidactylus mabouia (Squamata: Gekkonidae) and Tropidurus hispidus (Squamata: Tropiduridae) from northeastern Brazil. The lizards were captured during the dry season at Mata de Tejipió, a fragment of Atlantic Forest, located in the municipality of Recife, state of Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil. Eutrombicula sp. (Acari: Trombiculidae), Geckobia hemidactyli and Geckobiella harrisi (Acari: Pterygosomatidae) were found associated with adult lizards of K. calcarata, H. mabouia, and T. hispidus, respectively. Mites were found in skin folds of the throat and post femoral regions (Eutrombicula sp.), “mite-pockets” (G. harrisi); and in axillary, dorsal, ventral and pelvic regions (G. hemidactyli). In Brazil, this study widens the known geographical distribution of Geckobiella harrisi on T. hispidus and G. hemidactyli on H. mabouia. In addition, K. calcarata is recorded as a new host of Eutrombicula sp. These findings show the importance of ectoparasites as a tool for ecological and biogeographic studies. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34840 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34840 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34840/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34840/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34841 2019-04-11 neotropical

Foam nest construction and first report of agonistic behaviour in Pleurodema tucumanum (Anura: Leptodactylidae) Rodriguez Muñoz,Melina Martínez,Tomás Agustín Acosta,Juan Carlos Blanco,Graciela M. Amphibians Dry Chaco male-male interaction oviposition site reproductive mode Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 117-128 Reproductive strategies are the combination of physiological, morphological, and behavioural traits interacting to increase species reproductive success within a set of environmental conditions. While the reproductive strategies of Leiuperinae are known, few studies have been conducted regarding the reproductive behaviour that underlies them. The aim of this study was to document the structural characteristics of nesting microsites, to describe the process of foam nest construction, and to explore the presence of male agonistic and chorus behaviour in Pleurodema tucumanum. Nests were found close to the edge of a temporary pond and the mean temperature of the foam nests was always close to the mean temperature of the pond water. Our observations corroborate that the foam nest construction phases for P. tucumanum are similar to those described for other Leiuperinae, including dispersion and the beating of the foam, realized by male hind limbs. We also recorded the first scientific observations of male agonistic encounter in Pleurodema tucumanum. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34841 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34841 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34841/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34841/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e34842 2019-04-11 neotropical

New record of giant anteater Myrmecophaga tridactyla (Pilosa, Myrmecophagidae) in Northeast Brazil de Matos Dias,Douglas Miranda,Flávia Regina Guimarães Rodrigues,Flávio Henrique Caatinga distribution giant anteater Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 129-135 The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is the largest living anteater, which due to several anthropic impacts, is threatened with extinction. So far, there was only one locality with a confirmed record of M. tridactyla in Northeast of Brazil. We present a new direct record of the species in Brazilian Northeast, registered in July 2017 by camera trap, in an arboreal caatinga area, municipality of Sento Sé, Bahia. This record is the second one of the species in the Caatinga Biome and confirms the occurrence of M. tridactyla in the state of Bahia. It constitutes the first direct record of M. tridactyla in more than 13 years of monitoring in the study area, suggesting that the species is locally rare. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e34842 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e34842 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34842/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/34842/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e35410 2019-04-12 neotropical

Oviposition observation of Tropidodryas serra (Serpentes: Dipsadidae) Muscat,Edelcio Rotenberg,Elsie Machado,Iberê Atlantic Forest atresic eggs natural history reproduction snake Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(1): 137-141 Tropidodryas serra is an endemic snake from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and despite its wide distribution, little is known about its ecology. Tropidodryas serra is an oviparous snake, but there are few available data on its  reproductive cycle. In this paper, we present the first report of oviposition of T. serra in captivity with successfully hatching. A pregnant female was captured in the area of Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Dacnis Project, Ubatuba-SP, southeastern Brazil, and held captive. The spawning of 7 eggs and the development of offspring were observed. The eggs (measuring 4x1.35 cm in average) hatched in 90 days, with 6 healthy neonates and 1 stillborn. Based on a unique successful hatching of T. serra eggs in captivity, the present study confirmed with naturalistic data reproductive characteristics of the species, such as egg laying in December and low number of atresic eggs, corroborating that the species should present few reproductive events and concentrated throughout the rainy season. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e35410 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e35410 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/35410/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/35410/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37653 2019-07-15 neotropical

Mammals of medium and large size in Cerrado remnants in southeastern Brazil Laurindo,Rafael Toledo,Flávia Teixeira,Elias agricultural mosaic camera trap Brazilian savanna mammal fauna armadilha fotográfica mastofauna mosaico agrícola savana brasileira Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 195-206 The Cerrado is the second largest biome in Brazil and considered a global biodiversity hotspot due to its high species richness, elevated amount of endemisms, and several anthropogenic threats. The Cerrado has more than 250 species of mammals, and about 15% are endemic. However, fragmentation and the consequent loss of native habitat threaten the maintenance of mammalian populations. In this context we carried out an inventory of medium- and large-sized mammals in Cerrado remnants in Matutina, Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. Sampling was performed in four remnants of Cerrado and adjacent agricultural matrices for 18 days and 16 nights in March and July 2015 with camera traps, diurnal and nocturnal censuses, and by searching for tracks and other indirect evidence. We recorded 19 species of mammals, including top predators and species vulnerable to extinction. The original vegetation cover in the study area has become severely reduced and fragmented due to agricultural expansion. However, the remnants still retain considerable diversity of medium- and large-sized mammals, making them important for the maintenance of biological diversity. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37653 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37653 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37653/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37653/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37601 2019-07-15 neotropical

Reproductive biology of the mutton hamlet on the coast of Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil Simoni,Maria Ester Garciov Filho,Edson Vasconcelos de Oliveira,Paulo Rêgo,Mariana Hissa Vieira Hazin,Fábio Travassos,Paulo Epinephelidae fecundity reproduction spawning Desova Epinephelidae fecundidade reprodução Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 157-168 This paper focuses on the reproductive biology of the Mutton Hamlet, Alphestes afer, a fish belonging to the family Epinephelidae, and aims to provide information on the main reproductive parameters of the species on the north coast of the state of Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil. From a total of 783 individuals, collected between March 2007 and June 2010, and from February to November 2014, the gonads of 322 fishes (235 females and 87 males) were analyzed, for the identification of sex and maturational stages. Females were more abundant and larger than males, with a sex ratio of 2.4 females: 1 male, during the reproduction season. The size at first maturity (L50) was estimated at 16.8 cm total length for females, and 16.2 cm for males. The gonadosomatic index (GSI) indicated that a reproductive cycle occurs all year round, while reproduction takes place from June to November. The fecundity of Alphestes afer ranged from 105,317 to 270,192 oocytes, averaging 173,458 oocytes. The females are more abundant than males due to the process of protogyny and also because individuals are regularly captured at growth stages above the L50, being a positive aspect for the sustainability of the fishery. According to the GSI, the species presents a split-type spawning with two peaks occurring throughout the year. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37601 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37601 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37601/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37601/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37602 2019-07-15 neotropical

Highly disparate bird assemblages in sugarcane and pastures: implications for bird conservation in agricultural landscapes Alexandrino,Eduardo R. Buechley,Evan Forte,Yuri Cassiano,Carla Ferraz,Katia Maria Ferraz,Silvio Couto,Hilton Thadeu Sekercioglu,Cagan Agricultural impacts biofuel dairy production land sharing land sparing scattered trees sugarcane expansion Biocombustíveis compartilhamento de terras conservação na agricultura expansão canavieira impactos da agricultura ornitologia pecuária poupança de terras Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 169-194 Sugarcane and cattle pastures are two of the most widespread and economically important agricultural landscapes. However, in Brazil, they have not been properly investigated for their importance to native birds and wildlife conservation. Thus, we aim to characterize and compare bird assemblages of sugarcane and cattle pastures; and understand how landscape features within both habitats influence bird assemblages. We surveyed birds in both agricultural habitats over one year, and then investigated the relationship between species richness and composition with landscape diversity, matrix permeability, and the size and distribution of natural forests close to both habitats. We observed 132 species in cattle pastures and only 72 in sugarcane (48% bird community similarity). We further evaluated the richness and relative abundance of avian ecological groups, including habitat specialists and habitat generalists, insectivores, omnivores, granivores and frugivores. All avian groups were higher in pastures, the habitat where landscape heterogeneity and number of scattered trees was higher. Our results show that overall increasing landscape heterogeneity favors an assemblage with higher richness and composed by species with more diverse ecological functions. Therefore, we argue in favor of management practices that incorporate heterogeneity in agricultural landscapes, mainly in sugarcane fields where a homogeneous scheme has been used. Otherwise, the potential of agricultural landscapes for bird conservation will be highly hindered, particularly if the sugarcane sector expands to other agricultural lands. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37602 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37602 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37602/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37602/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37526 2019-07-15 neotropical

Assessing the role of habitat and species interactions in the population decline and detection bias of Neotropical leaf litter frogs in and around La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica Vera Alvarez,Maria Fernandez,Christopher Cove,Michael Anurans community ecology detection probability leaf litter frogs occupancy models Anuros ecologia de comunidades modelos de ocupação probabilidade de detecção rãs de serapilheira Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 143-156 Worldwide, amphibian populations have been declining rapidly. This decline can be attributed to many factors including climate change, pesticide exposure, and emerging infectious diseases, among other important factors, but few studies have examined the influence of species interactions. In this study, we examined how habitat factors and co-occurring avian and mammalian species, as well as humans, exert direct and indirect effects on Neotropical amphibian population dynamics. We further examined how these habitat and species interactions could affect our ability to reliably detect amphibian presence to robustly estimate population trends. We conducted amphibian visual encounter surveys at 26 randomly selected sites in the La Selva Biological Station, in northeastern Costa Rica, as well as 26 sites across five additional forest fragments in the region. Furthermore, we used camera traps to collect data on avian and mammalian communities and human visitation at those amphibian survey plots. From these data, we were able to estimate species occupancy probabilities for leaf litter frogs across sites and their relationships to habitat and interspecific species interaction covariates. We also conducted an experiment with plastic model frogs to estimate detection probabilities when a population is known to occur at a site with certainty. Our results suggested that strawberry poison dart frog (Oophaga pumilio) occupancy was positively related to secondary forest and their detection was negatively related to increasing air temperatures at the times of the surveys. Leaf litter frog occupancy was negatively related to core La Selva sites and human detections at sites, yet their detection was positively related to human trail presence, which might be related to reduced leaf litter cover due to heavy trampling. Our experimental surveys suggested that Neotropical leaf litter frog communities are difficult to detect when present and future studies should explicitly account for this detection bias to effectively monitor population trends. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37526 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37526 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37526/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37526/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37667 2019-07-22 neotropical

Diversity and space-time dynamics of fish assemblages in a coastal lagoon, western Atlantic Cattani,André Ribeiro,Gisela Cardoso,Olímpio Afonso,Maíra Hostim-Silva,Maurício Pichler,Helen Spach,Henry Louis coastal area fish fauna south Brazil taxonomic structure área costeira estrutura taxonômica fauna de peixes sul do Brasil Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 221-239 The knowledge of the temporal and spatial dynamics in the composition of fish fauna makes it possible to identify patterns of occupation of ecosystems, providing a basis for evaluation and preservation of the local biodiversity. Monthly samplings were carried out at seven sites in a coastal lagoon, using a casting net, dip net and beach seine. A total of 4,110 individuals were collected, distributed in 23 families and 49 taxa of fish, with a predominance of Mugil liza, M. curema, Atherinella brasiliensis, Micropogonias furnieri and Eucinostomus argenteus, corresponding to more than 80% total weight of all individuals caught. Regarding seasonality, greater abundances were recorded in fall, influenced by the high abundance of A. brasiliensis in this period. In addition to fall, this species was also abundant in summer. However, this pattern of dominance was different for the families Mugilidae and Gerreidae, with higher abundances in spring and summer, respectively. The highest abundances were found in the southern section of the lagoon, which are related to the high abundance of A. brasiliensis, M. liza and M. curema. In relation to the indices of average taxonomic distinctness and variation in the taxonomic distinctness, no significant differences were detected between the seasons of the year. Thus, the patterns of distribution and occurrence of fish in the lagoon were consistent with the patterns observed in Brazilian coastal lagoons and estuaries, as well as to the coastal shallow areas of the southeastern and southern regions. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37667 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37667 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37667/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37667/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37919 2019-07-22 neotropical

Malformation in three anuran species from a preserved remnant of Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil Tamanini Mônico,Alexander Silva-Soares,Thiago Koch,Esteban amphibian brachydactyly conservation ectrodactyly hemimelia microphthalmia protected area anfíbios braquidactilia conservação ectrodactilia hemimelia microftalmia unidade de conservação Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 213-220 Records of malformation in amphibians have significantly increased on a global scale. The main causes of malformations are linked to environmental contaminants, and records in preserved environments are uncommon. We reported malformations in three anuran species belonging to three families: Crossodactylus timbuhy (Hylodidae), Proceratophrys schirchi (Odontophrynidae) and Thoropa miliaris (Cycloramphidae). All records were found within the Reserva Biológica Augusto Ruschi, a well-preserved protected remnant of Atlantic rainforest located in the mountains of the state of Espírito Santo, southeastern Brazil. The malformations detected were hemimelia (long bone shortened) with ectrodactyly (digit absent) and brachydactyly (digit shortened) in C. timbuhy, microphtalmia (small eye) in P. schirchi and ectrodactyly in T. miliaris. Further studies are recommended to enable a better understanding about the incidence and causes of malformations within preserved areas. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37919 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37919 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37919/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37919/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37920 2019-07-22 neotropical

Importancia para la conservación de las aves de un relicto de bosque en la región fitogeográfica del Espinal, Argentina Verga,Ernesto Sánchez Hümoller,Hilda Vergara-Tabares,David Galetto,Leonardo Peluc,Susana conservation Córdoba endemic birds forest loss aves endémicas conservación Córdoba pérdida de bosque Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 241-256 La región fitogeográfica del Espinal en Argentina está críticamente amenazada, ya que gran parte de su territorio históricamente cubierto por bosque fue convertido a cultivos. Con el fin de evidenciar el valor de conservación de bosques relictuales en la región, realizamos un inventario de las especies de aves presentes en uno de los relictos de Espinal más grandes del centro de la provincia de Córdoba, evaluando si cumple con las condiciones para formar parte de la red de Áreas de Importancia para la Conservación de las Aves (AICAs). Registramos 116 especies, pertenecientes a 32 familias, lo cual representa aproximadamente un cuarto del total de especies citadas para la provincia. La ocurrencia de una “especie amenazada a nivel mundial” (Rhea americana), dos “especies de distribución restringida a nivel nacional” (Poospiza ornata y Xolmis rubetra), y 18 especies “específicas de un bioma” hace que este relicto de Espinal cumpla al menos con tres de los criterios para considerar un área como AICA. Este trabajo resalta el gran valor del sitio estudiado para la conservación de las aves, constituyendo un reservorio regional de diversidad. En base a estos resultados y a la crítica situación de conservación que enfrenta el Espinal, consideramos que es imprescindible revalorizar el área como un AICA. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37920 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37920 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37920/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37920/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e35601 2019-07-22 neotropical

First record of the Mozambique tilapia, Oreochromis mossambicus Peters, 1852 (Perciformes, Cichlidae), on Kangean Island, Indonesia Hasan,Veryl Pratama,Fajar Surya Malonga,Win Ariga Mansur Cahyanurani,Annisa Bias Cichlid distribution estuary non-native Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 207-211 In 2019 we captured specimens of Oreochromis mossambicus Peters, 1852 from Batu Batu River, an estuary river on Kangean Island (Indonesia), a conservation area in the Java Sea. These records are among the first of this species from an island in the Java Sea. A description of morphological characters of sampled specimens is provided. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e35601 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e35601 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/35601/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/35601/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37633 2019-07-22 neotropical

Environmental factors affecting the success of exotic plant invasion in a wildland-urban ecotone in temperate South America Nievas,Romina Calderon,Mirian Moglia,Marta altitude anthropogenic disturbance invasibility soil characteristics altitude características do solo distúrbio antropogênico invasibilidade Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 257-274 Urbanization is one of the main causes driving changes in biodiversity patterns and it is regarded as a major threat to native biota. Successful exotic plant invasion depends on invasiveness and invasibility. Invasiveness is related to the characteristics of exotic plants and invasibility to the features of the sites. The objective of this study was to identify the invasibility environmental factors affecting the success of exotic plant invasion in a wildland-urban ecotone of the central region of Argentina (Potrero de los Funes Village, San Luis). Fifty phytosociological inventories were recorded in an area of 700 ha during spring and summer seasons (2013–2015). Abundance-coverage values of plants and environmental variables such as soil characteristics, anthropogenic disturbance, and altitude of the sites were assessed. Soil moisture, electrical conductivity (EC), acidity (pH), organic matter content, and nitrates were determined as part of the soil analysis. A Nonmetric Multidimensional Scaling analysis was used to identify the possible relationship between abundance-coverage of the vegetation and environmental variables. Abundance-coverage of exotic plants was positively influenced by anthropogenic disturbance and nitrate levels, and negatively affected by altitude. However, no significant correlation was found between percentage of exotic plants and pH, EC, or soil moisture. Thus, urbanization and touristic activities influenced the success of exotic plant invasion. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37633 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37633 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37633/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37633/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e38094 2019-07-25 neotropical

Effects of weed management on soil mites in coffee plantations in a Neotropical environment Marafeli,Patrícia de Pádua Reis,Paulo Bernardi,Leopoldo Pervaiz,Roomna Martinez,Pablo Antonio Coffea arabica communities edaphic mites seasonality weed management ácaros edáficos Coffea arabica comunidades manejo de ervas daninhas sazonalidade Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 275-289 Environmental disturbance, as a result of land use change and/or different agricultural practices, may have negative impacts on the richness and abundance of edaphic mites. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different weed management methods in coffee plantations on edaphic mites, and to compare these results with mite communities of native forest habitats in southeastern Brazil. Soil samples were taken between the rows of a coffee plantation under different weed management methods, such as without weeding, manual weeding, agricultural grid, contact herbicide (glyphosate), residual herbicide (oxyfluorfen), mechanical tiller, and mechanical mower, and in a native forest area. Weed management affected edaphic mite communities, with the residual herbicide treatment having the greatest impact on species composition, abundance, richness and diversity. The use of manual weeding and the maintenance of unweeded areas were the practices that preserved mite communities closest to those found in native forest habitats. Thus, such practices are recommended as best practices in coffee plantations. Among the studied mites, the groups Oribatida and Mesostigmata were found in all sites, presenting the greatest abundance and richness, and were sensitive to different forms of weed control. On this basis, we suggest these groups as indicators of soil quality in coffee plantations. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e38094 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e38094 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/38094/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/38094/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e36535 2019-08-09 neotropical

Invasion alert: new record of the exotic Gambusia holbrooki Girard, 1859 in the Puna Austral region, Northwestern of Argentina Andreoli Bize,Julieta Fernández,Luis Andes Argentina biological invasion Cyprinodontiformes elevation mosquitofish Andes Argentina Cyprinodontiformes elevacão invasão biológica mosquitofish Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 291-295 We report the first record of Gambusia holbrooki Girard, 1859 at elevations above 1,615 m in the Puna Austral, Provincia Catamarca, Argentina. This fish was introduced by intentional release. The Puna is characterized by an endorheic system, where the exotic species would cause a negative impact on the aquatic fauna by predation of eggs and larvae of native fish. Unfortunately, Argentinian conservation policies are directed to protect exotic fish before endemic ichthyofauna. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e36535 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e36535 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/36535/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/36535/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37655 2019-08-13 neotropical

Analysis of duet vocalizations in Myiothlypis leucoblephara (Aves, Parulidae) Batistela,Marciela Müller,Eliara Atlantic forest bioacoustics vocal behavior Acomportamento vocal bioacústica Floresta Atlântica Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(2): 297-311 Bird vocalizations might be used for specific recognition, territorial defense, and reproduction. Bioacoustic studies aim to understand the production, propagation and reception of acoustic signals, and they are an important component of research on animal behavior and evolution. In this study we analyzed the sound structure of duet vocalizations in pairs of Myiothlypis leucoblephara and evaluated whether the vocal variables differ among pairs and if there are differences in temporal characteristics and frequency of duets between pairs in forest edges vs. forest interior. Vocalizations were recorded from 17 bird pairs in three remnants of Atlantic Forest in southern Brazil. Six of the bird pairs were situated at the edge of the forest remnant, and 11 were in the interior of the remnant. The duets of different pairs between forest areas showed descriptive differences in the frequency, number of notes per call, and time between issuance of calls, with the main distinguishing feature being a change in frequency of a few notes in the second part of the musical phrase. The minimum frequency of vocalization was reduced at the private area than in the other two remnants (p <0.05). The duets of birds in the forest edge and forest interior did not significantly differ in minimum or maximum frequency of phrases (p> 0.05), phrase duration (p> 0.05) or number of notes per phrase (p> 0.05). Myiothlypis leucoblephara did not show a specific pattern with respect to issue of phrases in duets, but instead showed five different patterns, which were variable among pairs. There was a sharp decline or alternation in frequency between notes in the second part of the musical phrase for recognition among pairs. Variation in vocalization among M. leucoblephara duets may play a role in pair recognition. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37655 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37655 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37655/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37655/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e38290 2019-10-09 neotropical

Sobrevivência e crescimento de espécies nativas do Cerrado após semeadura direta na recuperação de pastagem abandonada Oliveira,Maria Cristina Leite,Jussara Galdino,Olga Porto Ogata,Roberto Alves da Silva,Dulce Ribeiro,Jose bioma Cerrado diásporo restauração ecológica Cerrado biome diaspore ecological restoration Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(3): 313-327 Considerando que estudos sobre a sobrevivência e o crescimento das espécies nativas via semeadura direta nas savanas brasileiras ainda são escassos, este trabalho acrescenta informações para essa técnica com 36 espécies arbóreas nativas do bioma Cerrado com relação a emergência, sobrevivência e crescimento no campo ao longo de três anos. Assim, 11.550 sementes foram semeadas em 2.520 covas, espaçadas 1 × 1 m, em duas áreas de 5.000 m2 cada, em área de pastagem abandonada em solo do tipo Neossolo Regolítico na Fazenda Entre Rios, Distrito Federal, Brasil. Cada cova recebeu de duas a dez sementes de uma espécie, sem qualquer tratamento de quebra de dormência. A taxa de emergência foi avaliada após 120 dias, e a sobrevivência das emergentes após um, dois e três anos. Além disso, seu crescimento em altura foi avaliado após três anos. Das 36 espécies, quatro apresentaram entre 10% e 20% de emergência e quatro (Copaifera langsdorffii, Hymenaea courbaril, Eugenia dysenterica e Stryphnodendron adstringens) acima de 20% e sobrevivência >80%, após um ano. Nesse mesmo período, 24 das espécies testadas apresentaram taxa de sobrevivência >60%. No geral, a taxa média de sobrevivência dos indivíduos nos três anos foi baixa (53%). Devido ao típico crescimento lento em altura observado para os indivíduos das espécies de Cerrado consideradas (média de 10,8 cm em três anos), na recuperação de áreas similares é importante também levar em conta o plantio de outras formas de vida (herbáceas e arbustivas) de espécies nativas, talvez até em densidades mais elevadas, para ocupar mais rapidamente o solo e assim buscar competir com as gramíneas exóticas. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e38290 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e38290 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/38290/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/38290/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e38058 2019-10-09 neotropical

An inconvenient routine: introduction, establishment and spread of new non-native fishes in the Paraíba do Sul River basin, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil Magalhães,Andre Lincoln Barroso de Brito,Marcelo Sarrouh,Boutros Aquaculture aquarium trade biological invasion invasive species spread Aquicultura aquários invasão biológica espécie invasora disseminação Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(3): 329-338 This study updates the introduction of non-native fishes Nannostomus beckfordi, Aphyocharax anisitsi, Knodus moenkhausii, Moenkhausia costae, Ancistrus multispinis and Astronotus ocellatus in the largest ornamental aquaculture center located in Paraíba do Sul River basin, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. There is evidence that all species are established and that some are spreading to a reservoir in the region. Management actions such as awareness campaigns to educate fish farmers and the inspection of fish farms carried out by IBAMA officials are suggested to avoid new introductions and spread. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e38058 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e38058 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/38058/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/38058/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e37714 2019-10-25 neotropical

Records of melanistic Tamandua tetradactyla (Pilosa, Myrmecophagidae) from Ecuador Ríos-Alvear,Gorky Cadena-Ortiz,Héctor Cerro Plateado Biological Reserve color variation neotropical mammals Podocarpus National Park Xenarthra Vermilingua Reserva Biológica Cerro Plateado variação de coloração mamíferos neotropicais Parque Nacional Podocarpus Xenarthra Vermilingua Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(3): 339-347 In Ecuador, the presence of melanistic individuals of Southern Tamandua Tamandua tetradactyla Linnaeus (1758) has been recognized but there has not been a formal report written about it. Neither has there been one on the observations or the collected specimens in museums. We present six records of melanism in Tamandua tetradactyla from southern Ecuador and discuss other records in wildlife and from museum collections. Half of the records are recent photographic ones (2018), and the other three are museum specimens collected between 2009 and 2016. Our report of melanistic individuals suggests that dark coloration varieties are frequent mutations in the region. This report can be useful to promote conservation initiatives, based on the Southern Tamandua as a potential flagship-species. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e37714 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e37714 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37714/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/37714/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e47403 2019-11-05 neotropical

Food habits and endozoochorous seed dispersal by small rodents (Cricetidae and Echimyidae) in a riparian forest in southeastern Brazil Lessa,Leonardo Paula,Camilla S. Pessoa,Rafael S. Cerrado diet scarification Espinhaço Range Cerrado dieta escarificação Cadeia do Espinhaço Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(3): 349-359 We analyzed the feeding habits and the endozoochoric seed dispersal of six species of Neotropical small rodents in a riparian forest in the Cerrado biome at the central portion of Espinhaço Mountain Range, Brazil. The species presented a miscellaneous diet consuming arthropod, especially Hymenoptera (ants) and Isoptera (termites), fruits of pioneer species and vegetative parts of plants (stems and leaves). The high frequency of arthropods in the diet of all species studied reinforces its importance as a food resource for small Neotropical rodents, especially in environments with a marked seasonality, such as in the Cerrado. The number of intact seeds after gut passage and the higher germinability of the ingested seeds, compared to the control group, indicates that the studied rodents acted mainly as dispersers and not as predators of small seeds (≤ 1 mm) of pioneer species (Melastomataceae and Rubiaceae). info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e47403 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e47403 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47403/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47403/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e38088 2019-11-07 neotropical

Alternatives for the biomonitoring of fish and phytoplankton in tropical streams Barbosa,Hugo Borges Machado,Karine Carvalho Vieira,Maisa Rodrigo Pereira,Hasley Fernandes Gomes,Leonardo Carlos Nabout,João Teresa,Fabrício B. Vieira,Ludgero biological surrogates Cerrado ecological classification environmental monitoring functional groups Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 361-380 Biomonitoring programs need to balance accurate responses in assessments of changes in biological communities with sampling that is fast and low cost. In this study, we evaluated the concordance among fish and phytoplankton communities of streams. We tested the cross-taxa surrogacy, taxonomic, numerical resolution and ecological substitute group (habitat use and trophic guilds) resolution with Procrustes analyses aim of simplifying the biomonitoring process. We collect a total fish abundance of 8,461 individuals, represented by the ecological classes of habitat, including benthic, nektonic, nektobenthic, marginal and trophic guilds by detritivore, terrestrial invertivore, aquatic invertivore, piscivore, algivore and herbivore. We sampled a phytoplankton total density of 1,466.68 individuals/ml, represented by four Morphology-Based Functional Groups and nine Reynolds Functional Groups. Our results don’t support the use of substitute groups among fish and phytoplankton. For fish, habitat use and trophic guild are good surrogates for species-level data. Additionally, our results don’t support the use of functional groups as surrogates for phytoplankton. We suggest the use of higher taxonomic levels (genus and family) and record only the occurrence of species and/or genus for fish and phytoplankton. Our findings contribute to decreasing the costs and time of biomonitoring programs assessments and/or conservation plans on fish and phytoplankton communities of headwater streams. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e38088 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e38088 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/38088/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/38088/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e47917 2019-11-26 neotropical

Alimentação de Auchenipterichthys punctatus (Siluriformes, Auchenipteridae) em lagos do rio Cuiuni, Amazonas, Brasil Farias,Eletuza Aguiar-Santos,Jamerson Loebens,Sara Beltrão,Hélio Freitas,Carlos Edwar Yamamoto,Kedma dieta rio Negro nicho trófico diet Negro river trophic niche Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 399-409 Auchenipterichthys punctatus é uma espécie de peixe muito abundante durante o período de águas baixas no rio Cuiuni, sendo objetivo deste estudo investigar a alimentação de A. punctatus em lagos desse rio. O conteúdo estomacal, o grau de repleção, índice alimentar (IAi), itens preferenciais e amplitude de nicho trófico (BA) de 130 indivíduos foram analisados. Os resultados demonstram que 26,9% dos indivíduos apresentam estômagos com grau de enchimento baixo, 23,0% moderado, 13,0% semicheio e 10,7% completamente cheio. Foi possível identificar três categorias de conteúdo quanto à origem: animal, vegetal e material não identificado. Os itens de maior consumo e diversidade estão dentro da categoria animal, representados por diferentes ordens de insetos de origem autóctone e alóctone. De acordo com os dados da dieta, a composição alimentar de A. punctatus durante o período da seca nos lagos do rio Cuiuni evidencia o hábito carnívoro com tendência à insetivoria. Os valores de amplitude de nicho trófico foram considerados baixos em todos os lagos. A atividade alimentar evidenciou que durante o período da seca houve restrição devido ao alto consumo de um único item. Ressaltamos a necessidade de mais estudos sobre a espécie, além de outros auchenipterídeos, envolvendo a ecologia trófica durante todas as fases do pulso de inundação em lagos de água preta na Amazônia para completar as lacunas existentes sobre sua ecologia. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e47917 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e47917 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47917/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47917/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e47228 2019-11-26 neotropical

Ferruginous Rupestrian Savannah: a floristic and structural analysis of these rare environments Pereira,Cássio Cardoso Soares,Fernanda Fonseca,Rúbia Santos Ribeiro Henriques,Nathália Arruda,Daniel Meira Brazilian flora cerrado sensu stricto floristic similarity ironstone outcrop species distribution Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 381-397 The flora of the Rupestrian Savannah (Cerrado Rupestre) is composed of widely distributed species and endemic species from high altitude rocky outcrops. The aim of this study was to characterise the floristic composition, structure and diversity of fragments of Rupestrian Savannah in south-eastern Brazil and to examine the similarity with other rupestrian cerrado vegetations and with cerrado sensu stricto on profound soils. For this, phytosociological parameters, evenness and diversity were calculated and compared with other studies. The survey exhibited 72 species, 45 genera, 30 families and high floristic similarity with cerrado on profound soils. There were no indicator species of the Rupestrian Savannah, but there were typical species of rocky environments. The basal area was significantly larger in the profound soil cerrado in relationship to the Rupestrian Savannah and evenness was lower in the Rupestrian Savannah of this study compared to others. These variables reflect the lower exploration capacity of the root of rocky environments. The highest similarity between the Rupestrian Savannah and cerrado on profound soils refers to the canga ferruginous nature, which represents the limit of the tableland of cerrado on the edge of the plateaus, allowing greater sharing of flora. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e47228 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e47228 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47228/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47228/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e47885 2019-11-26 neotropical

Padrões espaciais da vegetação lenhosa associados ao processo de expansão da Floresta com Araucaria sobre Campos excluídos de manejo Schinestsck,Camila Fonseca Müller,Sandra De Patta Pillar,Valerio Expansão florestal mosaico floresta-campo vassoural sucessão Sul do Brasil forest expansion grassland-forest mosaic shrubland succession southern Brazil Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 411-429 O processo de expansão florestal tem sido observado em regiões de mosaicos de campo-floresta no Sul do Brasil, especialmente em campos excluídos de fogo e pastejo. Outros fatores influenciam esse processo, porém a magnitude ainda permanece pouco compreendida. Neste estudo, avaliamos os padrões da vegetação lenhosa estabelecida num campo excluído de manejo por 34 anos, relacionando-os com variáveis de solo e espaço. Estabelecemos 110 parcelas (113 m2 cada) de forma sistemática sobre áreas mapeadas como campos em 1985, na Estação Ecológica de Aracuri, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Foram amostrados todos os indivíduos lenhosos e variáveis de solo. Análises de ordenação e de partição da variância da composição de espécies nos componentes solo, espaço, e solo estruturado no espaço foram empregadas. Os padrões da vegetação foram melhor explicados pelo espaço, principalmente a distância da área fonte florestal. Comunidades mais próximas da antiga borda florestal são caracterizadas por mais espécies e indivíduos com dispersão zoocórica. Áreas mais distantes têm predomínio de arbustos campestres (Baccharis uncinella) e poucas arbóreas se estabeleceram. O solo apresentou baixa explicação (5%), porém as condições modificam-se conforme o desenvolvimento florestal avança. Concluímos que a expansão florestal em área excluída de distúrbios tem forte associação com o espaço – a distância de áreas fonte, e que os fatores edáficos pouco contribuem com a magnitude do avanço sobre o campo. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e47885 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e47885 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47885/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47885/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e48493 2019-11-28 neotropical

The biggest or the most abundant? Predation of the Black Drum Pogonias cromis (Perciformes, Sciaenidae) on benthic organisms in southern Brazil Santos,Paulo Roberto Santos Paiva,Beatriz Velasco,Gonzalo feeding biology food overlap niche breadth ontogenetic changes Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 431-438 Predators that consume larger prey acquire a greater net return of energy per individual, even though they are less abundant. The objective of this work is to analyze the feeding biology of Pogonias cromis in southern Brazil, in order to test for the occurrence of ontogenetic changes in diet as fish reach larger sizes, by consuming larger prey as they grow. Between August 2014 and May 2016, 347 specimens were collected from catches of the fishing fleet that operate in the Patos lagoon estuary and in the adjacent marine area of Cassino beach, that use artisanal fishing gillnets. The prey-specific relative importance index, food overlap, niche breadth and prey length preference were calculated for three length classes, class 1 (27.8–48.73 cm), class 2 (48.73–69.66 cm) and class 3 (69.66–90.60 cm). A total of 13 food items (6 species of crustaceans, 5 species of mollusks, fish fragments and non-animal fragments) were identified, where two species of mollusks (Heleobia australis and Erodona mactroides) represented 90.49% of the diet. The overlap index was moderate between classes 1 and 2, high between 2 and 3 and moderate between 1 and 3. There was a low niche breadth at the population level and for each length class. There were no significant differences in the length of prey consumed among classes. The data obtained here indicates that P. cromis can be classified as a predator specialized in mollusks, with low tendency to ontogenetic changes in southern Brazil. Considering information from the population of P. cromis from Argentina, it can be inferred that the species in the waters of southern South America is a benthic predator adapted to local conditions. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e48493 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e48493 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48493/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48493/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e48588 2019-11-28 neotropical

Molecular genetic studies of Chilean avifauna: an overview about current progress Colihueque,Nelson Gantz,Alberto Birds Chilean avifauna evolution molecular markers Avifauna chilena evolução marcadores moleculares genéticos pássaros Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 459-477 The biodiversity of Chilean avifauna has been shaped by geological events, geographical factors and extreme climatic regimens. Molecular genetic studies developed to date have begun to provide valuable information to elucidate the effect of these factors on the evolutionary history of Chilean birds. We conducted a search in two bibliographic databases (PubMed and Scopus) over the period between 1998 and 2018 to identify the number and class of articles published in this research field. The quantification of specific research categories was also performed to assess progress in different molecular genetic issues of Chilean birds. Representative studies of the more active research areas: population structure, phylogeography, systematics and taxonomy and genetic diversity, were briefly commented on. Studies on genetic divergence analysis of cryptic species and the underlying genetics at molecular level of adaptive phenotypes in populations, were very scarce. Several types of mitochondrial and nuclear markers have been used, with COI plus D-loop and microsatellite loci, respectively, being the most widely-used markers. However, high-throughput analyses based on complete mitochondrial genomes have also been published. More than one hundred species have been analyzed; the most studied groups being penguins, followed by New World swallows. Although, to date, molecular genetic studies of Chilean birds still require further analysis, the studies available on some species or groups have provided important data to improve our understanding of the origin and evolution of this avifauna. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Commentary text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e48588 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e48588 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48588/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48588/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e47020 2019-11-28 neotropical

Of people and toads: Local knowledge about amphibians around a protected area in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest Seger,Karin Solé,Mirco Martinez,Romari Schiavetti,Alexandre Anura ethnozoology local ecological knowledge anurofauna etnozoologia conhecimento ecológico local Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 439-457 This study aimed to identify ethnozoological knowledge about amphibians of people living around a protected area, the Wildlife Refuge of Una (REVIS), located in the Atlantic Forest, in southern Bahia, Brazil. Semi-structured interviews were performed on a random sample of residents right outside the REVIS limits. Photos of several amphibians that live in the REVIS were also shown for recognition of the regional species. We analysed the use value (VU) of each species, calculating the ratio between the number of times that each species was mentioned and the total number of interviews. Biophilic relationships, using Kellert´s (1993) classification, were inferred from their statements. We interviewed 40 individuals (22 males and 18 females) with ages between 10 and 82 years. There was a gender-related bias regarding the recognised species (Chi Sq = 0.013, p < 0.05) with men having more knowledge than women. The Butter Frog, Leptodactylus latrans, had the highest VU of 0.73 and was the most mentioned overall, but especially amongst women. The most mentioned species amongst men was Burmeister’s Frog (Phyllomedusa burmeisteri). We identified 18 biophilic comments, classified as moralistic, symbolic, negativistic or utilitarian. It was possible to note that, in this community, the knowledge and use of amphibians is not deep, purely cognitive and without any direct utilitarian purpose (medicine or cooking, for example). This study can build a bridge between traditional anurofauna knowledge of the Una region and modern environmental education, by demystifying existing information and incorporating it in local conservation actions, becoming especially relevant in rural areas, such as this protected area. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e47020 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e47020 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47020/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47020/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e49025 2019-12-13 neotropical

First report of Rhabdochona acuminata (Nematoda, Rhabdochonidae) in Astyanax aff. fasciatus (Characiformes, Characidae) from Lake Guaíba, southern Brazil Gallas,Moisés Calegaro-Marques,Cláudia Amato,José Felipe Characid morphology nematode spirurid taxonomy Caracídeo espirurídeo morfologia nematoide taxonomia Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 479-488 Specimens of Rhabdochona (Rhabdochona) acuminata (Molin, 1860) were collected in Astyanax aff. fasciatus (Cuvier, 1819) from Lake Guaíba, municipalities of Guaíba (30°08.28'S, 51°18.53'W) and Barra do Ribeiro (30°17.11'S, 51°18.01'W), southern Brazil. In the present study, the prevalence of R. (R.) acuminata was low (1.43%) when compared to other studies performed with Astyanax spp. from Brazil. The specimens of R. (R.) acuminata showed some morphological differences (mainly the deirids) that have not yet been reported for the species. This is the first report of R. (R.) acuminata from Lake Guaíba, filling a gap of occurrence of this nematode in South America. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e49025 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e49025 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49025/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49025/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e49026 2019-12-13 neotropical

Estimation of the species richness of hyperdiverse beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in an area of Atlantic Forest, Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil Gatti,Felipe Carneiro,Marco Antonio ACE Chao 1 forest entomology Jacknife 2 Neotropical Ecozone ACE Chao 1 entomologia florestal Jaacknife 2 Região Neotropical Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 489-498 Species are elementary units in community ecology studies. However, sample limitations obstruct the elaboration of accurate faunistic inventories, especially in biodiversity hotspots, such as tropical forests. In this way, the objective of this research was to describe the richness, using different non-parametric estimators of richness, in the family Cerambycidade, a group of hyperdiverse insects in the Atlantic Forest. Five hundred and eighty-one specimens belonging to 145 species and 3 subfamilies were collected. Among the species sampled, 46.2% were considered singletons, 13.8% doubletons, 48.95% unicates, 15.15% duplicates and 90.3% ecologically rare. The species accumulation curves did not stabilize, which was already expected considering that more species and individuals were sampled in the last months of collection. The estimated richness presented values much higher than the observed richness. This was a reflect of the high proportion of ecologically rare species present in the sample. This work showed that faunistic inventories of hyperdiverse groups, with only one year of collection and a single sampling methodology may underestimate the species richness of a region. Thus, larger time series associated with different collection methods are essential for a more accurate survey of biodiversity in the Atlantic Forest. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e49026 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e49026 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49026/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49026/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e48716 2019-12-16 neotropical

Presence of the collared peccary Pecari tajacu (Artiodactyla, Tayassuidae) in the far northeast of its Brazilian distribution Marinho,Paulo Henrique Silva,Marcelo Lisboa,Carolina Maria Cardoso Aires Atlantic Forest Caatinga distribution of species game species mammalogy Mata Atlântica Caatinga distribuição de espécie espécies caçadas mastozoologia Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 499-509 The collared peccary Pecari tajacu (Artiodactyla, Tayassuidae) is widely distributed and included in the Least Concern (LC) category by the IUCN assessment. However, threats such as hunting and habitat loss have extinguished some of its populations in Brazil. Additionally, much of its current occupation area remains unknown, especially in northeastern Brazil. We herein present the first record of the collared peccary in a Caatinga-Atlantic Forest ecotone in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, northeastern Brazil. This record in a poorly sampled region represents the presence of this species in the most northeastern part of the country and extends its confirmed records for more than 200 km. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e48716 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e48716 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48716/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48716/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e49166 2019-12-18 neotropical

Applying a floristic originality index in tropical forests of south Sinaloa, Mexico Amador Cruz,Francisco Bordenave,Bruno Benitez Pardo,Daniel conservation priorities endemism flora composition framework species rarity tropical forest wild vegetation&gt composição florística endemismo espécie de estrutura floresta tropical prioridades de conservação raridade vegetação nativa Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 539-557 Sinaloa is among the states of Mexico harboring the highest deforestation rates. Reforestation programs have been put up in south Sinaloa with species chosen for their high seedling rates, structural importance or strong restoration value. However, species criteria such as level of endemism as well as rarity appear to be underestimated. Eight sampling sites were randomly selected and a botanical survey was carried out at least every month from 2015 to 2017. In order to rank species over conservation stakes, a Floristic Originality Index method was elaborated using species level of endemism, rarity and conservation status. The floristic inventory enabled the identification of a set of 250 species with the Fabaceae being the most represented family with 51 species. Using the Floristic Originality Index, a subset of 51 species was selected as priority for conservation along with 23 other species all displaying characteristics of “framework” species. Features of reproduction and types of ideal soil conditions for reforestation are presented for each species. The method developed to determine floristic originality has proven a set of most vulnerable and rare species to select “priority” and “framework” tree species able to restore forests structure and biodiversity as well as ecosystem functions. This evaluation is made from a conservation biology point of view and appears to be well adapted for studies at a local scale. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e49166 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e49166 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49166/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49166/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e49028 2019-12-18 neotropical

The predominant role of soil in determining species composition of fern communities in subtropical coastal forest ecosystems Carmes,Amanda Dechoum,Michele Fiaschi,Pedro abiotic factors Brazil canopy cover diversity dominance nutrient richness vegetation structure fatores abióticos Brasil cobertura do dossel diversidade dominância riqueza de nutrientes estrutura da vegetação Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 559-575 Ferns are an important component in the understorey of tropical forests and their distribution is influenced by several biotic and abiotic factors. At a regional scale, soil characteristics and canopy openness play an important role in fern species composition and richness, as well as in the abundance of individuals. Our objective was to compare the influence of edaphic conditions and vegetation structure on the abundance and distribution of fern communities in Atlantic forest and restinga forest. Our hypotheses were that fern species richness and diversity are higher in Atlantic forest than in restinga due to limiting conditions in this habitat and the composition of fern species in Atlantic forest differs from restinga, especially due to differences in edaphic conditions. A principal coordinates analysis was applied to ordinate sampling units in relation to the environmental variables and a permutational multivariate analysis of variance was used to test that environmental variables did not differ between the two vegetation types. Species richness was compared using rarefaction curves. The influence of abiotic variables in species composition and abundance was verified using canonical correspondence analysis. No differences were observed in species richness, diversity or dominance between vegetation types, although abundance was higher in restinga. Fern communities respond to edaphic conditions and vegetation structure variations between vegetation types, the soil playing a major role. A greater variety of habitats resulting from differences in soil drainage in restinga facilitates the co-existence of species with different ecological tolerance, increasing local diversity and compensating for limiting conditions in restinga. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e49028 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e49028 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49028/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49028/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e49079 2019-12-18 neotropical

Características reprodutivas de peixes invasores no rio Paranapanema, bacia do alto rio Paraná, sul do Brasil Garcia,Diego Azevedo Zoccal Vidotto-Magnoni,Ana Paula Orsi,Mario Luis América do Sul barragem espécie não nativa invasão biológica recrutamento biological invasion dam non-native species recruitment South America Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 511-528 Estudos sobre biologia reprodutiva podem fornecer explicações sobre o sucesso na colonização de novas áreas, dado que características biológicas associadas às espécies invasoras podem conferir vantagem na invasão. Objetivamos avaliar variações de características reprodutivas de peixes invasores em lagoas e rios livres de barragens. Foram estudadas populações de Serrasalmus marginatus, Loricariichthys platymetopon, Ossancora eigenmanni, Auchenipterus osteomystax e Trachelyopterus galeatus em habitat lêntico (Lagoas 1 e 2) e lótico (rios Pirapozinho e Anhumas) durante as estações seca e chuvosa. Fêmeas predominaram na maioria das populações (χ2, α < 0,05). Fêmeas de L. platymetopon e T. galeatus apresentaram maior índice gonadossomático durante a estação chuvosa no rio Anhumas e na Lagoa 2, respectivamente (teste de Mann-Whitney, α < 0,05). Populações de S. marginatus, L. platymetopon, O. eigenmanni e T. galeatus apresentaram atividade reprodutiva muito intensa na Lagoa 1. Trachelyopterus galeatus apresentou atividade reprodutiva muito intensa nas duas lagoas e no rio Pirapozinho. Enquanto algumas espécies exibem alto investimento reprodutivo, independentemente do tipo de habitat (T. galeatus), outras podem apresentar variações (S. marginatus e L. platymetopon). Fêmeas em maiores razões sexuais, alto investimento reprodutivo, cuidado parental, fertilização interna e desova parcelada podem ser características que favorecem o estabelecimento na área receptora. Serrasalmus marginatus e L. platymetopon apresentam estratégia de história de vida intermediária Equíbrio/Sazonal e Equilíbrio, respectivamente, enquanto A. osteomystax e T. galeatus apresentam estratégia Sazonal. Por apresentarem indivíduos que se dispersam, sobrevivem e se reproduzem em diferentes tipos de habitat, essas espécies possuem extensa área de ocorrência e invadiram com sucesso a bacia do alto rio Paraná. Portanto, são necessárias ações que controlem as populações e minimizem seus impactos. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e49079 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e49079 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49079/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49079/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e49077 2019-12-18 neotropical

Trends and biases in scientific literature about marmosets, genus Callithrix (Primates, Callitrichidae): biodiversity and conservation perspectives Hannibal,Wellington Rodrigues,Polla Renon Figueiredo,Valquiria Vilalba Oliveira,Roniel Freitas Soares,Antônio Martinez,Romari Atlantic Forest Callithrix flaviceps Callithrix penicillata geographic distribution scientometrics Callithrix flaviceps Callithrix penicillata cienciometria distribuição geográfica Mata Atlântica Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 529-538 Marmosets of the genus Callithrix are small-bodied platyrrhines, endemic to Brazil. In the last 30 years, there has been a constant interest in studying their biology, ecology and conservation. In this study, we compiled a systematic review to evaluate the trends and advances of marmoset research, from biodiversity and conservation perspectives. We searched for articles published in peer-reviewed journals within the main academic search engines, using the keywords “marmoset” OR “sagui” OR “Callithrix”. We found 68 published articles with a focus on biodiversity and conservation. The number of articles has increased over the years, most of them consisting of research from the Atlantic Forest biome. Callithrix penicillata (26 articles) and C. jacchus (21) were the most studied species. The number of studies was associated with the species’ geographical distribution. From a conservation perspective, the most threatened species showed the narrowest geographical distribution, a lower number of studies and, on average, a smaller protected area size. We concluded that trends and biases in biodiversity and conservation scientific literature of Callithrix are directly and indirectly associated with its geographical distribution. Species with wide geographical distribution are more studied, better known and protected. We highlight that the major effort of studies must be towards marmoset populations from the transition region of the Atlantic Forest-Cerrado and Caatinga biomes, and on threatened species within narrow geographical ranges. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e49077 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e49077 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49077/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49077/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e39572 2019-12-30 neotropical

Rediscovery of the enigmatic forest racer snake, Dendrophidion boshelli Dunn, 1944 (Serpentes, Colubridae): actions for the conservation of a critically endangered species Andrés Rojas-Morales,Julian Marin-Martínez,Mateo Zuluaga-Isaza,Juan Camilo Colombia endemic and threatened species habitat preservation Magdalena River valley snakes Colômbia espécies ameaçadas preservação de hábitat serpentes vale do rio Magdalena Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 577-589 Dendrophidion boshelli is a poorly known and endemic snake species from the Middle Magdalena river valley in Colombia. It was described in 1944 based on a single specimen from the municipality of Caparrapí, department of Cundinamarca. Since the original description, only three additional specimens have been established. As part of the results of a herpetological monitoring in the Miel I Hydroelectric project, department of Caldas-Colombia, three additional specimens of D. boshelli were found in 2014–2015. The specimens represent the second known population of the species. We presented morphological data and pholidosis; description of the coloration in life, and a description of the habitat. Recently, D. boshelli was included as a Critically Endangered (CR) species in the Red Book of Reptiles of Colombia, and the IUCN Redlist. For this reason, to promote the local conservation of this and other endemic and threatened species in the Miel I area, we suggested some actions at the local level, such as establishing a conservation area with legal status in the Middle Manso River basin, which is a tributary of the Miel I Hydroelectric project. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e39572 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e39572 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/39572/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/39572/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.14.e46957 2019-12-30 neotropical

Diet of Natalus mexicanus (Chiroptera, Natalidae) in a semi-evergreen forest in Oaxaca, Mexico Santos-Moreno,Antonio Soriano-Cruz,Marina Diptera diversity Coleoptera Hemiptera Hymenoptera Insecta Diptera Diversidade Coleópteros Hemípteros Himenópteros Insecta Neotropical Biology and Conservation 14(4): 591-598 We investigated the diet composition of Natalus mexicanus in a semi-evergreen forest in the state of Oaxaca, in the southeast of Mexico, using fecal analysis. The diet was composed of eight arthropod orders, the most abundant and important preys being members of the orders Diptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Hymenoptera. We did not observe significant differences in diet composition between males and females or in proportions consumed by the bats and those obtained through collections with light traps. In the study area, N. mexicanus is a species with a generalist opportunist diet. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2019 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.14.e46957 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.14.e46957 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/46957/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/46957/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e48718 2020-02-06 neotropical

Novos registros de Sphaenorhynchus canga (Amphibia, Anura, Hylidae) no Quadrilátero Ferrífero em Minas Gerais, Sudeste do Brasil Silveira,Adriano Ribeiro,Lucas Dornas,Tiago Fernandes,Taís Anfíbios Chapada de Canga Quadrilátero Ferrífero distribuição geográfica endemismo conservação Amphibians Chapada de Canga Quadrilátero Ferrífero geographic distribution endemism conservation Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(1): 19-28 A perereca Sphaenorhynchus canga foi recentemente descrita, com distribuição geográfica restrita, na borda leste do Quadrilátero Ferrífero em Minas Gerais. A espécie foi originalmente registrada em cinco lagoas ou poças naturais em área de campo rupestre ferruginoso (canga), na região da Chapada de Canga e entorno. A partir de amostragens em campo e análise de coleção científica, são apresentados novos registros geográficos da espécie. Sphaenorhynchus canga foi registrado em sete novas localidades de corpos d’água lênticos, tanto naturais quanto antrópicos (pequenas represas), em áreas de campo rupestre ferruginoso e floresta estacional semidecidual antropizada. Como a descrição da espécie baseou-se apenas em machos, apresenta-se a morfometria das fêmeas analisadas, que se apresentaram maiores que machos. Seis localidades situam-se externamente aos limites da Chapada de Canga, mas S. canga continua sendo endêmico do Quadrilátero Ferrífero. São discutidos possíveis padrões de distribuição de S. canga e a influência da distribuição geográfica conhecida e da plasticidade ecológica sobre ameaças à espécie. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e48718 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e48718 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48718/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48718/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e47262 2020-02-06 neotropical

Characterization of the genetic diversity of a population of Odocoileus virginianus veraecrucis in captivity using microsatellite markers Castillo-Rodríguez,Ruth Guadalupe Serna-Lagunes,Ricardo Cruz-Romero,Anabel Núñez-Pastrana,Rosalía Rojas-Avelizapa,Luz Irene Régulo,Carlos Llarena-Hernández Dávila Paulín,José Antonio allelic diversity conservation effective population size Veracruz white-tail deer Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(1): 29-41 The genetic diversity and effective population size (Ne) of a population of Odocoileus virginianus veraecrucis in captivity were characterized in the Wildlife Management Unit “El Pochote”, located in Ixtaczoquitlán, Veracruz, Mexico. Blood tissue was collected from 20 individuals of the reproductive nucleus, its genomic DNA was extracted, and genetic diversity was characterized by six microsatellites amplified by PCR and visualized in polyacrylamide gels. With four polymorphic microsatellites, 66.7% of the population’s genetic variation was explained, which was characterized by an allelic diversity that fluctuated between 9 and 28 alleles (18 average alleles), suggesting a mean allelic diversity (Shannon index = 2.6 ± 0.25), but only 12 ± 2.9 effective alleles would be fixed in the next generation. The heterozygosity observed (Ho= 0.81) exceeded that expected (He= 0.79) and these were significantly different (P> 0.05), as a result of a low genetic structure in the population (fixation index F = -0.112 ± 0.03), due to the genetic heterogeneity that each sample contributed, since the specimens came from different geographical regions. The Ne was 625 individuals and a 1:25 male:female ratio, with which 100% of the genetic diversity observed can be maintained for 100 years. The information obtained in the study can help in the design of a reproductive management program to maintain the present genetic diversity, without risk of losses due to genetic drift and inbreeding. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e47262 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e47262 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47262/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47262/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e49490 2020-02-06 neotropical

Métricas de paisagem na avaliação da efetividade de proteção do Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol, uma unidade de conservação fragmentada no Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil Müller,Georg oliveira,luciana Centro de Diversidade Vegetal de Cabo Frio ecologia de paisagens fragmentação de habitats Centre of Plant Diversity of Cabo Frio landscape ecology habitat fragmentation Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(1): 1-18 A região de Cabo Frio e seu entorno, no litoral do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, apresenta alta riqueza de espécies vegetais e um grande número de endemismos, o que a torna uma área prioritária para a conservação, sendo conhecida como o Centro de Diversidade Vegetal de Cabo Frio (CDVCF). O Parque Estadual da Costa do Sol (PECSol) é a maior Unidade de Conservação de Proteção Integral da região e foi concebido num modelo descontínuo, com 43 áreas distintas pertencentes a quatro grandes núcleos: Massambaba, Atalaia-Dama Branca, Pau-Brasil e Sapiatiba. Dada a natureza fragmentada do PECSol, este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar, através de métricas de paisagem, a efetividade do PECSol como elemento protetor da biodiversidade do CDVCF, considerando seus 43 fragmentos como eventuais remanescentes únicos de áreas naturais na região. Os resultados apontaram que os fragmentos do PECSol sofrem forte pressão de atividades antrópicas em sua vizinhança imediata, e estão, de maneira geral, altamente suscetíveis a efeitos de borda. A conectividade entre os fragmentos é em geral baixa, tendo os fragmentos do núcleo Massambaba apresentado os melhores indicadores de disponibilidade de habitat, com valores entre 0,18 e 0,57 num índice que varia de 0 a 1. Nenhum outro fragmento apresentou valor acima de 0,10. Outras quatro grandes áreas naturais da região – a Ilha de Cabo Frio, a porção vegetada da Base Aérea Naval de São Pedro da Aldeia, a área de restinga na Estação Radiogoniométrica da Marinha em Campos Novos e as Dunas do Peró – apresentam grande importância para a disponibilidade de habitat no CDVCF. A inclusão destas áreas no PECSol ou em outra Unidade de Conservação de Proteção Integral é recomendada. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e49490 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e49490 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49490/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49490/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e49221 2020-02-06 neotropical

Serras e pantanais arenosos: solos e geoambientes em unidade de conservação da Amazônia, Brasil Schaefer,Carlos Viana Campos,Primula Candido,Hugo Corrêa,Guilherme Resende Faria,Raiza Vale Júnior,José Parque Nacional Serra da Mocidade relação solo-vegetação pedoambiente Serra da Mocidade National Park soil-vegetation relationship pedoenvironment Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(1): 43-69 Unidades de conservação representam a principal estratégia para a preservação e recuperação de recursos naturais brasileiros. Para nortear o seu planejamento e gestão, informações relativas aos geoambientes constituem um referencial integrado indispensável. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os aspectos pedológicos associados à identificação, caracterização e mapeamento de geoambientes do Parque Nacional Serra da Mocidade, Roraima, norte do Brasil, de forma a subsidiar o manejo ecológico da unidade. Para a estratificação geoambiental foram avaliados os aspectos pedológicos, geomorfológicos e vegetação. Foram descritos e coletados 19 perfis de solos. A caracterização da vegetação foi realizada in loco. Foram descritos quatro pedoambientes, com destaque para os seguintes solos: Espodossolo Humilúvico, Espodossolo Ferri-Humilúvico, Espodossolo Ferrilúvico, Neossolo Quartzarênico, Neossolo Regolítico, Neossolo Flúvico, Plintossolo Háplico, Plintossolo Argilúvico, Gleissolo Melânico e Cambissolo Háplico. Foram identificadas 12 unidades geoambientais. No Parque, destaca-se um contraste entre serras e morrarias da zona florestada e os grandes espaços inundáveis e baixios do pediplano Rio Branco-Rio Negro. Além disso, essa área de conservação possui o mais antigo e, provavelmente, o mais importante conjunto montanhoso granítico-gnáissico do norte amazônico, de grande extensão e topografia complexa. Este estudo evidencia a singularidade de cada geoambiente, subsidiando na definição mais precisa e adequada das formas de manejo do Parque. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e49221 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e49221 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49221/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49221/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e49013 2020-03-19 neotropical

First host plant record for Pacarina (Hemiptera, Cicadidae) Aiello,Annette Stucky,Brian cicada Dracaena host plant rearing taxonomy Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(1): 77-88 Twenty-nine Pacarina (Hemiptera: Cicadidae) adults, 12 males and 17 females, emerged from the soil of a potted Dracaena trifasciata (Asparagaceae) in Arraiján, Republic of Panama, providing the first rearing records and the first definitive host plant records for any species of Pacarina. These reared Pacarina appear to be morphologically distinct from all known species of Pacarina and likely represent an undescribed species. In light of this finding, we also discuss the taxonomy, biogeography, and ecology of Pacarina. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e49013 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e49013 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49013/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49013/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e48564 2020-03-19 neotropical

New defensive behaviour of the false coral snake Oxyrhopus rhombifer Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854 (Serpentes, Dipsadidae) in south-eastern Brazil Assis,Clodoaldo Guedes,Jhonny Miriam Gomes de Jesus,Letizia Feio,Renato Anti-predator mechanisms aposematic colouration Atlantic Forest Squamata Mecanismo anti-predação coloração aposemática Mata Atlântica Squamata Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(1): 71-76 Anti-predator mechanisms are essential for species survival and the description of defensive behaviour may improve our understanding about the ecology, biology and evolution of species. Herein, we describe new anti-predator behaviour for the False Coral Snake Oxyrhopus rhombifer in south-eastern Brazil, through direct observation of a juvenile specimen under laboratory settings. We recorded 10 types of defensive behaviour, seven of which are new records for this species and one of them (body vibration) is the first report for Brazilian snakes. Such behaviour may be explained by ontogeny or physical constraints. We highlight that O. rhombifer may be capable of recognising different threat levels imposed by predators and, accordingly, adjusting its defensive behaviour. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e48564 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e48564 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48564/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/48564/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e49114 2020-04-15 neotropical

Phytosociology of the shrub-arboreal stratum of the Ibura National Forest, Northeastern Brazil: are 35 years sufficient to promote the regeneration of a forest fragment? Santana Santos,José Paulo Rocha,Patrício Oliveira,Eduardo Prata,Ana Ribeiro,Adauto de Souza Alantic Forest dispersion syndrome ecological groups eucalyptus settlements sub-forest Floresta Atlântica Grupos ecológicos Povoamentos de Eucalipto Síndromes de dispersão Sub-bosquet Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(2): 89-106 Among the various applications of phytosociology, the evaluation of natural regeneration is of great importance, mainly because it provides insights for ecological restoration. The objective of this study was to analyze the composition and phytosociological parameters of shrub and tree vegetation in areas of plantation of eucalyptus (Corymbia citriodora) and areas of native forest in the Ibura National Forest, located in the Sergipe state of northeastern Brazil. For this purpose, 20 plots were sampled and all individuals with a diameter at breast height (DBH) ≥ 8 cm were measured. Sampling revealed 821 individuals in the forest area and 1,000 in the eucalyptus area. These individuals represent 84 species and the areas presented a significant difference in species composition, with 61 in the eucalyptus area and 65 in the Forest area, and only 40 species were common to both areas. There was a predominance of pioneer individuals in the eucalyptus area. There also was a significant difference in basal area, relative density and relative dominance, but no significant differences were observed in average height. It was concluded that a period of 35 years is insufficient for the recovery of the eucalyptus area, which remains in a more initial successional stage than the forest area. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Review Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e49114 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e49114 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49114/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49114/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e47641 2020-04-29 neotropical

Vertical stratification of phyllostomid bats assemblage (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) in a forest fragment in Brazilian Southwestern Amazon Costa Silva,Richarlly Silveira,Marcos Verde,Rair Chiroptera diversity feeding guilds habitat use species composition Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(2): 107-120 Bats represent a key group in tropical forest dynamics, given their participation in ecological interactions that lead the regulation of these forests. They are also sensitive to the heterogeneous vertical gradient in the forest, called stratification. In this study we evaluated the influence of two different forest strata on species composition and bat guild structure. The samplings were carried out over eight nights in a forest fragment located in the southwest of the Amazon; we used mist nets installed in the understory and sub-canopy. A total of 197 captures were distributed in 19 genera and 25 species; they were all representatives of the family Phyllostomidae. In the sub-canopy, 54 individuals and 15 species were captured, with four exclusive species. In the understory, 143 individuals of 21 species were recorded, of which 10 were exclusive of this stratum. The sub-canopy presented a diversity index greater than the understory, with differences between species composition of the two assemblies, due to the presence or absence of some species. We also found a variation in the presence of frugivorous, insectivorous and omnivorous species, which is the result of differences in the foraging methods of these species and also of the habitat preference. Differences were verified in the assemblies studied, demonstrating the effects of vertical stratification on the bats in the studied fragment. Studies that consider more than one vertical stratum in tropical forests are more representative than sampling with only understory mist nets, given the capture of exclusive species. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e47641 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e47641 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47641/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47641/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e49624 2020-05-21 neotropical

Marine gastropods of Accra Beach, Barbados, North Atlantic Ocean das Chagas,Rafael Anaisce SIlva,Rosana Esther Oliveira Freire,Cibele Cristina Oeiras Freire Barros,Mara Rúbia Ferreira Santos,Wagner César Rosa Santos,Weverton John Pinheiro Herrmann,Marko Echinolittorina angustior Caribbean island Gastropoda Nerita fulgurans new records Echinolittorina angustior Ilhas caribenhas Gastropoda Nerita fulgurans novo registros Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(2): 121-133 The widespread occurrence of marine gastropods in coastal regions is a straightforward evidence of successful adaptation to different environments. In the Caribbean Sea, as one of Conservation International’s biodiversity hotspots, little is known about the gastropod fauna, especially in the Eastern Caribbean. The present study contributed to bridge this gap by studying the biodiversity of gastropods from Accra Beach, Barbados. Throughout random collections in September 2015, we collected 321 gastropods, comprising eight species, distributed in three families (Neritidae: Nerita tessellata, N. fulgurans, N. versicolor and N. peloronta; Littorinidae: Echinolittorina ziczac, E. angustior and E. tuberculata; and Muricidae: Plicopurpura patula). Nerites were more abundant and diverse, highlighting N. tessellata, representing 66% of the sampled gastropods. This paper also reports the first record of N. fulgurans and E. angustior for the island of Barbados. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e49624 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e49624 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49624/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49624/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e50136 2020-05-29 neotropical

Bat diversity in three roosts in the Coast region of Oaxaca, México Hernández-Aguilar,Itandehui Santos-Moreno,Antonio Cave Chiroptera species richness true diversity Caverna Chiroptera verdadeira diversidade riqueza de espécies Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(2): 135-152 In this paper, we analyze the richness, abundance, diversity and trophic guilds in a mine (La Mina) and two caves (El Apanguito and Cerro Huatulco) in the municipalities of Pluma Hidalgo and Santa María Huatulco, in the state of Oaxaca, México, a state with high species richness of bats nationwide. Fieldwork was conducted from July 2016 to June 2017. Using a harp trap, we captured 5,836 bats belonging to 14 species, 10 genera and five families. The greatest species richness was found in Cerro Huatulco (12 species), followed by La Mina (nine species) and El Apanguito (four species). Overall, the most abundant species were Pteronotus fulvus (40.59% of captures) and Pteronotus mesoamericanus (32.01%). Half of the species captured corresponded to the insectivore trophic guild. Results show that the three roosts, but particularly Cerro Huatulco and El Apanguito, maintain high species richness and abundances of individuals due to processes that favor colonies of thousands of individuals. We therefore argue that they represent priority roosts for the conservation of bats in the State of Oaxaca. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e50136 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e50136 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/50136/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/50136/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e49713 2020-06-08 neotropical

Use of microhabitat and activity patterns of two lizard species from a seasonal dry forest in northern Colombia Atencia Gándara,Pedro Castillo Peñarredonda,Cristian José Montes Benitez,Luis Fernando ecological niche habitat loss litter substrate spatial distribution Squamata Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(2): 153-164 In this work, the microhabitat use and activity patterns of two lizard species with sympatric distribution were evaluated in a dry forest fragment within the department of Sucre, northern Colombia. Data was collected in May, June, September and October of 2017, using the active search method limited by time (7:00 and 19:00 hours). Substrates used, spatial distribution and time of capture were recorded for individuals of the species Loxopholis rugiceps (Cope 1869) and Lepidoblepharis sanctaemartae (Ruthven 1916). Complementarily, environmental and physical parameters were recorded, which allowed us to characterise the microhabitats of the species. A total of 276 lizards were recorded, 177 belonging to the species Loxopholis rugiceps and 99 to Lepidoblepharis sanctaemartae. The results showed similar resource use by the two species for the spatial dimension, with both exploiting different terrestrial elements mainly from the interior forest, followed by the riverbed stream and forest edge. Differences were found in the daily activity patterns between species, with individuals of L. sanctaemartae more frequently recorded in the morning hours and L. rugiceps in the afternoon hours. The activity patterns did not differ by age groups: juveniles and adults. Both species were more frequently found in the litter substrate within the forest, followed by rocks and bare ground. Our results indicate that both species are tolerant to matrix conditions, however, they require internal forest conditions to exploit food resources and refuge. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e49713 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e49713 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49713/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49713/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e47426 2020-06-10 neotropical

Distribution modeling applied to deficient data species assessment: A case study with Pithecopus nordestinus (Anura, Phyllomedusidae) Pessoa da Silva,Felipe Fernandes-Ferreira,Hugo Alejandro Montes,Martín Gonçalves da Silva,Lucas Amphibia conservation planning ecological niche ensemble modeling Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(2): 165-175 The arboreal frog Pithecopus nordestinus is geographically present in almost all Brazilian Northeast territory and Minas Gerais State. It is currently classified as deficient data (DD) by IUCN Red List of Endangered Species, requiring further knowledge about its geographic distribution and population status. In this context, the species distribution modeling can be applied, since its basis uses species occurrence records and environmental variables related to bioclimatic and landscape features. This kind of method predicts the species suitability of certain organism in the geographic space. We obtained 159 P. nordestinus occurrence records, covering all the previously known distribution of the species. These records were collected from direct field sampling, scientific literature, museum collections, and available online databases. We used four species distribution modeling algorithms to obtain the potential range (extent of occurrence) and available habitat for this frog through habitat area analysis proposed by IUCN. The generated models can be considered as excellent, with mean AUC value of 0.981. The environmental variables related to temperature and radiation were the most important to the construction of this distribution model. Our results indicate that the forested areas of the Atlantic Forest domain and forest patches inside the Caatinga biome present the highest suitability values for the species occurrence and the major part of available habitats, a fact possibly related to the known arboreal habit of this amphibian. We thus provide a new distribution area for P. nordestinus more broadly than previously known and a new polygon for conservation purposes based on extent of occurrence, and an increase of occupancy based on habitat area analysis. The identification of additional areas where the P. nordestinus occurrence was not yet well known, new habitats for possible dispersal or recolonization; and the selection of conservation hotspots applied to this species are direct applications from our study. In addition, the methodological procedures used here may serve as a baseline tool for new investigations with focus on still deficient data species and its ecological and conservation planning requirements. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e47426 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e47426 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47426/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/47426/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e54017 2020-06-12 neotropical

Potential impact of mammal defaunation on the early regeneration of a large-seeded palm in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest Meiga,Ana Christianini,Alexander V. Attalea defaunation seed dispersal seed hoarding seedling distribution Attalea defaunação dispersão de sementes distribuição de plântulas estoque de sementes Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(2): 177-193 Defaunation, the decline in animal species and populations, is biased towards large-bodied animals that have unique roles as dispersers of large seeds. However, it is speculated that these roles may still be performed by smaller animals, such as small mammals like rodents and marsupials, that thrive in defaunated sites. We investigated if small mammals can disperse the large-seeded palm Attalea dubia. We performed the study in a well-conserved Atlantic Forest remnant in southeast Brazil that still harbours large mammals, such as tapirs. Focal observations showed that capuchin-monkeys consumed the mesocarp of the fruits and dropped the seeds beneath the plant crown thereafter. Mammals preyed on ca. 1% and removed ca. 15% of the fallen fruit/seed and deposited them up to 15 m away. Amongst them, small mammals (< 1 kg), such as the squirrel Guerlinguetus brasiliensis and non-identified nocturnal Sigmodontinae, as well as the marsupial Philander frenatus performed the bulk of interactions. Dispersal enhances recruitment, but the short distances of seed removal did not match the current spatial distribution of palm seedlings and juveniles. Recaching rates of hoarded seeds were small (2%) and unlikely to increase distances of seed dispersal achieved. Short distances of dispersal would increase plant clumpiness and negative density-dependent effects with time. Although small mammals can provide legitimate dispersal, they cannot fully replace larger frugivorous mammals and maintain long-distance seed dispersal that feeds plant metapopulation dynamics and seed gene flow. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e54017 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e54017 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/54017/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/54017/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e50325 2020-07-06 neotropical

New records of Clytoctantes alixii (Elliot, 1870) in Eastern Caldas, Colombia Gil Ospina,Raul Moreno López,Daniel extinction risk conservation Cordillera Central protection southernmost record Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 201-207 Clytoctantes alixii is a bird that lives on the edges of old-growth, secondary and cleared forests undergoing regeneration and presents a distribution restricted to Colombia and Venezuela. The species is considered to be at risk of extinction (EN) due to its particular characteristics and restricted distribution. However, knowledge of its ecology and distribution is still incipient. The objective of this study was therefore to expand the knowledge of C. alixii in Caldas, present the southernmost record of the species and describe its behaviour. The species was monitored within the protected areas of the Manso Diversion in the period 2014 and 2017, using mist nets and fixed radius point counts. Two individuals of C. alixii were recorded, both by observation, with one of these subsequently also captured in a forest in an advanced state of succession. Recording of this population is important because it is the southernmost in the Cordillera Central and confirms that habitats with the presence of hollow stem plants largely define the presence of the species, as well as potentially determining the location of other populations of this species within its range of distribution. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e50325 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e50325 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/50325/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/50325/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e50951 2020-07-06 neotropical

First record of albinism in the paca Cuniculus paca (Rodentia, Cuniculidae) in southeast Mexico García-Casimiro,Erika Santos-Moreno,Antonio camera trapping Hystricomorpha melanin neotropical mammals pigmentation Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 195-200 Even though there have been reports of anomalies in the colouration of several species of neotropical mammals, these events are considered to be rare within natural populations. Here we report the first case of albinism in the paca (Cuniculus paca). During the months of June and July 2017, we obtained several images of an adult albino male using camera traps in the region of Sierra Norte in Oaxaca, in the southeast of Mexico, in a medium subdeciduous forest. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e50951 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e50951 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/50951/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/50951/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e53383 2020-07-13 neotropical

Diet and foraging behavior of Ageneiosus inermis (Teleostei, Auchenipteridae) Freitas,Tiago Santos,William Prudente,Bruno Montag,Luciano Amazon behavior feeding fish habitat use trophic ecology peixe ecologia trófica comportamento uso do hábitat Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 209-218 Ageneiosus inermis is the largest species of the family Auchenipteridae (Siluriformes) and has a primarily piscivorous diet, although no comprehensive data are available on the habitat use of this species. Given this, the present study describes the diet of A. inermis, and provides inferences on its habitat use, based on the known behavior of its prey species. We analyzed the stomach contents of 14 specimens collected in the middle of Xingu River in the Brazilian state of Pará, which we complemented with data on 47 other specimens obtained from two published studies. Most of the ingested items were fish associated with the bottom substrate and riverbanks. Although A. inermis is considered a pelagic species, we conclude it forages by exploring the river’s bottom and margins. Furthermore, as A. inermis is presumed to be diurnal, we assume that it does not pursue its prey actively, given that most of the prey species are nocturnal, but rather searches actively during the daytime for prey hidden in the bottom substrate. This hypothesis on the feeding strategy of A. inermis can only be confirmed by underwater observations, either in the wild or under captive conditions. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e53383 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e53383 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53383/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53383/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e53762 2020-07-20 neotropical

Current status of dung beetles (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae) diversity and conservation in Natural Protected Areas in Chiapas (Mexico) Sánchez-Hernández,Gibrán Gómez,Benigno Chamé-Vázquez,Eduardo Rafael Dávila-Sánchez,Rolando , Delgado,Leonardo bioindicator biological monitoring corridor Faunistic complex management NPAs Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 219-244 Natural Protected Areas (NPAs) are consider adequate tools for biodiversity conservation. Currently in Mexico there are 182 federal NPAs classified according to their management objectives. Chiapas is the Mexican state with the highest number of decreed NPAs and also allocates one of the largest territorial extensions for its protection. Unlike other taxa, and despite their proven ability to respond to ecosystem changes, the study of dung beetles within Mexican NPAs has been underestimated, as they are not considered as a priority group within their management and conservation programs. Based on the review of information available in publications and database on dung beetles, a list of 112 species and seven subspecies recorded in 16 of the 19 federal NPAs established in Chiapas is presented. The species recorded by each NPA show a significant correlation with the number of publications, but a low percentage of them correspond to studies with systematic samplings and most of the species reported in several of the NPAs come from sporadic records, which prevents the study of several basic and applied aspects of dung beetles in the region. Therefore, studies that extensively analyze the communities of arthropod groups, such as the Scarabaeinae, are necessary to understand their response to changes in the ecosystem at local and regional scale. It is advisable that these insects be included in the previous justifying studies for the designation or establishment of NPAs and, in turn, considered in the biological monitoring programs of these areas for their capacity as a bioindicator group. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e53762 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e53762 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53762/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53762/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e52251 2020-07-24 neotropical

Community of diurnal birds of prey in an urban area in southeastern Brazil Martos Martins,Rafael Donatelli,Reginaldo neotropical region point counts raptors sazonality urban ecology Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 245-265 As urban areas expand, some species of diurnal birds of prey occupy these habitats, and many establish viable populations. The objectives of this study were to: (1) survey the species of birds of prey in the urban area located in the interior of the São Paulo state, Brazil, (2) to verify the proportion of generalist and specialist species in terms of habitat and diet, (3) determine the period that the species are more active during the time period of the point counts, and (4) to evaluate if there is a pattern of seasonality. Samples were collected monthly between October 2014 and September 2016 using the point counts method (four points; 4 hr duration each). We analyzed species richness, habitat and diet, number of contacts and frequency of occurrence, period of greatest activity, and seasonality. We recorded 19 species of birds of prey through 2555 contacts. Most of the registered species (61%) were habitat and diet generalists, and the same percentage of species classified as uncommon or rare. In relation to the period of greatest activity, falconids were more active in the first hour while accipitrids and cathartids were more active in the fourth hour. In addition, we did not observe a seasonal pattern in this community, but Gampsonyx swainsonii showed a seasonal trend. We verified that the urban area of the municipality of Pirajuí has a significant diversity of birds of prey, including specialist species of habitat and diet. This information obtained evidence the importance of urban environments for birds of prey and showed the ability of these species to use this environment. From our results, we suggest that future studies should evaluate the effects of urban areas of different sizes and degrees of urbanization on bird of prey communities. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e52251 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e52251 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/52251/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/52251/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e53062 2020-07-24 neotropical

Mammals of Paso Centurión, an area with relicts of Atlantic Forest in Uruguay Grattarola,Florencia Rodríguez-Tricot,Lucía biodiversity conservation participatory monitoring species occurrence records Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 267-283 Paso Centurión is one of the most diverse areas of Uruguay. It is legally protected at local and national level, however, there are different interests competing for its land use and management. With the aim to document the biodiversity of the area together with the local people, the NGO JULANA has been conducting a participatory monitoring process with camera traps since 2013. Here, we present a list of 23 medium and large-size mammal species documented in the area and a standardised dataset of occurrence records. Top observations include the last Chrysocyon brachyurus seen in Uruguay, the first record of Herpailurus yagouaroundi in the country and the second report of Leopardus munoai in the area. We also highlight the frequent observation of numerous rare species such as Tamandua tetradactyla, Leopardus wiedii, Cabassous tatouay, Coendou spinosus and Cuniculus paca. Although the cameras were located within only a few metres of the houses of the local people, some of the rarest and most elusive species in the country were reported. This suggests a possible coexistence between people – their socio-economic practices – and nature in the area. Our work underlines the importance of the recent inclusion of Paso Centurión and Sierra de Ríos to the National System of Protected Areas under the proposed category of ‘Protected Landscape’. Collectively, in a context of global change and lack of biodiversity data on species distribution, we emphasise the value of these records for the knowledge of mammals in Uruguay and the need to extend and continue monitoring this area. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e53062 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e53062 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53062/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53062/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e53020 2020-07-31 neotropical

An update of the invasive Pterygoplichthys Gill, 1858 (Actinopterygii, Loricariidae) in Guatemala: new records and notes on its interactions with the local fauna Gaitán,Carlos A. Fuentes-Montejo,César García,Manolo J. Romero-Guevara,Julio C. biological invasions Central America dispersion strategies exotic fish non-native fauna river basins threatened ecosystems Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 285-300 Fishes have been introduced in non-native ecosystems all over the world. These introductions have been recognised for their overall negative effects on native biodiversity. Plecos (Pterygoplichthys Gill, 1858) have been introduced worldwide due to bad practices in the aquarium trade and, in Central America, there is little information regarding these invasive fishes. Plecos have been demonstrated to be a threat in non-native ecosystems because they interfere with their new ecosystems through bottom-up impacts, altering nutrient availability and interactions with native wildlife. Herein, new records of plecos are reported for river basins from Guatemala in northern Central America where they had not previously been reported. Evidence of interactions of plecos with the native fauna that had not been recorded to date are also included. We compiled a total of 34 records in Guatemala, with eight new records. We present the first records of the genus in a river basin of the Caribbean drainage for Guatemala. Three new interactions of fauna preying upon plecos are presented (Black vulture, Bare-throated tiger Heron and Domestic dog), along with a compilation of previously known interactions. Establishing a monitoring and surveillance programme should be a priority in Guatemala, along with other actions to safeguard the native wildlife that could be at high risk because of biological invasions, such as the one with plecos. In order to better understand this invasion, joint efforts of local fishermen and rangers with State institutions should be promoted. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e53020 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e53020 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53020/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53020/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e51738 2020-07-31 neotropical

Geographic distribution and conservation of seasonal killifishes (Cyprinodontiformes, Rivulidae) from the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga ecoregion, northeastern Brazil Abrantes,Yuri Medeiros,Lucas Bennemann,Ana Bento,Diego Texeira,Francisco Rezende,Carla Anselmo Ramos,Telton Pedro Maia Queiroz Lima,Sergio Dry lands endangered species Karstic areas Neotropical freshwater fishes São Francisco interbasin water transfer temporary habitats Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 301-315 The Rivulidae fish family, which includes Neotropical seasonal killifishes, is one of the most diverse taxonomic groups in the aquatic systems of Caatinga in Brazil. Cynolebias and Hypsolebias genera, with 20 and 35 endemic species, respectively, concentrate the greatest diversity of rivulid species in the semiarid. Sixty-eight years after the first records of annual killifishes in the Mid-Northeastern Caatinga ecoregion (MNCE), only four valid species have been sampled in this area. Here we combined bibliographic surveys and recent samplings to investigate the distribution of seasonal rivulids in MNCE. Twenty-one records were obtained, nine of which are new localities, expanding the distribution of three species: Hypsolebias martinsi, H. antenori and Cynolebias microphthalmus. Hypsolebias&nbsp;longignatus is still only known from its type locality in Ceará, near the Environmental Protection Area in Pacoti River, and has not been sampled ever since its description in 2008. Among the four species present in MNCE, H. antenori is the only species occurring within the limits of a conservation unit in the Furna Feia National Park. Anthropogenic impacts were observed in most temporary habitats visited, which ranged from river channel to small ponds in cave entrances. All records are found in coastal basins that discharge in the northern coast of the MNCE, in Ceará and Rio Grande do Norte states, which are crucial for the conservation of the Caatinga’s killifishes. The results also evidenced the importance of karstic habitats in the Jandaíra Formation as potential biotopes for seasonal fish in MNCE. This information must be used to update the conservation status of these species and highlight the importance of strategies for preserving the Caatinga’s temporary aquatic habitats, which should be considered for environmental licensing purposes. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e51738 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e51738 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/51738/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/51738/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e51821 2020-08-06 neotropical

Rapid survey of bats (Chiroptera) in the Atlantic Forest in eastern Sergipe, Brazil: unexpected diversity in a fragmented landscape Pedroso,Mônica Aparecida Santos,Arivania Simões Oliveira,Helon S. de Souza,J. Weverton Caldas,Francis Beltrão-Mendes,Raone Ruiz-Esparza,Juan Rocha,Patrício Ferrari,Stephen F. Lasiurus blossevillii Micronycteris minuta new records sugarcane Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 317-331 Despite advances in recent decades, the Atlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil is still one of the least studied regions of the country, regarding, for instance, the bat fauna. The present study reports on the results of a rapid survey of the bat fauna of a fragmented landscape in the Atlantic Forest of eastern Sergipe, in the legal forest reserve of Fazenda Santana, a commercial sugarcane plantation located in the adjoining municipalities of Japoatã and Pacatuba. We recorded 272 bats belonging to 23 species and four families, from which 265 individuals from 18 species from two families (Phyllostomidae and Vespertilionidae) were captured in the mist-nets, and seven individuals of six species from four families (Emballonuridae, Molossidae, Phyllostomidae and Vespertilionidae) were recorded during the active searches. This species richness was higher than that found in previous studies in the Atlantic Forest of northeastern Brazil. Lasiurus blossevillii and Micronycteris minuta were recorded in Sergipe for the first time, increasing to 57 the number of bat species known to occur in this state. The use of alternative strategies (such as active search and sampling one night per point, seeking to areas with greater availability of resources) in rapid surveys may contribute to the compilation of a more robust sampling, reinforcing the usefulness of this approach for the inventory of the bat fauna of a given region. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/NSF/0100798 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e51821 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e51821 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/51821/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/51821/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e55563 2020-08-14 neotropical

Biology and fishery of Acoupa Weakfish Cynoscion acoupa (Lacepède, 1801): a review Oliveira,Cicero Diogo Lessa,Rosangela Paula Almeida,Zafira Santana,Francisco Marcante age and growth artisanal fisheries conservation reproductive biology Sciaenidae South America Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 333-349 The present study describes the fishery and biology of Acoupa Weakfish Cynoscion acoupa, an important fishery resource in South America. We found and analyzed 31 articles and 10 publications about the species. Cynoscion acoupa is an estuarine marine species, which has a feeding habit with preference for fish and crustaceans. Its spawning occurs during two periods of the year and the size at maturity of females is 40 to 50 cm, while males mature earlier, with 38–40 cm. Their growth is considered slow to moderate, with growth coefficient k ranging from 0.13 to 0.28, and the species can reach up to 15 years of age. C. acoupa is target of commercial and recreational fisheries in estuarine and marine coastal environments, mainly in the northern region of South America. The fisheries occur throughout the year, with different fishing gear, being more frequent with gillnets. In addition, fishing is more frequent on juveniles, which may compromise the stock. This species is categorized as of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, although it has a high degree of vulnerability to fishing, which, combined with overexploitation, shows that C. acoupa should be listed as under threat of extinction to some degree. The lack of studies on the species makes it difficult to establish management measures. Therefore, further studies should be prioritized, especially on reproductive biology, growth and fishing exploitation. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Review Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e55563 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e55563 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55563/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55563/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e51815 2020-08-18 neotropical

Filling gaps in the southern range of the endangered snake Philodryas agassizii: new localities in Tandilia highland grassland, Argentina Vera,David Berkunsky,Igor Tettamanti,Germán Eirin,Manuel Kacoliris,Federico Di Pietro,Diego geographic distribution grasslands snakes Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 351-357 Philodryas agassizii is an endangered snake of shrubland and grasslands well preserved in Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil, and Uruguay. In the southeastern area of its range, this snake was only found associated with highland grassland of the Tandilia and Ventania mountain systems, Argentina. In this work, we described six new records of Philodryas agassizii from the Tandilia Mountain System, which represent four new localities for the species. These records extend the known range of Philodryas agassizii in the Tandilia mountain system, 100 km from the closest previously known site. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e51815 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e51815 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/51815/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/51815/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e55719 2020-09-02 neotropical

Influence of abiotic factors in a population of Parides ascanius (Papilionidae, Lepidoptera) in an urban restinga fragment Santos Pereira,Emily Soares Miranda,Amanda Albano Araújo,Ana Paula Albano Araújo,Vinícius Atlantic Forest butterflies conservation endemic species fragmentation Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 367-377 Fragmentation and loss of natural habitats has reduced biodiversity in neotropical ecosystems. The restinga, a phytophysiognomy of the Atlantic Forest, has lost much of its original coverage and remains largely threatened by urbanisation. Restingas are considered hotspots of biodiversity and are listed as priority areas for conservation due to their great presence of endemic species, such as the endangered butterfly Parides ascanius Cramer, 1775. In this work, we analyse the influence of abiotic factors (temperature and humidity) on the abundance of P. ascanius in an urban restinga fragment of Iriry’s Environmental Protection Area (Iriry APA), located in the municipality of Rio das Ostras in Rio de Janeiro. For that, the mark-recapture technique was used. Sampling was carried out from October 2017 to May 2018, between 7:00 am and 11:00 am. Seventy-two individuals of P. ascanius were collected and showed higher proportions of males over females and greater abundance of individuals in the month of October. On average, the number of individuals was significantly higher with the increase in air temperature and lower with the increase in air humidity. The abundance of P. ascanius at the restinga of Iriry APA varied monthly and temporally throughout the day, influenced by temperature and air humidity. The results provide information that can support management plans for conservation of this threatened species, as well as for urban areas of the Atlantic Forest. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e55719 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e55719 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55719/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55719/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e55148 2020-09-02 neotropical

The bigger the better? Vigour of the exotic host plant Calotropis procera (Apocynaceae) affects herbivory Fernandes,Geraldo Wilson Almeida,Jarcilene Rodrigues-Menelau,Maria Fernanda Vicente Arantes-Garcia,Lucas Novais,Samuel Caatinga Danaus insect-plant interactions invasive species Plant Vigour Hypothesis Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 359-366 The Plant Vigour Hypothesis states that herbivores preferentially feed on the most vigorous plants within a plant population and/or the most vigorous modules within a plant. The goal of this study was to evaluate how shoot size (as an indication of module vigour) affects leaf herbivory in the host plant Calotropis procera, an exotic xerophyte perennial milkweed shrub. We predicted that the proportion of leaf area removed by insect herbivores would be positively related to shoot size. Eight patches were selected containing a varied number of C. procera individuals (5, 8, 29, 31, 55, 79, 116, and 172 individuals/patch) in the Brazilian seasonally dry vegetation (Caatinga), of which five individuals were randomly selected for further analysis. From each individual, three to six shoots were randomly selected, measured and had their leaves collected, for a total of approximately 200 leaves per patch. At the regional scale, the proportion of leaf area removed was positively affected by shoot size. In addition, this pattern was also found for the majority of the studied patches (29, 31, 55, 116, and 172 individuals/patch). Among the insect herbivores associated with C. procera, larvae of Danaus spp. (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) were commonly observed feeding on all patches. These herbivores present a specialized behaviour to circumvent the presence of latex in the host leaves. Although more vigorous plant modules should be better defended compared with the less vigorous modules, Danaus species were able to bypass host defences, and feed on healthy, rapidly growing and vigorous plant modules of C. procera, hence causing more damage to these modules. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e55148 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e55148 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55148/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55148/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e53766 2020-09-03 neotropical

Rediscovery of Vampyressa thyone (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) in Honduras: updated distribution and notes on its conservation Ordoñez Mazier,Diego Ávila-Palma,Hefer Soler Orellana,José Alejandro Ordoñez Trejo,Eduardo Javier Martínez,Marcio Turcios Casco,Manfredo Alejandro Central America conservation distribution Northern Little Yellow-eared Bat Stenodermatinae Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 379-390 In Central America, Vampyressa is represented by two species, Vampyressa elisabethae and V. thyone. The latter is the only representative of the genus in Honduras and the most recent record was in 2007. Six surveys were carried out in the Departments of Cortés, Atlántida and Gracias a Dios. Only seven individuals of V. thyone were recorded between March 2016 and September 2017. The low abundance of V. thyone supports the fact that it is an uncommon species in the country; however, these records update the distribution in northern Honduras. We recommend systematic bat assessments on the three protected areas in which we recorded V. thyone for a better comprehension of the local populations on this species in the country. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e53766 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e53766 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53766/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/53766/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e55754 2020-09-10 neotropical

Aberrant plumage records in Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis (Aves: Charadriidae) Costa Corrêa,Luiz Liberato Horn,Natascha dos Santos Brückmann,Caroline Weber,Vinicius Coimbra de Brum,Antônio Petry,Maria Vírginia brown Charadriiformes dilution Leucism melanism progressive greying Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 391-398 Aberrant colored plumages in birds are not uncommon events in nature. These cases might be associated with genetic, environmental and nutritional factors, the presence of parasites, or even age. This study had the objective of reporting two new aberrant plumage cases in Vanellus chilensis individuals, an individual with progressive greying and a melanistic one, and review information available at the “Birds of Brazil Encyclopedia” (WikiAves). The study also presents a case review of published cases in indexed journals about V. chilensis aberrant coloring published in indexed journals. In total, 24 cases of V. chilensis individuals with aberrant plumage are known. For some cases following current specialized literature, we only suggest changes to progressive graying and brown. Finally, we encourage researchers to publish their records of birds with aberrant plumage in scientific journals. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e55754 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e55754 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55754/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55754/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e54979 2020-09-25 neotropical

Wildlife associated with burrows of Dolichotis patagonum in central west Argentina Gatica,Ailin Ochoa,Ana Denkiewicz,Natalia Mangione,Antonio camera traps ecosystem engineer mara Sierra de las Quijadas National Park Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(3): 399-407 Community structure is strongly influenced by positive interactions between species. Detecting and describing these interactions is essential in the study of communities. Dolichotis patagonum Zimmermann, 1780 (CN: mara) is a cavid rodent that builds burrows for breeding. In this study, camera traps were used to identify which species use the burrows built by maras in Sierra de las Quijadas National Park, San Luis, Argentina. All burrows were used by other species. A total of 68.7% of all medium- and small-sized taxa recorded in this study used the burrows. This is a clear indicator of the role of D. patagonum as an ecosystem engineer in this environment. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e54979 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e54979 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/54979/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/54979/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e49656 2020-10-01 neotropical

Anurofauna of a remnant of Atlantic Forest in northeast Brazil Barbosa,Gessica Oliveira,Camila N. Oliveira,Humberto Diego Rodrigues,Gilberto abundance amphibians conservation ecology richness Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 415-425 Studies on spatial occupation are fundamental to understand amphibian communities. The aim of this study was to record information on the spatial distribution of anurans in the Tejipió forest, state of Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil. Fieldwork was carried out weekly between October 2011 and April 2012, with daytime and night-time excursions for time-constrained active searching, in forested and open areas, military construction area and water bodies. Pitfall traps and accidental sightings were also used as alternative collection methods. Data were used to calculate richness, rarefaction curves and richness estimators. A total of 21 species were recorded, distributed in six families: Bufonidae (2 spp.); Craugastoridae (1 sp.); Hylidae (8 spp.); Leptodactylidae (8 spp.); Microhylidae (1 sp.) and Phyllomedusidae (1 sp.). Only the species Rhinella jimi was found occupying all sampled habitats in the research area. Adenomera hylaedactyla and Pristimantis ramagii deserve special care in the area because they are specialists, occupying a smaller number of habitats and microhabitats. The community of anurans of the Tejipió forest is similar to those recorded in other areas of the Atlantic Forest at the Pernambuco state, and its knowledge is essential as a basis for conservation of the area. The gradual recovery of this Atlantic Forest remnant would favor the recolonization of fauna and flora and the conservation of local biodiversity. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e49656 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e49656 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49656/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/49656/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e55611 2020-10-01 neotropical

Azara’s No. 21 “Gavilán pardo obscuro” is not a Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachyurus Smith,Paul Buteo swainsoni Paraguay Swainson’s Hawk Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 409-414 Almost half of the 400+ species described in Félix de Azara’s “Apuntamientos para la historia natural de los páxaros del Paraguay y Rio de la Plata” were new to science at the time of its publication; however, not all of these have yet been correctly identified. Azara’s No. 21 “Gavilán pardo obscuro” has long been misidentified as a dark phase of the Short-tailed Hawk Buteo brachyurus. However, the description of plumage, jizz, habitat and measurements are inconsistent with that species and Azara’s No. 21 can, in fact, be convincingly identified as a juvenile Swainson’s Hawk Buteo swainsoni, the earliest Paraguayan report of this species. No scientific names were apparently ever based on Azara No. 21. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e55611 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e55611 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55611/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55611/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e54142 2020-10-09 neotropical

Re-discovery of Catasetum mojuense (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae), a poorly-known Amazonian species Barberena,Felipe Fajardo Villela Antolin Costa,Deivid Lucas de Lima da Rocha Junior,José Antônio Lima Amazon Capitão Poço conservation endemism orchid Pará taxonomy Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 447-452 The re-discovery of Catasetum mojuense A.T. Oliveira & J.B.F. Silva (Orchidaceae), an Amazonian species described in 1999 from the State of Pará, Brazil, is reported. In addition to geographic distribution data, a morphological description, taxonomical and ecological comments, conservation status assessment and photographs of C. mojuense are also provided. The species is characterised by having epiphytic habit, non-resupinate staminate flowers, brown-spotted petals, galeiform and smooth (no ribs) lip, lateral lobes with sparsely short-fimbriate margins and convergent antennae. Catasetum mojuense is morphologically similar to Catasetum discolor (Lindl.) Lindl, but is easily distinguished by the longer sepals and petals and the spotted petals on the staminate flowers. The new locality of occurence for C. mojuense is approximately 190 km east of the type locality, also in the State of Pará. The species is assessed as Critically Endangered. Habitat depletion and the limited number of sites of occurrence are the main concern for the conservation of C. mojuense. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e54142 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e54142 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/54142/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/54142/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e57029 2020-10-09 neotropical

First documented predation of a Baird’s tapir by a jaguar in the Calakmul region, Mexico Perez Flores,Jonathan Arias Domínguez,Héctor Arias Domínguez,Nicolás Greater Calakmul Region keystone species Panthera onca prey-predator relationship Tapirus bairdii trophic web Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 453-461 To date, records of predation on Baird’s tapir (Tapirus bairdii) by jaguars (Panthera onca) were anecdotal and did not allow for differentiation regarding whether the animal had been preyed upon or scavenged. Here, we present the first documented event of predation on a Baird’s tapir by a jaguar in the Calakmul region, Campeche, Mexico. In August 2017, we observed a jaguar eating a juvenile female Baird’s tapir; when we analysed the skull, we observed the characteristic “lethal bite” with which jaguars kill their prey by piercing the temporal and parietal bones with their canine teeth. Jaguars select to attack tapirs when they are most vulnerable (young or sick). Records of these type of events are important for understanding the food webs and ecology of these iconic Neotropical species that inhabit the Mesoamerican forests. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e57029 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e57029 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57029/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57029/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e52905 2020-10-09 neotropical

Main trends and gaps in studies for bird conservation in the Pantanal wetland Vilas Boas da Frota,Angélica Vitorino,Breno Dias Nunes,Josué da Silva,Carolina Joana avian biodiversity floodplain review scientific knowledge waterbirds Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 427-445 Birds are considered one of the most well-known groups of animals in the Pantanal, playing an important ecological role in wetland ecosystems. Our aim was to identify the main themes and gaps in current knowledge of these birds, considering thirty years of scientific research to direct future studies. We performed a scientometric analysis based on five platforms with the search words “Aves” and “Pantanal” as well as “Bird” and “Pantanal”. We identified 145 scientific studies, with themes of ecology (64), conservation (23), health (17), fauna (15), genetics (12), geographic distribution (7), and environmental education (7). The number of publications has increased significantly over the years. However, the focus is predominantly on certain Pantanal regions, such as the municipalities of Corumbá in Mato Grosso do Sul state and Poconé in Mato Grosso state. Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus and Mycteria americana are among the species with the largest number of studies in the Pantanal, with 12 and 11 papers, respectively. We highlighted the need for new studies in regions such as the north-west and themes such as threatened species and ecosystem services. Integrated knowledge and interdisciplinary approaches can be useful in strategic decision-making and more effective for bird conservation in wetlands. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Review Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e52905 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e52905 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/52905/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/52905/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e57998 2020-11-11 neotropical

One side makes you taller: a mushroom–eating butterfly caterpillar (Lycaenidae) in Costa Rica Nishida,Kenji Robbins,Robert Detritivory Electrostrymon Eumaeini immature stages life history Polyporus Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 463-470 Electrostrymon denarius is the first mushroom-feeding butterfly caterpillar discovered in the New World. It belongs to the Calycopidina, a subtribe of lycaenid butterflies whose caterpillars eat detritus and seeds in the leaf litter. Electrostrymon denarius has not been reared previously, and we illustrate and briefly describe the biology and morphology of its caterpillar and pupa. The significance of this discovery is that it increases the range of organic leaf litter substrates that Calycopidina caterpillars will eat. Increased diet breadth may decrease the likelihood of species extinction. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e57998 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e57998 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57998/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57998/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e56926 2020-11-11 neotropical

Notes on the natural history of the Stump-tailed Porcupine, Coendou rufescens (Rodentia, Erethizontidae), in Colombia Ramírez-Chaves,Héctor Romero Ríos,Cristina Henao Osorio,Jose Jaime Franco Herrera,Juan Pablo Ramírez Padilla,Bernardo Andes citizen science diet diurnal activity movements prehensile tail Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 471-478 Porcupines of the genus Coendou are among the least studied mammals in the Neotropics. The Stump-tailed Porcupine, Coendou rufescens, is distributed in the Andean region from Colombia and south to Bolivia. Despite its wide distribution, nothing is known about its natural history, besides observation of banana consumption in captivity. Here we present new observations on the feeding habits, diurnal activity, and the use of the tail for support during feeding obtained by means of collaborative (citizen) science. We also comment on its locomotion on land and in trees. We observed five diurnal events of C. rufescens feeding on infructescences of trumpet tree (Cecropia angustifolia Trécul). During the feeding activities, the Stump-tailed Porcupine used the tail for stability and support. These are the first observations of such behavior in the wild for this species and suggest a more diurnal activity for this species which belongs to a group of rodents traditionally considered to be predominantly nocturnal. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e56926 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e56926 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/56926/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/56926/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e57669 2020-11-18 neotropical

A new record of the exotic Guapote jaguar, Parachromis managuensis (Günther, 1867) (Cichliformes, Cichlidae) in a tropical coastal lagoon of the Mexican Pacific slope Del Moral-Flores,Luis F. Pintor,Ruben García-Mercado,Eduardo León,Cesar Eastern Pacific exotic species jaguar cichlid Mexico non-native species Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 479-485 The presence of Parachromis managuensis has been reported for the first time in the Tres Palos Lagoon, State of Guerrero, on the coastal Lagoon of the Mexican Pacific slope. Two specimens (189 mm and 215 mm standard length) were caught by local fishermen from the community of San Pedro de Las Playas. A description of the morphological and meristic characters of the specimens is provided. The natural distribution of the species is from Honduras to Costa Rica and, as it is predatory and highly territorial, in conjunction with other introduced species, it can present a risk to native species and alter the biological dynamics in the lagoon system. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e57669 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e57669 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57669/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57669/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e55986 2020-11-19 neotropical

Bat assemblage at a high diversity locality in the Atlantic Forest Maires Hoppe,João Paulo Lavanholle Ventorin,Maria Malavazi Dell' Antonio,Bruna Machel da Silva,Carlos Tiago Ditchfield,Albert Augusto Ruschi Chiroptera fragment southeastern Brazil species richness Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 487-501 The Estação Biológica Santa Lúcia (EBSL) is one of the oldest reserves in Brazil, used as a research site since 1939 by the naturalist Augusto Ruschi. It is an Atlantic Forest fragment, and its fauna and flora have been studied throughout the years. However, its chiropteran fauna remains virtually unknown. Here, we aim to provide a bat species list for EBSL. We installed mist-nets over 19 nights from mid-2009 to mid-2010, with a sampling effort of 20 875.5 m2.h. We captured 204 specimens, from two families and 22 species. Ecological analysis reveals a medium to high diversity, heavily dominated by frugivorous species. The collector’s curve and the estimative of species richness suggests that the chiropteran fauna at EBSL remains partially unknown, and we encourage further inventories. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e55986 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e55986 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55986/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55986/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e57403 2020-11-27 neotropical

Invasive plants in the Brazilian Caatinga: a scientometric analysis with prospects for conservation Pinto,Anderson Silva Kalina da Silva Monteiro,Fernanda Bezerra Ramos,Maiara da Costa Correia Araújo,Rubenice de Faria Lopes,Sérgio Biological invasion dry forest exotic species northeast Brazil scientometry semi-arid Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 503-520 Understanding the impacts caused by invasive plant species, especially in regions where studies are scarce, is of great importance to the development of management and conservation strategies. Amongst the biomes present in Brazil, the Caatinga (Dry Tropical Forest) stands out for having had few studies dealing with biological invasions by plants and animals. An evaluation of scientific production can provide a means by which the progress of invasion-related studies can be assessed, as well as identify research gaps and provide a broad overview of the importance of invasions in this biome. Thus, the objective of this study was to perform a scientometric analysis to evaluate the development of scientific research over the years on exotic and invasive plant species in the Caatinga. We found 46 papers dealing with invasive plants in the Caatinga published over a 14-year period. The main objectives of most of the papers focused on identifying the main strategies used by plants in the process of invasion and characterising the invaded environment. A total of 28 species were cited as invasive for the Caatinga, with Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC., Cryptostegia madagascariensis Bojer, Calotropis procera (Aiton) W.T.Aiton and Parkinsonia aculeata L. being the most cited species. Although studies on the subject are incipient, there is already important information about the dynamics of the invasiveness of plant species in the Caatinga, which can serve as a basis for new studies, as well as for the development of management policies, based on consistent information. Biological invasion, dry forest, exotic species, northeast Brazil, scientometry, semi-arid info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e57403 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e57403 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57403/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57403/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e57376 2020-12-11 neotropical

New records on distribution and habitat of the lesser long-nosed bat (Leptonycteris yerbabuenae) in Honduras Mora,José Manuel Espinal,Mario López,Lucía Choluteca dry forest Francisco Morazán Nacaome nectar feeding bat Phyllostomidae Subtropical moist forest Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 521-531 The lesser long-nosed bat (Leptonycteris yerbabuenae Martínez & Villa-R, 1940) is a specialized nectar feeding species found from southern USA to Nicaragua in Central America, mostly in dry forest. We sampled bats using mist nets and Anabat detectors, and also looked for them at refuges and other sites in Honduras from 2011 to 2016. The lesser long-nosed bat is known in Honduras from only two localities in the southern dry forests below 100 m elevation, and there are no recent records of this species in the country. Our objective is to report new records on distribution and habitat of the lesser long-nosed bat in Honduras. We found eight lesser long-nosed bats at Cerro de Hula, Francisco Morazán department in 2012, and 10 at La Anonilla, Choluteca department, southern Honduras in 2015. Based on these 18 individuals of the lesser long-nosed bat, we report two new localities in Honduras, an altitude record, and the use of another habitat other than the dry forest. The highest point registered was at 1710 m a.s.l. in pastureland with forest remnants in an area heavily impacted by human activities. The new localities are found in the Subtropical Moist Forest. Populations of long-nosed bats in Honduras are probably resident and may include altitudinal movements. Although this species has been described widely in North America, its behavior in Honduras is practically unknown. It is a key species for the tequila and mezcal industry, but its range extends beyond the tequila production area, where it maintains a key role as a pollinator and link between habitats. As a result, research and conservation efforts should be an international goal. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e57376 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e57376 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57376/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57376/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e59000 2020-12-17 neotropical

Vegetation structure as the main source of variability in scorpion assemblages at small spatial scales and further considerations for the conservation of Caatinga landscapes A. Foerster,Stenio Italo Lira,André Almeida,Cauê Biodiversity environmental changes habitat complexity macroecology SDTF Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 533-550 Even at the local scale, environmental changes due of anthropogenic actions represent a source of disturbance in terrestrial ecosystems, forcing species to respond according to their ecological plasticity. Thus, stenotopic species and those with low-dispersal ability will likely be negatively affected by landscape modifications that reduce environmental complexity. In this study, we identify and quantify the effects of biotic and abiotic factors related to habitat complexity on the variation in scorpion assemblages in terms of both species’ richness, abundance and composition across 18 transects covering Caatinga landscapes with different levels of degradation. Using ultraviolet flashlights, we sampled 269 scorpions, belonging to six species and two families. The results showed contrasting patterns of species richness and abundance that depend on the level of habitat complexity. More specifically, we reported that scorpion species richness could be predicted by the number of trees, while the coefficient of variation of the diameter at breast height of trees (cvDBH) is a predictor of scorpion abundance. These findings suggest that vegetation structure is deterministic for the maintenance of scorpion assemblages in Caatinga landscapes. In addition, the cvDBH and tree number may explain 39% and 40% of the variability observed amongst scorpion assemblages in terms of richness difference and species composition, respectively. This study provides insights concerning the development of conservation strategies, clarifying the role of habitat complexity for the preservation of low-dispersal animals in neglected environments, such as those within the Caatinga domain. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e59000 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e59000 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/59000/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/59000/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e56578 2020-12-23 neotropical

An alternative method for determining the body condition index of the free-living South American coati Martins Santos,Filipe Risco,David Sano,Nayara Yoshie de Macedo,Gabriel Barreto,Wanessa Texeira Gomes Gonçalves,Pilar Fernández-Llario,Pedro Miraglia Herrera,Heitor Biometrics Boosted regression trees Nasua nasua welfare wildlife Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 561-569 Assessing and monitoring the welfare of free-living mammals is not a usual process due to the logistical complications associated with their capture and sedation, collection and storage of biological samples and their release. In this context, non-invasive methods for monitoring wildlife constitute a good alternative approach for in situ conservation. Body condition index, as a measurement of health status, has been used in free-living mammals; its low value may be associated with negative effects on reproduction and survival. The present study aimed to generate an alternative and reliable non-invasive method and then determine the body condition index, based on previously-collected biometric measurements, without the need to capture and immobilise the animals. A total of 178 free-living Nasua nasua Linnaeus, 1766 were trapped, weighed and measured. Statistical methods were used, based on Boosted Regression Trees (BRT) using body mass, biometric measurements (body length, height and chest girth) and gender as explanatory variables. To assess the agreement between the real Body Condition Indices (BCIs) and the predicted values of BCIs, we explored the correlation between each model using the Bland-Altman method. This method showed a strong agreement between the predictive BRT models proposed (standardised residuals from a linear regression between body length and chest girth) and standardised residuals (linear regression between body mass and body length). The results obtained herein showed that BRT modelling, based on biometrical features, is an alternative way to verify the body conditions of coatis without the need to capture and immobilise the animals. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e56578 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e56578 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/56578/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/56578/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e57142 2020-12-23 neotropical

The underground sex life of the Guatemalan Spike-thumb Frog (Plectrohyla guatemalensis) Gonzalez,Sergio Mármol-Kattán,Guillermo Conservation microhabitat reproductive behavior territoriality Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 551-559 Two populations of Plectrohyla guatemalensis from two different sites in Sacatepéquez, Guatemala, were monitored for three consecutive rainy seasons, and noteworthy reproductive behavior was observed. The objective of the surveys was to assess the impact of nearby high-tension power lines, but additional information could be obtained. Our observations that male vocalizations to attract females occurred in the crevices of rocks in streams, inside which females lay eggs, suggest that the species’ reproduction is closely linked to the presence of such crevices. Any clutches were then guarded by the male until hatching. We inferred the existence of male-male competition for gaining control of these reproduction sites building upon previous observations, remarks about the genus and other species with similar patterns, and evidence of such aggression, although we did not directly observe any. Also, with the help of local wardens, we recorded vocalizations in mid-January, extending the previously reported reproductive period for this species. We therefore consider the conservation and restoration of rocky streams with adequate forest coverage to be an important conservation action for this species. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e57142 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e57142 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57142/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57142/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e58383 2020-12-30 neotropical

Updating the distribution of Vampyrum spectrum (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) in Colombia: new localities, potential distribution and notes on its conservation Esquivel,Diego Aya-Cuero,Carlos A. Penagos López,Angie Paola Chacón-Pacheco,Julio J. Agámez-López,Carlos J. Andrés Vargas Ochoa,Andrés Ramírez-Chaves,Héctor Bennett,David Carnivorous bat ecological niche modelling Phyllostominae Protected Areas rare species Spectral Bat Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 689-709 The Spectral Bat (Vampyrum spectrum) is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In Colombia, it has not been included in any risk assessments, because it is a poorly documented species in the country. Using new occurrence data and ecological niche modelling we evaluate the distribution and analyze the species’ ecological and conservation needs in Colombia. With the new records, V. spectrum shows a distribution over six biogeographic provinces in the country, along an elevational range between 96 and 1750 m. The Spectral Bat has been reported in a wide variety of ecosystems from dry forest and fragmented landscapes, to forested areas. Predictive models suggest a wider presence of this species in the west of the country, center, and southern Andes. The limited number of specimens limits our attempt to evaluate morphometric variation among Colombian populations; however, we detect a variation in the mean value of the forearm and ear length regarding northeast South American populations. Areas with the greatest potential distribution detected in this study could be prioritized in conservation strategies, and make plans accordingly for this and other species that coexist in its range. Finally, we highlight the low representativeness of Protected Areas for the Spectral Bat and add some ecological notes about this rare species. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e58383 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e58383 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/58383/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/58383/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e55788 2020-12-30 neotropical

Number, density and distribution of Rufous-banded Owl Ciccaba albitarsis (Strigiformes, Strigidae) in a cloud forest Mikusek,Romek Dyrcz,Andrzej Polak,Marcin Andes breeding density cloud forest owls Rufous-banded Owl Strigidae Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 711-716 The aim of the research was to determine the number and distribution of the Rufous-banded Owls Ciccaba albitarsis in a cloud forest on the northern slopes of the Andes. The study was performed using the territory mapping technique and a GPS device in an area of 7 km2. The number of territories was estimated at 40, resulting in a density of 5.7 territories/km2. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first published data on density of the Rufous-banded Owl in a cloud forest. The population density of the species in our study area corresponds with the densities of the other similar owl species in the Tropics. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e55788 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e55788 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55788/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55788/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e55715 2020-12-30 neotropical

Nesting habitat and density, nest characteristics, home ranges and group sizes of the Rufous-fronted Thornbird (Phacellodomus rufifrons) in Central Brazil dos Santos,Luane Ballarini,Yara Pereira,Zélia Marini,Miguel Ângelo Breeding Cerrado ovenbirds reproductive biology savanna Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 571-581 Rufous-fronted Thornbird (Phacellodomus rufifrons) reproduction has been studied under a few environmental conditions but might show some variations among regions throughout its wide geographic distribution. We describe here nesting habitat and density, nest characteristics, home ranges and group sizes of Rufous-fronted Thornbird in a Cerrado reserve in central Brazil. We found 131 nests in 2003, 2004, and 2011, and studied four groups inside a 100-ha grid. Nests were found only in cerrado típico and cerrado ralo but changed in abundance and density over the years, with a higher density in 2004 (0.37 nest/ha) than in 2011 (0.23 nest/ha). Nests were built 3.2 ± 1.0 m above the ground at 6.3 ± 0.2 m high trees of 31 species, but mostly of Qualea spp. Nests were 0.66 ± 0.27 m high and 0.44 ± 0.11 m wide. Home ranges had an average of 3.1 ± 0.3 ha, used by family groups of 4.6 ± 0.5 individuals. This study consolidates the findings of previous ones, but also highlights differences in habitat use, nest size, and nesting tree among regions or study sites, and changes in density among years, stressing the importance of studying the reproductive biology of the same bird species under different environmental conditions since different conditions might affect reproductive traits, such as reproductive investment and timing. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e55715 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e55715 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55715/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/55715/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e59713 2020-12-30 neotropical

Status of knowledge of the broad-nosed weevils of Colombia (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae) Girón Duque,Jennifer C. Distribution faunistics literature Neotropics original description South America taxonomy Distribución faunística literatura neotrópico descripción original Suramérica taxonomía Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 583-674 Broad-nosed weevils in the subfamily Entiminae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) are highly diverse, not only in terms of number of species, but also in their sizes, forms and colours. There are eight tribes, 50 genera and 224 entimine species recorded from Colombia: seven genera and 142 species are considered endemic and only a handful of species, which are recognised as pests of Citrus or potatoes, are broadly known. The large diversity of this subfamily in the country is only superficially known and even though genus level identifications are generally achievable, species identification remains quite challenging, due in part to limited access to broadly-scattered basic information. Summaries of available information and bibliographic resources for each of the tribes represented in Colombia are offered, along with a checklist of the species of Entiminae recorded from the country, obtained from literature and a pictorial key for tribal recognition. New combinations are proposed for eight species of the genus Lanterius Alonso-Zarazaga & Lyal. Information on the distribution of entimine species in Colombia is compiled for the first time, including complete references to each original description and available taxonomic revisions. About a third of the species of Entiminae remain as recorded from the country without specific locality information. In addition, genus level distributional maps are presented, generated from data obtained from four Colombian entomological collections. Lastly, some challenges for entimine identification in Colombia, which likely extend throughout the Neotropical region, are briefly discussed. This contribution aims, in part, to facilitate and promote entimine research in northern South America. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Review Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e59713 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e59713 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/59713/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/59713/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.15.e57804 2020-12-30 neotropical

Analysis of abiotic factors associated with foam nests of Cuvier’s foam froglet (Physalaemus cuvieri) in southeastern Brazil Lúcio Rodrigues,Cristiano Silva,Thiago Klein,Wilfried Fernandes,Marcelo Area/volume relation humidity morphometric measurements temperature thermal conduction Neotropical Biology and Conservation 15(4): 675-688 Climate change may have significant impacts on amphibian diversity due to alterations in microhabitat conditions where these species occurs. Understanding the abiotic factors associated with a species’ microhabitat are therefore necessary to evaluate the impact they may suffer. Amphibians are exposed to changing microhabitat conditions at multiple life stages, since reproduction and larval development of most species depend on water, whereas adults frequently depend on terrestrial habitats. Physalaemus cuvieri is a Neotropical frog that uses foam nests for reproduction that may provide some protection for tadpoles against temperature and humidity fluctuations. Herein, foam nests of P. cuvieri were studied within vegetation around a pond, with the aim of analyzing the morphometric (depth, area and volume) relationships of foam nests with abiotic factors (humidity, temperature). Humidity 2 cm above the nests was significantly greater than 2 m from the nests. Temperature, measured at different depths of the nests, was significantly reduced by up to 10 °C when compared to atmospheric air temperatures above the nests. We conclude that foam nests facilitate a protective environment for eggs by regulating temperature and humidity to acceptable levels. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2020 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.15.e57804 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.15.e57804 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57804/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57804/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.16.e59360 2021-01-11 neotropical

Bird activity patterns in the understorey of an evergreen forest in Oaxaca, Mexico Pérez-Irineo,Gabriela Santos-Moreno,Antonio Activity overlap camera traps Columbidae Cracidae Tinamidae Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16(1): 1-10 Activity patterns of species are related to their physiology, their behaviour and the environment and can change in response to different factors, such as interactions between species. Bird species, typical of the understorey, show morphological and ecological similarities and must thus have some mechanism of ecological separation, such as temporal niche partitioning. The objective of this study was to provide information about activity patterns and activity overlap of bird species typical of the understorey. We expected temporal niche partitioning between ecologically-similar species. We placed camera traps in 29 sampling points in a high evergreen forest in the southeast of Mexico between 2011 and 2013. All species were mainly diurnal and, contrary to what we expected, there was temporal partitioning between tinamids, but not in galliforms and columbiforms. The degree of activity overlap might reflect a solitary or group lifestyle of the three sets of species, as well as shared behavioural preferences and similar adaptations. These results contribute to our knowledge of the basic biology and behavioural ecology of birds of the understorey. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2021 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.16.e59360 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e59360 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/59360/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/59360/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.16.e57140 2021-01-14 neotropical

What’s on the menu? A presumed attack of Andean bear on a Mountain tapir at the Puracé National Natural Park, Colombia Pisso,Gustavo Gómez-Lora,Ignacio Vela-Vargas,I. Mauricio Pizo,Héctor Bedoya Dorado,Isaac Ramírez-Chaves,Héctor ecological interactions neotropical mammals high Andean forest protected area Tapirus pinchaque Tremarctos ornatus Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16(1): 19-25 Two iconic and charismatic species that inhabit the northern Andes of South America are the Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus) and the Mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque). Both species can be found sympatrically in several areas of Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru. Despite their overlap in distribution, little is known about interactions between both species, with few reported cases of Andean bear attacks on the Mountain tapir. Here, we report a possible attack by an Andean bear on a Mountain tapir in the northern part of Puracé National Natural Park, Colombia based on strong wounds and marks on a tapir’s back and rump. The wounds match typical attack patterns generated by Andean bears and corroborates previous camera traps records of bears attacking tapirs in this locality. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2021 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.16.e57140 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e57140 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57140/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57140/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.16.e57932 2021-01-14 neotropical

New records of mammals of the Coffee Region, Central Andes of Colombia using citizen science Terán-Sánchez,Sofía Díaz-Arango,Alejandra Arias-Monsalve,Héctor Fabio Ramírez-Chaves,Héctor Andes Colombia conservation Mammalia non-invasive records protected areas tracks Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16(1): 27-43 The Coffee Region of Colombia is one of the most representative areas of the country due to its cultural appeal. 200 of the 528 mammal species in the country occur in this region. Pre-existing knowledge about the group in this region has been obtained through indirect and direct sampling methods. We present new records of mammals of the “Reserva Forestal Protectora Bosques de la Central Hidroeléctrica de Caldas (CHEC)”, located in the Coffee Region, based on vouchered citizen science records. To accomplish this, we held training workshops on the relevance of information provided by non-invasive vouchers for mammal collections that include bone remains, hairs, skin and other signs that can be found incidentally in the field by park rangers and other staff of the Reserve. In addition, we included photographic and video records of mammals taken by park rangers before and after the training workshops. We added vouchers obtained by the park rangers to the biological collection of the Natural History Museum of the Universidad de Caldas (MHN-UCa). Using this method, we obtained records of 34 mammalian species belonging to 20 families and 11 orders. We highlight the obtention of museum preserved vouchers of the Northern Naked-tailed Armadillo, Cabassous centralis (Miller 1899), and the Cauca Slender Opossum, Marmosops caucae (Thomas 1900), that had limited samples in national collections or had not been previously collected in the study area. With this work, a contribution network with the CHEC reserve staff was established, promoting the inclusion of these agents in the development of scientific research, and showing the relevance of collaborative science in assisting with filling information gaps about medium and large mammals. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2021 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.16.e57932 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e57932 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57932/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/57932/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.16.e59669 2021-01-14 neotropical

Movement distances for four small mammals in two Atlantic forests fragments, Southern Brazil Lima,Daniela Oliveira de Braun,Luana Gabriele Arenhart Skupien,Fabrício Luiz Rodrigues,Daniele Pereira Sausen,Jady de Oliveira Akodon montensis Didelphis albiventris distances between successive captures Oligoryzomys nigripes Sooretamys angouya Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16(1): 11-18 Animal movement has an important role in individual performance, species reproduction, population demography, and conservation, especially in fragmented landscapes. The distance moved by an individual may vary depending on individual needs, such as the search for food resources and sexual partners. Here we investigated which factors affect the distances between successive captures (hereafter DSC) for Akodon montensis, Oligoryzomys nigripes, Sooretamys angouya, and Didelphis albiventris. This study was conducted from April 2015 to October 2016 in two fragments in the south of Atlantic Forest biome through capture, mark and recapture technique. DSC was analyzed using Generalized Linear Models with Poisson distribution where the independent variables were sex, whether the animal was active or not in terms of reproduction, body weight, and climatic season. The mean DSC was greater for D. albiventris (44.6 ± 28.8 m), followed by S. angouya (31.9 ± 25.7 m), O. nigripes (25.8 ± 22.5 m) and A. montensis (18.9 ± 22.0 m). Males of all species moved larger DSC than females. Considering the rodents, reproductive animals also moved larger DSC than non-reproductive animals. Sex may have masked the effect of body weight, as males tend to be larger than females. Climatic effects were tested for A. montensis and O. nigripes, however, with diverse effects. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2021 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.16.e59669 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e59669 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/59669/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/59669/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.16.e50156 2021-01-19 neotropical

Arinosaster patriciae (Porifera, Demospongiae): new genus and species and the second record of a cave freshwater sponge from Brazil Volkmer-Ribeiro,Cecília Tavares-Frigo,Maria da Conceição Ribeiro,Alexandre Bichuette,Maria Elina Amazon Basin caves continental sponges Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16(1): 45-57 Arinosaster patriciae gen. nov. et sp. nov. is the second continental sponge registered for a subterranean environment (cave habitat) in Brazil and the Neotropical Region. The sponges were recorded and collected in a 5m depth technical dive in a sinkhole of Rio Claro, tributary of Rio Arinos, Tapajós system, Amazon Basin (-13.8170386, -56.6914225) at the locality of Sumidouro do Rio Claro, Municipality of Diamantino, state of Mato Grosso, central western Brazil. The cave is placed in sandstone rocks of the Parecis Group (Upper Cretaceous). “In situ” photographs of colonies, of living specimens, SEM illustrations of dissociated spicules as well as of the skeletal structure, are presented. The occurrence of euaster microscleres of the type spherasters are for the first time reported for continental sponges but, also new, is the occurrence of spongin fibers, composing with fibers of silicious spicules in the skeletal arrangement. The absence of gemmules in the studied material and the fact that new specimens remain undetected call for the proposition of a new monospecific genus to be retained as Incertae Sedis until new and gemmuliferous colonies are found. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2021 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.16.e50156 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e50156 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/50156/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/50156/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.16.e56186 2021-01-19 neotropical

Influence of environmental and morphological parameters on the microfauna community present in phytotelmata of a bromeliad in a fragment of Atlantic Forest, southern Brazil Antonetti,Débora Malfatti,Eduardo Utz,Laura Bromeliaceae cisterns ecological factors eukaryotes microorganisms temperature Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16(1): 59-70 Bromeliads are important epiphytes due to their abundance in the Neotropical region and morphological complexity. Their compact and imbricated leaf bases form water storage cisterns that promote important resources for colonization by several prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms. Due to the lack of knowledge about these environments, the objective of the study was to investigate which physical-chemical and ecological parameters exert effects on the biological richness present in the cisterns of Vriesea platynema. The study was carried out in the Center for Research and Nature Conservation (CPCN – Pró-Mata), in the Serra Geral plateau, northeastern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Active searches were performed for 10 trees with bromeliads fixed at two heights (< 1.5 m and > 2.5 m). For each bromeliad individual, the height in relation to the ground, the diameter and depth of the central cistern, water temperature, number of lateral cisterns and number of adjacent bromeliads, were measured. A total of 23 taxa were identified in the phytotelmata of V. platynema, with Philodina, Lambornella, Paramecium, Tetrahymena and Diptera larvae being the most representative groups. The richness of organisms in the phytotelmata presented a positive correlation with water temperature (p = 0.01), and the number of adjacent bromeliads (p = 0.05), indicating that physicochemical and ecological factors could influence the richness of bromeliad biota. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2021 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.16.e56186 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e56186 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/56186/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/56186/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.16.e58691 2021-01-21 neotropical

Current knowledge on biology, fishing and conservation of the blue shark (Prionace glauca) Emmanuelle Florentino da Silva,Thaísy Lessa,Rosangela Santana,Francisco Marcante Conservation elasmobranch feeding ecology growth reproduction stock assessment Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16(1): 71-88 The blue shark (Prionace glauca) is a large predator in marine ecosystems, figuring as the most common and abundant species in oceanic fisheries. For this reason, many studies on this species were conducted throughout its entire distribution range. However, no comparison has been made regarding the variability of the aspects addressed herein. Thus, the present study aims at analyzing the available information on P. glauca. This species constitutes between 85 and 90% of the total elasmobranchs caught by oceanic fisheries with pelagic longlines. Growth parameters reveal that individuals in the Atlantic Ocean show the highest asymptotic lengths when compared to those found in other oceans. Females present an average uterine fecundity of 30 embryos. Although it shows a diverse diet, it is mainly composed of teleost fish and cephalopods. Currently, the main threat to the species is commercial fishing, being listed in Brazil and worldwide, according to IUCN as Near Threatened. Regardless, information on crucial aspects, such as its population dynamics, are still scarce or unreliable for many areas. Despite the number of studies regarding its distribution, abundance, and biology, data for new stock assessments of P. glauca are still needed to improve the species’ management. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2021 Review Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.16.e58691 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e58691 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/58691/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/58691/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.16.e56427 2021-01-29 neotropical

Invasive alien plants in Sergipe, north-eastern Brazil Fabricante,Juliano Araújo,Kelianne Santos,Thieres Bispo,João Paulo Oliveira Reis,Daniel Checklist environmental impacts floristic survey invasive exotic Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16(1): 89-104 Biological invasions are considered one of the greatest threats to global biodiversity. In addition, they cause substantial economic impacts. However, studies about the subject in Brazil are still scarce. The aim of the present study was to prepare an inventory of non-native flora with invasive potential from Sergipe, Brazil. The inventory was carried out along the entire length of the sites. The species with potential invaders were grouped according to the biome/ecosystem and classified according to their habit and origin. Eighty-five species with invasive potential were sampled, 43 in the Caatinga, 75 in the Atlantic Forest, 36 in Sandbank and 22 in Mangrove. From these species, 17 were inventoried in all the biomes/ecosystems and 36 were observed in only one of them, six in the Caatinga, 27 in the Atlantic Forest and three in Sandbank. The number of potentially-invasive species sampled in Sergipe is alarming. The present study showed nearly twice the species listed by other authors for the entire northeast Brazil. This high number of taxa may be a consequence of facilitating the transfer of these species and the conservation conditions of the ecosystems studied in Sergipe. Another very worrying factor is that many of the species sampled are extremely aggressive and cause a series of impacts. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2021 Research Article text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.16.e56427 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e56427 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/56427/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/56427/download/pdf/ en

10.3897/neotropical.16.e62045 2021-01-29 neotropical

New records and conservation of Passiflora L. (Passifloraceae s.s.) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Milward‑de-Azevedo,Michaele Alvim Fernandes,Natália Atlantic Domain conservation endemism geographic distribution new occurrences Serra dos Órgãos National Park Neotropical Biology and Conservation 16(1): 115-128 Passiflora L. belongs to the family Passifloraceae sensu stricto, and comprises 700–750 species. There are approximately 161 known species of the family in Brazil, of which 153 belong to Passiflora, 89 are endemic, 83 occur in the region of the Atlantic Domain; 40 occur in Rio de Janeiro State (RJ). Using field samplings techniques and scientific collection analyses, we present here new geographic records for Passiflora deidamioides Harms, P. imbeana Sacco, P. junqueirae Imig & Cervi, and P. truncata Regel for RJ, principally in the Serra dos Órgãos National Park (PARNASO). Geographic distribution data was used to calculate the Extension of Occurrence (EOO) and Area of Occupancy (AOO) of the species. Passiflora junqueirae, previously considered endemic to Espírito Santo State, now has new records for RJ. Passiflora imbeana and P. truncata are extended into RJ, being recorded there for the first time in the municipality of Teresópolis. The four species are cited for the first time in PARNASO, occurring between 1,000 and 1,700 m.a.s.l. in Montane and Upper Montane Atlantic Rainforest. We provide taxonomic information, distribution maps, and the conservation status of the species. info:eu-repo/semantics/altIdentifier/eissn/2236-3777 info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess CC BY 4.0 Pensoft Publishers 2021 Short Communication text/html info:doi:10.3897/neotropical.16.e62045 https://doi.org/10.3897/neotropical.16.e62045 https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/62045/ https://neotropical.pensoft.net/article/62045/download/pdf/ en cGFnZT0xJnNldD1uZW90cm9waWNhbCZmcm9tPSZ1bnRpbD0mbWV0YWRhdGFfcHJlZml4PW9haV9kYw==