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Since the last century, the aquatic ecosystems of Tierra del Fuego have been impacted by the introduction of exotic species, among which the North American beaver Castor canadensis and salmonids stand out for their dispersion and abundance. This study is part of the project Strengthening Governance for the Protection of Biodiversity Through the Formulation and Implementation of the National Strategy on Invasive Alien Species, for the eradication of C. canadensis from the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego (IGTdF). This work aimed to evaluate the effect of beaver plantation removal on different aspects of the ichthyofauna of the IGTdF. Ichthyological sampling was carried out before and after the beaver ponds in six sites spread across the island. Three species of salmonids (Salmo trutta, Oncorhynchus mykiss and Salvelinus fontinalis) were captured, and an average increase of 43% in their abundance, changes in their diet, and differences in their energy density (higher or lower depending on the species) was observed after the removal of the beaver ponds. No native fish species were recorded before or after the removal of the beaver pond. The results suggest that the beaver ponds impact positively salmonid populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of exotic species constitutes one of the main threats to biodiversity around the world. Spathodea campanulata is a tree species cultivated for its ornamental value, having toxic nectar with insecticidal properties, particularly against bees. In Argentina, its effects on the native entomofauna are unknown. This study explores the mortality effects of S. campanulata on the native entomofauna in a green area of Corrientes city. From the study of three trees, the percentage of flowers with dead entomofauna specimens inside was analyzed and the abundance of the taxa represented was determined. Diversity indices, species richness, inventory completeness and range-abundance curve were calculated. The results revealed the native bee Scaptotrigona jujuyensis was the most abundant, with a total of 46 specimens out of a total of 151 specimens, among which were founded representatives of the orders Himenoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, and Araneae. This exploratory study warns that S. campanulata is a potential threat to native entomofauna in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "TOWARDS A NEW CATEGORIZATION OF ARGENTINA'S MAMMALS" informs about the categorization of mammals in Argentina according to their risk of extinction. The "Red List" published in 2019 by SAREM and the National Environment Secretariat updated the taxonomy and distribution of mammal species in Argentina, as well as the threats they face. It was found that 24% of mammals in Argentina are endangered. This categorization has influenced other South American countries and has driven research on introduced mammals in the country. A new categorization will be carried out in 2024, maintaining principles of plurality, participation, technical robustness, and free dissemination of results. A procedure from the IUCN will also be incorporated to classify introduced species, and a new web platform will be developed to present the data. SAREM plays an important role in the knowledge and management of mammals in Argentina. [Extracted from the article]

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The monumental complex of the Alhambra in Granada (Spain), encloses a group of spaces among which we find various types of gardens that constitute the only medieval Islamic gardens in Europe, and the most lush and diverse forests of almost six centuries old that the city of Granada has maintained to the present day. Given the lack of information on the faunal aspects of these environments, in the present work we set out to find out about the ant communities existing in the installations, gardens and woods of the monumental complex. With 26 species of ants identified, and the presence of global indicator species of maturity, our results support that, despite being an urbanized area, the Alhambra has a historical and current dynamic that has allowed it to maintain dense forest masses and diverse garden with hardly any contamination by invasive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The objectives of this study were to identify the species of psittaciform birds kept in captivity as companion and ornamental animals in Yucatán, Mexico, as well as to estimate the prevalence and intensity of the intestinal parasites. 16 species of psittaciform belonging to 11 different genera were studied, of which three species are locally distributed (Amazona albifrons, Amazona xantholora and Eupsittula nana astec), two are introduced (Amazona autumnalis and Amazona oratrix) and 11 are exotic (Agapornis sp., Amazona auropalliata, Amazona farinosa, Aratinga solstitialis, Barnardius zonaris, Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae, Melopsittacus undulatus, Noephema bouerkii, Nymphicus hollandicus, Psephotus sp. and Psittacula krameri) for the state of Yucatán, Mexico. A total of 84 stool samples were obtained and processed using the centrifugal flotation and McMaster techniques. A prevalence of 14.28 % of birds with intestinal parasites was estimated, reporting the presence of the nematodes Ascaridia spp. (33.3 %), Capillaria spp. (16.6 %) and Heterakis spp. (16.6 %), cestodes Hymenolepis spp. (16.6 %) and Raillietina spp. (8.3 %) and the protozoan Eimeria spp. (16.6 %). The intensity of eggs and oocysts per gram of feces (h/gh and ooq/gh) was from <50 to 600, with high intensities only observed in exotic species such as B. zonaris and C. novaezelandiae. It is concluded that six genera of intestinal parasites were present in psittaciforms from Yucatán, Mexico with nematodes being the ones that appeared most frequently. The highest intensities occurred in exotic bird species, being important in the implementation of deworming and quarantine protocols to prevent parasitic infections in birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive alien species pose a significant threat to global biodiversity. In the Baja California Peninsula (Mexico), these organisms have proliferated, and measures taken have been insufficient to mitigate their expansion and reduce their environmental impact. In this study, a specific eradication index was developed for the American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus; Shaw, 1802), classified as one of the 100 most harmful invasive species globally. This index, based on Saaty's Analytical Hierarchy Process, utilizes 11 environmental and social variables, both quantitative and qualitative, to identify sites with the highest potential for eradication in the Mediterranean region of Baja California. The methodology provides the first systematic approach to assess and prioritize locations invaded by the American bullfrog, identifying areas with optimal possibilities for successful eradication. Among the most influential variables are proximity to bodies of water with the presence of bullfrogs (30 %), followed by the number of refuge and migration areas within an 11 km radius (22 %), and the size of the water body (14 %). After evaluating 32 localities, pilot sites such as Rancho Madrigal have been identified to initiate the eradication process of L. catesbeianus, along with La Misión and El Rosario, recognized as areas with high potential for eradication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de la Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales is the property of Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Fisicas y Naturales and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista de la Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales is the property of Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Fisicas y Naturales and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The entry into force of the Order of January 13, 2023, which establishes and regulates the closed seasons, periods and conditions for the exercise of recreational and sport inland fishing in the Autonomous Community of Andalusia, offers the opportunity to make a universal analysis on the issue of fishing for exotic species in continental surface waters in Spain. Starting from its regulatory scope, the legitimacy of its fishing and the legal limits of its return to the environment after its capture are debated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: The European Ranunculus acris is an invasive species in the world, and has been reported for the Northeast and South of Argentina. However, its presence is not conclusive, and it is not mentioned in recent floras of the country. The objective of the work is to confirm the presence of the species R. acris in Argentina and its naturalization in Tierra del Fuego. In addition, it is proposed to analyze its morphology and its potential invasive behavior in the new environment. M&M: Herbarium specimens of R. acris and other species of the genus Ranunculus, and populations in its natural environment, in anthropized areas of the city of Ushuaia and surrounding areas, Tierra del Fuego, were studied. The morphology was comparatively analyzed and the taxonomic identity was established based on the type material, and previous descriptions and keys. To study the invasive potential of R. acris, an invasion risk matrix and specialized literature were used. Results: The presence of R. acris is confirmed for Argentina, expanding its range of distribution in the extreme south of the country, and it is recognized as naturalized in Tierra del Fuego. Based on the morphological analysis, glabrous receptacle, erect habit and deeply lobed leaves were identified as characters of taxonomic value. According to the analysis of the invasion risk matrix, it is established that R. acris has a high invasive potential. Conclusion: Ranunculus species for Tierra del Fuego increase by nine, two of them being exotic. The possibility of eliminating naturalized populations of R. acris in the extreme South of Argentina should be evaluated due to its high invasive potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseño y Comunicación is the property of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseno y Comunicacion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The Parque Luro Provincial Reserve is, thus far, the only conservation site of the Caldén Forest in the province of La Pampa. Although it was declared a protected area in the 1990s, it does not yet have a complete floristic checklist. In this work, the first complete and systematically the floristic list of the area is documented. The catalogue was obtained from the SRFA Herbarium database and through comprehensive floristic censuses, carried out between 2020 and 2022. The study accounted for a total of 225 taxa. Of the 51 botanical families present in the area, the most represented are Poaceae, Asteraceae and Solanaceae. Those taxa identified as South American native represent the 81 % of the total recorded flora, and the 31 % of the total are corresponding to endemic species to Argentina. These values justify the continuation of studies to account for the role of the protected area as a biodiversity reserve. The presence of exotic species could be linked to the proximity to fields with agricultural-growing uses, as well as the use within the site as a tourist area and fire barrier. The dominant life forms were terophytes, camephytes and hemicryptophyts, which is expected for a semi-arid environment. The abundance of natives, justify the incorporation of protected areas and the safeguarding of them, as in this case, the conservation of the Caldenal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasive capacity and the natural history of the Achatina fulica (Linnaeus, 1758) has positioned it as one of the 100 most dangerous invasive species worldwide. Its study has transcended the limits of biological research and has been complemented with predictive analysis of ecological behaviors and the study of its social and economic influence factors. The objective of this research was to generate a probability of occurrence model for the giant African snail, at a spatial and temporal scale. Records of the appearance of the species were collected through secondary information from the department of Boyacá. Bioclimatic information was obtained from the Worldclim platform, and the social and economic indicators of each locality were extracted from the Terridata-DNP database. The information was analyzed using the R Studio statistical software, with ENMTML and ISLR packages. For the modeling, the maximum entropy algorithm (Maxent) was used; model validation was performed using the AUC, TSS, Kappa, Sorensen, and Jaccard metrics. The bioclimatic variables that most influenced the probability of occurrence model were temperature, precipitation and humidity. It was also determined that the variables aqueduct coverage and deforested area were statistically related in the municipalities where the invasive species has been reported in the department. Under current conditions, the giant African snail could establish itself in approximately 11,209.74 km, that is, in 47.54% of the Boyacá territory. Under the socioeconomic conditions of the future prediction, in the SSP1 126 scenario the species could increase its presence to 63.25% and in the SSP4 585 scenario to 50.42%. In the latter, the most chaotic scenario, it was found that although the occupation may be less than the first scenario, the probability of occurrence is higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Innotec is the property of Laboratorio Tecnologico del Uruguay and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Catalana de Dret Ambiental is the property of Universitat Rovira I Virgili and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Road construction generates environmental impacts on ecosystems, fragmenting and transforming habitats. They affect the assemblage of species in degraded areas, contributing to the introduction and increase of invasive exotic plant species. The introduction of invasive species changes the abundance and composition of native species, which represents a threat to global biodiversity. Our objective was to analyze the standing vegetation assemblage and seed bank and to identify invasive species in roadsides embankment of Nothofagus antarctica shrublands in northwest Patagonia. The composition, richness, diversity, and abundance of exotic and native species and functional groups of the standing vegetation and in the seed bank were analyzed on road slopes and reference areas. The road slopes presented different floristic composition, with lower total vegetation cover and seed density, lower richness and cover of native species, and lower seed density of exotic species than the reference areas. The similarity between standing vegetation and seed bank was high for exotic species. The vegetation on the slopes of the road was dominated by annual/biannual and perennial herbs and exotic invasive species and by native perennial herbs and grasses and shrubs; no shrub seeds were found there. The presence of exotic species on road slopes may respond to the conditions of the microsites and the traits of the species that colonize them, such as their ability to form seed banks, their high seed production, or their life form and life cycle. This work showed that in the shrublands of northwestern Patagonia, roadsides and nearby areas present potentially invasive exotic species, highlighting the importance of early identification for their control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Urban tree composition is generally highly diverse and largely non-native in origin. Species selection, however, should consider not only future predicted climate and species’ environmental requirements, but also the regional invasion risk assessments and the respiratory health potential of species. Here, we assessed the suitability of the most frequent urban tree species by using available online databases. M&M: Suitability was assessed by analysing tree attributes in relation to their invasive status in the study area, the respiratory health potential of the species given by their known pollination strategy and the bioclimatic match of species with the plantation zone. We grouped species according to their nativeness as non-native, regionally native and local native. After filtering those with undesirable characteristics (i.e., invasive species and/or with anemophilous pollination strategy) we analysed three bioclimatic variables: annual temperature, annual precipitation and precipitation seasonality. Results: Results showed that the composition of Córdoba’s street trees is heavily biased towards non-native species, many of which are invasive, have an anemophilous pollination strategy and/or exhibit high bioclimatic mismatch. In addition, the strong bias in the current tree composition towards species from more humid, temperate regions is evident. Conclusions: Our results highlight the importance of revising current policy decisions to adjust urban tree flora in the face of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research is to analyze how climate change affects the spread of invasive species in maize crops in the province of Los Ríos, given that the production of this grass is crucial for the economy and food security in the region. To this end ecological niche models were generated for invasive species, Torenia crustacea and Tridax procumbens considering different climate scenarios (RCP 4.5 and 8.5) for the period 2050-2070. These analyses provide a better understanding of the significant obstacles that climate change and invasive species pose to the development and success of maize production in the region. The procedure employed included the collection of climatic and geographic data, using 288 occurrence records for Tridax procumbens and 157 for Torenia crustacea from the Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF); Maxent software was used to evaluate models under ROC Curve and AUC criteria. It was determined that T. crustacea and T. procumbens under the RCP 4.5 scenario presented a stability of 1,435 km² in the near future 2050 and 2,256 km² in the distant future 2070 RCP 8.5. On the other hand, its range of loss varies between 1,885 km2 and 668 km² by 2070 between the two scenarios (RCP 4.5 and 8.5). This demonstrates the magnitude of the problem of the spread of invasive species T. procumbens and T. crustacea in maize crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global biodiversity decline and pollution, along with climate change, directly threaten food security and sovereignty. Unsustainable practices in industrial agriculture, including the introduction of nonnative insects exacerbate this environmental crisis. These can invade native habitats and disrupt the ecological balance, leading to biodiversity loss. We created a database of parasitic wasp species used for biological control in Chile, examining the percentage of introduced and native species, introduction timelines, and host interactions. A total of 73% of the Hymenoptera used for biological control in Chile are exotic species. This trend has grown over decades as new species were continuously introduced, resulting in an increasing accumulation of exotic species. We also identified instances of native and introduced parasitoid species sharing the same hosts, potentially causing a spillover effect. Given Chile's high endemism in its insect population, the massive introduction of exotic species could have detrimental consequences for local biodiversity and agricultural ecosystems. Overreliance on non-native pest controllers impedes the use of existing native biological control species, increasing vulnerability to pests adapted to widely used biological control agents. We advocate for prioritizing local and native parasitic wasps to ensure long-lasting, and sustainable agriculture production in Chile while mitigating the negative impacts of exotic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clear-cutting and weeding of riparian habitats in peri-urban watercourses are common practices that may lead to a lower cover and to changes in vegetation assemblages, encompassing increments in the proportion of exotic and ruderal species. The aim of this work was to study the herbaceous assemblages prior to and along three years after deforestation in the Lujan's River riverbank, which was dominated by the invasive species Gleditsia triacanthos and other woody exotics. Four sites were sampled, on one occasion before and five times after the disturbance, assessing at each site the percentage of bare soil and the cover by species. After deforestation, the proportion of bare soil became significantly lower from 15 months on. Before the disturbance the species richness was 21, and two years later it stabilized in more than 50 species, while beta diversity remained mostly unchanged. The assemblages found before and on the first sampling after the disturbance were the most different between all pairs (ANOSIM, SIMPER). Both exotic as ruderal species increased in the first stages, and then returned to pre disturbance values. Three years after deforestation, the changes in diversity suggest that a different assemblage has established in place of the pre disturbance one. The resulting assemblage has higher cover and number of species and is co dominated by both riparian native species and disturbed environments species, while the proportion of exotic and ruderal species remains unchanged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ecosistemas y Recursos Agropecuarios is the property of Universidad Juarez Autonoma de Tabasco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ecosistemas y Recursos Agropecuarios is the property of Universidad Juarez Autonoma de Tabasco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

As a follow-up of a previous article (Grau 2022), I present five additional groups of findings that challenge fairly established perceptions. 1) The impact of climatically originated catastrophes has dramatically decreased, largely due to economic growth. 2) Bee populations are increasing, and even if they decrease, the effect on food security would be minor. 3) Estimates of the economic costs of invasions by non-native species are frequently exaggerated, without an adequate balance of costs and benefits. 4) In general, local food consumption does not reduce carbon footprint and has no nutritional advantages. 5) European livestock sometimes increases the diversity of herbivores and associated communities, and could contribute to mitigate the effects of extinctions associated with early humans in the Americas. To promote a more rigorous and less dogmatic environmental science I suggest: explicitly accepting that change (including migrations and invasions), is a constitutive component of the functioning of social-ecosystems; emphasizing that environmental change should be assessed through the analysis of long term trends, discerning between causal and correlational relationships, and not by the mere observation of particular events; preserving the ‘essential’ role of science consisting in the valuation of assertions by their consistency reality (data) not by its functional role for political or ideological agendas; proactively stimulating scientific initiatives that challenge consensus or dominant believes as way to promote creative and profound research based on data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization without proper planning is the cause of a number of ecological problems, including degradation and loss of vegetation. Analysis of trees' diversity and structure is relevant due to their relationship with tree health and the trees' consequent capacity to provide environmental, social and economic benefits. Trees in favorable conditions have a direct impact on urban sustainability, planning and management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the health of trees located in green areas of the city of Texcoco de Mora, Mexico and its relationship with the structure, diversity and typology of urban green areas, in order to provide management and planning recommendations. 21 green areas of the city were evaluated and a tree census was carried out. Richness and diversity indices were used to analyze tree vegetation and chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm) as indicators of tree health. 1,543 trees were registered, including 53 species distributed in 36 genera and 24 families. The evaluation revealed that the urban trees were made up mostly of young individuals, and showed tree density to be higher than other green spaces in Mexico. The use of richness and diversity indices allowed the researchers to evaluate the presence of a greater number of non-native species and denoted the differences between between Urban Green Areas (AVU). Evaluation of chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm) indicated that the trees are under stress conditions (Fv/Fm < 0.780). No correlation was found between the values of Fv/Fm, richness and diversity in the studied areas, however, the shape and surface of the green areas were correlated with the aforementioned indices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the importance of rewilding as a conservation tool in the Neotropics and responds to the criticisms of Guerisoli et al. The authors argue that the extinction of megafauna has led to the loss of ecological functions and suggest that non-native species could help restore these functions. The lack of studies on the effects of large herbivores on fires and vegetation in South America is also discussed. The importance of considering rewilding with introduced species and evaluating their ecological impacts is raised. In addition, the binary conception of exotic and native species is criticized, and the importance of reintroducing extinct native species in South America is emphasized. [Extracted from the article]

The European pepper moth, Duponchelia fovealis Zeller (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is an invasive and polyphagous species that has spread to several countries around the world. Currently there is little information in Mexico on this species. This paper describes and illustrates the characteristics of adults and pupae of both sexes, the male genitalia, and the damage caused by larvae in strawberry plantations. Adults possess several distinctive features that make them recognizable from other pest Lepidoptera, such as the transverse distal line on the forewings, which forms a finger-like figure. The abdomen of females is wide, contrary to males which is thin, tubular and elongated beyond the wings. The sexual differences in pupae are observed in the genital slits located in the 9th abdominal segment. The male slit presents a lobe on each side, while the female lacks these structures. The larvae feed on the roots, stems and fruits of strawberry plants, also allowing the entry of opportunistic pathogens. This information is useful to initiate research that requires live sexed insects, to support species identification and improve monitoring methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulex europaeus is one of the most aggressive invasive species for natural systems. It affects the dynamics of the landscape, alters the original edaphic composition, and can eliminate grasslands and crops. Dense thickets of Ulex europaeus compete for resources and space with native taxa, reducing richness and diversity. It has been found that fire favors Ulex europaeus regeneration and threatens native species communities and populations. In this review, the ecology of the species, its geographical distribution and management actions were analyzed. The control of Ulex europaeus is more efficient in juvenile stages and in low invasion densities. The treatments used, including herbicides, biological controls, manual removal and fire, have not been widely successful, due to the heterogeneous conditions and the history of invasion of each territory. A literature review shows that there is an information gap regarding the combined management strategies, different periods of time and constant monitoring that allow for the control and eradication of this species, establishing the characteristics and particularities of each region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contextualization: the American red crayfish [Procambarus clarkii] is an invasive species whose presence has been confirmed in central Colombia. In the southern part of the United States, where it is naturally distributed, it is an important aquaculture resource; however, high environmental impacts have been documented in areas where it has been introduced, precisely because of its high colonization capacity and the consequent impact on native species. The growing record of its presence in different systems, in the center of the country, suggests an accelerated expansion pattern and implies that, as has occurred in other countries, negative effects may occur on the general structure of these highland ecosystems if mechanisms are not applied that allow some level of control. Knowledge gap: the possibility of controlling the expansion of the red cray-fish through manual eradication is a viable alternative, if some type of use is validated; this should include an economic incentive to motivate people to fish for it. The process to obtain a meal that serves as a protein source, for aquaculture concentrates, is an option that should be evaluated. Purpose: evaluate the inclusion of cray-fish meal, as a partial replacement of fish meal, in a concentrate formulated for rainbow trout at a fingerling stage. Methodology: specimens of P. clarkii were captured using traps with animal bait. The crayfish were processed to obtain a meal. The experimental food was elaborated after analyzing the composition of the meal. Four treatments were applied, three with difierent percentages of crayfish meal inclusion [T1: 2 %, T2: 4 % and T3: 6 %] and another treatment [control] did not include meal. The trout fingerlings were fed with the treatments until they reached 6 cm of total length. Total length [cm] and weight [g] were sampled every ten days for a period of 60 days. Through analysis of variance [ANOVA], the following variables of the fingerlings were compared at the end of the period: final weight [Pf, g], total length gains [GLT], weight [GP], feed conversion factor [FCA], speci fic growth rate [TCE], condition factor [K] and percentage of mortality [%]) Results and conclusions: among treatments, and for the variables evaluated, were no statistically significant differences among treatments. It was concluded that, until the length reached for the fishes, the inclusion at a level of 6 % of crayfish meal is acceptable as a partial replacement of other fish meals. Obtaining the meal from whole specimens makes it dificult to balance the diets of fishes that require higher replacement percentages of protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Acta Zoologica Lilloana is the property of Fundacion Miguel Lillo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Zoologica Lilloana is the property of Fundacion Miguel Lillo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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The ruling of the Superior Court of Justice of Catalonia discusses freshwater fishing in Catalonia and related articles. It questions the authorization of night fishing in duly authorized competitions, the inclusion of rainbow trout and carp as fishable species, the obligation to sacrifice captured invasive exotic species, and the prohibition of releasing rainbow trout into the water bodies of Catalonia. The ruling is based on existing case law and regulations on the matter, including the Spanish Catalog of Invasive Exotic Species and Supreme Court Ruling 637/2016. The contested resolution establishes that all fish of invasive exotic species caught in Catalonia must be sacrificed at the time of capture and cannot be kept alive in retention sacks. [Extracted from the article]

The significance for ethnobotany in Cuba of a letter written in 1848 by Tomás Pío Betancourt, which was later published by Miguel Rodríguez Ferrer, is valued. It reflects on the particularities of the context and the people involved in its genesis and dissemination. The document, which was part of the efforts made by some aristocrats of Santa María del Puerto del Príncipe to promote culture and develop intellectual work in the city, is noted as the first written in the town by a native author who ventured into the field of botany. It relates 44 species of lianas and trees, while revealing the uses that were made of them in the jurisdiction. The contribution of the text to the knowledge of the phytonymy of Cuban plants, the data it provides to understand the process of naturalization and expansion in the country of two exotic invasive species, as well as the use of elements of the flora for purposes that lost importance with technological development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Climate change, livestock and increasing tourism use favor the dispersal of non-native plants, threatening the conservation of high Andean ecosystems. We studied the distribution patterns of native and non-native species in recreational trails of mountains. M&M: We implemented the MIREN T-Trails protocol in six trails (2400-3600 m a.s.l.) in two protected areas of the central Andes of Mendoza, located in the Cordilleras Frontal and Principal. Results: We found 180 native and 41 non-native especies. Native species richness peaked at intermediate elevations, while non-native richness decreased with elevation. The Cordillera Frontal had more native richness than the Cordillera Principal (114 versus 71 native, respectively), but regional richness of exotics was lower in the Cordillera Frontal (20 versus 28 exotic, respectively). The non-native richness per plot was higher in the Cordillera Frontal than in the Cordillera Principal. In turn, the altitudinal distribution range of non-native was greater in the Cordillera Frontal, showing that exotics are more widely distributed in more humid sites of the arid Andes. Two abundant non-natives, Taraxacum officinale and Cerastium arvense, were present along the entire surveyed gradient in the Cordillera Frontal, reaching 3600 m a.s.l. We found seven non-natives not previously cited for the region. Conclusions: The new records found extend the known distribution ranges of some non-native species. Our results show that although the number of non-native species was similar near and far from trails, five species were present only at trail edges, suggesting that trails favor invasion processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: In order to contribute to the knowledge and conservation of the arid Andes flora, we explored how vehicular roads and elevation affect the composition and richness of plant communities. In addition, we aim to estimate the degree of plant invasion in the native community and identify the most common non-natives at three protected areas in Mendoza. M&M: We recorded the composition and abundance of native and non-natives along the elevation gradient (from 1700 to 3900 m a.s.l.) in three vehicular roads (Villavicencio, Cordón del Plata, and Manzano-Portillo). At each road, 20 "T-plots" were located according to the MIREN protocol . Results: We identified 357 species, 42 were non-native (12%). Non-native cover was higher at Cordón del Plata (23%) than in the other protected areas (Manzano 11%, Villavicencio 6%). Most non-natives were herbaceous, except Rosa rubiginosa. Of all species, 64% of natives and 45% of non-natives were exclusive to a protected area, therefore native and nonnative species composition was different among the protected areas. Non-native richness was higher near the road and decreased quadratically with elevation, but to explain native richness patterns it was necessary to consider the interaction between elevation and distance from the road. Native richness near the road was constant along the elevation gradient (~15 species) but showed a decreasing linear relationship away from the road. Conclusions: Roads can modify the distribution patterns of species along the elevation in the Andes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Invasive plants succeeding at high-elevation ecosystems threaten biodiversity and ecosystem services conservation in mountain protected areas. In this study we assessed whether an exotic woody species, Cotoneaster franchetii Bois, responds to mountain environmental heterogeneity in a similar way to the dominant coexisting native woody species, Polylepis australis Bitter, or if it instead occupies a greater variety of habitats aided by the wide environmental tolerance expected for mountain invaders. M&M: We recorded C. franchetii and P. australis occurrence and cover in 120 square plots between 1200 and 2200 masl, inside and surrounding "Quebrada del Condorito" National Park and "Pampa de Achala" natural reserve (Córdoba, Argentina). We compared both species' distribution and its relationship with vegetation and topograpy. Results: Each species dominated at different elevations. However, at local scale, both species were more frequent in plots placed at valleys and south-facing steep slopes, with less cover of tussock grassland and more rock cover. Contrary to the native species, C. franchetii cover was unaffected by vegetation and topographic characteristics. Conclusions: High occurrence and no restrictions for increasing cover once established suggest a high spread potential of C. franchetii in these mountains. Polylepis australis is seemingly at risk since both species share habitat preferences. Wide environmental tolerance would not only trigger upward expansion of invasive species in mountains but also towards natural vegetation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Biodiversity information of protected areas is essential to develop management and conservation strategies. Here we 1) evaluate the number of records of plant and vertebrate species of National Parks (NP) from Argentina based on the species richness of the province where each NP is located, 2) analyze possible explanatory variables of the number of records in each NP, and 3) describe the vegetation registered in three iconic NPs of the country. M&M: The records of vascular plants and vertebrates, the characteristics of each NP and the species richness of the province where each NP is located were obtained from open access databases. For Calilegua, Iguazú and Nahuel Huapi NPs we describe the number of plants according to family, origin, endemism, life form, IUCN categorization and invasiveness of non-native species. Results: All NPs showed great variability in their records. There were few records of non-native species. Older NPs had more non-native plants records. The list of plants of Nahuel Huapi NP showed more records than Calilegua and Iguazú. The number of plants categorized by IUCN was very low. Almost all recorded non-native plants were invasive elsewhere in the world. Conclusions: We emphasize the importance of increasing the survey of species in all NP, particularly vascular plants and in recently created NPs. Special attention must be given to non-native species in order to avoid socio-ecological problems associated with biological invasions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: The invasion of natural ecosystems by alien species represents a major concern in the context of global conservation. In the fields of Teyú Cuaré, in the department of San Ignacio, Misiones, there is a high level of endemism with at least eight species of microendemic vascular plants. These grasslands are considered the only Cerrado fragments present in Argentina and are being invaded by Melinis minutiflora (Poaceae). The aim of this work was to evaluate how this adventitious grass affects the composition and diversity of the vegetation, and to determine the progress in the period 2015-2017. M&M: To measure the impact, the vegetation was sampled using 25 random plots of 1x1m in areas with and without invasion. Phytosociological parameters and diversity indices were calculated. For the measurement of progress, perimeter walks were carried out with GPS. Results: We found that areas free of this exotic grass had a higher total number of species (81), and a higher number of species exclusively present only in these sites (51). The area analysis showed an increase from approximately 9,744 m² to 23,396 m². Conclusions: Our results indicate that the advance of M. minutiflora populations is vertiginous and that it exerts a significant pressure on grassland structure and diversity by occupying the ecological niche of native herbs and subshrubs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: The main goal of Protected Wild Areas (in spanish ASP) is to protect biodiversity. Limiting the entry of exotic species is an essential priority. The objective of this study was to register exotic plants species within Chile's ASP and to describe floristic patterns which determine species presence and distribution. M&M: Information was collected across 35 ASP, and total number of flora species and the proportion of exotic plants were reported. Richness was obtained and an invasibility index calculated on each ASP. Species composition analysis and floristic patterns determination were carried out through statistical analyses of ordering, similarity and regression. Results: A total of 355 exotic plant species were recorded across the studied ASP. The Reserva Nacional Rio Clarillo had the greatest species richness, while the highest proportion and invasibility occurred in the Monumento Natural Cerro Ñielol. The distance to the nearest city, precipitation and temperature were the environmental variables with the highest incidence on the different assemblages of exotic species that exhibit ASP. Discussion: Exotic plants richness within ASP was high, in relation to the total adventitious flora that Chile presents. The evidence shown suggests a low proportion of exotic plants shared among the ASP distributed in the different bioclimates considered. These types of studies constitute the basis for the preparation of risk lists and the design of management programs for exotic plant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Acacia melanoxylon (Australian blackwood) is an invasive alien species that expands on remnants of native communities of the Paititi Private Nature Reserve (Tandilia System, Argentina). The objective of this work was to design an adaptive management plan to contain the spread of this species. M&M: We quantified the area invaded between 2003 and 2020 and described the population structure of A. melanoxylon in sampling plots with two different invasion timeframes: recent and old invaded sites. We identified negative, positive, and neutral impacts of the invasion and proposed impact management strategies. Results: We detected a spread of 23.3 ha over native environments in 17 years. Although the basal area of individuals was similar between recent and old invaded sites (18.3 m² ha-1), the density was higher in recent invaded sites as compared to old invaded sites (3205 and 965 individuals ha-1, respectively). We identified 26 impacts, 73% ecological and negative, and formulated a seven-step management proposal. Conclusions: Our results allow us to begin understanding the impacts and dynamics of the invasion of A. melanoxylon and plan on its management. Although we use the reserve as a case study, the management plan can have a projection to other invaded areas of Tandilia. To achieve an efficient and effective invasion management, conservation and recovery of native environments, it will be necessary to conduct collaborative strategies among the different stakeholders involved in the management process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Inventories in protected areas are essential for planning conservation actions. We aim to: provide a database of the vascular plant species of the National Parks of northwestern Patagonia, Argentina; highlight the singularity of these Parks; and analyze the incidence of exotic species in the protected areas of this region. M&M: We generated a database of the species of Lanín, Nahuel Huapi (including PN Los Arrayanes), Lago Puelo and Los Alerces National Parks. For each species, the following variables were recorded: botanical family, scientific name, common name, native or exotic character for Argentina, habit and environment. The presence of each species was supported by a reference herbarium specimen. The richness and taxonomic composition of native and exotic species, and of native species exclusive to each Park and of exotic species present in all of them were analyzed. Species richness by habit and environment was also determined. Results: A total of 1304 species, subspecies and varieties were recorded, 975 are native to Argentina and 329 are exotics. The percentage of exotic species ranged from 17% (Lanín) to 31% (Lago Puelo). Conclusions: The Parks analyzed have a diverse and unique native flora and their biodiversity can be strongly threatened by the high percentage of exotic plant species. The database generated is a fundamental tool for planning conservation and management policies in these Parks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence in Cuba of the invasive marine species Unomia stolonifera, introduced in Venezuela, from where it maybe has arrived in Cuba and which represents a danger to the coral reefs of Cuba and the rest of the Caribbean Sea, is noted. The actions carried out for its eradication are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The jellyfish species present in the Jardines de la Reina National Park were identified through sampling and photographic records. Six species of jellyfish of the class Scyphozoa, belonging to the orders Rhizostomeae (3 spp.), Semaeostomeae (2 spp.) and Coronatae (1 sp.) were identified for the first time for the PNJR. The invasive white-spotted jellyfish Phyllorhiza punctata is recorded for the first time in Cuba. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drosophila suzukii Matsumura, 1931 (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is an invasive pest species that causes damage to fruit crops due to premature deterioration of ripe fruits by oviposition inside them. A review of D. suzukii detections in Argentina was carried out and we updated this list with the results of our sampling in the Northwest, Cuyo and Northeast regions. The surveys carried out determined the first detections in the provinces of Jujuy and Córdoba, revealing the continuous geographical expansion of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is an invasive pest species that uses a wide variety of commercial fruit as a breeding and feeding resource. The damage to the fruit generated by D. suzukii´ oviposition causes considerable economic losses. Therefore, the maintenance of D. suzukii in the lab conditions constitutes a fundamental tool for research proposal. Two of the determining factors affecting the lab rearing conditions are the culture medium and density. In this study, we evaluated the impact of these factors on three components associated with fitness: development time, larval-adult viability and body size, comparing the effects of three culture media: cornmeal (polenta), mashed potato and plum when the flies were reared at three densities: 10, 30 and 50 larvae per 5ml of culture medium. Our results revealed that the flies reared the cornmeal culture medium and at lower densities provide the better conditions for the maintenance of D. suzukii under lab conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Celtis tala forests, or talares of Buenos Aires province (Argentina), are a fragile ecosystem threatened by biological invasions. Among the alien species reported as transforming the landscape in the talares, Ligustrum lucidum constitutes the main threat. This work evaluates the degree of naturalization of the alien Pterocarya stenoptera (Juglandaceae), new in the talares of the El Destino Private Reserve, located within the Parque Costero del Sur Biosphere Reserve. The local use of the species, its possible origin and type of dispersion were evaluated, and its extension and number of seedlings per square meter were recorded in the invaded sectors. The species is described, and a dichotomous key is provided to differentiate the Juglandaceae genera present in Buenos Aires, all of which are exotic. Pterocarya stenoptera may have been cultivated in the gardens of Estancia El Destino, from where it spread to the neighbouring talares by anemochory. It was found in three well-defined sectors in which there is a large number of seedlings. This recently naturalized species has efficient means of dispersal and a large seed biomass that enabled it to become a dominant tree in some sectors of the site, where it surpassed the invasive (transformer) Ligustrum lucidum in terms of number of seedlings. The presence of Pterocarya stenoptera in the talares is expected to increase unless management of the species is planned. We conclude that it is necessary and possible to plan actions for its management and control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]