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This note compiles recorded strandings of sperm whales on the Brazilian coast. A known total of 95 sperm whales (62 single and one mass stranding of 33 individuals) stranded along the Brazilian coast from 1967-2000. A higher incidence of single strandings was observed in northeastern Brazil ( ~ 05°-17°S). No strandings occurred in lower latitudes ( < 14°S) from June-September. The seasonal and spatial pattern observed by the reported strandings may indicate higher stranding rates in higher latitudes ( ~ 18-25°S) between June and August (winter) and in lower latitudes ( ~ 3-7°S) between January and April (summer and spring). Strandings of smaller sperm whales (3-4.5m) were observed during the austral summer and autumn, indicating seasonality in the birth season. Growth-layer counts of three specimens provide the first data on age of sperm whales for Brazil.

The Brazilian coast is recognised as a Southern Hemisphere humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) wintering ground (IWC breeding stock ‘A’). The northeastern coast of Brazil was an important whaling ground in the 20th century. Shipboard sighting surveys were conducted in this area to evaluate large whales’ distribution and density in 1999 and 2000. Humpback whale sightings (n = 81, 153 individuals) were recorded using line transect methodology. Data from the 2000 survey were used to estimate abundance over the continental shelf from 5 to 12°S (20,040km2 ). A total of 872.1km were surveyed on effort. Humpback whales were distributed from nearshore to the 800m isobath, but 93.5% of sightings were recorded shoreward of the 300m isobath. The relatively high density off northeastern Brazil suggests that the species is reoccupying historical areas of distribution and the presence of newborn individuals indicates that calving and nursing occur in the area. The hazard rate model best fit perpendicular distance data. Abundance was estimated at 628 individuals (CV = 0.335, 95% CI = 327-1,157). This estimate probably corresponds to only a portion of the breeding population. Therefore, additional studies must be conducted to estimate the total size of the humpback whale population wintering off Brazil.

The taxonomy of the South American river dolphins of the genus Inia has been a focus of intense debate. While traditionally it is thought to be composed of a single species with three geographically structured subspecies (Inia geoffrensis geoffrensis, I. g. humboldtiana, and I. g. boliviensis), recent molecular studies have highlighted substantial differentiation, suggesting the existence of two species (I. geoffrensis and I. araguaiaensis). Despite this evidence, the recognition of the specific status of these taxa has been hindered by inconsistent morphological diagnoses. Here, we aim to provide evidence for the morphological differentiation (or lack thereof) between subspecies and putative species. We employ geometrics and traditional morphometrics to measure skull variation to support efforts of integrative taxonomy. Our results show that morphometric diversity within the group is inconsistent with a single taxon. Morphometric evidence supports the traditional differentiation of three distinct morphotypes within the analyzed sample. These morphotypes largely correspond to described subspecies I. g. geoffrensis, I. g. humboldtiana—the latter differing from the former by size—and I. g. boliviensis, which differs from the remaining groups by shape. Furthermore, morphometric data show no differences between I. g. geoffrensis and a newly proposed species, I. araguaiaensis. Given the conservation importance of this genus and the different threats they are subject to, we strongly suggest an urgent integrative taxonomic treatment of the group to better protect these singular cetaceans.

Provisioning food to wildlife is a strategy used to habituate animals to human proximity during tourism activities, but it can contribute to changes in individual behavior and social structure and impacts on the nutritional health status. This article evaluates the presence and relationships of Amazon River dolphins (Inia geoffrensis) in feeding sessions at a floating house in Anavilhanas National Park, Brazil. The Amazon River dolphins most frequently observed during the study period also presented higher constancy in the feeding sessions. Food provisioning had a variable impact on Amazon River dolphins, making it possible to identify regular, occasional, and rare visitors. The most frequently observed Amazon River dolphins showed strong connectivity, with some individuals playing an important role in the network, acting as a bridge, connecting the set of nodes. These results provide important information about the level of conditioning and social relationships of Amazon River dolphins, which can assist in the development of strategies aimed at reducing the negative population health consequences of supplying food.

This is an obituary for William F. Perrin.

This dataset compiles information on giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) specimens housed in the major zoological collections of Brazil. We have personally examined the specimens, which constitute of skins, crania, and partial skeletons. We compiled information on collector, date, and locality of the specimens. A total of 56 giant otter specimens housed in six zoological collections were located. Of this total, 12 specimens do not have associated locality information. Of special relevance are the specimens from the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, Minas Gerais, and São Paulo, as they document the presence of the giant otter in the Atlantic rainforest, where it is now extirpated. Our dataset may be used in studies on distribution (past and present) of the species, and to delineate conservation policies of the giant otter. The specimens from the Atlantic rainforest may be used in museomics analyses, as they may represent lost haplotypes of P. brasiliensis.

Two minke whale species are recognized, the Antarctic minke (Balaenoptera bonaerensis) and the cosmopolitan common minke (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) whales. The latter is divided into three subspecies: North Pacific (NP) B. a. scammoni, North Atlantic (NA) B. a. acutorostrata, and the Southern Hemisphere ‘dwarf’ minke whales B. a. unnamed subsp. Genetic variation of two populations of dwarf common minke whales from the Western South Atlantic (WSA) and Western South Pacific (WSP) was assessed through analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequences (313 bp) and microsatellite DNA (msDNA) (11 loci). For comparative purposes, the mtDNA analysis involved samples of Antarctic minke whales, NP, and NA common minke whales. The msDNA analysis included individuals from the WSA, WSP, and NP. There was no shared mtDNA haplotype among common minke whales, and the mtDNA haplotype phylogeny analyses placed WSA in a different cluster from WSP and closer or within the NA clade. The WSA population exhibited the lowest estimates of diversity for both markers. The estimate of Nei’s net nucleotide substitution (dA) between WSA and WSP (0.027) was larger than between WSA and NA (0.014) whales. Significant msDNA differences (based on FST and DSW) were found among NP, WSA and WSP, and the pattern of differentiation was similar to that of the mtDNA. Results suggested that the taxonomical status of common minke whales in the Southern Hemisphere should be revised and that regardless of their taxonomical status, dwarf common minke whales from WSA and WSP are unique populations that require separate management for conservation.

Stranded cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises) are frequently used to obtain data on species occurrence and demographic trends. Accurate species-level identification of these individuals is crucial, but often challenging or impossible when relying solely on morphological features (e.g., for highly decayed specimens). To aid in the development of a reliable molecular assay for cetacean DNA-based identification, we tested the efficacy of the standardized DNA barcode segment of the coxI gene in identifying cetaceans occurring off the Brazilian coast and in its continental waters. We generated coxI sequences from 150 specimens (collected by 16 Brazilian institutions), most of which included voucher material (skulls, skeletons and/or images) deposited in scientific collections. This allowed a direct comparison between their morphological and molecular identification. CoxI sequences correctly identified ~93% of the samples, comprising 33 species (70% of the 47 cetaceans reported for Brazilian waters). Two species (Berardius arnuxii and Phocoena dioptrica) were sequenced for coxI for the first time. For only two dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba and S. clymene) and a right whale (Eubalaena australis), coxI failed to identify the species due to overlapping distributions of intra- vs. interspecific divergences. Only one right whale species occurs in the southern hemisphere, facilitating identification in this case. Stenella dolphins present extensive sympatry and potential inter-species hybridization, suggesting that nuclear markers may be required for their reliable identification. These results indicate that DNA barcoding can reliably identify most stranded cetaceans and highlight the importance of voucher materials to validate the construction of a reliable DNA-based identification system.

A America do Sul e unica em registrar duas especies de peixes-bois: o peixe-boi-marinho, Trichechus manatus, e o peixe-boi-da-amazonia, T. inunguis. Essas especies podem ser distinguidas pela coloracao ventral; totalmente cinza na primeira, enquanto T. inunguis tem um padrao de manchas brancas no ventre, e a presenca de unhas nas nadadeiras peitorais, ausentes em T. inunguis. A morfologia e a distribuicao das especies de Trichechus sao claramente estabelecidas. No entanto, mostramos aqui que a mancha do ventre e a presenca de unhas na nadadeira peitoral podem ser polimorficas. Esses achados nos instigaram a verificar toda informacao disponivel a respeito dos registros de peixes-bois. Em vista da falta de dados precisos sobre a localizacao dos peixes-bois em publicacoes anteriores, produzimos um gazetteer e um mapa de Trichechus spp. na America do Sul, utilizamos registros originais coletados pelo Grupo de Estudos de Mamiferos Aquaticos da Amazonia (GEMAM) do Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi, todos os dados revisados por pares, incluindo dissertacoes, teses e arquivos de jornais com fotos evidenciando caracteres diagnosticos. Finalmente, apresentamos um relato completo sobre a distribuicao das especies de peixes-bois na America do Sul e a necessidade de melhorar a identificacao dessas especies, para uma efetiva implementacao de estrategias de conservacao.

This paper reports on the occurrence of southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) in southeastern Brazilian waters (18°S-25°S), withevidence of their use of the region as an important calving area. Only in recent years have right whale sightings and strandings been reportedregularly within the surveyed area. Of 71 distinct sightings reported since 1936, 39 (54.9%) were mother-calf pairs observed close to theshore. Most of these sightings (91.5%) were reported from early July to late October. Eight confirmed strandings of this species wereobserved within the surveyed area, six of which were between July and October. Stranded calves represented 62.5% of these records. Twocalves showed evidence of incidental capture. The increasing number of sightings, and recent reports of stranded calves and one adultfemale could be indicative of an increase in cetacean research efforts in the region. However, it also suggests use of the southeasternBrazilian coast as an important right whale calving area.

Esta nota de pesquisa descreve as presas identificadas no conteúdo estomacal de quatro carcaças de toninha, Pontoporia blainvillei, recuperadas a partir de encalhes em praias da costa norte do Rio de Janeiro, sudeste do Brasil, entre 2010 e 2011. Os peixes identificados como presas foram Lycengraulis grossidens, Trichiurus lepturus, Paralonchurus brasiliensis, Chirocentrodon bleekerianus, Isopisthus parvipinnis, Pellona harroweri e Stellifer rastrifer. Os cefalópodes consumidos foram as lulas Doryteuthis plei e D. sanpaulensis. Camarões da família Penaeidae cuja identificação específica não foi possível foram registrados nos conteúdos estomacais. Todas as presas são espécies costeiras, abundantes na região. A comparação com dados pretéritos sobre a alimentação de P. blainvillei, obtidos entre 1989 e 1999, sugere que não houve mudança temporal no seu hábito alimentar preferencial na região.

This paper reports the first record of a morphologically abnormal and highly metal-contaminated Spotback Skate Atlantoraja castelnaui (Ribeiro, 1907) (Elasmobranchii, Rajidae) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Incomplete fusion of the right pectoral fin with the head was observed, while a radiography indicated muscle sheaf discontinuity near the rostrum. Extremely high contamination by several elements, including teratogenic As, Hg and Cd in the individual was detected. The observed morphological deformity may be due to high concentrations of teratogenic elements in the environment, possibly playing a role in abnormal embryonic development in egg cases exposed to high environmental concentrations of these contaminants. Atlantoraja castelnaui is the least biologically understood member of the genus Atlantoraja, and this paper furthers both morphological observations and ecotoxicological assessments on this species.

IUU (illegal, unreported, and unregulated) fishing causes severe detrimental social, economic, and environmental impacts worldwide. Although this practice is prohibited in Marine Protected Areas (MPA), practices such as fishing with compressor devices have been reported at the Marine Extractive Reserve of Corumbau (MERC), Brazil. In this case study we use data on MERC fisher knowledge and attitudes concerning compressor fishing gathered through semi-structured interviews to discuss MPA strengths and weaknesses in preventing IUU fishing. Interviewees strongly oppose IUU fishing, complaining it is one of the main reasons for declines in local fishing yield. Respondents indicate that non-local compressor vessels were frequently observed prior to the establishment of MERC, and while such sightings are now less frequent, these vessels continue to appear. At the same time, respondents also indicate that marine environmental enforcement actions are rare. We discuss the roles, potentials, and limitations of MPAs in preventing illegal fishing and protecting fishers from competition with industrial fishing. We recommend the IUU be vigorously combated in Brazilian MPAs.

The sessile barnacle Xenobalanus globicipitis was observed on multiple cetacean species during field surveys off the northern coast of Sao Paulo state, Brazil. However, the occurrence of X. globici...

Chimaeras, fish in the order Chimaeriformes, are among the rarest and least studied fish in the class Chondrichthyes (cartilaginous fish). Previous records have indicated that a species of chimaera known as the elephantfish, or cockfish, Callorhinchus callorynchus, may be found in marine waters off southeastern Brazil, as far north as the state of Sao Paulo. Here we report that C. callorynchus, caught with bottom gillnet, was found in an urban fish market in the city of Rio de Janeiro (~23˚S). This and other records from a variety of places call into question the distribution limits of the American elephantfish in the southwestern Atlantic Ocean and whether, at least seasonally, this species may often be found as far north as the state of Rio de Janeiro. Because of scientific and conservation interests in the poorly known Chimaeriformes, we recommend long-term monitoring of the fish catch in ports along the southern Brazilian coast, to better understand the natural history of the intriguing chimeras.

Two species of manatees are found in Northern Brazil-the Antillean manatee (

Brazil experienced the largest socioenvironmental catastrophe of its history, caused by a tailings dam failure, known as “Mariana disaster”. The wave of iron-mining waste buried villages, contaminated the Doce River, and left an immense ocean plume. The Doce River watershed is the largest in southeast Brazil, and located in the Atlantic Forest domain, presenting an outstanding economic, social, and biological relevance. Although the effects of such tragic events are usually assessed through fish assemblage changes, mammals have important effects on environment structure and regeneration. Inventories are of prime importance for adequate conservation efforts as well as for evaluating impacts of any disaster. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to present an updated assessment of mammalian list collected in the affected portion of Doce River before the dam failure therefore contributing to future conservation efforts. Data collection comprised specimens deposited in Museu Nacional/UFRJ, the oldest mammal collection of Brazil, and literature review. The two surveys together retrieved 157 species from 31 families and 11 orders, representing around 60% of the known mammalian diversity in the Atlantic Forest, including some in critical conservation condition, such as the Franciscana dolphin, the northern muriqui and the giant otter. Mining is a byproduct of present society, with dam breaches as a recurring problem. Facing the importance of Doce River to both Brazilian biodiversity and society, the chain of events must be taken into account in environmental rehabilitation strategies, and taxa less commonly assessed, like mammals, should be included.

Elasmobranchs provide greatly relevant ecosystem services for the balance of the environments in which they are inserted. In recent decades, sharp population declines have been reported for many species in different regions worldwide, making this taxonomic group currently one of the most threatened with extinction. This scenario is almost entirely due to excessive fishing pressure, but any contributing factor that may cause additional mortality to populations must be mapped and monitored. In a fast-changing world, emerging marine pollution associated with climate change display the potential to increase the spread of infectious agents. These can, in turn, lead to mortality events, both directly and indirectly, by reducing immune responses and the physical and nutritional condition of affected individuals. In this context, the present study aimed to analyze data concerning elasmobranch-associated microbiota, identifying study trends and knowledge gaps in order to direct future studies on this topic of growing relevance for the health of wild populations, as well as individuals maintained in captivity, considering the zoonotic potential of these microorganisms.

Although shark meat is consumed worldwide, elevated arsenic (As) concentrations have been increasingly reported. The Caribbean sharpnose shark (Rhizoprionodon porosus) is a widely consumed fishing resource in Brazil, with scarce information on As burdens to date. Herein, commercial-sized juvenile Caribbean sharpnose sharks from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) were assessed in this regard, presenting significantly higher hepatic As concentrations in males (8.24 ± 1.20 mg kg-1 wet weight; n = 12) compared to females (6.59 ± 1.87 mg kg-1 w.w.; n = 8), and a positive correlation (r = 0.74) was noted between female muscle and liver As concentrations, indicating systemic inter-tissue transport not evidenced in males. Arsenic concentrations were over the maximum permissible As limit established in Brazilian legislation for seafood and calculated Target Hazard Quotients suggest consumption risks, although cancer risks were not evidenced. Therefore, Public Health concerns with regard to Caribbean sharpnose shark As burdens deserve careful attention.

Shark catches have increased worldwide, threatening the survival of several species. This study describes historical trends concerning shark consumption and commercialization by artisanal fishers in northeastern Brazil. Semi-structured questionnaires were applied and respondents pointed out that sharks used to be locally regarded as low-quality fish in the past and rejected by fish consumers, with low fisher consumption frequency. However, this has changed in recent decades, as a total of 95.4% (n=62) of the questionnaire respondents reported currently consuming shark meat, while 61.5% (n=40) highlighted its high quality. In addition, most interviewees (90.8%; n=59) reported decreasing numbers of sharks caught over time, following worldwide trends, leading to decreased fisher access to shark meat. Because of this, most respondents (70.7%, n=46) now consider it more advantageous to sell the sharks they catch than to consume them. In addition, the local commercialization of these fish is currently based on immature coastal species (

We assessed the level of genetic variability and population structure of the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) in the tropical and subtropical portions of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean and compared the results with previous morphological findings. We analyzed 109 samples of common bottlenose dolphins that were sequenced for control region mtDNA and genotyped for seven polymorphic microsatellite loci. The results suggested that the species in this region can be separated in two major biological units, northern and southern, with an area of parapatry at southern Brazil. The northern unit seems to occur in a wide range of depths, including offshore waters, is consistent with the canonical morphology of T. truncatus, and can be divided into three management units: 1) Saint Paul’s Rocks, 2) north and northeast of Brazil, and 3) Campos and Santos Basins (that extend at least to southernmost Brazil). The southern unit is coastal, occurring exclusively in very shallow waters (< 10 m) and estuaries, and is consistent with the previously described (putative) Tursiops gephyreus. Nevertheless, a formal decision on the taxonomic status of T. gephyreus should wait for a more geographically comprehensive and data-integrative study.

Durante el invierno de 2003 un ejemplar del petrel gigante (Macronectes giganteus) fue encontrado en la playa Atlântida Sul, en la costa norte del Estado de Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Muestras fecales frescas fueron colectadas en el centro de rehabilitación del CECLIMAR (Centro de Estudos Costeiros, Limnológicose Marinhos da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul) y mantenidas en solución de Raillet &Henry. Usando una técnica de sedimentación espontánea de los huevos de helmintos fueron separadas 10submuestras. Todos los huevos encontrados pertenecieron a la superfamilia Trichinelloidea (n=82). Estoshuevos constituyen un nuevo registro de helminto parásito del pretel gigante.

Sea turtles tend to accumulate high metal levels in their tissues and are considered excellent pollution bioindicators. Studies concerning metal contamination in hatchlings, however, are non-existent for one of the most abundant species in Brazil, green sea turtles, while several other metal assessments in juvenile muscles are still scarce. In this context, this study aimed to analyze the concentrations of 12 elements in kidney and muscle samples from green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas; n = 24) found stranded in Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil. Elemental concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The presence of fibropapillomatosis, an increasingly common disease in sea turtles which has been associated to metal contamination, was also evaluated. Most elements (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Hg, and Pb) were significantly higher in liver, while Al and As were significantly higher in muscle tissue, indicating bioaccumulation of the latter two elements. No differences between juvenile male and female green turtles were observed for either liver or kidney concerning the investigated elements. Literature comparisons of studies conducted in other areas throughout the Brazilian coast indicate higher concentrations of Cd, Mn, As, Hg, and Zn in kidneys, of probable anthropogenic origin. Several statistically significant inter-elemental correlations were observed between toxic elements, indicating similar sources for these environmental contaminants. Significant correlations between Hg in muscle and kidney and As in the same organs suggest bioaccumulation of both elements in muscle. Three individuals assessed herein exhibited fibropapillomatosis, and further assessments in this regard and potential correlations to the detected metal concentrations are currently being carried out. In addition, evaluations concerning other toxic compounds, as well as deleterious cellular effects, are also underway, since total metal concentrations do not reflect total elemental bioavailability.

The genus Stenella is comprised of five species occurring in all oceans. Despite its wide distribution, genetic diversity information on these species is still scarce especially in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean. Some features of this genus can enhance opportunities for potential introgressive hybridization, e.g. sympatric distibution along the Brazilian coast, mixed known associations among species, karyotype uniformity and genome permeability. In this study we analyzed three genes of the mitochondrial genome to investigate the genetic diversity and occurrence of genetic mixture among eighty specimens of Stenella. All species exhibited moderate to high levels of genetic diversity (h = 0.833 to h = 1.000 and π = 0.006 to π = 0.015). Specimens of S. longirostris, S. attenuata and S. frontalis were clustered into differentiated haplogroups, in contrast, haplotypes of S. coeruleoalba and S. clymene were clustered together. We detected phylogenetic structure of mixed clades for S. clymene and S. coeruleoalba specimens, in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean, and also between S. frontalis and S. attenuata in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean, and between S. frontalis and S. longirostris in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. These specimes were morphologically identified as one species but exhibited the maternal lineage of another species, by mitochondrial DNA. Our results demonstrate that ongoing gene flow is occurring among species of the genus Stenella reinforcing that this process could be one of the reasons for the confusing taxonomy and difficulties in elucidating phylogenetic relationships within this group.

Stable Isotope Analysis (SIA) has provided information on ocean productivity, and ecological aspects related to whales’ habitat use and feeding ecology, stock structure, physiology, and evolution. We reviewed published studies using SIA on whales worldwide from November 1979 to June 2017. Gaps in geographical areas and heterogeneity amongst species studied using this methodology were assessed. We also investigated which tissue was most frequently analysed, sources of variation in stable isotope values, how this methodology has been combined with other techniques, and how it can be useful for the conservation of the taxon and marine ecosystems. A total of 63 publications were found, and it was possible to detect a general increase in the number of publications along time, as 49% of the studies were from the last 7.5 years of the period analyzed. Almost 55% of studies focused on foraging ecology and habitat use. The baleen plate was the main tissue analyzed. Studies were related to 14 species, the most common being the fi n whale, Balaenoptera physalus (N=19) and the bowhead whale, Balaena mysticetus (N=18). Telemetry and SIA methodologies combined were helpful to understand geographical variations in stable isotope values. The methodology can also be valuable under the current scenario of climate change, for example providing information on feeding plasticity and changes in niche amplitude of diff erent species. Despite uncertainties related with stable isotopes distribution in the ocean, and with its incorporation rates for whales, for example, SIA provides primordial ecological information for effi cient management and conservation of this group. RESUMO A analise de isotopos estaveis (AIE) fornece informacoes sobre a produtividade do oceano e aspectos ecologicos de baleias relacionados ao uso do habitat e ecologia alimentar, estrutura de estoque, fi siologia e evolucao. Foram revisados estudos publicados usando a AIE em baleias em todo o mundo entre novembro de 1979 e junho de 2017. Foram avaliadas lacunas nas areas geografi cas e heterogeneidade entre as especies estudadas usando essa metodologia. Tambem investigamos quais tecidos foram mais utilizados para analise, as fontes de variacao em valores de isotopos estaveis, a combinacao desta metodologia com outras tecnicas e como pode ser util para a conservacao deste taxon e dos ecossistemas marinhos. Um total de 63 publicacoes foi encontrado e foi possivel detectar aumento no numero de publicacoes, uma vez que 49% dos estudos foram realizados nos ultimos 7 anos e meio do periodo analisado. Quase 55% dos estudos concentraram-se na ecologia de forrageio e no uso do habitat. As cerdas bucais foram o principal tecido analisado. Os estudos investigaram 14 especies, sendo mais comuns aqueles relacionados a baleia-fi n, Balaenoptera physalus (N=19) e a baleia-da-Groenlândia, Balaena mysticetus (N=18). As metodologias de telemetria e AIE combinadas foram uteis para entender as variacoes geografi cas em valores de isotopos estaveis. A metodologia pode tambem ter valor no cenario de mudancas climaticas fornecendo informacoes sobre plasticidade alimentar e amplitude de nicho de diferentes especies, por exemplo. Apesar das incertezas relacionadas a distribuicao dos valores de isotopos estaveis no mar e as taxas de incorporacao em baleias, por exemplo, a AIE fornece informacoes ecologicas primordiais para o manejo e conservacao desse grupo. Palavras-chave: Balaenopteridae; Balaenidae; Analise de isotopos estaveis; Ecologia da conservacao.

Marine mammals are considered excellent ocean health sentinels and are ubiquitously exposed to chemical contaminants worldwide. The Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) is a near-threatened dolphin species from Brazil with unknown population size data. This indicates the need for assessments regarding deleterious effects that may arise from exposure to chemical contamination, especially metals. After entry in the organism, these compounds are subject to internal subcellular compartmentalization, which in turn alters their bioavailability. However, almost no assessments regarding subcellular metal contents in marine mammals are available. In this context, metal compartmentalization was determined in three subcellular fractions for three toxic elements, Cd, Hg and Pb, by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) in Guiana dolphin kidney and liver samples from Southeastern Brazil. Differential metal-detoxification mechanisms were observed for the three elements, where metallothionein (MT) detoxification was postulated for only for Pb, while Cd and Hg were poorly associated to MT, and mostly present in the insoluble fraction, indicating low bioavailability. This is the first report on subcellular metal compartmentalization in Guiana dolphins and indicates that critical biochemical detoxification data is obtained through subcellular fraction analyses in marine mammals. This indicates an emerging study field for this type of assessment, which may, in turn, aid in conservation efforts.

Let L be a Lie algebra over a field of positive characteristic. We survey the known results about the Lie structure of the symmetric Poisson algebra S(L) and the truncated symmetric Poisson algebra s(L) of L. In particular, some results about the derived lenghts of s(L) are discussed.

Aquatic mammals play an important role in community structure. The present study applied stable isotope analysis (SIA) to evidence trophic relationships and resource partitioning among aquatic mammals inhabiting different environments in the Amazon estuarine complex and adjacent coastal zone (AE) and Northeastern coast (NC) of Brazil. In addition, isotopic niche partitioning among Sotalia guianensis, Inia spp. and Trichechus inunguis within the AE was also evaluated, and ecological S. guianensis stocks were characterized. Among marine delphinids, the carbon isotopic composition in offshore species mirrored that of nearshore species, contradicting the pattern of decreasing δ13C values characteristic of many areas around the world including areas in Southeastern and Southern Brazil. Isotopic niches were highly distinct, with no overlap among the assessed species inhabiting the AE. Inia spp. and T. inunguis occupied significantly larger isotopic niche spaces, suggesting high habitat plasticity. S. guianensis inhabited two coastal regions indicating an ecological distinction. Nitrogen values were similar between S. guianensis from the NC and AE, indicating comparable trophic positions. However, NC specimens presented more variable δ13C values compared to those from AE. SIA results also allowed for insights concerning habitat use and the trophic ecology of dolphin species inhabiting different oceanographic regions off Northern/Northeast Brazil. These findings provide novel data on the stable isotope composition for cetaceans and sirenians from this region, and aid in furthering knowledge on the trophic ecology and habitat use of the investigated species.

Records of southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) as vagrants along the SE Brazilian coast date back the late 50’s and have been relatively common over the last decades. These large marine mammals usually call much attention when they arrive on tropical beaches worldwide and are generally treated as ‘occasional visitors’ and ‘vagrants’. This note reports on sightings of a young elephant seal along SE Brazil in the summer and autumn of 2020. We also reviewed records in both the literature and open sources, totaling eight records of infant southern elephant seals known since the late 70’s along the Brazilian coast. It was noted that the arrival of an infant in February of 2020 is coincident with a previous cyclonic activity off the SE and NE Brazilian coast. The connection of such unlikely records of pinnipeds on tropical beaches and extreme weather events associated to ocean currents should be better evaluated in the context of climatic change RESUMO E reportada uma ocorrencia recente de um infante de elefante-marinho ( Mirounga leonina ) na costa do estado do Rio de Janeiro com um intervalo aproximado de um mes entre as avistagens do mesmo individuo. A comparacao das fotografias obtidas em ambos os registros permitiu a comparacao e confirmacao. Em adicao, se discute a presenca de infantes na costa brasileira, que totalizam oito casos, mas que nao apontam uma sazonalidade marcada, mas uma tendencia aos registros serem reportados em junho, seguido por outubro e novembro. Como o presente registro se deu em janeiro, pico do verao, fatores climaticos de larga escala podem estar atuando para deslocar alguns individuos muito ao longe das suas colonias. Palavras-chave: Mirounga leonina; Movimentos; Vagante; Atlântico Sul.

Leucism, a category of partial albinism, has been observed in several marine mammals, including cetaceans. The underlying mutations, however, have not yet been identified, and a severe knowledge gap concerning this condition in these animals, has, therefore, been noted. In this context, the present study performed a scientometric-based review on leucism in dolphins, assessing the distribution of confirmed cases worldwide. Reports ranged from 1929 to 2019, with a total of only 14 records on confirmed leucism cases obtained from the literature. This extremely low number of records confirms the significant knowledge gap for leucism in dolphins, hindering further discussions and insights into the ecological and physiological implications of this condition. All records report on leucistic dolphin sightings in the northern hemisphere, except for one, in southeastern Brazil. The potential causes of this condition are discussed for the investigated populations, and the role of citizen science is highlighted as a potential tool to obtain further information on the subject. RESUMO O leucismo, uma categoria de albinismo parcial, tem sido observado em varios mamiferos marinhos, incluindo cetaceos. As mutacoes subjacentes, no entanto, ainda nao foram identificadas, e uma grave lacuna de conhecimento sobre essa condicao nesses animais foi observada. Neste contexto, o presente estudo realizou uma revisao baseada em cienciometria acerca de leucismo em golfinhos, avaliando a distribuicao de casos confirmados ao redor do mundo. Registros variaram de 1929 a 2019, com um total de apenas 14 registros de casos confirmados de leucismo obtidos na literatura. Este numero extremamente baixo de registros confirma a significativa lacuna de conhecimento do leucismo em golfinhos, dificultando discussoes e percepcoes adicionais sobre as implicacoes ecologicas e fisiologicas dessa condicao. Todos os registros relatam avistamentos de golfinhos leucisticos no hemisferio norte, exceto um, no sudeste do Brasil. As causas potenciais dessa condicao sao discutidas para as populacoes investigadas, e o papel da ciencia cidada e destacado como uma ferramenta potencial para obter mais informacoes sobre o assunto. Palavras-chave: Albinismo; Coloracao anormal; Cetaceo; Analise cienciometrica; Avistamentos de golfinhos.

Seabirds are suitable biomonitors for several persistent organic pollutants (POP), such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), although scarce studies of PAHs in seabirds are available, especially in South American populations. Therefore, this study aimed to assess OCPs, PCBs and PAHs, through gas chromatography-electron capture detector (GC-ECD) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses, in liver (n = 9) and muscle tissue (n = 13) from juvenile Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) found stranded on the coast of Rio de Janeiro, Southeastern Brazil. DDT-related compounds were the most frequently detected OCP, and 4,4'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), the main DDT metabolite found in penguin tissues. OCP concentrations in liver were two-fold higher than in muscle tissues. Compound specific ratios identified recent exposure of penguins to some OCPs as well as evidence of legacy pollution associated with industrial sources. The predominant PCB congeners were PCB 8/5, PCB 138/160 and PCB 153/132, with concentrations ranging fromLOQ and 1500 ng g

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-12T01:57:12Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-04-01 Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ) Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Titanium (Ti), used in many dailyuse products, such as shampoos and sunscreen filters, in the form of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs), may elicit adverse marine biota effects. Marine mammal Ti data is scarce, and subcellular distribution and detoxification information is non-existent. Ti concentrations and metalloprotein detoxification in Pontoporia blainvillei and Steno bredanensis dolphins from Southeastern Brazil were assessed. Metallothionein (MT) concentrations were determined spectrophotometrically, total and subcellular Ti, by ICP-MS and detoxification, by HPLC-ICP-MS. Ti detoxification occurred through MT complexation. Statistical Ti-MT associations were observed in S. bredanensis liver, indicating TiO2 NPs contamination, as Ti binds to MT only as NPs. MT-Ti correlations were observed for both the coastal (P. blainvillei) and offshore (S. bredanensis) dolphins, evidencing oceanic TiO2 diffusion. Ti detoxification through binding to reduced glutathione occurred in both species. Thermostable subcellular fractions are a valuable tool for cetacean Ti detoxification assessments and should be applied to conservation efforts. Departamento de Química Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio), Rua Marquês de São Vicente, 225, Gávea Grupo de Estudos de Mamíferos Marinhos da Região dos Lagos (GEMM-Lagos), Rua São José 1.260, Praia Seca Marine Mammal Institute Hatfield Marine Science Center Oregon State University, 2030 SE Marine Science Dr Leibniz Center for Tropical Marine Ecology – ZMT Systems Ecology Group, Fahrenheitstraße 6 Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista Campus do Litoral Paulista Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática (NEPEA), Praça Infante Dom Henrique s/n°, Parque Bitaru Laboratório de Biodiversidade Instituto Oswaldo Cruz Fiocruz, Pavilhão Mourisco sala 217, Av. Brasil, 4.365, Manguinhos Laboratório de Avaliação e Promoção da Saúde Ambiental Instituto Oswaldo Cruz Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4.365 UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista Campus do Litoral Paulista Núcleo de Estudos em Poluição e Ecotoxicologia Aquática (NEPEA), Praça Infante Dom Henrique s/n°, Parque Bitaru CAPES: 001

Sharpnose sharks Rhizoprionodon lalandii and R. porosus are frequently captured in fishing activities in Brazil and are significantly consumed by humans, especially in southeastern Brazil. Both species lack population data and suffer intense fishing pressures and habitat degradation, consequently hindering adequate management and conservation actions. In this context, this study aimed to assess mercury (Hg) contamination in R. lalandii, and R. porosus sampled off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, addressing both animal health and public health risks. Sharks were obtained from two artisanal fishing colonies in southeastern Brazil (Copacabana and Recreio dos Bandeirantes), located on the coastal zone adjacent to Guanabara Bay, one of the most important, productive, and contaminated estuaries in Brazil, and a further three artisanal fishing colonies from the Regia˜o dos Lagos area (Saquarema, Cabo Frio and Rio das Ostras). Hg concentrations in liver, muscle, and brain in R. lalandii (n ¼ 24) and R. porosus (n ¼ 20) specimens were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. A gravid female measuring 112 cm from Copacabana is the first record for an individual of this size for R. lalandii. No correlation between length and muscle Hg concentrations was observed, and no differences between Hg concentrations for muscle or liver were found between male and female juveniles from either Cabo Frio or Rio das Ostras. No differences in Hg loads were observed herein for both assessed species. Low Hg bioaccumulation in juveniles and nongravid female muscle tissue was noted compared to significantly higher Hg concentrations in gravid females. Hg was detected in all embryos, indicating potential maternal offloading. As Hg thresholds for sharks in particular have not yet been established, whether the Hg concentrations detected in brain pose neurotoxic risks for these animals is not known. Public health concerns concerning adult R. lalandii consumption from Copacabana, however, are significant.

This study aimed to investigate the ontogenetic development of the skull in the Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis Van Bénéden, 1864 ) through the comparison of 29 morphological non-metrical characters together with the estimated age of 54 specimens derived from four areas on the northern coast of Brazil. The state of each character was associated with the age of each specimen to assess the formation of bone structures, and the degree of fusion of the sutures in each state of the character studied. Nineteen qualitative morphological characters presenting state ontogenetic variations have been analyzed statistically. The analysis depicted that the characters associated with the parietal-frontal suture, parietosupraoccipital, parietoexoccipital, supraoccipital-exoccipital and basioccipital-pterygoid varied according with the age. The results suggest that the physical maturity of the cranium was more premature in the specimens from the Northern Coast, suggesting a geographical adjustment of the species, or a biological response to an intense pressure of by-catch in fisheries over decades on the populations. RESUMO O objetivo do estudo foi investigar o desenvolvimento ontogenético craniano do boto-cinza (Sotalia guianensis Van Bénéden, 1864), comparando 29 caracteres morfológicos não métricos aliados às estimativas de idade de 54 espécimes provenientes de quatro áreas da Costa Norte do Brasil. Cada estado de caráter foi associado à idade de cada espécime para avaliar a formação de estruturas ósseas e o grau de fusionamento das suturas em cada estado de caráter analisado. Foram analisados estatisticamente 19 caracteres morfológicos qualitativos que apresentaram variação nos estados de caráter. A análise revelou que os caracteres que diferiram de acordo com a idade foram aqueles ligados à sutura parietal-frontal, parietal-supraoccipital, parietal-exoccipital, supraoccipital-exoccipital e basioccipital-pterigóide. Os resultados indicaram que a maturidade física do crânio foi mais precoce nos espécimes da Costa Norte, sugerindo uma estruturação geográfica da espécie ou uma resposta biológica a uma intensa pressão de captura acidental em redes de pesca sobre as populações.

The whale louse Cyamus boopis is a host-specific amphipod that parasitizes humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) across the world. Humpback whales from the Southern Hemisphere are currently separated into seven breeding stocks, each with its own migration route to/from Antarctic waters. The aim of this study was to determine the population structure of C. boopis from the Southern Hemisphere using cytochrome oxydase I sequences, and compare it to that of its host species found in previous studies. High haplotype and nucleotide diversities in C. boopis were observed, and the populations from western south Atlantic (WSA: Brazil + Argentina − Breeding stock A) and western south Pacific (WSP: Australia - Breeding stock E) did not show any significant difference but were differentiated from populations of eastern south Atlantic (ESA: Namibia - Breeding stock B) and the north Pacific. The genetic homogeneity between WSA and WSP populations, might reveal a higher genetic transfer within the Southern Hemisphere, since the feeding grounds of whales which are distributed throughout the circumpolar Southern Ocean could allow inter-mixing of individuals from different breeding populations during the feeding season. The present data reinforces that population dynamics of humpback whales seem more complex than stable migration routes, which could have implications for both management of the species and cultural transmissions of behaviours. Fil: Iwasa Arai, Tammy. Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro; Brasil Fil: Serejo, Cristiana S.. Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro; Brasil Fil: Siciliano, Salvatore. Fundación Oswaldo Cruz; Brasil Fil: Ott, Paulo H.. Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul; Brasil Fil: Freire, Andrea S.. Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina; Brasil Fil: Elwen, Simon. Universiteit Van Pretoria; Sudáfrica Fil: Crespo, Enrique Alberto. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Nacional Patagónico; Argentina Fil: Colosio, Adriana C.. Instituto Baleia Jubarte; Brasil Fil: Carvalho, Vitor L.. Associação de Pesquisa E Preservação de Ecossistemas Aquáticos; Brasil Fil: Rodríguez Rey, Ghennie T.. Universidad de Caldas; Colombia. Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro; Brasil

The vulnerability of seabirds related to their migratory dynamics is frequently linked to environmental problems along the migration path. In this context, Magellanic penguins (Sphenicus magellanicus) seem to be vulnerable to an extensive range of environmental disturbances during their northward migration along the Atlantic waters of South America, which include by catch, marine debris ingestion, overfishing and environmental contamination. In this study, we investigate mercury accumulation in muscle and hepatic tissues of juveniles penguins collected along the Brazilian coast during three migratory seasonal years (2006, 2008 and 2012) and three areas along a latitudinal gradient. We found significant differences in Hg levels across the years, with higher hepatic Hg levels found in tissues of penguins sampled in 2008. The higher Hg levels in samples of penguins from 2008 might be attributed to variations in body condition or Hg uptake, associated with the trophic imbalance linked to an extreme El Nino event during that year. Significant differences in Hg accumulation across the latitudinal areas were also observed. The penguins sampled at the farthest area from the breeding ground presented the higher levels of Hg and also the poorest body condition. Body condition and other traits may influence the levels of chemical pollutants and decrease the migratory success rate in the juvenile age phase, compromising population dynamics.

AIMS: To perform a microbiological survey regarding the presence, prevalence and characterization of Aeromonas sp. and Vibrio sp. in debilitated wrecked marine birds recovered from the centre‐north coast of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. METHODS AND RESULTS: Swabs obtained from 116 alive and debilitated wrecked marine birds, comprising 19 species, from the study area were evaluated by biochemical methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests and pathogenicity gene screening were performed for bacterial strains of public health importance. Vibrio sp. and Aeromonas sp. were identified, as well as certain pathogenic genes and resistance to selected antimicrobials. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that the identified bacteria, mainly Vibrio sp., are fairly prevalent and widespread among several species of seabirds and highlights the importance of migratory birds in bacterial dispersion. In addition, it demonstrates the importance of the bacterial strains regarding their pathogenic potential. Therefore, seabirds can act as bacterial reservoirs, and their monitoring is of the utmost importance in a public health context. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The study comprehensively evaluates the importance of seabirds as bacteria of public health importance reservoirs, since birds comprising several pathogenic bacterial species were evaluated.

Understanding how Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) affect the environment and society is a priority target. Herein, 198 beneficiaries were interviewed to assess their perceptions regarding a Brazilian MPA. Most respondents noticed positive welfare and environmental changes due to the MPA, although outsider fishing activity is still the most recorded complaint. Respondents also positively perceived no-take zones. A significant number of fishers exhibited higher Fisher’s Perception Indicator (FPI) values. Negative perceptions were mostly observed in communities close to MPA borders. These findings represent a showcase in favor of MPAs that consider the sustainable use of fishery resources.

In view of growing concerns, in a One Health context, regarding the transport and dissemination of pathogenic microorganisms among seabirds and other vertebrate animals, including humans, the aim of this study was to identify Salmonella spp. in stranded and non-stranded resident and migratory wild seabirds from the Brazilian coast. Antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular profiles, quinolone resistance genes and antigenic characterization of the isolates were also carried out. Fresh faeces and cloacal swabs were obtained totaling 122 seabirds sampled throughout different Brazilian coast regions. At the laboratory, sample culturing, Salmonella spp. isolation and biochemical identification were performed, followed by antigenic profile identification by serum agglutination , susceptibility profile characterization by the agar disc diffusion technique, detection of quinolone resistance genes ( qnrA, qnrB, qnrS ) using the multiplex polymerase chain reaction technique (multiplex PCR) and, finally, isolates profiles identification by pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica was identified in 7% of the studied birds, comprising three different serovars: Panama (63 %), Typhimurium (25 %) and Newport (13 %). The most important findings reported herein are the first description of Salmonella panama in seabirds and the totality of isolates being resistant (or intermediate) to at least one tested antimicrobial, with emphasis on quinolone resistance. The molecular results suggest that the observed resistance cannot be explained by the presence of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes. The PFGE suggests that the Panama and Newport profiles detected herein are not yet widespread in Brazil, unlike Typhimurium, which is already well distributed throughout the country. Considering this finding, we suggest that seabirds are an important link in the epidemiological chain of this serovar. The monitoring of these bacteria in seabirds, as well as of their susceptibility profiles to antimicrobials, must be continuous, strengthening the role of these animals as environmental health indicators and sentinels.

An assessment of mercury (Hg) concentrations and nitrogen stable isotope (15N) was conducted in the food chain of the Atlantic spotted dolphin (Stenella frontalis), including phytoplankton, zooplankton, planktivorous fish and its major prey (predatory fish and a single species of cephalopod), that compose a tropical trophic chain of the Brazilian southeastern coast. Tissue concentrations of Hg in a voracious predator fish, the largehead hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus), one of the dolphin’s prey, were 9.8 times lower than median concentrations found in dolphin tissues. 15N values in predatory fish were found to be lower to those of its predator the spotted dolphin. Isotopic data suggested significant differences for 15N along the trophic chain, with the top predator (dolphin) exhibiting heavier value, followed by the voracious predator fish and the benthonic carnivorous fish, the whitemouth croaker (Micropogonias furnieri). Phytoplankton displayed the lightest 15N, followed by zooplankton and the planktophagous fish, the lebranche mullet (Mugil liza). This fish species and the cephalopod showed the lowest median Hg concentration. All links of the entire trophic chain presented trophic transfer of Hg with a biomagnification factor higher than 1. A significant relationship was found between the log Hg concentration and trophic level (TL) of all evaluated species, with a positive slope (= 0.87). The calculated trophic magnification factor (TMF= 7.44) indicates that Hg concentration increased per TL, and also that the entire coastal food chain from the South Atlantic Ocean presented a biomagnification power of Hg within a range previously reported for tropical coastal ecosystems.

Marine debris such as plastic fragments and fishing gears are accumulating in the ocean at alarming rates. This study assesses the incidence of debris in the gastrointestinal tracts of seabirds feeding at different depths and found stranded along the Brazilian coast in the period 2010-2013. More than half (55%) of the species analysed, corresponding to 16% of the total number of individuals, presented plastic particles in their gastrointestinal tracts. The incidence of debris was higher in birds feeding predominantly at intermediate (3-6m) and deep (20-100m) waters than those feeding at surface (