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We present information on the reproduction of Gymnodactylus darwinii based on macroscopic analysis of its gonads. We found no sexual dimorphism in body size (SVL) between adult males and females, but males had, on average, wider heads and longer forearms. Both sexes had very similar sizes at sexual maturity and maximum body sizes, suggesting male–male competition for resources does not occur, and/or there are no sexual differences in survival rates. The smallest specimen had 24 mm SVL, and juvenile/immature specimens of similar or slightly bigger sizes were collected throughout the year suggesting a continuous turnover of individuals in the population. Adult males showed a continuous reproductive cycle, contrasting with a seasonal cycle of females, where maximum gonadal volume was observed from September to December. This is not uncommon and may be related to differential response to local environmental conditions, or because distinct investment in reproduction. Females have a small and fixed clutch size (two eggs per clutch), a pattern also observed in its congener G. amarali and in many geckonids, which is likely due to phylogenetic inertia. To compensate for a fixed clutch size, females may be able to lay more than one clutch per reproductive season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ophidian accidents are neglected events in tropical and in developing countries, including Brazil. Serpents of the Crotalus genus (rattlesnakes) are those that produce the highest case-fatality in the country. Purpose: to address the main aspects of the accident caused by Crotalus, with emphasis on the snakes biology, the clinical approach to snake bites and the therapeutic properties of the venom of these animals. Methods: literature review with a defined search strategy, using the PubMed, LILACS and SciELO databases. Results: Inoculation of crotalic venom produces discrete local signs, but systemic repercussions can occur, especially neurological alterations and acute renal failure. Laboratory evaluation is important to help distinguish from other ophidian accidents and to estimate the severity of the condition. Anticrotalic serum must be administered as soon as possible, based on the estimated amount of inoculated venom. Most of the morbid events occur in the rainy season (higher temperature), mainly affecting young men who work in rural areas. The adoption of protective measures and health education, aimed at the population most commonly involved, are relevant strategies for preventing and reducing the number of cases. In addition, crotalic venoms have antimicrobial actions, antiplatelets functions and ophthalmological applicability (strabismus). Conclusion: Knowledge of the different aspects of crotalic injuries is essential for an adequate diagnostic and therapeutic approach to such morbid conditions. The pharmacological properties of crotalic venom components should be better investigated in the next few years, given the possibilities of their use for the treatment of different human diseases.

The article reports a predation event by Trechalea species on a tadpole of Thoropa miliaris (military river frog) found in a permanent stream bordered with gallery forests in the Atlantic Forest biome in the Municipality of Cataguases, Minas Gerais, Brazil on December 29, 2013.

The article focuses on the diet of the snake species oxyrhopus petolarius digitalis or banded calico snake.

We present a list of the anuran amphibians from municipality of Barão de Monte Alto, state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. This region is part of the remaining Atlantic Forest and the studied environments are represented by forest patches and open habitats. We recorded 29 anuran species, many of these typical and/or endemic to the Atlantic Forest. None of the species registered was considered under threat of extinction in state, national or international red-lists. It is worth noting, however, the presence of the tree frogs Dendropsophus pseudomeridianus, the first record of this species in the state of Minas Gerais, and D. bipunctatus, marking its expanded distribution in various locations of Minas Gerais. The present list examines zoogeography and conservation of anurans in the Brazilian southeast and broadens the knowledge of the anuran fauna in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ranacephala hogei is a South American freshwater turtle considered one of the 25 most endangered chelonian species in the world. Endemic to the Atlantic Forest hotspot of southeastern Brazil, the conservation status of R. hogei is subject to continuous assessment at various levels. However, the scarcity of data regarding this species, particularly its geographic range, challenges these evaluations. In an effort to address these gaps, we conducted a comprehensive long-term inventory using different methods to study this species. Our efforts resulted in a 144% increase in documented occurrence points, including a new hydrographic basin and protected areas. By combining historical and current records, we have observed the persistence of R. hogei in rural areas, even in locations where its extinction was previously predicted. Consequently, our data significantly contribute to supporting future conservation assessments.