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The population biology of the three sympatric species of caprellids (Caprella danilevskii, C. equilibra and C. scaura) associated with a Sargassum bed was studied in the northern coast of São Paulo state, Brazil. Samplings were carried out monthly from October 2010 to February 2012. In each month, 25 fronds of Sargassum were randomly collected through snorkelling. The caprellids were identified, counted, classified by sex and separated into size classes. Caprella danilevskii was the most abundant species, with 14939 specimens recorded. The body size of males was larger than that of females for C. danilevskii and C. equilibra, and the sex ratio was skewed toward males for all species. The size-frequency distribution was polymodal for C. danilevskii and C. scaura and bimodal for C. equilibra. Mature males of C. scaura and C. equilibra were recorded in all size classes. The last size classes (from 8.3–9.4 to 12.7–13.8 mm) were dominated by mature males. Mature and ovigerous females were more frequent in intermediate size classes. Significant temporal variations were recorded for the three species with higher densities in spring and summer that are related to higher algal biomass; but other environmental factors are certainly important for explaining caprellid density variation., Se estudió la biología poblacional de las tres especies simpátricas de caprélidos (Caprella danilevskii, C. equilibra y C. scaura) asociadas a un lecho de Sargassum en la costa norte del estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Los muestreos se realizaron mensualmente desde octubre de 2010 hasta febrero de 2012. En cada mes, se recolectaron al azar 25 frondas de Sargassum a través de snorkel. Los caprélidos fueron identificados, contados, clasificados por sexo y separados en clases de tamaño. Caprella danilevskii fue la especie más abundante, con 14939 ejemplares registrados. El tamaño corporal de los machos fue mayor que el de las hembras para C. danilevskii y C. equilibra y la proporción de sexos se inclinó hacia los machos para todas las especies. La distribución de frecuencia de tamaño fue polimodal para C. danilevskii y C. scaura y bimodal para C. equilibra. Se registraron machos maduros de C. scaura y C. equilibra en todas las clases de tamaño. Las últimas clases de tamaño (de 8,3–9,4 a 12,7–13,8 mm) estuvieron dominadas por machos maduros. Las hembras maduras y ovígeras fueron más frecuentes en clases de tamaño intermedio. Se registraron variaciones temporales significativas para las tres especies con mayores densidades en primavera y verano que están relacionadas con una mayor biomasa de algas; pero otros factores ambientales son ciertamente importantes para explicar la variación de la densidad de los caprélidos.

Orientadores: Luiz F. L. Duarte, Jose R. Trigo Tese (doutorado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia Resumo: A associação de ofiuróides com outras espécies marinhas é uma estratégia comum, entretanto, a influência das características do microhabitat sobre parâmetros populacionais e respostas comportamentais dos ofiuróides ainda é pouco conhecida. Este trabalho teve como objetivo investigar esta influência sobre as espécies de ofiuróides associadas às algas Amphiroa beauvoisii, Dictyota cervicornis, Galaxaura stupocaulon e Sargassum furcatum, às esponjas Amphimedon viridis e Mycale angulosa e à ascídia Phalusia nigra. Em ordem de abundância os ofiuróides observados foram: Ophiactis savignyi, Amphipholis squamata, Ophiothrix angulata, Ophiactis lymani, Ophioplocus januarii, Ophiothela sp. e Amphiodia atra. As quatro mais abundantes foram coletadas em todos os substratos amostrados, especialmente como juvenis e, de modo geral, experimentos de quimiorrecepção não indicaram uma preferência dos ofiuróides por nenhum dos hospedeiros testados. Portanto, maior abundância de ofiuróides em alguns microhabitats não pode ser atribuída a seleção ativa pelo hospedeiro, talvez sendo resultado de predação diferenciada. O maior risco de predação associado à alga calcária A. beauvoisii foi indiretamente evidenciado a partir dos resultados referentes à sinalização de alarme. Tanto A. squamata, como indivíduos de O. savignyi coletados neste microhabitat, apresentaram um reconhecimento amplo deste sinal, tanto intra como interespecífico. O mesmo não se deu para indivíduos desta última espécie amostrados em esponjas, um tipo de hospedeiro que forneceria refúgio tanto físico como químico contra a predação. O microhabitat também afetou diretamente o sucesso de recrutamento, com uma maior variabilidade sendo observada em populações associadas à alga calcária, mesmo para espécies com adaptações que resultem num aumento do número de recrutas ou numa maior chance de sobrevivência destes. Houve também uma tendência de maior mortalidade neste substrato, assim como uma menor taxa de crescimento quando comparada a populações associadas a esponjas Resumo: A associação de ofiuróides com outras espécies marinhas é uma estratégia comum, entretanto, a influência das características do microhabitat sobre parâmetros populacionais e respostas comportamentais dos ofiuróides ainda é pouco conhecida. Este trabalho teve como objetivo investigar esta influência sobre as espécies de ofiuróides associadas às algas Amphiroa beauvoisii, Dictyota cervicornis, Galaxaura stupocaulon e Sargassum furcatum, às esponjas Amphimedon viridis e Mycale angulosa e à ascídia Phalusia nigra. Em ordem de abundância os ofiuróides observados foram: Ophiactis savignyi, Amphipholis squamata, Ophiothrix angulata, Ophiactis lymani, Ophioplocus januarii, Ophiothela sp. e Amphiodia atra. As quatro mais abundantes foram coletadas em todos os substratos amostrados, especialmente como juvenis e, de modo geral, experimentos de quimiorrecepção não indicaram uma preferência dos ofiuróides por nenhum dos hospedeiros testados. Portanto, maior abundância de ofiuróides em alguns microhabitats não pode ser atribuída a seleção ativa pelo hospedeiro, talvez sendo resultado de predação diferenciada. O maior risco de predação associado à alga calcária A. beauvoisii foi indiretamente evidenciado a partir dos resultados referentes à sinalização de alarme. Tanto A. squamata, como indivíduos de O. savignyi coletados neste microhabitat, apresentaram um reconhecimento amplo deste sinal, tanto intra como interespecífico. O mesmo não se deu para indivíduos desta última espécie amostrados em esponjas, um tipo de hospedeiro que forneceria refúgio tanto físico como químico contra a predação. O microhabitat também afetou diretamente o sucesso de recrutamento, com uma maior variabilidade sendo observada em populações associadas à alga calcária, mesmo para espécies com adaptações que resultem num aumento do número de recrutas ou numa maior chance de sobrevivência destes. Houve também uma tendência de maior mortalidade neste substrato, assim como uma menor taxa de crescimento quando comparada a populações associadas a esponjas Doutorado Doutor em Ecologia

The Moroccan locust, Dociostaurus maroccanus (Thunberg, 1815) (Orthoptera: Acrididae), is a polyphagous pest capable of inflicting large losses in agriculture under favorable environmental and climatic conditions. Currently, control of the pest relies solely on the application of conventional insecticides that have negative effects on the environment and human safety. In the search for a more rational, environmentally acceptable approach for locust control, we have previously reported that (Z/E)-phytal (1) is a male-produced candidate sex pheromone of this acridid. This molecule, with two stereogenic centers at C-7 and C-11, has four different diastereomers along with the Z/E stereochemistry of the double bond at C-2. In this paper, we present for the first time the enantioselective synthesis of the four diastereomers of (E)-phytal and their electrophysiological and behavioral activity on males and females. Our results demonstrate that the (R,R)-phytal is the most active diastereomer in both assays, significantly attracting females in a double-choice Y olfactometer, and confirming the previous chromatographic assignment as component of the sex pheromone of the Moroccan locust. © 2018 American Chemical Society., We gratefully acknowledge J. Coll for helpful discussions, E. Faggi for help in some EAG experiments, G. Rosell for HRMS measurements, and S. Cahill and M. Casals for help in the bioassays. C. Muñoz and T. Ruiz provided field collected insects, and I. Tenas and P. Esteban assisted in the field work.

Species diversity is regulated by historical, neutral and niche processes, with species tolerance, dispersal and productivity guiding diversity at larger scales, while habitat heterogeneity and biotic interactions acts in smaller scales. In rocky shores, several organisms provide secondary substrates for mobile fauna, with macroalgae being the most abundant and diverse ones. The patchiness promoted by different macroalgae hosts enhances small-scale heterogeneity and may increase and maintain the diversity of the mobile organisms, since there is a close relationship between the associated fauna and its hosts. In this study we selected three morphologically different macroalgae that coexist in the same rocky shore height in the Araçá Bay, an area under the threat of the nearby harbor expansion, and evaluated the fauna associated to each algal host. Even under similar abiotic pressure (same rocky shore height), the associated fauna of each algal host varied in number and composition, revealing a close relationship. The poorly branched foliose Ulva lactuca sustained a lower density of organisms and was dominated by isopods, while the heavily branched turf and Bostrychietum community showed a high density of organisms, with a dominance of peracarid crustaceans and annelids on the turf and more resistant groups, such as bivalves, acaris and terrestrial insects on the Bostrychietum. Previous studies in the Araçá Bay already revealed a large spatial heterogeneity in the processes and sessile organisms distribution, and here we highlight that this heterogeneity can be observed in an even smaller scale, with different algal hosts mediating the turnover of species in a scale of centimeters and meters, resulting in diversity maintenance of the associated fauna. Since the harbor expansion may prevent the occurrence of macroalgae as a result of light limitation by suspended platforms, we may expect not only a decrease in algal cover but also in the total diversity of the associated fauna in the Araçá Bay. Resumo A diversidade de espécies é regulada por processos históricos, neutros e de nicho, com a tolerância das espécies, dispersão e produtividade do sistema guiando a diversidade em grandes escalas, enquanto a heterogeneidade do habitat e as interações bióticas atuam em escalas menores. Em costões rochosos uma série de organismos funciona como substrato secundário para a fauna móvel, sendo macroalgas o tipo mais abundante e diverso de substrato. O mosaico formado pelas diferentes macroalgas hospedeiras aumenta a heterogeneidade em pequena escala e pode aumentar e manter a diversidade dos organismos móveis, uma vez que existe uma relação próxima entre a fauna associada e seus hospedeiros. Neste estudo nós selecionamos três macroalgas diferentes morfologicamente e que coexistem na mesma altura no costão rochoso na Baía do Araçá, uma área sob a ameaça de expansão do porto que fica nas proximidades, e analisamos a fauna associada a cada alga hospedeira. Mesmo sob pressões abióticas similares (mesma altura no costão rochoso), a fauna associada a cada alga variou em número e composição, revelando de fato uma relação próxima entre fauna e alga. Ulva lactuca, uma alga foliosa com pouca ramificação, apresentou uma baixa densidade de organismos e foi dominada por isópodes, enquanto que o turf e o Bostrychietum, algas altamente ramificadas e mais complexas, apresentaram uma alta densidade de organismos, com uma dominância de crustáceos peracáridos e anelídeos no turf e grupos mais resistentes como bivalves, ácaros e insetos terrestres no Bostrychietum. Estudos anteriores conduzidos na Baía do Araçá já mostraram uma grande heterogeneidade espacial nos processos ecológicos e na distribuição dos organismos sésseis, e aqui nós ressaltamos que esta heterogeneidade pode ser observada numa escala ainda menor, com as diferentes algas mediando o turnover de espécies numa escala de centímetros a metros, resultando na manutenção da diversidade da fauna associada. Como a expansão do porto pode impedir a ocorrência das macroalgas devido à limitação de luz que será imposta pelas plataformas flutuantes, nós podemos esperar não apenas uma diminuição da cobertura de macroalgas mas também da diversidade total da fauna associada na Baía do Araçá.

Phytal communities are characterized by spatial and temporal variation and are influenced by fluctuating biological and physical parameters. This study aimed to describe and compare the gastropods associated with Ulva spp., at three sites of the Espirito Santo coast with ferruginous laterite substrate and different modes of wave exposure. Camburi is characterized by the presence of iron ore particles. Samples were collected bimonthly. At each site, five sampling quadrats were launched at random in the intertidal region. Individuals of Ulva spp. were collected (2964 individuals) and 53 taxa were found. In Camburi the dominant species was Amphitalamus vallei (Barleeidae), while in Capuba and Manguinhos Eulithidium affine (Phasianellidae) predominated. The analyses indicated that Camburi is distinct from the other sites. The lesser wave impacts and the more complex structure of the algae in Camburi, due to the presence of iron ore, may explain this variation.

The number of studies demonstrating the susceptibility of benthic reef communities to anthropogenic impacts is growing. However, for some of the components of reef fauna, such as meiobenthic harpacticoid copepods, information is still lacking. Here, different diversity and taxonomic distinctness indexes and multivariate analyses were used to test whether the assemblage of harpacticoid copepods colonizing Artificial Substrate Units (ASUs) is an appropriate tool for the identification of reefs subjected to different levels of anthropogenic pressure. Furthermore, we also evaluate if diffused, persistent, anthropogenic impacts generate the homogenization and simplification of Harpacticoida assemblages. Six reefs were organized into two groups along the coast, depending on their proximity to very large urban centers. ASUs were used for meiofauna colonization and, for each reef, 320 Harpacticoida individuals were separated for identification at the species level. Abiotic parameters were analyzed, and significant differences were found between the two groups of reefs, with an increase in dissolved inorganic nutrients found in areas near large urban centers. Both the multivariate analyses and the indexes of diversity showed a clear separation between the reefs closer to the urban zones and those further away, as a response to the anthropogenic pressure. As hypothesized, in the impacted reef areas, there was a strong simplification and homogenization of the harpacticoid copepod assemblages. However, the results of the indexes, based on taxonomic distinctness, suggest that there was no phylogenetic signal of anthropogenic impact on coral reef harpacticoid copepods.

Brazilian marine molluscs, especially Gastropoda and Bivalvia, are relatively well studied. However, information on the class Polyplacophora is more scarce, particularly on reef-dwelling forms. This study aimed to qualitatively and quantitatively analyze aspects of polyplacophorans from reef ecosystems and their associations with macroalgae on the coast of Maceió (state of Alagoas, Brazilian Northeast). The study area included five coral reefs at Ipioca, Ponta do Prego, Ponta do Meirim, Riacho Doce and Ponta Verde, as well as two sandstone reefs, located in Guaxuma and Sereia. The samples were obtained by snorkelling along the intertidal and subtidal reef zones to a depth of up to five meters during low tides, between 2009 and 2011. In addition, the chitons associated with three macroalgae of the Ponta Verde coral reef were studied based on collections made over 12 years (from the summer of 1998 to the winter of 2009). Three replicates with an area of 25 cm2 were collected from each of the following species of macroalgal phytals: Amphiroa fragilissima (Rhodophyta), Caulerpa racemosa (Chlorophyta) and Dictyota cervicornis (Phaeophyta). A total of 715 individuals (110 juveniles and 605 adults) were identified, including Acanthochitona terezae Guerra, 1983, Ischnochiton striolatus (Gray, 1828) and Ischnoplax pectinata (Sowerby II, 1840). Acanthochitona terezae was found for the first time in the area. Ischnochiton striolatus was the most abundant species in the reef ecosystem and in association with macroalgae. The greatest number of individuals of all three polyplacophorans identified (adults and juveniles) was found on the phytal A. fragilissima.

A biologia populacional de três espécies de anfípodes da família Ampithoidae (Ampithoe ramondi, Cymadusa filosa e Sunampithoe pelagica) associadas a Sargassum filipendula da Praia da Fortaleza, litoral norte do Estado de São Paulo foi estudada entre junho de 2000 e maio de 2001. Os anfípodes foram identificados, contados e separados em classes de tamanho através de um conjunto de peneiras agrupadas. Foram obtidos histogramas mensais de jovens, machos e fêmeas. A razão sexual dos ampitoídeos foi avaliada mensalmente. A biologia reprodutiva das espécies foi avaliada através freqüência relativa mensal de fêmeas ovígeras, de sua fecundidade, volume médio dos ovos e correlação do tamanho da cabeça com o número de ovos contidos em seus marsúpios. Ampithoe ramondi foi a espécie mais abundante. As maiores densidades para as três espécies ocorreram na primavera e no verão. A razão sexual apresentou diferença significativa de 1:1 apenas para A. ramondi (1:1,2; x² = 4,37; g.l. = 1; p < 0,05). Fêmeas ovígeras foram registradas em quase todos os períodos de amostragem. Correlação positiva baixa entre o tamanho da cabeça da fêmea e o número de ovos contidos na bolsa incubadora foi registrada somente para A. ramondi (r² = 0,27; p < 0,05; n = 33). Cymadusa filosa apresentou a maior fecundidade e o maior volume dos ovos.The population biology of three species of the family Ampithoidae (Ampithoe ramondi, Cymadusa filosa e Sunampithoe pelagica) associated with Sargassum filipendula at Fortaleza beach, northern coast of São Paulo state was investigated from June 2000 to May 2001. The amphipods were identified, counted and separated in size classes through a nested sieve set. Month hystograms were obtained for juveniles, males and females. The ampithoid sex ratio was determined monthly. The reproductive biology of the species was evaluated by the relative frequency of ovigerous females, fecundity, average egg volume and correlation analysis between head lengh of ovigerous females and number of eggs in its brood pouch. Ampithoe ramondi was the most abundant species. The higher densities of the three species occurred in spring and summer. The sex ratio presented a significant difference from 1:1 only for A. ramondi (1:1.2; x² = 4.37; g.l. = 1; p < 0.05). Ovigerous females were registered for almost all the sampling periods. A positive correlation between the female head lengh and the number of eggs were only registered for A. ramondi (r² = 0.27; p < 0.05; n = 33). Cymadusa filosa showed the greatest fecundity and egg volume.

Orientador: Fosca Pedini Pereira Leite Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia Resumo: A macrofauna associada a espécies de Sargassum é relativamente bem conhecida no litoral do Estado de São Paulo, porém os estudos foram realizados essencialmente em áreas continentais. Investigações sobre a malacofauna associada a Sargassum ainda são raras no país e não há comparações sobre a composição e variação das comunidades de moluscos associados a esta alga parda, em relação a faces continentais e oceânicas de ilhas. Desse modo, neste estudo, procurou-se conhecer a composição, riqueza, diversidade e distribuição geográfica dessa fauna associada a Sargassum, relacionando pontos voltados para o continente e para o oceano da ilha de São Sebastião, São Paulo, de modo a contribuir para o conhecimento da biodiversidade. A biomassa e o comprimento do Sargassum, assim como a epibiose e a composição das espécies, variaram entre as praias estudadas e entre os períodos de amostragem, porém não houve diferença entre as faces continental e oceânica. Porém, a face oceânica apresentou maiores valores de densidade de espécies de moluscos por grama de alga. A maioria dos indivíduos ocorreu no último período de amostragem, o qual foi realizado após dias de chuvas e possuiu temperaturas mais elevadas, podendo este ser um período de recrutamento de espécies, com melhores condições ambientais para reprodução e sobrevivência das espécies. A epibiose mostrou-se ser muito importante para o estabelecimento das espécies e contribuiu para valores maiores de densidade de indivíduos associados. No geral, as espécies encontradas são comuns a bancos de Sargassum, já tendo sido registradas em outros estudos. A maioria dos moluscos coletados foi composta por juvenis, mostrando que o Sargassum tem importante papel como berçário de espécies de moluscos comuns aos costões rochosos. Tais espécies encontram nesses ambientes melhores condições de sobrevivência nas fases juvenis Abstract: The macrofauna associated with Sargassum species is relatively well known on the coast of São Paulo, in studies conducted mainly in continental shore areas. Investigations on the molluscan fauna associated with Sargassum are still rare in Brazil and there are no studies comparing the composition and variation of molluscan communities associated with this brown alga in relation to continental and oceanic islands faces. Thus, in this study, we evaluated the composition, richness, diversity and geographic distribution of these communities, comparing areas facing the continent and open ocean areas on the island of São Sebastião, São Paulo, to contribute with biodiversity knowledge. The biomass and sizes of Sargassum varied between faces and sampling periods, as well as epibiosis degree. The ocean side showed higher density of molluscans, and degrees of epibiosis. Most molluscs occurred in the last sampling period, with higher temperatures, which may be a period of species recruitment, with better environmental conditions for reproduction and survival. However, although the studied sampling periods presented differences in molluscan density, the similarity in species composition among sampling periods was high. This result suggests that the distance between the sampling periods studied not assured enough to develop that significantly distinct assemblage spatial variation. The studied faces also shared, in general, the same species but in different densities. Epibiosis proved to be very important for the establishment of associated molluscan species, and contributes to higher diversity. Overall, the species found are commonly found in Sargassum beds, and were recorded in other studies. Most were small species or juveniles of large and sessile ones, suggesting that Sargassum beds play an important role in the early stages of development of molluscan species. The present study highlights the importance of phytal systems as nursery by species common in rocky shores, since these species may find better living conditions in these environments during their juvenile stages Mestrado Biodiversidade Animal Mestra em Biologia Animal CAPES

Seasonal fluctuations and depth distribution of the vagile macrofauna associated with Sargassum cymosum at Lazaro beach, Ubatuba, São Paulo State, were evaluated through density comparison of higher taxonomic groups among three depth intervals in four periods of the year. Ten groups were identified and among them gammarid and caprellid amphipods were numerically dominant in all sampling periods and did not show any consistent zonation trend. Gastropods, polychaetes and ophiuroids ocurred in lower densities and tended to dominate as depth increased, Wet weight algae variation did not explain the observed spatial and temporal patterns. Biotic interactions, recruitment and environmental parameters are probably involved in seasonal density variation of the faunal groups studied but it was evident that the depth gradient play an important role in vagile macrofauna vertical distribution.

The phytal is characterized by the formation of seaweed beds and a great diversity of associated species, the malacofauna being one of its main components. Aiming to record the species of Gastropoda associated to the brown algae Sargassum sp. C. Agardh, 1820, this study was carried out in São Sebastião Channel, northern coast of São Paulo, and nearby areas. A total of 13945 individuals were identified, belonging to 35 families and 62 species. Cerithiidae, Phasianellidae and Columbellidae were the most abundant families, represented by 34, 33 and 17% of the total collected individuals, respectively. Bittiolum varium (Pfeiffer, 1840) (Cerithiidae) and Eulithidium affine (C. B. Adams, 1850) (Phasianellidae) are the dominant species, followed by the columbelids Mitrella dichroa (G. B. Sowerby I, 1844), Anachis fenneli Radwin, 1968 and Costoanachis sertulariarium (d'Orbigny, 1839). Among the least abundant species, some of them may be considered as of fortuitous occurrences, while others seem to be typical in those habitats, although rare. The presence of juvenile specimens was recurrent, this indicating that the algae can function as a nursery for most of these species. The expressive values found, for both abundance and number of species, illustrate the great ecological importance of the phytal habitats for the gastropod species. O fital é caracterizado pela formação de bancos de algas marinhas e uma grande diversidade de espécies associadas, estando a malacofauna entre seus principais componentes. Com o objetivo de registrar as assembleias de gastrópodes associadas è alga parda Sargassum C. Agardh, 1820, este estudo foi realizado no Canal de São Sebastião, litoral norte do estado de São Paulo, e áreas próximas. Um total de 13945 indivíduos foram identificados, pertencentes a 35 famílias e 62 espécies. Em termos de abundância, Cerithiidae, Phasianellidae e Columbellidae foram as famílias mais representativas, com 34, 33 e 17% do total de indivíduos coletados, respectivamente. Bittiolum varium (Pfeiffer, 1840) (Cerithiidae) e Eulithidium affine (C. B. Adams, 1850) (Phasianellidae) foram as espécies dominantes, seguidas pelos columbelídeos Mitrella dichroa (G. B. Sowerby I, 1844), Anachis fenneli Radwin, 1968 e Costoanachis sertulariarium (d'Orbigny, 1839). Entre as espécies pouco abundantes, algumas podem ser consideradas como de ocorrência ocasional, enquanto outras parecem ser típicas deste ambiente, porém raras. A presença de formas juvenis mostrou-se muito recorrente para a maioria das espécies, o que parece indicar que a alga pode atuar como berçário. Os valores expressivos encontrados, tanto para a abundância de indivíduos como para o número de espécies, ilustram a grande importância ecológica apresentada por este ambiente para as espécies de gastrópodes.

A study of correlation between the total body length and the somites length was carried out in a population of Hyale media (Dana, 1857), in order to know which somite or group of somites has the highest correlation index with the total body length. As the sum of the length of the first to fourth pereonites showed the highest linear correlation index (Y=0.0764+0.2736X; r=0.9723), this meristic parameter was chosen to describe the population structure of the species. The following aspects were treated: distribution of the body size classes in the various phytals, population composition, seasonal fluctuation of population density. relative frequency of the ovigerous females and correlation between the body length and the number of eggs inside the marsupium of the ovigerous females. The amphipods were obtained from the seasonal collections of six phytals from a rocky seashore of Caiobá, Paraná State: Pterosiphonia pennata (Roth) Falkenberg. Gymrogongrus griffithsiae (Turner) Martius, Pterocladia capillacea (Gmelin) Bornet & Thured, Sargassum cymosum Garth, Gelidium sp and Ulva fasciata Delile; they did not occurred in Padina gymnospora (Kútsing) Vickers and Porphyra atropurpurea (Olivi) De Toni. The air temperature oscillated from 16ºC (winter and autumn) to 23ºC (summer), the surface water temperature from 17ºC (winter) to 25ºC (summer) and the surface water salinity, from 29.3‰ (autumn) to 32.8‰ (winter). The density oi Hyale media varied from 0.20 ind.g-1 (in Ulva) to 26.37 ind.g-1 (in Pterosiphonia) of alga-substratum weigth, and the population was distributed mainly in branched algae. It was determined three size classes in the population, within a range from 0.01 to 2.99mm of pereonits 1-4 length. Small amphipods prefer finely branched algae like Gymnogongrusand Pterosiphonia, whereas broad-thallii or less branched algae such as Sargassum, Pterocladia, Gelidium and Ulva harbour proporcionally high number of large individuais. The life cycle of Hyale media takes place wholly in the phytals and the species reproduces continually all year round: males, ovigerous females and juveniles are present every season. The highest femalc reproductive activity occurs in winter and the juveniles are more numerous in summer. The number of eggs inside the marsupium and the pereonites 1-4 length has a linear correlation (Y=-9,9682+12,0729X; r=0.8024).

A study of correlation between the total body length and the somites length was carried out in a population of Hyale media (Dana, 1857), in order to know which somite or group of somites has the highest correlation index with the total body length. As the sum of the length of the first to fourth pereonites showed the highest linear correlation index (Y=0.0764+0.2736X; r=0.9723), this meristic parameter was chosen to describe the population structure of the species. The following aspects were treated: distribution of the body size classes in the various phytals, population composition, seasonal fluctuation of population density. relative frequency of the ovigerous females and correlation between the body length and the number of eggs inside the marsupium of the ovigerous females. The amphipods were obtained from the seasonal collections of six phytals from a rocky seashore of Caiobá, Paraná State: Pterosiphonia pennata (Roth) Falkenberg. Gymrogongrus griffithsiae (Turner) Martius, Pterocladia capillacea (Gmelin) Bornet & Thured, Sargassum cymosum Garth, Gelidium sp and Ulva fasciata Delile; they did not occurred in Padina gymnospora (Kútsing) Vickers and Porphyra atropurpurea (Olivi) De Toni. The air temperature oscillated from 16ºC (winter and autumn) to 23ºC (summer), the surface water temperature from 17ºC (winter) to 25ºC (summer) and the surface water salinity, from 29.3‰ (autumn) to 32.8‰ (winter). The density oi Hyale media varied from 0.20 ind.g-1 (in Ulva) to 26.37 ind.g-1 (in Pterosiphonia) of alga-substratum weigth, and the population was distributed mainly in branched algae. It was determined three size classes in the population, within a range from 0.01 to 2.99mm of pereonits 1-4 length. Small amphipods prefer finely branched algae like Gymnogongrusand Pterosiphonia, whereas broad-thallii or less branched algae such as Sargassum, Pterocladia, Gelidium and Ulva harbour proporcionally high number of large individuais. The life cycle of Hyale media takes place wholly in the phytals and the species reproduces continually all year round: males, ovigerous females and juveniles are present every season. The highest femalc reproductive activity occurs in winter and the juveniles are more numerous in summer. The number of eggs inside the marsupium and the pereonites 1-4 length has a linear correlation (Y=-9,9682+12,0729X; r=0.8024).

Phytal communities are characterized by spatial and temporal variation and are influenced by fluctuating biological and physical parameters. This study aimed to describe and compare the gastropods associated with Ulva spp., at three sites of the Espirito Santo coast with ferruginous laterite substrate and different modes of wave exposure. Camburi is characterized by the presence of iron ore particles. Samples were collected bimonthly. At each site, five sampling quadrats were launched at random in the intertidal region. Individuals of Ulva spp. were collected (2964 individuals) and 53 taxa were found. In Camburi the dominant species was Amphitalamus vallei (Barleeidae), while in Capuba and Manguinhos Eulithidium affine (Phasianellidae) predominated. The analyses indicated that Camburi is distinct from the other sites. The lesser wave impacts and the more complex structure of the algae in Camburi, due to the presence of iron ore, may explain this variation. Las comunidades phytales están influenciadas espacial y temporalmente por parámetros físicos y biológicos cambiantes. Este estudio describe y compara los gasterópodos asociados con Ulva spp. entre sitios en la costa de Espirito Santo, con sustrato laterítico ferruginoso y con diferentes modos de exposición al oleaje. Camburi está caracterizado por la presencia de partículas de mineral de hierro. Las muestras fueron recolectadas bimensualmente. En cada sitio se realizaron cinco cuadrantes de muestreo al azar en la region intermareal. Se encontraron 2.964 individuos y 53 taxa. En Camburi, la especie dominante fue Amphitalamus valley, y en Capuba y Manguinhos fue Eulithidium affine. El análisis realizado indicó que Camburi es distinto de los otros sitios. El menor impacto de las olas y la estructura más compleja de las algas en Camburi, debido a la presencia de mineral de hierro, puede explicar esta diferencia.

Spalial and temporal density distributions of Amphipoda from the phytals of Caiobá are described. Air temperature oscillated from 16ºC (August and May) to 23ºC (March), surface water temperature from 17ºC (August) to 25ºC (March) and the salinity from 29.3‰ (May) to 32.8‰ (August). Two samples of 25cm² (for algae less than 5cm long), 100 cm² (for algae between 5-10cm long) and whole plants (for algae more than 10cm long) were removed with a spatula from the rocky surface at Caiobá Beach, in August/86, November/86, March/87 and May/87. After sorting, the algal substrata were weighted, their adsorption coefficient calculated and the sediment retained among the thallii weighted. The average distance between the branching was measured for all branched algae. The densities were calculated in relation to the weight of the algal substrate in grams. Eight phytals were considered: Ulva fasciata Delile, Padina gymnospora (Kútzing) Vickers, Sargassum cymosum Garth, Porphyra atropurpurea (Olivi) De Toni, Gelidium sp., Gymnogongrus griffithsiae (Turner) Martius, Pterocladia capillacea (Gmelin) Bornet &Thurel and Pterosiphonia pennata (Roth) Falkenberg, over which nine Amphipoda species live: Ampithoe ramondi Audouin, 1816, Cymadusa filosa Savigny, 1852, Elasmopus pectenicrus Bate, 1857, Hyale media Dana, 1857, Hyale sp.l, Jassa falcata Montagu, 1895 and Sunampithoe pelagica H. Milne-Edwards, 1830 (Gammaridea). Caprella danilevskii Czerniavski, 1861 and Caprella penantis Leach, 1814 (Caprellidea). Amphipoda densities ranged from 0.27 ind.g-1 to 45.68. ind.g-1. The broad-thallii algae Porphyra, Ulva and Padina harbored lower densities of Amphipoda, whereas those finely branched Pterocladia, Pterosiphonia and Gymnogongrus, the highest values and the less branched Sargassum and Gelidium, intermediate values. The high densities found in the finely branched algae had as main contribution the juvenile recruiting of most Amphipoda. The tide level might have influenced the temporal distribution of the Amphipoda density, due to the distinct time of air exposition in eaeh collection data. Most Amphipoda did not show specific algal substratum colonization: only Sunampithoe pelagica occurred solely in Sargassum. Four species occurred in different branched algae: J. falcata. S. pelagica. C. danilevskii and C. penantis. H. media had Sargassum, Pterocladia, Pterosiphonia and Gymnogongrus as the best algal substrata, whereas Caprellidea, the Pterocladia and Pterosiphonia phytals. High sediment weight in Padina was the main reason for high densities of Hyale sp.l in this phytal. The occurrence of males, females (including ovigerous ones) and juveniles of most Amphipoda species found in the present study indicates a complete life cycle whithin these phytals and corroborates with the assumption of the complexity of this marine coastal ecosystem.

Spalial and temporal density distributions of Amphipoda from the phytals of Caiobá are described. Air temperature oscillated from 16ºC (August and May) to 23ºC (March), surface water temperature from 17ºC (August) to 25ºC (March) and the salinity from 29.3‰ (May) to 32.8‰ (August). Two samples of 25cm² (for algae less than 5cm long), 100 cm² (for algae between 5-10cm long) and whole plants (for algae more than 10cm long) were removed with a spatula from the rocky surface at Caiobá Beach, in August/86, November/86, March/87 and May/87. After sorting, the algal substrata were weighted, their adsorption coefficient calculated and the sediment retained among the thallii weighted. The average distance between the branching was measured for all branched algae. The densities were calculated in relation to the weight of the algal substrate in grams. Eight phytals were considered: Ulva fasciata Delile, Padina gymnospora (Kútzing) Vickers, Sargassum cymosum Garth, Porphyra atropurpurea (Olivi) De Toni, Gelidium sp., Gymnogongrus griffithsiae (Turner) Martius, Pterocladia capillacea (Gmelin) Bornet &Thurel and Pterosiphonia pennata (Roth) Falkenberg, over which nine Amphipoda species live: Ampithoe ramondi Audouin, 1816, Cymadusa filosa Savigny, 1852, Elasmopus pectenicrus Bate, 1857, Hyale media Dana, 1857, Hyale sp.l, Jassa falcata Montagu, 1895 and Sunampithoe pelagica H. Milne-Edwards, 1830 (Gammaridea). Caprella danilevskii Czerniavski, 1861 and Caprella penantis Leach, 1814 (Caprellidea). Amphipoda densities ranged from 0.27 ind.g-1 to 45.68. ind.g-1. The broad-thallii algae Porphyra, Ulva and Padina harbored lower densities of Amphipoda, whereas those finely branched Pterocladia, Pterosiphonia and Gymnogongrus, the highest values and the less branched Sargassum and Gelidium, intermediate values. The high densities found in the finely branched algae had as main contribution the juvenile recruiting of most Amphipoda. The tide level might have influenced the temporal distribution of the Amphipoda density, due to the distinct time of air exposition in eaeh collection data. Most Amphipoda did not show specific algal substratum colonization: only Sunampithoe pelagica occurred solely in Sargassum. Four species occurred in different branched algae: J. falcata. S. pelagica. C. danilevskii and C. penantis. H. media had Sargassum, Pterocladia, Pterosiphonia and Gymnogongrus as the best algal substrata, whereas Caprellidea, the Pterocladia and Pterosiphonia phytals. High sediment weight in Padina was the main reason for high densities of Hyale sp.l in this phytal. The occurrence of males, females (including ovigerous ones) and juveniles of most Amphipoda species found in the present study indicates a complete life cycle whithin these phytals and corroborates with the assumption of the complexity of this marine coastal ecosystem.

The bell quadrai lecnique were used lo oblain Rve bimestral samples during 1992. Fifteen laxoiioinic groups were found and Amphipoda had numerical dominante, Polychaeta and Decapoda are als

Coastal regions are subject to various forms of environmental impacts, such as spills of crude oil and associated products, with a wide range of effects on benthic biodiversity. This study characterized the patterns of recolonization of the macrofauna associated with the brown alga Sargassum cymosum(C. Agardh), on fronds contaminated by diesel oil in a small-scale field experiment. We collected 40 fronds of S. cymosum from an algal bed in southeastern Brazil and defaunated each frond by immersion in fresh water. Half of the fronds were then immersed in seawater (control group) and the other half in a mixture of 50% diesel oil and 50% seawater (impacted group). The test fronds were returned to the algal bed, and natural recolonization took place over a period of 12 days. Samples of the vagile macrofauna were taken randomly at three-day intervals over the course of the recolonization period. No significant differences in the densities of most taxa were found between the impact treatment (IG) and control treatment (CG). At the end of the recolonization period (day 12), the faunal composition of the treated fronds was very similar to the natural conditions, indicating a high rate of community recovery and suggesting that benthic associations can be rather resilient to diesel-oil impacts on a small scale.

The aims of this study were to characterize the macrofauna associated with the articulated calcareous algae occurring on a hydrodynamic gradient off the Vitória metropolitan area, Espírito Santo State, Brazil, and to describe its temporal distribution. Physicochemical variables were measured in situ, and samples of sediment, water and phytal were taken from three sites along the coast in August and November 2005 (winter and spring, respectively) and in February and May 2006 (summer and fall, respectively). Twenty random samples were taken from the rocky surface in the lower midlittoral zone at each site, each season. Six species of articulated algae harboring 9,651 animal specimens distributed among 189 taxa were collected. The dominant taxonomic groups were Mollusca, Polychaeta and Crustacea. The main patterns revealed by statistical analysis related to differences in the abundance and richness at the sample sites, as well as to the correlation between the physicochemical variables and community distance matrices, indicating the importance of the physicochemical variables in the differentiation of the communities. Results also indicated that the variable which most influenced the physicochemical and community properties was the hydrodynamic character of the sites: a high level of hydrodynamism resulting in the calcareous algae´s sheltering a lower abundance and diversity of animal species than a lower level one.Os objetivos deste estudo foram caracterizar a macrofauna associada às algas calcárias articuladas num gradiente de hidrodinamismo no litoral da região metropolitana de Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brasil, e descrever a distribuição temporal. Variáveis fisicoquímicas foram medidas in situ, e amostras do sedimento, água e fital foram feitas em três pontos amostrais do litoral em agosto e novembro de 2005 (inverno e primavera, respectivamente) e fevereiro e maio de 2006 (verão e outono, respectivamente). Em cada ponto, e por estação do ano, foram obtidas 20 amostras aleatórias da superfície do costão rochoso na região do mediolitoral inferior. Seis espécies de algas calcárias articuladas foram coletadas e abrigaram 9.651 espécimes animais distribuídos em 189 táxons. Os grupos taxonômicos dominantes foram Mollusca, Polychaeta e Crustacea. Os principais padrões revelados pelas análises estatísticas foram diferenças na abundância e riqueza entre os pontos amostrais e correlação entre as variáveis fisicoquímicas e a comunidade, indicando que os parâmetros fisicoquímicos foram importantes para a caracterização destas. Os resultados indicaram ainda que a variável que mais influenciou as propriedades fisicoquímicas e da comunidade foi o grau de hidrodinamismo: locais com hidrodinamismo elevado permitem que algas calcárias abriguem uma menor abundância e diversidade de espécies animais do que locais com hidrodinamismo elevado.

Na postajama Izvor Rude i Ruda 2, na izvorišnom dijelu rijeke Rude, mjereni su fizikalnokemijski parametri vode (temperatura, koncentracija otopljenog kisika, zasićenje vode kisikom, pH, provodljivost, alkalinitet) i prikupljani uzorci makroskopskih beskralješnjaka. Razdoblje istraživanja trajalo je od kolovoza 2004. do kolovoza 2005. godine. Ukupno je utvrđeno 20 skupina makroskopskih beskralješnjaka koji su određivani najdalje do razine porodice. Međusobno su uspoređivane istraživane postaje i mikrostanište fitala unutar postaja. Najbrojnije skupine makroskopskih beskralješnjaka, na obje postaje, bile su Chironomoidae i Amphipoda. Mikrostanište fitala, postaje Izvor Rude, bogatije je brojem skupina, ali na oba mikrostaništa brojnošću dominiraju skupine Chironomoidae i Amphipoda. Brojnost jedinki veća je u ljetnim, a manja u zimskim mjesecima. On the two investigation stations in the spring area of the river Ruda physico-chemical water parameters (temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, oxygen saturation, pH, conductivity, alkalinity) were measured and samples of macroinvertebrates were also collected. Research period was from the August of 2004 till the August of 2005. Twenty groups of microinvertebrates were determined. The researched stations and their phytal microhabitats were mutually compered. The most abundant groups of macroinvertebrates on the both stations were Chironomoidae and Amphipoda. The phytal microhabitat on the station Spring Ruda is richer by the macroinvertebrates groups, but on the both microhabitats Chironomoidae and Amphipoda dominated. The number of individuals is higher in the summer months and lower during the winter.

As assembléias fitais são conhecidas por abrigar uma meiofauna abundante e diversificada, regulada pela morfologia da planta, bem como pela quantidade de sedimentos e epífitas. Neste trabalho a influência da morfologia de Sargassum polyceratium na distribuição quali- uantitativa da meiofauna foi estudada. Foram realizadas coletas em agosto, novembro e dezembro de 1999 e janeiro, março e abril de 2000, em quatro pontos da Praia de Pedra do Xaréu-PE. Em cada ponto, foram retiradas três frondes de algas e cada uma foi cortada em três partes (base, meio e ápice). A meiofauna esteve composta por 22 grupos e a densidade média total, considerando a alga inteira, variou de 248,41 a 852,65 ind/20ml. A comunidade foi dominada pelos Copepoda Harpacticoida. Foi registrada uma colonização diferenciada da fronde da alga pela meiofauna, assim como, a influência da sazonalidade regional e do hidrodinamismo local sobre a comunidade, esses resultados estão relacionados com a bio-ecologia do substrato algal. Assim, observou-se uma comunidade mais estável na base das algas e maiores densidades no período chuvoso e no ponto sujeito à menor influência das ondas. The phytal assemblages are known for sheltering an abundant and diversified meiofauna that is regulated by plant morphology, as well as by the quantity of sediment and epiphytes quantity. In this work, the influence of Sargassum polyceratium morphology on quali- uantitative distribution of the meiofauna was studied. Collections were done in August, November and December 1999 and January, March and April 2000 in four sites at Pedra do Xaréu beach, Pernambuco. In each site, three seaweeds were removed and each one was cut in three parts (basis, medium and apex). The meiofauna comprised 22 taxons. The total mean density, considering the whole algae, varied from 248,41 to 852,65 ind/20 ml. The community was dominated by Copepoda Harpacticoida. A different colonization was registered on the seaweed parts, and also could be seen the influence of the regional seasonality and local hydrodinamics in the community. These results were interpreted as resulting from seaweed substract bioecology. Therefore, was observed a more stable community on the seaweed base and higher densities in the rainy season and in the station with greater wave influence.

A biologia populacional de três espécies de anfípodes da família Ampithoidae (Ampithoe ramondi, Cymadusa filosa e Sunampithoe pelagica) associadas a Sargassum filipendula da Praia da Fortaleza, litoral norte do Estado de São Paulo foi estudada entre junho de 2000 e maio de 2001. Os anfípodes foram identificados, contados e separados em classes de tamanho através de um conjunto de peneiras agrupadas. Foram obtidos histogramas mensais de jovens, machos e fêmeas. A razão sexual dos ampitoídeos foi avaliada mensalmente. A biologia reprodutiva das espécies foi avaliada através freqüência relativa mensal de fêmeas ovígeras, de sua fecundidade, volume médio dos ovos e correlação do tamanho da cabeça com o número de ovos contidos em seus marsúpios. Ampithoe ramondi foi a espécie mais abundante. As maiores densidades para as três espécies ocorreram na primavera e no verão. A razão sexual apresentou diferença significativa de 1:1 apenas para A. ramondi (1:1,2; x² = 4,37; g.l. = 1; p < 0,05). Fêmeas ovígeras foram registradas em quase todos os períodos de amostragem. Correlação positiva baixa entre o tamanho da cabeça da fêmea e o número de ovos contidos na bolsa incubadora foi registrada somente para A. ramondi (r² = 0,27; p < 0,05; n = 33). Cymadusa filosa apresentou a maior fecundidade e o maior volume dos ovos. The population biology of three species of the family Ampithoidae (Ampithoe ramondi, Cymadusa filosa e Sunampithoe pelagica) associated with Sargassum filipendula at Fortaleza beach, northern coast of São Paulo state was investigated from June 2000 to May 2001. The amphipods were identified, counted and separated in size classes through a nested sieve set. Month hystograms were obtained for juveniles, males and females. The ampithoid sex ratio was determined monthly. The reproductive biology of the species was evaluated by the relative frequency of ovigerous females, fecundity, average egg volume and correlation analysis between head lengh of ovigerous females and number of eggs in its brood pouch. Ampithoe ramondi was the most abundant species. The higher densities of the three species occurred in spring and summer. The sex ratio presented a significant difference from 1:1 only for A. ramondi (1:1.2; x² = 4.37; g.l. = 1; p < 0.05). Ovigerous females were registered for almost all the sampling periods. A positive correlation between the female head lengh and the number of eggs were only registered for A. ramondi (r² = 0.27; p < 0.05; n = 33). Cymadusa filosa showed the greatest fecundity and egg volume.

Neste trabalho foi realizado o primeiro levantamento da macrofauna de fital da ilha da Queimada Pequena, focalizando o registro das espécies de moluscos, crustáceos e equinodermos associados a Sargassum spp. Para a amostragem da macrofauna associada, foram coletadas aleatoriamente 6 frondes de Sargassum localizadas a 6 m de profundidade, usando-se equipamento de mergulho autônomo. As frondes foram envolvidas em sacos de tecido com malha de 200 mm, mraspadas do substrato, colocadas em recipientes com uma solução de formaldeído 10% e levadas ao laboratório para remoção e identificação da fauna. Quarenta e um táxons foram identificados, havendo dominância de crustáceos peracáridos. Em relação aos Mollusca, a composição específica foi diferente em relação àquela observada na costa norte do estado de São Paulo. Das 16 espécies de moluscos encontradas, apenas os gastrópodes dos gêneros Anachis e Odostomia e os bivalves dos gêneros Musculus e Modiolus são representantes da fauna associada à Sargassum comuns às duas regiões do estado de São Paulo, embora representantes do gênero Fissurela já tenham sido relatados na região de Santos em associação à alga Amphiroa fragilissima. A ocorrência do bivalve exótico Isognomon bicolor também foi confirmada. Os dados obtidos sugerem que a fauna de moluscos pode realmente ser distinta na região norte e sul do estado. No entanto, são necessários estudos mais extensos para confirmar esses resultados e para subsidiar futuras estratégias de manejo dessa unidade de conservação. This work represents the first effort to assess the phytal macrofauna of Queimada Pequena island and was focused in mollusks, crustaceans and echinoderms associated to Sargassum spp. Sampling of the macrofauna was performed by random collections of 6 Sargassum fronds 6 m deep using SCUBA. The fronds were sealed underwater in individual 200 mm mesh bags and detached from the rocky shore. The samples were preserved in recipients in 10% formalin and carried to the laboratory to remove and identify the associated fauna. Forty one taxa were registered, with dominance of peracarid crustaceans. Mollusk composition is different from that of northern São Paulo coast. From the sixteen mollusk species recorded, only the gastropod genera Anachis and Odostomia and the bivalves Musculus and Modiolus were recorded in the Sargassum macrofauna at both coastal regions of São Paulo state, although the genus Fissurela had already been recorded at Santos region associated with the alga Amphiroa fragilissima. The occurrence of the exotic bivalve Isognomon bicolor was also confirmed. Our data suggest differences in the composition of molluskan fauna between southern and northern coasts of the state. Extensive investigations are necessary to confirm these results and to support management strategies in this conservation unit.

Studies were carried out to investigate the temporal variation in Sargassum biomass, Hypnea epiphytism and associated fauna. There was a marked variation in the biomass of Sargassum and Hypnea among various sampling periods. Low values for Sargassum were recorded in August and November, while the lower value for Hypnea biomass was recorded in August. An inverse relationship was found between Sargassum biomass and the intensity of Hypnea epiphytism. The density of the total fauna associated to Sargassum showed a marked reduction in May. This variation was influenced by the variation patterns of the dominant faunistic groups (Gastropoda, Gammaridea, Isopoda and Caridea). Significant positive relationships were found between the biomass of Sargassum and Sargassum+Hypnea with the total density of all faunistic groups (per macroalgae biomass unit). However, the influence of Hypnea epiphytism on the phytal organisms was not evidenced. Sargassum cymosum é uma alga muito freqüente e abundante no sudeste do Brasil a qual apresenta uma fauna associada muito diversificada e freqüentemente epifitada pela alga vermelha Hypnea musciformis. Foram realizadas quatro amostragens na Praia do Lamberto, litoral norte do Estado de São Paulo, para observar a variação temporal da biomassa de Sargassum, do epifitismo de Hypnea e da fauna associada. Observou-se uma marcada variação da biomassa de Sargassum e Hypnea entre os períodos de amostragem. Os menores valores para Sargassum foram obtidos em agosto e novembro, enquanto o menor valor para Hypnea foi obtido em agosto. Relação inversa foi observada entre a biomassa de Sargassum e o epifitismo de Hypnea. A densidade da fauna total associada a Sargassum também mostrou variação significativa entre os períodos de amostragem, com marcada redução em maio. Este padrão foi influenciado pela variação dos grupos taxonômicos dominantes (Gastropoda, Gammaridea, Isopoda e Caridea). Observou-se uma forte relação positiva entre a biomassa of Sargassum e Sargassum+Hypnea com a abundância de todos os grupos taxonômicos. Contudo, não ficou evidenciada a influência do epifitismo de Hypnea sobre os organismos do fital.

The monthly fluctuations of amphipods associated to the algae Bryocladia trysigera was described from March 1997 to February 1998 at the rocky shore known as Poço de Anchieta in the Peruíbe Beach, Itanhaém, Southeastern Brazil. A total of 75,344 individuals were sampled, belonging to 10 species and 9 families. Three species dominated the phytal in number: Hyale nigra, Caprella danileviskii and Caprella penantis. Despite the alternation in dominance of the 3 most abundant species, the amphipod species composition remained generally unchanged, so that the majority of the species were observed in all sampling months. The temporally changing pattern of the community structure, with a decline in amphipod abundance in winter followed by an increase in spring, was probably due to a higher predation pressure in winter period. Flutuações mensais de Amphipoda associados à alga Bryocladia trysigera são descritas. As coletas foram realizadas no período de março de 1997 a fevereiro de 1998 no costão rochoso do Poço de Anchieta na Praia de Peruíbe, Itanhaém (SP). Foram coletados 75.344 indivíduos, identificados em 9 famílias e 10 espécies. Três espécies dominaram numericamente: Hyale nigra, Caprella danileviskii e Caprella penantis. Embora tivesse sido registrada alternância na dominância dessas espécies, foi observada pequena variação na composição específica nos meses amostrados. A variação temporal na estrutura da comunidade, com o declínio da abundância de Amphipoda no inverno, seguido de aumento na primavera, pode ser causada pela maior pressão de predação no inverno.

Seasonal fluctuations and depth distribution of the vagile macrofauna associated with Sargassum cymosum at Lazaro beach, Ubatuba, São Paulo State, were evaluated through density comparison of higher taxonomic groups among three depth intervals in four periods of the year. Ten groups were identified and among them gammarid and caprellid amphipods were numerically dominant in all sampling periods and did not show any consistent zonation trend. Gastropods, polychaetes and ophiuroids ocurred in lower densities and tended to dominate as depth increased, Wet weight algae variation did not explain the observed spatial and temporal patterns. Biotic interactions, recruitment and environmental parameters are probably involved in seasonal density variation of the faunal groups studied but it was evident that the depth gradient play an important role in vagile macrofauna vertical distribution.

Seasonal fluctuations and depth distribution of the vagile macrofauna associated with Sargassum cymosum at Lazaro beach, Ubatuba, Sao Paulo State, were evaluated through density comparison of higher taxonomic groups among three depth intervals in four periods of the year. Ten groups were identified and among them gammarid and caprellid amphipods were numerically dominant in all sampling periods and did not show any consistent zonation trend. Gastropods, polychaetes and ophiuroids ocurred in lower densities and tended to dominate as depth increased, Wet weight algae variation did not explain the observed spatial and temporal patterns. Biotic interactions, recruitment and environmental parameters are probably involved in seasonal density variation of the faunal groups studied but it was evident that the depth gradient play an important role in vagile macrofauna vertical distribution.

In this study, the meiofauna associated with Sargassum cymosum was qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed between December 1990 and July 1991. Sampling was carried out on a moderately exposed shore at Lázaro Beach, Ubatuba (32°S - 45°W). Each alga was washed in a formaldehyde solution and the fauna in suspension was washed through a series of 500, 250, 120 and 60 µm mesh sieves. The biomass of each taxonomic group was estimated as ash-free dry weight (AFDW) according to size categories. Algae volume and dry weight were determined, incIuding epiphytes. Densities of epifauna ranged from 502.9 to 2706.6 ind.20 ml-1 as algae volume. The biomass values (326.6 to 1214.4 µg.20 ml-1 AFDW) represented a low standing stock. Harpacticoid copepods and their nauplii were the dominant group and also showed the highest biomass values, being represented by larger individuaIs (250 to 120 µm). Higher values were observed between the end of the summer and the beginning of the fali (March and April), decreasing until winter (July). This variation may be explained by habitat complexity changes, or reproduction of some taxa, as higher meiofaunal densities were found on the 60 µm mesh sieve, incIuding high percentages of nauplii.Este trabalho avalia qualitativa e quantitativamente a meiofauna associada a Sargassum cymosum estimando-se a densidade e biomassa da fauna, assim como uma possível variação temporal. As coletas foram realizadas à nordeste da Praia do Lázaro, Ubatuba (23°S - 45°W), de dez/90 a jul/91. As frondes foram mergulhadas em solução de água e formaldeído, e os organismos em suspensão retidos em uma série de malhas (500,250, 120 e 60 µm). Para cada grupo taxonômico foi estimada a biomassa em µg de peso seco livre de cinzas. Como medida de substrato foi determinado o volume e a biomassa em peso seco de alga, incluindo-se as algas epífitas. Os valores de densidade da meiofauna variaram entre 502,9 a 2706,6 ind.20 mrl de alga. A biomassa estimada por sua vez apresentou valores baixos, entre 326,6 a 1214,41-µg.20 ml-1 peso seco livre de cinzas. Copepoda Harpacticoida e seus náuplios foram dominantes numericamente e em relação à biomassa. Os valores de densidade e biomassa da meiofauna foram altos no final do verão (março) e início do outono (abril), e diminuíram gradativamente até o início do inverno (julho). Esta variação pode ser explicada por mudanças na complexidade do habitat ou, ainda, devido ao período reprodutivo de alguns táxons, já que a maior quantidade de meiofauna ocorreu na malha de 60 µm (náuplios).

The bell quadrai lecnique were used lo oblain Rve bimestral samples during 1992. Fifteen laxoiioinic groups were found and Amphipoda had numerical dominante, Polychaeta and Decapoda are als