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Shorebirds use a variety of intertidal estuarine habitats to rest and refuel during their seasonal migrations. Birds can be found foraging on mud or sandflats, aquatic vegetation, as well as intertidal areas developed for shellfish aquaculture. In Washington State, which contributes substantially to commercial U.S. production of the Pacific oyster (Crassoslrea gigas), little research has been published about how aquaculture habitats are used by shorebirds relative to surrounding seagrass and mudflat. Using photographic sampling, shore- and waterbird use of mudflat, seagrass, and longline oyster culture habitats was studied on an oyster farm in Grays Harbor, WA. The effect of the tidal stage (ebb, dry, or flood periods) was also evaluated. Thirteen bird taxa were identified and analyzed for effects of habitat on community composition and total bird abundance, whereas the six most common taxa were used in an analysis of habitat type and tidal stage effects on taxon abundance. Of the six focal taxa, black-bellied plover, American crow, and dunlin (Pluvialis squatarola, Corvus brachyrhynchos, and Calidris alpina, respectively) responded significantly to habitat type--having positive associations with eelgrass and/or longlines- whereas dunlin, dowitcher, and gulls (C. alpina, Limnodromus spp., and Larus spp., respectively) responded significantly to tidal stage--having positive associations with the ebb or flood periods. Total bird observations varied by habitat and through the tidal cycle, where more birds were observed in eelgrass and during ebb and flood periods. There was no strong effect of habitat type on community composition when sampling across several months. Overall, all three habitat types were used by a variety of shore- and waterbird taxa, with no evidence of a negative effect of longline oyster culture on bird abundance. KEY WORDS: shorebirds, waterbirds, seagrass, oysters, aquaculture, INTRODUCTION Estuaries serve as critical stopover and breeding sites for many species of waterbirds. Grays Harbor Estuary, in Washington State, has been designated as a reserve of international significance by [...]

There is considerable interest in improving hatchery production of the mud crab, Scylla serrata. Although some progress has been made toward identifying appropriate feeding protocols for live-foods, the density at which food is first provided to larvae varies greatly in practice. This study examined relationships between rotifer density and activity patterns of enzymes critical to digestion in S. serrata to evaluate feeding protocols from a nutrient utilization perspective. Activities of trypsin-like proteases, nonspecific esterases, and [alpha]-amylase were quantified to determine the response of newly hatched (Zoea I) larvae of S. serrata to rotifers provided at four different densities (i.e., 10, 20,40, and [80mL.sup.-1]) from first-feeding. Results showed that rotifer density significantly (P < 0.01) influenced total activity (mU [larva.sup.-1]) patterns within 24h of first-feeding for all the enzymes assayed. Based on these patterns, utilization of the associated macronutrients (i.e., protein, lipid, and carbohydrate) was presumably similar when larvae were provided with rotifers at densities of 10, 20, or 40 [mL.sup.-1] and increased when larvae were provided with rotifers at a density of 80 [mL.sup.-1]. An optimal density at which to provide rotifers to S. serrata for first-feeding is likely to be >[40mL.sup.-1]. The comparative analyses of enzyme activities presented in this study represent an innovative approach to quickly (within 24 h) identify optimal food densities for larval crustaceans at first-feeding. KEY WORDS: Portunidae, Scylla serrata, mud crab, hatchery production, first-feeding, rotifers, enzyme activity patterns, INTRODUCTION Crabs of the genus Scylla, commonly referred to as mud crabs, have a complex life cycle, where larvae progress through five to six zoeal stages (3-5 days each) and [...]

The coastal fishing of the snail Titanostrombus gakatus is carried out in some coastal countries of the Tropical Eastern Pacific. In this study, the individual growth of T. galeatus that are fished in the community at Punta Maldonado was estimated. The size structure was made using the shell length (SL), and the growth parameters were estimated through the five Schnute cases, where cases 1, 2, and 5 describe asymptotic growth and cases 3 and 4 describe nonasymptotic growth. The male population was more abundant than the females, with 398 and 322 specimens, respectively, but the females were larger (198 [+ or -] 9.66 mm). In general, the average SL during the two sampling cycles was 196 [+ or -] 9.44 mm; this size was not significantly different between the first and second cycles (P = 0.98). Females had a greater range of SL (170-267 mm) compared with males (170-240 mm). The lengths of both sexes showed significant differences between months (P < 0.05). The multinomial analysis showed a multimodal SL distribution, with one to three modal groups for females and males. In growth, cases 2 and 5 were the ones that best describe the growth in females, in males the best were cases 5 and 2. According to the best case (case 2) in females, the growth curve is sigmoidal. In males, the best case (case 5) describes growth according to an inverted exponential curve. In relation to the estimated growth parameters, females showed faster growth than males, analyzed using Kimura's test. The present investigation is the first that reports the growth for both sexes of T. galeatus using the five cases of the Schnute model. The information generated can be used for management purposes, as this species is not currently regulated in Mexico. KEY WORDS: Titanostrombus galeatus, Strombidae, growth parameters, shellfish fisheries, Mexican Pacific, INTRODUCTION In fisheries biology, growth estimation is one important objective in the assessment and management of fishery resources. The growth pattern of individuals can provide details on their age structure [...]

Before collapsing, bay scallops (Argopecten irradians) supported commercial fisheries in Florida but, following decades of restoration efforts and management actions, still support a recreational fishery. Settlement was monitored along the west coast of Florida from 1992 through 2018, using collector traps. The primary environmental variables retained in the analyses included temperature, salinity, and red tide concentration (Karenia brevis). The settlement rate generally increased for the first days of trap deployment, then leveled off or declined. Settlement peaked when the average water temperatures were between 21[degrees]C and 23[degrees]C at four sites: St. Andrew Bay, St. Joseph Bay, West Coast, and Pine Island Sound, indicative of a fall peak in spawning. At the Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay sites, settlement peaked when temperatures were around 16[degrees]C, indicative of winter spawning. At most sites, the highest peak in settlement occurred in association with declines in temperature of 10[degrees]C-15[degrees]C during the fall, with a smaller, secondary peak occurring with similar increases in temperature during the spring. Warming winter temperatures may already be negatively affecting the ability of the subpopulations to synchronously spawn, with unknown impacts to population dynamics. At all sites, settlement declined rapidly when salinity fell below 30 with little settlement occurring below 27, and approached zero when salinity fell below approximately 20. The occurrence of K. brevis exceeding 10,000 cells/L resulted in reduced settlement. In the core populations of West Coast and Steinhatchee, K. brevis was uncommon, and settlement resumed rapidly when blooms abated. For sites outside the core population, settlement was reduced for 2-4 y after red tides. Recovery of populations in these noncore sites probably relies on exogenous supply of larvae from the core. If blooms of K. brevis that penetrate the core region, as was observed in 2021, become more severe, more frequent, or have longer durations, the entire Florida scallop population could be endangered. KEY WORDS: environmental factors, estuary, Karenia brevis, long-term monitoring, Argopecten irradians, INTRODUCTION Bay scallops (Argopecten irradians) range from Nova Scotia to northern Mexico and possibly as far south as Columbia, inclusive of the northern Gulf of Mexico (Abbott, 1974), with no [...]

Parasitic plants have evolved independently in 12 Angiosperm orders. Nine of them (Boraginales, Cucurbitales, Ericales, Lamiales, Laurales, Malvales, Santalales, Solanales, and Zygophyllales) are represented in Colombia by 17 families, 44 genera and 246 species, including facultative (37) and obligate (187) hemiparasites, holoexoparasites (19) and holoendoparasites (3). Cladocolea coriacea (Loranthaceae) is reported for the first time in Colombia. One genus (Sanguisuga, Cytinaceae) and 69 species (28.04%) are endemic to the country. Endemism decreases with elevation, ranging from 26 species (37.68%) below 1000 m, to one species (1.44%) above 4000 m. Speciation in Aetanthus, Psittacanthus and Tristerix (Loranthaceae), Dendrophthora and Phoradendron (Viscaceae), and Castilleja and Neobartsia (Orobanchaceae) was likely prompted by the Andean uplift. The highest number of species (169) are found in the Andean Region, whereas the Orinoco Region contains the lowest number (29). Dry forests and thickets, and coastal vegetation of the Caribbean Region are the preferred ecosystems for Krameria (Krameriaceae), Sanguisuga, Acanthosyris (Cervantesiaceae), Maracanthus (Loranthaceae), Ximenia (Ximeniaceae), Lennoa (Ehretiaceae), and Anisantherina (Orobanchaceae). Orobanche minor, recently introduced to the country, is the only potential weed for crops between 2500 and 3200 m in the Eastern Cordillera. Convergent lifeforms include: the obligate, twining stem holoparasitic Cassytha (Lauraceae) and Cuscuta (Convolvulaceae); the root holoexoparasitic Sanguisuga, Mitrastemon (Mitrastemonaceae), all Balanophoraceae, and Lennoa', and the root obligate hemiparasitic Krameria, Gaiadendron (Loranthaceae), and all Cervantesiaceae, Opiliaceae, Schoepfiaceae, Strombosiaceae and Ximeniaceae. Holoendoparasitism occurs only in Apodanthaceae, whereas root facultative hemiparasitism is restricted to the Orobanchaceae. Keywords Andean flora * Amazonian flora * Colombia's biodiversity * Dry forests Parasitic Angiosperms Las plantas parasitas han evolucionado independientemente en 12 ordenes de angiospermas. Nueve de estos (Boraginales, Cucurbitales, Ericales, Lamiales, Laurales, Malvales, Santalales, Solanales y Zygophyllales) estan representadas en Colombia por 17 familias, 44 generos y 246 especies, entre hemiparasitas facultativas (37) y obligadas (187), holoexoparasitas (19) y holoendoparasitas (3). Cladocolea coriacea (Loranthaceae) se reporta por primera vez en Colombia. Un genero (Sanguisuga, Cytinaceae) y 69 especies (28,04%) son endemicas del pals. El endemismo disminuye con la elevation, desde 26 especies (37,68%) por debajo de los 1000 m, hasta una especie (1,44%) por encima de los 4000 m. La especiacion en Aetanthus, Psittacanthus y Tristerix (Loranthaceae), Dendrophthora y Phoradendron (Viscaceae), y Castilleja y Neobartsia (Orobanchaceae) esta correlacionada con la orogenia Andina. El mayor numero de especies (169) se encuentra en la Region Andina, y el menor (29) en la Region Orinoquia. Los bosques y matorrales secos y la vegetation costera del Caribe son los ecosistemas preferidos por Krameria (Krameriaceae), Sanguisuga, Acanthosyris (Cervantesiaceae), Maracanthus (Loranthaceae), Ximenia (Ximeniaceae), Lennoa (Ehretiaceae) y Anisantherina (Orobanchaceae). Orobanche minor, recientemente introducida, es la unica maleza potencial en cultivos entre 2500 y 3200 m de la Cordillera Oriental. Las formas de vida convergentes incluyen: el holoparasitismo caulinar obligado de las trepadoras Cassytha (Lauraceae) y Cuscuta (Convolvulaceae); el holoexoparasitismo de ralces en Sanguisuga, Mitrastemon (Mitrastemonaceae), todas las Balanophoraceae, y Lennoa\ y el hemiparasitismo obligado de ralz en Krameria, Gaiadendron (Loranthaceae), y todas las Cervantesiaceae, Opiliaceae, Schoepfiaceae, Strombosiaceae y Ximeniaceae. El holoendoparasitismo ocurre solo en Apodanthaceae, mientras que el hemiparasitismo radicular facultativo esta restringido a las Orobanchaceae. Palabras clave Angiospermas parasfticas * Biodiversidad de Colombia * Bosques secos * Flora Amazonica * Flora Andina, Introduction Parasitism, one of the most striking biological interactions across the tree of life, has driven numerous evolutionary and adaptive novelties in plants and animals. Nevertheless, parasitism has been more [...]

Oyster population maintenance and growth require a sufficient larval supply competent for metamorphosis and settlement. Larval performance, in terms of growth, development, survival, and metamorphic success, determines the capacity for a larval cohort to effectively settle and establish into an existing population. Exogenous factors influencing larval development include temperature, salinity, food quantity, and food quality. A sufficient diet, composed of balanced protein, lipids, and carbohydrates to meet larval nutritional demands, is required to promote successful metamorphosis. To evaluate the influence of these exogenous factors on oyster settlement potential in Delaware Bay, a well-established biochemically based Crassostrea gigas (Thunberg, 1793) larval model was adapted to simulate Crassostrea virginica (Gmelin, 1791) larval performance under in situ environmental conditions measured during the 2009 to 2011 reproductive seasons at 10 sites across the salinity gradient of Delaware Bay. Variation in the initial egg size and lipid content, and larval food assimilation efficiency was incorporated into the model to represent potential within-cohort phenotypic variability. The middle portion of Delaware Bay along the New Jersey shoreline, bridging the 15-salinity line, generated the most successful larvae each year, whereas the low-salinity reach, on the Delaware side, and Nantuxent Point Reef had more variable success. Survivorship was a function of adequate temperatures and salinities, sufficient food quantity, and favorable food quality defined in part by the protein-to-(lipid-plus-carbohydrate) ratio. Most settlement was predicted by the model to occur between July and September of each year. To validate the model, estimated settlement windows were compared with calculated settlement windows derived from recruitment observations on yearly shell plants. Modeled and recruitment-derived settlement windows agreed well with each other and verified the capacity of the model to accurately forecast in situ larval performance. The oyster larval model, based on measures of lipid, protein, and carbohydrate, successfully passed an important field test, demonstrating the potential of such biochemically based models to reliably evaluate larval performance under real-world conditions. KEY WORDS: Crassostrea virginica, larvae, eastern oyster, performance model, settlement window, biochemical, food, INTRODUCTION Successful oyster population maintenance and growth require a consistent larval supply capable of settlement onto existing beds over time (Coen & Luckenbach 2000, Mann & Powell 2007, Lipcius et [...]

The future of American lobster (Homarus americanus; H. Milne Edwards, 1837) habitat has been extensively studied in the Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank regions, but studies quantifying spatiotemporal changes to suitable habitat in Southern New England (SNE) regions remain sparse. The American lobster stock assessment for SNE is conducted separately from the northern stock because of negligible migration and recruitment sharing between them. This fact, coupled with the assumption of spatial nonstationarity between the two stocks when it comes to environmental preferences, suggests thai analyses of suitable habitat must be conducted for each stock region independently. This study employs the use of a previously developed habitat suitability index model for American lobster to map historical and forecasted habitat in both the Gulf of Maine and SNE stock regions so that comparisons between long-term forecasts can be accurately made. The suitability indices generated in this study support the hypothesis of environmental nonstationarity between the stocks, with lobster in SNE preferring significantly different environments than their northern counterparts. In the coming decades, the Gulf of Maine lobster fishery may see changes in lobster migration timing as spring suitability decreases and fall suitability rises, whereas the SNE fishery will most likely see the continued use of northern waters by lobsters as more southern waters become less suitable. The rate of change in SNE remains smaller than in the Gulf of Maine owing to the lesser rate of warming observed. KEY WORDS: bioclimate, American lobster, habitat forecasts, climate change, bottom temperature, INTRODUCTION The American lobster (Homarus americanus) fishery in the Northwest Atlantic represents the most valuable single species fishery in the United States (NMFS 2020). In addition to a landing value [...]

Salinity fluctuations promote adverse effects on the immunity of marine bivalves; however, sometimes experimental data are controversial. In the present work, we evaluated in vivo effects of short-time salinity changes on hemocyte functions of Mediterranean mussel. Mytilus gailoprovincialis. Mussels were acclimated to hyposaline (6. 10, 14) and hypersaline (24.30) conditions and exposed to altered salinity for 2 days. Then hemolymph cellular composition, hemocyte immune (intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, phagocytic activity), and functional parameters (morphology, mitochondrial membrane potential) were measured using flow cytometry and fluorescent microscopy. Salinity fluctuations led to an increase of ROS production by hemocytes in all experimental groups. Increased ROS levels were accompanied with elevated mitochondrial membrane potential for all treatments except salinity 30, where the parameter decreased significantly. Salinity stress (all experimental groups) inhibited phagocytosis in agranulocytes, whereas stimulated phagocytic activity of granulocytes at salinity 14 and 24 indicating that moderate salinity fluctuations may cause stimulating effect on immunocytes of bivalves. Hypersaline and hyposaline treatments did not affect hemocyte morphology. These results indicate that hemocytes likely possess physiological mechanisms that restore initial cellular volume following hypoosmotic swelling/hyperosmotic shrinkage. Salinity stress affects hemocyte functionality of bivalves with varying intensity. KEY WORDS: salinity adaptation, intracellular ROS, mitochondrial membrane potential, INTRODUCTION Bivalve molluscs are major invertebrate organisms for fisheries and aquaculture and also play a crucial role in functioning of aquatic ecosystems. Bivalves are filter feeders; by filtering large amount [...]

Pines (n=121 species) are important elements of forest ecosystems. They are economically and ecologically valuable and are often at the center of efforts to manage forests to reduce the risk of wildland fires. The pattern and process of pine seed dispersal and seedling establishment have important implications for maintaining healthy forests. 75% of pines are dispersed by wind, and 25% are dispersed by scatter-hoarding birds and rodents. Among the wind-dispersed pines, there are about 20 species that attract the attention of seed-caching animals that gather seeds and cache them in soil, so these species are dispersed by a combination of wind and animals. Animal-dispersed pines often occur in semi-arid ecosystems. The seeds cached by animals are a dynamic resource. Animals pilfer each other's caches, move them to new sites and recache them. Some seed reside in dozens of different cache sites between seed maturation and seed germination. Many pines are adapted to fire. This involves serotinous cones (about 24 species), which are dense, woody, and lignified and remain closed at maturity. Serotiny establishes a canopy seed bank that can persist for several decades. Shortly after fire, these cones open and shed seeds onto the burned landscape. Pines often mast, producing large crops of seeds at intervals of several years. These large cone crops satiate the appetites of specialist seed predators, resulting in increased seedling establishment and also increases the effectiveness of seed dispersal. In the past, pines have responded to climate change by shifting geographic ranges, and some pines appear to be responding to warming climates in a similar way. Keywords Animal dispersal * Climate change * Fire * Forest management * Mutualisms * Wind dispersal, Introduction Pines (Pinus spp.) are among the most important, ecologically diverse, and most widely distributed gymnosperms (McCune, 1988; Richardson and Rundel, 1998). Most pines are found in stressful environments including [...]

Breeding systems play an essential role in plant sexual reproduction and influence speciation and extinction processes. However, our understanding of the breeding systems for particular neotropical angiosperm families is inadequate. The Pineapple family (Bromeliaceae) is one of the few indigenous and highly diverse plant lineages native to the American Continent and is a resource for the ornamental plant industry. Bromeliads have a remarkable history of adaptive radiation, yet the role of breeding systems in their evolution and ecology is still unknown. This review aims to establish the current state of knowledge on breeding systems in Bromeliaceae by identifying general patterns, data limitations, and information gaps. We compiled data on self-compatibility (SC), autonomous self-fertilization (selfing), and apomixis based on a thorough review of the scientific literature from 1990 to 2020. The final database included 177 entries, which represented 26 genera and 152 species (4.1% of the family). Two-thirds of the studies were conducted on species from highly diverse genera: Aechmea, Pitcairnia, Tillandsia, and Vriesea. Bromeliaceae exhibit a wide variety of breeding systems (SC and selfing). Subfamilies Pitcaimioideae (sensu stricto) and Tillandsioideae had higher values of SC and selfing, although some of the most investigated genera in each subfamily exhibited contradictory patterns and data for subfamilies considered ancestral were absent. Complete apomixis was rare, but it was more prevalent in Pitcaimioideae. The evolution of autofertility is likely the combined result of floral herkogamy as well as the species' self-compatibility. Our present understanding of the evolutionary advantages of selfing in Bromeliaceae is limited and deserves further investigation. Keywords Apomixis * Autonomous selfing * Controlled pollination * Self-incompatibility * Self-fertilization Los sistemas reproductivos juegan un papel esencial en la reproduction sexual de las plantas e influyen en los procesos de especiacion y extincion. Sin embargo, nuestra comprension de los sistemas reproductivos de familias de angiospermas neotropicales particulares es inadecuada. La familia de la pina (Bromeliaceae) es uno de los pocos linajes de plantas autoctonas y muy diversas del continente americano y es un recurso para la industria de las plantas omamentales. Las bromelias tienen una historia notable de radiacion adaptativa, pero aun se desconoce el papel de los sistemas de reproduccion en su evolucion y ecologia. Esta revision tiene como objetivo establecer el estado actual del conocimiento sobre los sistemas de reproduccion en Bromeliaceae mediante la identification de patrones generales, limitaciones de datos y vacios de information. Recopilamos datos sobre autocompatibilidad (AC), auto-fertilizacion espontanea y apomixis a partir de una revision exhaustiva de la literatura cientifica de 1990 a 2020. La base de datos final incluyo 177 registros, que representan 26 generos y 152 especies (4.1% de la familia). Dos tercios de los estudios se realizaron en especies de generos muy diversos: Aechmea, Pitcairnia, Tillandsia y Vriesea. Las bromeliaceas exhiben una amplia variedad de sistemas de reproduccion (AC y auto-fertilizacion). Las subfamilias Pitcairnioideae (sensu stricto) y Tillandsioideae tuvieron valores mas altos de SC y auto-fertilizacion, aunque algunos de los generos mas investigados en cada subfamilia exhibieron patrones contradictorios y no hubo datos para las subfamilias consideradas ancestrales. La apomixis completa fue rara, pero fue mas frecuente en Pitcairnioideae. La evolucion de la autofertilidad es probablemente el resultado combinado de hercogamia y autocompatibilidad de las especies. Nuestra comprension actual de las ventajas evolutivas de la auto-fertilizacion en Bromeliaceae es limitada y merece una mayor investigation., Introduction Breeding systems combine morphological and physiological traits of flowers that determine the likelihood that two gametes will unite (Neal & Anderson, 2005) and play a crucial role in the [...]

The population biology of the limpet Cellanagrata in the Nanji Islands region was studied to facilitate its protection. In 2021, monthly collections of C. grata (2,624 individuals) were taken from the Nanji Islands in Zhejiang Province, China. Hierarchical cluster, regression, and path analysis were used to analyze the group composition and growth. The results showed that (1) the meat:shell ratio was highest in May, lowest in October, and the breeding season was in June. (2) The population was divided into three age groups (0-12, 13-24, and >24mo), accounting for 33.77%, 57.96%, and 8.27% of the total population. respectively. The shell lengths were less than 25mm (first age group), 26-34mm (second group), and greater than 34mm (third group), and a supplementary population (shell length 22mm) appeared in June. (3) Growth rates were high from March to May (absolute shell growth rate: 1.24. 1.45. and 0.85 mm) and September to October (0.88. 1.43 mm). and low from June to July (0.46. 0.65mm) and November to December (0.73. 0.36mm). Growth rates were moderate in other months (0.72, 0.74mm). (4) The optimal regression equation between total mass ( Y) and morphological parameters (sample shell length. [X.sub.4] shell width. X,: shell height, [X.sub.3]) was Y= -8.325+ 0.174A[X.sub.1] + 0.218[X.sub.2] + 0.219[X.sub.3], ([R.sup.2] = 0.853). The effects of morphological traits on body weight were also analyzed. KEY WORDS: Limpet. Cellana grata, age structure, growth. Nanji Islands, INTRODUCTION The Nanji Islands (7[degrees] 24' 30'-27[degrees] 30' 00' N. 120[degrees] 56' 30' 121[degrees] 08' 30' E) are located in the southeast waters of Pingyang County, Zhejiang Province, China, in [...]

Many bird species exhibit both social monogamy and genetic polygamy. Rates of genetic polygamy (often reported as the proportion of nests containing extra-pair young) in socially monogamous species vary widely, stimulating much research into the potentially adaptive value of these behaviors. Similarly, adult and nestling sex ratios of bird populations are not infrequently male-biased, leading to questions of the adaptive value of a female's ability to influence sex ratios within her nest. Empirical data on both aspects of reproductive behavior, however, are still scarce for a majority of species even within relatively well-studied bird communities. We sampled DNA from nestling (n = 153) and adult (n = 121) Seaside Sparrows (Ammospiza maritima) at 58 nests in southeastern Louisiana from 2012 to 2017. We used microsatellite genotype analyses to discover that (1) ~32% of nests contained broods with mixed paternity, and (2) ~4% of broods contained evidence of mixed maternity. We sexed all birds via PCR and found a significant male bias among nestlings (62% of all nestlings were males). Prevalence of mixed paternity and male bias among nestlings did not appear to be related to site oiling status following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, site context, timing within breeding season, or density of adult Seaside Sparrows or nests. Nonetheless, these results indicate a need for further work to understand the breeding biology of Seaside Sparrows. Key words: breeding system, extra-pair mating, extra-pair paternity, Passerellidae, saltmarsh, sex bias. Muchas especies de aves muestran tanto monogamia social como poligamia genetica. Las tasas de poligamia genetica (muchas veces reportadas como la proporcion de nidos que contienen un polluelo fuera de la pareja) en especies monogamas sociales es muy variable, lo que favorece la investigacion en el potencial valor adaptativo de estos comportamientos. De la misma manera, las proporciones de sexo de adultos y de polluelos de las poblaciones de aves no son infrecuentemente sesgadas hacia los machos, lo que lleva a preguntarse sobre el valor adaptativo de la habilidad de la hembra en influir en las proporciones sexuales dentro de su nido. Datos empiricos en ambos aspectos de comportamiento reproductivo, sin embargo, son todavia escasos en la mayoria de especies aun dentro de comunidades de aves relativamente bien estudiadas. Muestreamos ADN de nidadas (n = 153) y adultos (n = 121) de chingolos Ammospiza maritima de 58 nidos del sudeste de Louisiana de 2021 al 2017. Utilizamos analisis genotipicos satelitales para descubrir que (1) ~32% de los nidos contenian nidadas con patemidad mixta, y alrededor de (2) ~4% de las nidadas contenian evidencia de maternidad mixta. Determinamos el sexo de todas las aves por medio de PCR y encontramos un sesgo masculino significativo en todas las nidadas (62% de todas las nidadas eran machos). La prevalencia de la patemidad mixta y el sesgo masculino entre las nidadas no parece estar relacionado con el estatus de contaminacion del sitio despues del derrame de petroleo del Deepwater Horizon, contexto del sitio, temporalidad al interior de la temporada reproductiva o densidad del adulto de chingolos Ammospiza maritima o de nidos. Sin embargo, estos resultados indican una necesidad de estudios posteriores para entender la biologia reproductiva de los chingolos Ammospiza maritima. Palabras clave: pantano, Passerellidae, produccion fuera de la pareja, reproduccion fuera de la pareja, sesgo reproductive, sistema reproductive., Many bird species exhibit social monogamy but genetic polygamy (most often in the form of extrapair paternity, or EPP). The traditional view that the co-occurrence of social monogamy and genetic [...]

Spatial patterns and dynamics arc important components in understanding the relation between animals and their habitat, and how this relation changes over time. Methods for assessing spatial properties in bird populations are expensive, difficult, and intrusive, such as GPS tracking or capture-recapture, limiting our ability to measure these important characteristics. The Morisita Index and Ripley's K function are both methods used to measure the distribution, clustering, and spatial organization of organisms in a given area. The goal of this paper is to demonstrate how these 2 simple methods can be applied in ornithology studies, based on simple and easily obtained data. To exemplify the application of both methods, I use coordinate data for Southern Lapwings (Vanellus chilensis) in southern Brazil over 2 different periods: the breeding and nonbreeding seasons. The analyses show that both methods obtain similar results and indicate aggregation among birds during both the breeding and nonbreeding periods. The Morisita Index was sensitive to changes in quadrat size while variations in Ripley's K. function were more difficult to interpret. Both methods have advantages and limitations that should be taken into consideration; nevertheless, the Morisita Index and Ripley's K function can be important tools in studies of ecological spatial processes and patterns in birds. Received 16 May 2022. Accepted 31 May 2023. Key words: aggregation, distribution, point pattern data, spatial ecology. Padrões e dinâmicas espaciais são importantes componentes no entendimento das relações entre animais e ambiente, e como estas relações mudam com o tempo. Métodos para obter propriedades espaciais de populações de aves são em geral caros, difíceis e intrusivos, como uso de GPS ou captura-recaptura de animais, limitando nossa habilidade de medir essas importantes características. O índice de Morisita e a função K de Ripley são métodos utilizados para mensurar a distribuição, agrupamento e organização espacial de organismos dentro de uma mesma área. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi demonstrar como estes dois métodos simples podem ser utilizados em estudos ornitológicos, utilizando dados simples e fáceis de obter. Para exemplificar a aplicação de ambos os métodos, foram utilizados dados de coordenadas de quero-queros (Vanellus chilensis) no sul do Brasil durante dois períodos: estação reprodutiva e estação não-reprodutiva. As análises mostraram que ambos os métodos obtiveram resultados similares e indicaram o agrupamento entre os indivíduos da espécie durante ambos os períodos. O índice de Morisita foi sensível ao tamanho do quadrante enquanto variações na função K de Ripley foram mais difíceis de serem interpretadas. Ambos os métodos apresentam vantagens e limitações que devem ser levadas em consideração, apesar de tanto o índice de Morisita quanto a função K de Ripley terem se mostrados importantes ferramentas para estudos dos processos e padrões espaciais e ecológicos de populações de aves. Palavras-chave: agregação, coordenadas, distribuição, ecologia espacial, quero-quero., The occupation and use of space are intrinsically linked to the ecological and evolutionary history of a species (Sirami et al. 2009). Wild bird populations have different ways to occupy [...]

Most passerines use fat to fuel migration and pause at stopover sites to rest or refuel. Moreover, during spring migration, en route to breeding grounds, passerines may deposit 'excess' fat as either insurance against unpredictable environmental conditions or in anticipation of breeding. We analyzed the energetic condition of Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus), Swainson's Thrush (C. ustulatus), and Veery (C. fuscescens) during spring and autumn migration at the Braddock Bay Bird Observatory (Rochester, New York, USA). We used path analysis to determine if the 'spring fatter' or insurance hypotheses could help explain some of the variation in energetic condition in Catharus thrushes by designing and analyzing biologically plausible models of the potential effects of season, capture date, hour captured, and age on energetic condition during stopover. While path models differed among species and seasons, capture (or arrival) date was the strongest predictor of energetic condition; contrary to the insurance hypothesis condition increased with date during both seasons for all species. Hour of capture predicted much less variation in condition but was consistently positive (when significant). In long-distance migrants (i.e., Swainson's Thrush and Veery), less experienced or young migrants exhibited better condition than adults regardless of arriving later, which was revealed by including a direct path between age and condition and an indirect path mediated via capture date to control for potential differences in arrival timing related to age. Despite being closely related, we found only a few patterns in common among Swainson's Thrush, Hermit Thrush, and Veery. We suspect differences in phenology, flight, morphology, and migratory strategy may play a significant role in the differences among these species. Key words: confirmatory path analysis, insurance hypothesis, migration, songbirds, 'spring fatter' hypothesis, stopover ecology, structural equation modeling. La mayoría de las aves paserinas utilizan la grasa para impulsar la migración y los sitios de escala para descansar o recargarse. Por ejemplo, durante la migración de primavera, camino a las zonas de reproducción, las aves paserinas pueden formar depósitos de grasa ya sea como seguro contra condiciones ambientales impredecibles o en anticipación a la reproducción. Analizamos la condición energética de los zorzales Catharus guttatus, C. ustulatus, y C. fuscescens durante las migraciones de primavera y de otoño en Braddock Bay Bird Observatory (Rochester, New York, USA). Utilizamos análisis de trayectorias para determinar si la hipotésis de 'más gordo en primavera' o la hipótesis de aseguramiento podrían explicar parte de la variación en la condición energética de zorzales Catharus al diseñar y analizar modelos biológicamente posibles de efectos potenciales de estacionalidad, fecha de captura, hora de captura y edad en la condición energética durante su escala. Aunque los modelos de trayectoria difirieron entre especies y estaciones, la fecha de captura (o llegada) fue el predictor más importante de condición energética y esta condición se incrementó a lo largo de ambas estaciones para todas las especies. La hora de captura predijo mucha menos variación pero fue consistentemente positiva (cuando fue significativa). En aves migratorias de larga distancia (como los zorzales C. ustulatus y C. fuscescens), las aves migratorias con menos experiencia o más jóvenes mostraban mejor condición que los adultos aunque llegaran más tarde, lo que fue revelado al incluir una trayectoria directa entre la edad y la condición y una trayectoria indirecta mediada por la fecha de captura para controlar por diferencias potenciales en el tiempo de llegada relacionadas a la edad. A pesar de su relación cercana, encontramos solo unos pocos patrones relacionados entre los zorzales C guttatus, C. ustulatus, y C. fuscescens. Sospechamos que diferencias en fenología, vuelo, morfología y estrategia migratoria pueden jugar un papel importante en las diferencias entre estas especies. Palabras clave: análisis de confirmación de trayectoria, aves canoras, ecología de escala, hipótesis de aseguramiento, hipótesis de 'más gordo en primavera', migración, modelado de ecuaciones estructurales., Energy is essential to the success of biannual passerine migration between breeding and wintering grounds (Blem 1980). Migrants undergo physiological and behavioral changes, such as hyperphagia or increasing basal metabolism, [...]

With rapid global change in the Anthropocene, it is important to understand and predict changes in species distributions that could potentially impact entire ecosystems. Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) distribution has been expanding and, as an obligate scavenger, its presence can have an impact on the ecosystems it inhabits. Here we investigated the relative impact of human population density and climate (temperature and precipitation) on Turkey Vulture presence. We used eBird community science data from 2010-2020 to create a species distribution model for Turkey Vultures across their entire range using a Random Forests algorithm. We then projected this distribution for the year 2070 to estimate any changes. Our model predicted an expansion in Turkey Vulture distribution during the breeding season of May-August. This suggests that areas of both North and South America where only seasonal, migratory Turkey Vultures currently exist can expect resident populations of Turkey Vultures in the future. Mild temperature was an important variable for presence during the nonbreeding season, whereas low human density was more important for predicting presence during the breeding season. The distribution of Turkey Vultures is widest during the breeding season, meaning that factors influencing the breeding range could be considered more important when considering range expansion. As such, our findings suggest that warmer boreal winters coupled with the potential presence of domestic carcasses in agricultural areas (i.e., low human density) are facilitating Turkey Vulture range expansion. This expansion has important implications for the scavenging community in northern latitudes where increased Turkey Vulture presence might impact other species relying on carrion. Key words: climate, global change, human density, random forests, range expansion, scavenger. Con el rápido cambio global en el Antropoceno, es importante entender y predecir cambios en distribución de especies que podrían potencialmente tener un impacto en ecosistemas completos. La distribución del zopilote de cabeza roja (Cathartes aura) se ha ido expandiendo y, como carroñero obligado, su presencia puede tener un impacto en los ecosistemas que habita. Aqui investigamos el impacto relativo de la densidad de población humana y del clima (temperatura y precipitación) en la presencia del zopilote de cabeza roja. Utilizamos datos de ciencia ciudadana de eBird del 2010-2020 para crear modelos de distribución de especies de los zopilotes de cabeza roja en su rango completo usando un algoritmo de Random Forests. Luego proyectamos su distribución para el año 2070 para estimar cambios posibles. Nuestro modelo predijo una expansión en la distribución del zopilote de cabeza roja durante la temporada reproductiva de mayo-agosto. Esto sugiere que áreas tanto de Norte como Sudamérica donde los zopilotes de cabeza roja eran solo estacionales migratorios podrían esperar tener poblaciones residentes de este zopilote en el futuro. La variable temperatura templada fue importante para la presencia durante la temporada no-reproductiva, mientras que la baja densidad humana fue un predictor más importante durante la temporada reproductiva. La distribución de los zopilotes de cabeza roja es más amplia durante la temporada reproductiva, lo que significa que los factores que influyen en el rango reproductivo podrían ser considerados más importantes al considerar la expansión de rango. Asi, nuestros hallazgos sugieren que inviernos boreales más cálidos junto con la presencia potencial de restos de animales domésticos en áreas agrícolas (es decir, de baja densidad humana) facilitan el rango de expansión del zopilote de cabeza roja. Esta expansión tiene implicaciones importantes para la comunidad de carroñeros en latitudes norteñas donde la presencia en aumento del zopilote de cabeza roja puede tener un impacto en otras especies dependientes de la carroña. Palabras clave: cambio global, carroñero, clima, densidad humana, expansión de rango., Vultures are declining on a global scale, with 62% of species showing declining populations and 57% threatened with extinction (IUCN 2020). In contrast to vulture populations in Africa and Asia, [...]

Nests of 3 species of swifts were monitored at Parque Nacional Yacambu in the Venezuelan Andes from 2003 to 2008. We focused on 25 nests of the little-known Spot-fronted Swift (Cypseloides cherriei), herein reported in 2 new localities for Venezuela. We compared life history traits with those of the more studied and widespread Chestnut-collared (Streptoprocne rutila; 35 nests) and White-collared (S. zonaris; 4 nests) swifts. Spot-fronted Swift had a clutch size of 1 egg (3.58 g) and an egg: adult mass proportion of 15.6% with an incubation period of 36 d, longer than the 29 d reported in Costa Rica. Chestnut-collared Swift had a clutch size (1.83), incubation (25 d) and nestling (35-41 d) periods similar to those in Costa Rica. Estimated growth rate constants for mass, tarsus, and wing chord for the latter were very slow. White-collared Swift had a clutch size of 2 and its observed incubation (39 d) and nestling (66+ d) periods were longer than those reported for Costa Rica and Argentina. Breeding traits of these 3 species differed significantly considering their relatedness and co-occurrence. Breeding data of most Cypseloidinae swifts along the latitudinal gradient were reviewed to facilitate intraspecific and interspecific comparisons of these elusive species, as well as to identify gaps in current knowledge. Key words: breeding traits, Cypscloidinac, distribution, growth rate, incubation/nestling period, range extension. Nidos de 3 especies de vencejo fueron monitoreados en el Parque Nacional Yacambú en los Andes venezolanos entre 2003-2008. Nos enfocamos en 25 nidos del poco conocido Cypseloides cherriei, aquí reportado en 2 localidades nuevas para Venezuela. Comparamos sus rasgos de historia de vida con los de los más estudiados y ampliamente distribuidos Streptoprocne rutila (35 nidos) y S. zonaris (4 nidos). C. cherriei tuvo un tamaño de puesta de 1 huevo (3.58 g) y una proporción huevo:masa del adulto de 15.6% con un periodo de incubación de 36 d, más largo que el de 29 d reportado en Costa Rica. S. rutila tuvo un tamaño de puesta (1.83), periodos de incubación (25 d) y de polluelos (35-41 d) similares a aquellos en Costa Rica. Las tasas de crecimiento estimadas para masa, tarso y cuerda del ala para este último fueron bastante lentas. S. zonaris tuvo un tamaño de puesta de 2 y periodos de incubación (39 d) y de polluelos (66+ d) más largos que los reportados para Costa Rica y Argentina. Los rasgos reproductivos de estas 3 especies difieren significativamente considerando su parentesco y coocurrencia. Compilamos datos reproductivos de la mayoría de los vencejos Cypseloidinae a lo largo del gradiente latitudinal para facilitar comparaciones intra-e interespecificas de estas especies elusivas, así como para identificar vacíos en el conocimiento. Palabras clave: Cypseloidinae, distribución, extensión de rango, periodo de incubación/polluelos. rasgos reproductivos, tasa de crecimiento., Swifts of the subfamily Cypseloidinae are the largest and most conspicuous species of Apodidae in the New World (Pichorim 2002, Restall et al. 2006). However, their aerial lifestyle, the difficulty [...]

-Black Oystercatcher (Haematopus bachmani) is an important indicator species for the ecological integrity of rocky coastal ecosystems of western North America. From 2007 to 2022, 49 Black Oystercatchcrs were banded and resightcd in subsequent years in and around Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. We used Cormack-Jolly-Seber mark-recapture models on 16 years of encounter histories to estimate apparent adult annual survival ([phi]), encounter probability (p), and to determine if there was a sex effect on apparent survival. The apparent survival estimate was high (0.91 [+ or -] 0.02), as reported for other oystercatcher species. Apparent survival was not sex-dependent, but encounter probability was 9.8% higher in females (0.96 [+ or -] 0.02) than in males (0.87 [+ or -] 0.03), for reasons we cannot definitively establish. The population trend in the studied population for 2008-2022 was estimated at 3.47 [+ or -]0.50%, indicating a growing population with an apparent surplus of adult individuals. These survival, encounter, and population trend estimates arc important for future monitoring of the Pacific Rim and other Black Oystercatcher populations. Key words: aggregation, distribution, point pattern data, spatial ecology. El ostrero Haematopus bachmani es una especie importante indicadora de la integridad ecológica dei ecosistemas costeros rocosos en el oeste de Norteamérica. Del 2007 ai 2022, 49 ostreros Haematopus bachmani fueron anillados y reobservados en anos siguientes dentro y alrededor de Pacific Rim National Park Reserve en Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Canadá. Usamos modelos de marca-recaptura de Cormack-Jolly-Seber para 16 anos de historial de encuentros para estimar el efecto de la sobrevivencia aparente ([PHI]). probabilidad de encuentros (p) y determinar si había un efecto de sexo en la sobrevivencia aparente. La tasa de sobrevivencia aparente fue alta (0.91 [+ or -] 0.02). como ha sido reportado para otras especies de ostreros. La sobrevivencia aparente no dependia del sexo. pero la probabilidad de encuentro era 9.8% mayor en hembras (0.96 [+ or -] 0.02) que en machos (0.87 [+ or -] 0.03), por razones que no podemos establecer de forma definitiva. La tendencia poblacional en la población estudiada para 2008-2022 fue estimada en 3.47 [+ or -] 0.50%. lo que indica una población creciente con un aparente excedente de indivíduos adultos. Estas estimaciones de sobrevivência, encuentro y tendências poblacionales son importantes para futuros monitoreos de la población de ostreros de Pacific Rim y de otras poblaciones. Palabras clave: intermareal, marca-recaptura, modelo Cormack-Jolly-Seber. TRIM, zona costera., Demographic rates can drive changes in shore-bird populations, so understanding these vital rates is key to addressing concerns regarding population change. A popular method of assessing demographic rates in shorebirds [...]

Ultramafic ecosystems are renowned for high endemism and habitat specialization. However, most of our understanding of ultramafic plant ecology comes from Mediterranean and temperate climes, raising questions about the generalizability of plant responses to ultramafic soils. This is especially apparent in tropical ultramafic ecosystems which exhibit a wide range of endemism and differentiation between ultramafic and adjacent non-ultramafic soils. Our objectives were two-fold: 1) synthesize our understanding of tropical ultramafic plant ecology, paying particular attention to generalities that may explain variation in endemism and habitat specialization among tropical ultramafic ecosystems; and 2) define an interdisciplinary research agenda using tropical ultramafic ecosystems as a macroecological model. We demonstrate that tropical ultramafic floras are diverse and variable in plant form and function due to the interactive effects of biogeography, climate, and edaphic properties. The variable rates of endemism, specialization, and stress tolerance traits across tropical ultramafic ecosystems have implications for the management and conservation of these diverse systems. Los ecosistemas ultramaficos son reconocidos por su endemismo y especializacion del habitat. Sin embargo, la mayor parte de nuestra comprension de la ecologia vegetal ultramafica proviene de climas mediterraneos y templados, lo que plantea dudas sobre la generalizacion de las respuestas de las plantas a los suelos ultramaficos. Esto es especialmente evidente en los ecosistemas tropicales ultramaficos que exhiben una amplia gama de endemismo y diferenciacion entre suelos tropicales ultramaficos y no ultramaficos adyacentes. Nosotros teniamos dos objetivos: 1) sintetizar nuestra comprension actual de la ecologia de las plantas tropicales ultramaficas, prestando especial atencion a las generalidades que pueden explicar la variacion en el endemismo y la especializacion del habitat entre los ecosistemas tropicales ultramaficos; y 2) definir una agenda de investigacion interdisciplinaria utilizando ecosistemas ultramaficos tropicales como modelo macroecologico. Las floras tropicales ultramaficas son diversas y variables en la forma y funcion de las plantas debido a los efectos interactivos de la biogeografia, el clima y las propiedades edaficas. Las tasas variables de endemismo, especializacion y rasgos de tolerancia al estres en los ecosistemas tropicales ultramaficos tienen implicaciones para el manejo y conservacion de estos diversos sistemas. Keywords Edaphic * Endemism * Hyperaccumulator * Metallophyte * Serpentine * Unusual soil, Introduction Ultramafic (serpentine) soils have long attracted scientific attention due to their specialized flora and ecological and evolutionary implications. However, our understanding of ultramafic plant ecology remains dominated by research [...]

Annual migrations are energetically challenging for migratory passerines and represent a potentially stressful period of the annual cycle, particularly during brief refueling periods at stopover sites. Shoreline habitats near the Great Lakes in eastern North America support many landbird migrants; however, environmental factors--including food availability and unpredictable weather--may impact the health and physiological condition of these birds during refueling periods. The aim of this study at the Braddock Bay Bird Observatory was to use key blood metrics (plasma metabolite profiling and leukocyte counts) to assess annual and within-season variation in nutrient utilization and physiological condition of 3 species of Catharus thrushes with known variation in migration strategy and passage timing. We observed similar plasma triglyceride concentrations across species; however, glucose and uric acid were elevated in a short-distance migrant, the Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus). Furthermore, Hermit Thrush showed higher heterophil/lymphocyte ratios than Gray-cheeked Thrush (C. minimus) or Swainson's Thrush (C. ustulatus). Year was an important factor in all analyses exploring variables that may influence nutrient utilization or chronic stress. Our results suggest that thrushes with diverse migration strategies do not significantly differ in fat deposition patterns at the site, but end-of-season migrants may consume different resources and display increased chronic stress levels as they experience reduced food availability with the progression of autumn migration. We additionally propose that annual variation detected in this multi-year study underscores the importance of physiological condition metrics as tools for assessing yearly patterns in refueling performance at stopover sites, which is especially relevant in light of the continuing pressures of invasive species and environmental change. Key words: H/L ratio, migration, nutrient use, passerines, plasma metabolites, refueling. Las migraciones anuales son energeticamente demandantes para aves paserinas migratorias y representan un periodo potencialmente estresante en su ciclo anual, particularmente en los periodos breves de reabastecimiento en sus sitios de parada migratoria. Habitats riberenos cerca de los Grandes Lagos del este de Norteamerica mantienen a muchas aves terrestres migratorias; sin embargo, factores ambientales--incluyendo disponibilidad de comida y tiempo impredecible--puede tener un impacto en la salud y el estado fisiologico de estas aves en los periodos de reabastecimiento. El objetivo de este estudio en el Braddock Bay Bird Observatory fue usar indicadores sanguineos clave (perfil metabolico de plasma y conteo de leucocitos) para evaluar la variacion anual e inter-estacional de uso de nutrientes y de condicion fisiologica de 3 especies de zorzales Catharus con variacion conocida en estrategia migratoria y tiempo de paso. Observamos que las concentraciones de triglicericos en plasma eran similares entre especies; sin embargo, la glucosa y el acido urico eran elevados en un migrante de corta distancia, el zorzal Catharus guttatus. Ademas, el zorzal C. guttatus mostro una relacion mas elevada de heterofilos/linfocitos que el zorzal C. minimus o que el zorzal C. ustulatus. El ano fue un factor importante en todos los analisis que exploraron variables que podian influir en el uso de nutrientes o el estres cronico. Nuestros resultados sugieren que zorzales con estrategias de migracion diversas no difieren significativamente en patrones de deposito de grasa en el sitio, pero los migrantes de! final de temporada pueden consumir diferentes recursos y mostrar niveles mayores de estres cronico ya que experimentan una disponibilidad de alimento reducida con el avance de la migracion otonal. Adicionalmente proponemos que la variacion anual detectada en este estudio multianual subraya la importancia de las metricas de condicion fisiologica como herramientas para evaluar patrones anuales en el desempeno de la recarga en sitios de parada, lo que es especialmente relevante a la luz de las presione continuas de especies invasoras y de cambio ambiental. Palabras clave: aves paserinas, metabolitos del plasma, migracion, reabastecimiento, relacion H/L, uso de nutrientes., Birds that migrate long distances between breeding and wintering grounds are exposed to a variety of potential stressors that may impact their physiological condition and migration success, which could contribute [...]

The family Asparagaceae (subfamily Scilloideae, APG III, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society 161:105-121, 2009) constitutes approximately 1000 species in about 33 genera of deciduous bulbous geophytes with long history of medicinal utilities. However, satisfactory delimitation of genera as well as species boundaries within most genera still remain doubtful for the lack of reliable discriminating characters with morphological traits showing continuous variation. Detailed cytogenetic characterization and thorough comparative analysis is still scanty in this group and thus can provide supportive taxonomical data besides serving as basis for further genomic studies. This group showcases diverse cytogenetic characters studied across 4 tribes: Hyacintheae, Urgineeae, Ornithogaleae and Oziroeeae. Cytogenetic investigation has not yet been initiated in more than 50% of accepted species, studies mostly limited to chromosome counts or conventional karyotyping methods. Somatic chromosome counts have been reported in around 378 species varying from 2n = 4 in Ornithogaleae to 2n= 150 in Hyacintheae and the basic ancestral chromosome number of x= 10 is proposed for the subfamily and secondary base numbers presumed to arise by descending dysploidy followed by polyploidization leading to such variation. Meiotic analysis and genome size estimation is reported in very few species and requires further investigation. Karyotype in most taxa exhibits a general pattern characterized by asymmetry with predominance of acrocentric chromosomes. Fluorochrome banding by CMA/DAPI staining and FISH although reported in very few species revealed characteristic patterns in different taxa, with potential taxonomic utilities. Thus, comparison of compiled data depicted some patterns of chromosomal diversity within the subfamily Scilloideae but study of more taxa is required for prediction of trends. Keywords Scilloideae * Hyacinthaceae * Hyacintheae * Urgineeae * Ornithogaleae * Oziroeeae * Chromosome, Introduction The definition of genera and the assignment of species to genera within the family Asparagaceae (subfamily Scilloideae) have troubled taxonomists since Linnaeus. More than 3500 species have been reported [...]

Many authors have tested a large number of tagging methodologies on sea urchins, either with the aim to study the growth of urchins, their movement patterns, the dynamics of their populations, or their ecology and development in the natural environment. Different types of markings, both external and internal, have been used for the individual identification of sea urchins since the year 1935. Since the year 1969. marking techniques based on different chemical substances were also implemented, either by immersion in fluorochrome baths or by injecting these substances directly into the sea urchin. There is a clear need to collect all the existing information to date related to the marking methodologies for sea urchins, to establish the most appropriate marking methodology for each species of sea urchin, depending on the objective and duration of the study to be performed. This report presents for the first time a complete review of tagging methodologies used until the date in different species of sea urchins, from physical methods, such as the use of Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) Tags, Anchor tags, and so on, to chemical ones, in which different fluorochromes are used that adhere to the calcified structures of the sea urchin and are subsequently detected using a fluorescence microscope. We also analyzed the effectiveness of the methods used in each case, comparing the survival rate, the tag retention rate, or the recapture rate of tagged urchins obtained with each tagging methodology. The evolution of the physical tags for sea urchins should be oriented toward the development of more durable markings over time, which allow marking urchins of smaller diameter and which in turn present a higher retention rate in the long term, both in captivity conditions and in the natural environment. The chemical tags should be aimed at reducing costs through the development of methods, where the mark can be visualized without the need of fluorescence microscopes, the development of methods in which the dyes can be reused, and finally to the development of techniques that allow to visualize the fluorochrome marks externally, without the need to sacrifice the urchin for the mark detection. KEY WORDS: Sea urchin, marking, tags, fluorochromes, retention rate, MARK AND TAG DEFINITIONS AS USED IN THIS ARTICLE Mark: Object attached to or inserted into the individual intended to facilitate identification (they can be colored ribbons, stickers, wires, etc.) [...]

Since 1898, the Pacific razor clam, Siliqua patula has represented an important resource for commercial and recreational diggers and has been an important source of economic revenue to coastal communities in the Pacific Northwest from central California to southern Alaska. In 1996, Washington State adopted the Pumped Area Method as the preferred method to accurately assess populations of razor clams on coastal beaches. The Pumped Area Method utilizes a water pump and a series of hoses to draw water out of the surf to liquefy the clam bed exposing clams so they can be measured and recorded. This method relies on a fixed stratified random sampling of transects across all managed beaches to produce a robust estimate of the total population of clams. The Pumped Area Method has been adopted by state and tribal management agencies along the west coast to determine the total allowable catch in each management area but never been formally described. This method in conjunction with a biweekly sampling of toxic algae abundance supports the sustainable harvest of razor clams, providing up to 40 million dollars annually in economic income to the state of Washington for the last 25 y. KEY WORDS: Siliqua patula, shellfish, management, coastal, stock assessment, INTRODUCTION The Pacific razor clam, Siliqua patula (Dixon, 1788), is a bivalve found along intertidal beaches from Alaska to California. Coastal beaches in Washington are considered the primary razor clam [...]

Organisms increase in size over time (age) due to excess assimilation over metabolic (respiration) energy demands. Most organisms reach a maximum size with increasing age as gain and loss balance. The von Bertalanffy length-at-age relationship, which is commonly used in fishery assessment calculations, imposes such a maximum size. However, some fished species, such as ocean quahogs, Arctica islandica, are long lived and continue to grow at old age. The Tanaka age-at-length relationship has continued growth at old age, but is rarely used in stock assessment models. A modified form of the von Bertalanffy model is presented, which mimics the continued growth at old age of the Tanaka model by allowing the growth parameter (K) to decline with age. This form is suitable for inclusion in stock assessment models based on von Bertalanffy. The proposed model matches Tanaka curves with precision appropriate for the scatter of data used to fit the curves. The observations of ocean quahog length at age and growth rate from New Jersey and Georges Bank demonstrate the ability of the modified von Bertalanffy relationship to represent continued growth at old age for this fished species. Simulated data generated with continued growth at old age were fit with the Stock Synthesis model (SS3). Results comparing traditional and modified growth relationships showed that the original von Bertalanffy model can reasonably approximate modest nonasymptotic growth as long as the number of observations is sufficient to constrain the parameter values. KEY WORDS: Arctica islandica, shellfish fisheries, length-at-age, growth model, ocean quahog, Bertalanffy growth, INTRODUCTION Most organisms increase in size over time in response to excess assimilated energy above metabolic demands, often termed scope for growth (Barilleet al. 1997, Munroeet al. 2013, Sanders et [...]

Warming of the Mid-Atlantic continental shelf has resulted in a range shift of the Atlantic surfclam, Spisula solidissima, north and offshore into waters still occupied by ocean quahogs (Arctica islandica). An ecotone, a boundary transitioning between neighboring ecological systems over a wide range of space and time, now exists over much of the offshore range of the surfclam in which surfclams and ocean quahogs co-occur. Regulations prohibit fishers from landing both species in the same catch, limiting fishing to locations where the target species can be sorted on deck. An at-sea survey sampling 50+ stations in the overlap region was conducted in September 2021 with the purpose of mapping fishable concentrations of surfclams and ocean quahogs. Size frequency and density data of both species were assessed along with environmental parameters. Species overlap between surfclams and ocean quahogs was most prominent in the 40- to 55-m depth range. Density of surfclams shifted within this depth from surfclam dominant in less than 40 m to ocean quahog dominant in greater than 60 m. Atlantic surfclam length increased with increasing summer bottom water temperature, whereas densities remained stable, indicative of proportionately larger but fewer animals in warmer inshore waters. Ocean quahog size metrics and densities, on the other hand, remain relatively unresponsive to temperature and invading Atlantic surfclam populations and instead increase in size with higher latitude. Large ocean quahogs, in particular, exhibit a distinct correlation with high latitude but fail to do so with other environmental variables. This analysis emphasizes the potential for economic disruption of fisheries as climate change pushes surfclams further into the range of the ocean quahog and highlights the need for regulatory changes to allow mixed catches and landings. The study also emphasizes the importance of the relative rates of transgression and regression of range boundaries by abutting faunas in determining the degree of influence of the ecotone between them on the benthic community structure of the continental shelf. KEY WORDS: Spisula solidissima, Arctica islandica, Atlantic surfclam, ocean quahog, range shift, ecotone, climate change, surfclam fishery, range boundary, species interaction, INTRODUCTION The Northwest Atlantic Ocean is a bellwether of climate change, as its warming trends far exceed those observed throughout oceans around the world (Pershing et al. 2015, Kavanaugh et [...]

The sexes of sequentially hermaphroditic cupped oysters are both environmentally and genetically determined. Sex is also associated with growth or body size, females being larger than males of the same age on average. Whether sex determines size or size determines sex has not been resolved. To examine the relationship between growth and sex, 1,360 tagged individuals from six F, families of Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas were reared through their second summer in Thorndyke Bay, Washington; individual live weights were recorded for 5 consecutive months, starting in June. At the last weighing, microscopic examination of gonadal tissue revealed four 'sexes' in the cohort, females (43% of cohort), males (29%), hermaphrodites (2%), and sex-undetermined individuals with no gametes (26%). Live weights were fit to various sigmoidal growth curves (logistic, Gompertz, and Richards) with fixed and random parameters to account for individual variation. The best fitting curves suggested that growth of the cohort was exponential until late August, when temperatures declined and more than 70% of final weight had been gained. Individual live weights, growth-curve parameters, and growth measures were fit to general linear models with family and sex classification variables. Family-by-sex interaction was significant in many such analyses. Females were larger than males on average and appeared to attain their size advantage from superior growth characteristics rather than from initial size. Males were strikingly either like females or like the smaller sex-undetermined oysters with respect to growth comparisons within family. Sex-undetermined oysters may have been 'true' males that were too small to mature as yearlings, though a size-threshold for maturation was not apparent. Genetically determined sex and family genetics appeared to control growth. KEY WORDS: Richards growth curves, repeated measures, seasonal growth, tagged oysters, [F.sub.2] families, Crassostrea gigas, INTRODUCTION Both genetic and environmental factors determine sex of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas (Guo et al. 1998, Hedrick & Hedgecock 2010), which, like other cupped oysters of the genus [...]

Emerging infectious diseases in marine systems threaten food security and ecosystem function. Experiments to determine drivers of transmission and mortality from emerging pathogens require a reliable supply of disease-free animals. Imperfect detection of subclinical, latent, and early stage infections, however, necessitates effective treatments to remove infection from animals with unknown infection status. In this study, a procedure utilizing elevated temperatures and over-the-counter parasiticides to remove Hyalophysa lynni was developed. The apostome ciliate H. lynni is responsible for shrimp black gill (sBG) disease in commercially important southeastern shrimp fishery species, including Litopenaeus setiferus (white shrimp). Following a series of pilot studies to determine parasiticides combination and dosage, L. setiferus of unknown infection status were exposed to either 20[degrees]C or 30[degrees]C artificial seawater, and a parasiticide cocktail of metronidazole (3.15 mg [L.sup.-1]) and Cu+2 (0.5 mg [L.sup.-1]) or a medication-free control for 14 days in a fully crossed experimental design. All treatments, except for the 20[degrees]C without medications treatment, significantly reduced pathogen prevalence. The 30[degrees]C artificial seawater with parasiticide treatment resulted in complete curing of the experimental population, but shrimp mortality in this treatment was high (50%). This high mortality may have contributed to the low parasite prevalence found in this treatment by differentially culling infected individuals. If this is the case, the parasiticides may lower the parasite prevalence both by curing infections and heightening stress and subsequent mortality of diseased individuals. Although this procedure was developed to produce H. lynni-free shrimp to facilitate experimental studies of sBG disease, it is likely that this methodology would effectively produce specific-pathogen-free individuals in other crustacean species. KEY WORDS: Litopenaeus setiferus, Crustacea, Hyalophysa lynni, shrimp black gill, disease, parasiticides, gill parasite, apostome ciliate, INTRODUCTION Many marine systems are experiencing emerging infectious diseases that cause significant mortality in commercially and ecologically important species, threatening food security, and ecosystem function (Lafferty et al. 2015, Byers [...]

We recorded the population size and nest tree use of Red-breasted Sapsuckers (Sphyrapicus ruber) breeding in coastal, old-growth, temperate rainforest on East Limestone Island. Haida Gwaii. British Columbia, over 31 years (1990-2020). The populations density on the 48 ha island ranged from 10 to 46 occupied nests/[km.sup.2], with numbers increasing and then decreasing from 1991 to 2005, followed by a gradual increase between 2006 and 2020. The population size was unaffected by a major windthrow event in 2010 that destroyed about a third of the preferred forest type. Nor did breeding birds avoid the remaining trees left within the blowdown area, suggesting that the retention of isolated dead trees within small forest openings may provide useful breeding sites for sapsuckers. Individual trees were used up to 10 times and continued to be selected for up to 21 years after first use, with use being more prolonged for Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) than for western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla). Maximum span of use probably exceeds 23 years. There was a significant tendency for trees to be used in consecutive years. Modeling the availability of trees used at least once suggested that in all years there were ample suitable trees available, and hence that the population was not constrained by lack of suitable nest sites. Received 5 January 2022. Accepted 3 January 2023. Key words: cavity-nesting, coastal temperate rainforest, Haida Gwaii, nest tree use, Sitka spruce, western hemlock. Nous avons enregistre la taille de la population et l'utilisation des arbres de nidification des Pics a Poitrine Rousse (Sphyrapicus ruber) qui nichent dans la foret pluviale temperee cotiere et aneienne de l'ile East Limestone, a Haida Gwaii. en Colombie-Britannique. La densite des populations sur cette ile de 48 ha variait de 10 a 46 nids occupes/[km.sup.2]. avec une augmentation puis une diminution des effectifs de 1991 a 2005, suivie d'une augmentation progressive entre 2006 et 2020. La taille de la population n'a pas etc affectee a la suite d'un chablis majeur qui. en 2010. a delruit environ un tiers du type de foret prefere par l'espece. Les oiseaux nichcurs ont continue a utiliser les arbres restants dans la zone de chablis. ce qui suggere que la retention d'arbres morts isoles dans de petites ouvertures forestiercs petit fournir des sites de reproduction utiles pour les pics. Certains de ces arbres ont ete utilises jusqu'a 10 reprises et out continue a etre selectionnes jusqu'a 21 ans apres leur premiere utilisation, l'utilisation etant plus prolongee pour l'epicea de Sitka (Picea sitchensis) que pour la pruche de l'ouest (Tsuga heterophylla). La duree maximale d'utilisation depasse probablement 23 ans. Il y avail une tendance significative chez ces arbres a etre utilises au cours d'annees consecutives. La modelisation de la disponibilite des arbres utilises au mains une fois suggere qu' il y avail chaque annee suffisamment d'arbres adequats disponibles. et done que la population n'etait pas limitee par le manque de sites de nidification appropries. Mots cles: epieea de Sitka, foret pluviale temperee cotiere. Haida Gwaii, nidification cavicole. pruehe de l'ouest. utilisation des arbres de nidification., Sapsuckers (Sphyrapicus spp.) are among the most common woodpeckers in most forested areas of British Columbia, Canada. The genus is represented in the province by 4 largely allopatric species, all [...]

We observed a pair of Western Kingbirds (Tyrannus verticalis) take advantage of opportunities to forage on a honeybee (Apis melliferu) colony. They perched on a site that afforded them good visual access to the flight pattern of worker and male (drone) bees entering and leaving the colony and attentively watched the bee flights. When a male bee was spotted, they quickly flew off their perch, grabbed the bee, returned to the perch, and swallowed the intact bee headfirst. They did not strike the bee or its abdomen against the substrate before swallowing. Analysis of regurgitated pellets collected under the perch site revealed head capsules of 149 drone bees and none of worker bees. This pair of Western Kingbirds was capable of distinguishing between stinging, distasteful worker honeybees and chose palatable, undefended drones in flight. Received 18 August 2022. Accepted 21 December 2022. Key words: Apis mellifera, distasteful, predation, stinging insects. Obscrvamos como una parcja dc tiranos tyrannus verticalis aprovechaba las oportunidades dc forrajeo en una colonia de abeja melifera (Apis meltifera). Las aves se percharon en un sitio que les brindaba buen acceso visual al patron de vuelo de las abejas obreras y machos (zanganos) que entraban y salian de la colonia y observaban atentamente los vuclos de las abejas. Cuando alguno avistaba un macho, abandonaba rapidamente su percha volando, sujetaba la abeja, volvia a su percha y tragaba la abeja intacta de cabeza. No golpeaban la abeja ni su abdomen contra el substrato antes de tragarsela. Analisis de egagropilas regurgitadas colectadas debajo del sitio de percha mostraron capsulas cetalicas de 149 zanganos de abejas y ninguna dc abejas obreras. Esta pareja de tiranos Tyrannus verticalis era capaz dc distinguir en vuelo las obreras, que picaban y que no tenian sabor, de los zanganos, apetecibles c indefensos, para elegir cstos ultimos. Palabras clave: Apis mellifera, depredacion, desagradable, inscctos de aguijon., Kingbirds hunt by sight during the day, using acrobatic maneuvers to catch airborne insects in flight and are known to eat bees and wasps (Beal 1912, Grant 1945, Blancher and [...]

Nest predation is a driving force in nest site selection and reproductive success across open-cup and cavity-nesting birds. However, we are just beginning to understand how perceived predation risk might affect nest site selection, particularly in cavity-nesting species. Because passerines have been shown to have a keener sense of smell than has traditionally been attributed to them, we tested whether Tree Swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) avoid nest cavities containing the odors of a potential nest predator, the house mouse (Mus musculus). Although Tree Swallows have historically suffered nest predation from deer mice (Peromyscus sp.), we hypothesized that these birds would equate these rodent odors. In the 2021 breeding season, we presented Tree Swallows with a choice of 2 nest boxes, 1 containing clean (unused) mouse cage bedding and the other containing bedding soiled with house mouse urine and feces. We concealed the bedding in both treatments under cardboard disks to eliminate visual cues and force Tree Swallows to rely on their olfactory abilities. We hypothesized that Tree Swallows would prefer to use odor-free boxes. Because Tree Swallows are constrained in their nest site choice, we did not assume that they would entirely avoid boxes with urine. Our analysis of the first box chosen from 46 box pairs in which Tree Swallows occupied both boxes found that nest boxes containing mouse odors were chosen first at the same frequency as boxes containing clean odor-free mouse bedding. However, we did find that the swallows showed a preference for wooden boxes. Received 7 April 2022. Accepted 8 December 2022. Key words: cavity nesting, experiment, nest boxes, nest predation, olfactory, predator avoidance. La depredacion de nidos es una fuerza evolutiva en la seleccion de sitios de anidacion y de exito reproductivo en aves de anidacion en copa abierta y en cavidades. Sin embargo, apenas estamos empezando a comprendcr como los riesgos percibidos de dcpredacion afectan a la selection del sitio de anidacion, particularmente en especics que anidan en eavidades. Como las aves paserinas han mostrado tener un sentido del olfato mas agudo de lo que se les atribuia Iradieionalmente, analizamos si las golondrinas Tachycineta bicolor evitaban las cavidades que contienen olores de uno de sus depredadores potenciales, el raton domestico (Mas musculus), A pesar de que las golondrinas Tachycineta bicolor han sido depredadas historicamenle por ratones Peromyscus sp., planteamos la hipotesis que las golondrinas Tachycineta bicolor reaecionarian de manera similar a los olores de este otro roedor. En la temporada reproduetiva del 2021, le ofrecimos a las golondrinas Tachycineta bicolor la option de elegir entre 2 eajas-nido, la primera eon lecho de jaula de raton limpio (sin usar) y otra euyo lecho de jaula habia sido ensueiado por heces y orina de raton casero. Oeultamos ambos tratamientos de lechos de jaula bajo discos de carton para eliminar pistas visuales y obligar a las aves a usar sus habilidades olfatorias. Nuestra hipotesis nula rue que las golondrinas iban a preferir las cajas que estuvieran libres de olor a raton. Debido a de que las golondrinas tenian una election limitada de sitios de anidacion, no asumimos que evitarian totalmente las cajas con orina. Nuestra analisis de las primeras cajas elegidas de 46 pares de cajas en el que las golondrinas ocuparon ambas cajas mostro que las cajas de anidacion que contenian olores a raton eran elegidas de primero con la misma frecuencia que las cajas que contenian lecho de jaula de raton sin olor. Sin embargo, encontramos que las golondrinas muestran una preferencia por las cajas de madera. Palabras clave: anidamiento en eavidades, cajas-nido, dcpredacion de nidos, evasion de depredadores, experimento, oltatorio., The 21st century has seen numerous papers demonstrating that a variety of nonpasserine birds possess highly sensitive olfactory capabilities (Bonnadonna and Bretagnolle 2002, Bonnadonna and Nevitt 2004, Lambrechts and Hossaert-McKey [...]