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Resumo Dentre as espécies madeireiras da Amazônia brasileira comercializadas devido a sua múltipla possibilidade de uso estão Qualea paraensis Ducke, Qualea acuminata Spruceex Warm., Qualea dinizii Ducke e Ruizterania albiflora (Warm.) Marc.-Berti, da família Vochysiaceae A. St.-Hil, todas conhecidas popularmente como “mandioqueira”. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizá-las sob o aspecto anatômico macroscópico e microscópico da madeira, dando ênfase às características qualitativas e quantitativas, visando subsidiar a identificação desse táxon. As espécies estudadas foram selecionadas no acervo da Xiloteca da Embrapa Amazônia Oriental e as descrições dos caracteres anatômicos seguiram as normas preconizadas em anatomia da madeira. As características quantitativas foram submetidas às análises estatísticas. A partir dos resultados foi possível distinguir as espécies por meio de características qualitativas (dos vasos, parênquimas e raios), e características quantitativas (dos vasos, raios e fibras), possibilitando aproximar o xilema secundário de Ruizterania albiflora ao de Qualea paraensis, com Qualea acuminata estando próxima às espécies, e Qualea dinizii se diferenciando das demais. Os resultados obtidos aqui evidenciam a anatomia da madeira como uma ferramenta importante a ser empregada na identificação e distinção confiáveis das espécies conhecidas como “mandioqueira”, principalmente quando não se dispõe de materiais botânicos complementares. Abstract Among the timber species from the Brazilian Amazon, commercialized due to their multiple possibilities of use, are Qualea paraensis Ducke, Qualea acuminata Spruce ex Warm., Qualea dinizii Ducke and Ruizterania albiflora (Warm.) Marc.-Berti, from the family Vochysiaceae A. St.-Hil., all popularly known as “mandioqueira”. The objective of this work was to characterize them under the macroscopic and microscopic anatomical aspect of the wood, emphasizing the qualitative and quantitative characteristics, aiming to subsidize the identification of this taxon. The studied species were selected from the collection of Embrapa Amazônia Oriental Xylotheque and the descriptions of the anatomical characters followed the rules recommended in the wood anatomy. The quantitative characteristics were subjected to statistical analysis. From the results, it was possible to distinguish the species by qualitative characteristics (of the vessels, parenchyma and rays), and quantitative characteristics (of the vessels, rays and fibers), which allowed to approach the secondary xylem of Ruizterania albiflora to that of Qualea paraensis, with Qualea acuminate, being close of both species and Qualea dinizii differing from the others. The results obtained here highlight the wood anatomy like an important tool to be utilized on the reliable identification and distinction of the species known as “mandioqueira”, mainly in the absence of other complementary botanical material.

The relationship between aluminium (Al) and plants has been investigated for a long time. Al is typically harmful to plants, however Qualea grandiflora Mart., a compulsory accumulator of this metal, may benefit from it. To understand this peculiarity, proteomic and metabolite profiling analyses were carried out to investigate, at physiological, metabolic, and molecular levels, the relevance of Al for this species. Qualea grandiflora plants were grown with MS medium with or without Al-supplementation for 120 days. Metabolite profiling using GC-MS and growth analysis were conducted to evaluate the biochemical and physiological effects of Al. Concomitantly, root proteins were extracted, identified and quantified using label-free LC-MS/MS. Al-starved Q. grandiflora plants had shorter shoots, roots, lower biomass, and chlorotic leaves. Furthermore, there was a high coherence between proteomic and metabolomic data. Al was critical for cell wall and lignin syntheses, genetic information processing, and organic acid metabolism. Also, Al might help P uptake in this plant. Qualea grandiflora plants needed Al to grow and develop properly. Moreover, there was a good match between the data from physiological/metabolic analyses and the upregulated metabolic pathways indicated by proteome investigation. Hence, we propose that Q. grandiflora root metabolism is highly dependent on Al.

Qualea genus is commonly found in different phytophysiognomies of the Brazilian Cerrado, growing in open ecosystems to closed forest areas, under high irradiances, fires, low availability of nutrients and seasonal water deficit. We compared the leaf structural traits of Qualea grandiflora Mart., Qualea multiflora Mart., and Qualea parviflora Mart., in a cerradão area in the Cerrado-Amazonian forest transition. Leaf samples were collected at Mário Viana Municipal Biological Reserve, in Nova Xavantina, Mato Grosso state, Brasil, and processed according to the usual techniques for optical microscopy. Thick cuticle, stomatal ridges, stomata distributed between the stomatal crypts, density and distribution of tector trichomes, hypodermis, isobilateral mesophyll with few intercellular spaces, abundance of sclerenchyma associated to vascular bundles and the presence of vascular bundle sheath extensions are typical anatomic traits of xerophytic environments. We found qualitative structural differences among the species, with Qualea grandiflora having stomata with ridges distributed among stomatal crypts, and the presence of a hypodermis in Qualea multiflora, and Qualea parviflora. The results suggest that the species are xeromorphic in the region of Cerrado-Amazonian transition having leaf adaptive traits to deal with the environmental variations of their habitat.

Chemical investigation into the ethyl acetate extract of the endophytic fungus Corynespora olivacea (V18) associated with Vochysia divergens identified compounds 1 and 2. The compounds were characterized by spectroscopic methods including NMR (1D and 2D) and HRMS. The cytotoxicity of the crude extract and the isolated compounds against normal human lung fibroblast cells, lineage GM07492A, was evaluated by the XTT assay. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first chemical and biological screening of the cytotoxicity of C. olivacea derived from V. divergens.

Nectar production in flowers has been associated with pollination systems and seen as part of plant reproductive strategies. But other factors may have a role on nectar features and its efficacy as reward. We investigated pollination system of Qualea grandiflora, the most widespread woody species of Cerrado, the Neotropical savannas in Central Brazil, focusing on nectar features, their relationship with nocturnal and diurnal pollinators and how nectar affects male fitness, measured through pollen removal. Qualea grandiflora flowers during rainy season; anthesis starts at dusk, with a slightly sweet scent, pollen release and receptive stigma. Flowers remained opened until next evening and were visited and pollinated by a wide range of nocturnal and diurnal animals. Hawk moths were more frequent and responsible for most Q. grandiflora male fitness. Nectar was secreted during the night and early morning, with maximum accumulated volume up to 20.9 μl. Sugar concentration (23.12%) and amount (1.79 mg) remained constant during flower lifespan. No signals of active nectar resorption were observed. Nectar sugar composition was sucrose dominant during the night, and sucrose and hexose rich during the day. Standing crop measurements indicated an important proportion of nectar intake by flower visitors. Qualea grandiflora seemed to synchronize its floral and nectar features with hawk moths. However, nectar composition encompasses general preferences by both diurnal and nocturnal pollinators, assuring a mixed pollination system which seems well adapted to the species continental-scale distribution.

Several studies have suggested reasons why galls have conspicuous colours, but none of the ideas have been confirmed. However, what if the vibrant colours of some galls are explained simply by the effect of light exposure? This may lead to anthocyanin accumulation, functioning as a defence mechanism against the effects of high light. We studied the globoid galls induced by Cecidomyiidae (Diptera) on Qualea parviflora (Vochysiaceae), relating anthocyanin accumulation and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters to light incidence in abaxial and adaxial galls. We also tested if the anthocyanin accumulation patterns apply to another Cecidomyiidae-induced gall morphotype (intralaminar) within the same plant. Adaxial galls are exposed to higher incident light, with more anthocyanin accumulation and therefore red coloration. In galls from angled leaves, the greater the angle of the leaf, the higher the difference between anthocyanins on the sun and shade sides of galls. Photosynthetic pigment concentrations did not differ between abaxial and adaxial galls. However, we found higher (Fm ' - F')/Fm ' and Fv /Fm in the abaxial galls. Conversely, NPQ and Rfd were higher in adaxial galls. Finally, the pattern of anthocyanin accumulation was not found in the intralaminar gall. Anthocyanin accumulation in galls functions as a photoprotective strategy, maintaining tissue vitality in regions exposed to high light conditions. However, this mechanism may vary even among galls within the same host, indicating idiosyncrasy when it comes to coloration in galls. To date, this is the first study to demonstrate quantitatively why the galls of a specific species may be coloured: the variation in light regimes creates differential anthocyanin accumulation, influencing coloration.

Enantiostyly is a floral polymorphism in which two floral forms in the same species differ in deflection of the stigma to right or left position. In monomorphic enantiostylous plants, flowers of the two morphs occur within the same individual, usually in the same proportion. In self-compatible species the function of monomorphic enantiostyly is proposed to increase outcrossing rates and offer a reproductive advantage under pollination limitation. Enantiostylous species are usually self-compatible and show heteranthery, with poricide anthers and pollen as pollinator reward; however, there are families, such as Vochysiaceae, that have different characteristics. We analysed the reproductive system and pollination biology of Qualea parviflora and Q. multiflora, two enantiostylous species from the Brazilian Cerrado that have specific morphological and physiological traits. For this, we characterized flower traits, performed hand pollinations and studied floral visitors. We found no differences between morphs in the proportion of flowers, nectar produced or its concentration, pollen quantity and fruit set. Both species were self-incompatible and quite generalist regarding floral visitors. Enantiostyly in self-incompatible plants seems to confer a reproductive advantage by reducing self-interference resulting from stigma clogging. This novel result helps to expand our knowledge on this complex floral polymorphism and opens new avenues for future research on this topic.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:27:27Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2016-07-01 Aims: Aluminum (Al) accumulating plants are distributed throughout the world. In the Cerrado, Al-accumulating and non-accumulating species coexist. Therefore, we anatomically/histochemically explore the sites of Al deposits in Al-accumulating species, and we also ask whether Al can be observed in non-accumulating species. Methods: The anatomical patterns of Al storage in leaf tissues of Al-accumulating [Miconia albicans, M. rubiginosa (Melastomataceae), Qualea grandiflora, and Q. parviflora (Vochysiaceae)] and non-accumulating species [(Styrax ferrugineus and S. camporum (Styracaceae)] were described using different Al indicator dyes: hematoxylin and chrome azurol S (CAS). In addition, Al-specific x-ray spectra from different regions of leaf tissues were measured and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: When compared to hematoxylin, it was confirmed by x-ray spectra in SEM that CAS was a more contrasting indicator of Al presence. Silica granules associated to Al were observed on cell walls of non-lignified leaf tissues of Al-accumulating species. However, granules were also found in leaf midribs of S. camporum. Conclusions: The anatomical description of Al accumulation in leaves and the consistent pattern of Al association with cell walls strongly suggest that Al has structural rather than physiological roles in leaves of Cerrado woody plants, and that Al is perhaps isolated from metabolism. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas (Biologia Vegetal) Instituto de Biociências Departamento de Botânica Univ Estadual Paulista Unesp, Av. 24-A, 1515 Instituto de Biociências Departamento de Botânica Univ Estadual Paulista Unesp, Av. 24-A, 1515 Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas (Biologia Vegetal) Instituto de Biociências Departamento de Botânica Univ Estadual Paulista Unesp, Av. 24-A, 1515 Instituto de Biociências Departamento de Botânica Univ Estadual Paulista Unesp, Av. 24-A, 1515

Typophorus florigradus Bechyne & Springlova, 1961 (Chrysomelidae, Eumolpinae) has been described based on material sampled from flowers of Convolvulaceae and Commelinaceae species in Utinga, state of Para, Brazil, in 1960. After its description, there have been no new reports about its behavior or host plants. The present note thus aims to record its abundant presence in canopies of Callisthene fasciculata (Spr.) Mart. (Vochysiaceae) in the northern Pantanal region of Mato Grosso, Brazil.

Rhinoleucophenga myrmecophaga sp. nov., a Drosophilidae species associated with extrafloral nectaries of Qualea grandiflora Mart. (Vochysiaceae) and whose larvae are mostly predaceous on ants, is described from specimens collected in the Cerrado biome of Itirapina, state of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Illustrations of imagos, male terminalia, and immatures are also included. This is the first evidence of dipteran larvae that are closely associated with extrafloral nectaries and that feed on visiting ants.

Se cultivó plántulas de Qualea granditlóra a partir de semillas de "Cerrado", con distintas cantidades de agua, en invernadero o cámara de crecimiento, eligiendo 5 o 10 plantas al azar. Reaccionaron al limitado aporte hídrico disminuyendo la conductividad estomática y los potenciales hídrico y de turgencia. En las plantas bajo deficit hídrico no se observó ajuste osmótico. La relación raiz: vástago fue más alta bajo estrés hídrico, presentando la parte aérea menor crecimiento debido a la menor producción y expansión foliares.

a b s t r a c t Knowledge about plant defense systems against herbivory is crucial to understanding trophic relation- ships in terrestrial ecosystems. Distinct defenses may act either alone or in combination during foliar sprouting. In our study, we explored the effect of the three most conspicuous defenses found in the leaves of Qualea multiflora (Vochysiaceae) during foliar sprouting, which are: (1) the presence of tri- chomes, (2) foliar toughness and (3) activity of extrafloral nectaries (EFNs). In addition, we quantified foliar herbivory at different leaf stages. We determined that the three defenses evaluated vary in effec- tiveness during leaf development. The number of trichomes was higher during early leaf development, toughness at the end, and the activity of EFNs (biotic defense) during the middle period. Foliar herbivory was similar at different leaf ages. The results indicate that Q. multiflora synchronizes its foliar defenses in order to optimize performance in anti-herbivory protection over time.

RESUMO Este trabalho teve como objetivo conhecer a diversidade vegetal de uma área de Cerrado em Prudente de Morais, MG, bem como suas indicações medicinais. Foram feitas nove excursões à reserva da Fazenda Experimental Santa Rita da Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuária de Minas Gerais (FESR/EPAMIG) (19°26’20”’ S e 44°09’15”’ W). O material vegetal coletado foi herborizado, identificado e incorporado ao acervo do Herbário PAMG/EPAMIG. O sistema de classificação utilizado foi o APG III. Após a identificação, realizou-se uma pesquisa bibliográfica buscando dados sobre a utilização medicinal das espécies. Coletaram-se 108 espécies pertencentes a 47 famílias. As famílias mais representativas foram: Fabaceae, com 16 espécies, Myrtaceae com sete espécies, Asteraceae e Rubiaceae com seis espécies cada, Malpighiaceae e Solanaceae com cinco espécies cada, Erythroxylaceae, Euphorbiaceae e Vochysiaceae, com quatro espécies cada, Anacardiaceae, Apocynaceae, Lamiaceae e Sapindaceae com três espécies cada, Annonaceae, Arecaceae, Bignoniaceae, Celastraceae e Primulaceae com duas espécies cada. Vinte e nove famílias foram monoespecíficas. Das 108 espécies, 39 são árvores (36%), 43 arbustos (40%), seis subarbustos (5,5%), 14 lianas (13%) e seis são ervas (5,5%). Sessenta e seis (61%) espécies pertencentes a 39 famílias (83%) são utilizadas popularmente, para o tratamento de alguma doença. As famílias com maior número de espécies medicinais foram: Fabaceae com oito espécies; Rubiaceae com cinco espécies e Solanaceae com quatro espécies. As espécies que apresentaram mais finalidades terapêuticas foram: Brosimum gaudichaudii Trécul (Moraceae), Caryocar brasiliense Cambess. (Caryocaraceae), Cochlospermum regium (Mart. ex Schrank) Pilg. (Bixaceae), Croton urucurana Bail. (Euphorbiaceae), Gomphrena officinalis Mart. (Amaranthaceae), Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart. ex Hayne (Fabaceae), Lithrea molleoides (Vell.) Engl. (Anacardiaceae), Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão (Anacardiaceae) e Randia. armata (Sw.) DC. (Rubiaceae). As finalidades terapêuticas que apresentaram maior número de espécies foram: tônico (15 spp., 22,7%), afecções do aparelho respiratório (13 spp., 19,6%), afecções da pele (12 spp., 18%) e febres (12 spp., 18%). O conhecimento tradicional sobre as plantas medicinais do cerrado deve ser mais investigado para que seja preservado, valorizado, e para que medidas conservacionistas sejam tomadas evitando que essas plantas desapareçam antes que sua utilização tradicional seja corroborada pela ciência. ABSTRACT This study aimed to investigate the plant diversity of a Cerrado area in Prudente de Morais, MG, and its medicinal indications. Nine field trips were made to the reserve of Fazenda Experimental Santa Rita of the Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuária de Minas Gerais (FESR/EPAMIG) (19°26’20” S and 44°09’15” W). The plant material collected was herborized, identified and incorporated into the collection of the Herbarium PAMG/EPAMIG. The classification system used was the APG III. After identification, we carried out a literature search to find data about the medical use of the species. 108 species were collected, belonging to 47 families. The most representative families were Fabaceae, with 16 species, Myrtaceae with seven species, Asteraceae and Rubiaceae with six species each, Malpighiaceae and Solanaceae with five species each, Erythroxylaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Vochysiaceae, with four species each, Anacardiaceae, Apocynaceae, Lamiaceae and Sapindaceae with three species each, Annonaceae, Arecaceae, Bignoniaceae, Celastraceae and Primulaceae with two species each. Twenty-nine families were monoespecific. From the 108 species, 39 are trees (36%), 43 are shrubs (40%), six are subshrubs (5.5%), 14 are climbing (13%) and six are herbs (5.5%). Sixty-six (61%) species belonging to 39 families (83%) are commonly used for the treatment of diseases. The families with the highest number of medicinal species were the Fabaceae with eight species; the Rubiaceae with five species and the Solanaceae with four species. The species showing more therapeutic purposes were: Brosimum gaudichaudii Trécul (Moraceae), Caryocar brasiliense Cambess. (Caryocaraceae), Cochlospermum regium (Mart. Ex Schrank) Pilg. (Bixaceae), Croton urucurana Bail. (Euphorbiaceae), Gomphrena officinalis Mart. (Amaranthaceae), Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart. ex Hayne (Fabaceae), Lithrea molleoides (Vell.) Engl. (Anacardiaceae), Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão (Anacardiaceae) and Randia. armata (Sw.) DC. (Rubiaceae). The therapeutic purposes indicated by the highest number of species were: tonic (15 spp., 22.7%), diseases of the respiratory system (13 spp., 19.6%), skin affections (12 spp., 18%) and fever (12 spp., 18%). The traditional knowledge of medicinal plants of the Cerrado should be investigated further in order to be preserved and enhanced. In that sense, conservation measures should be taken for these plants do not disappear before their traditional use is supported by science.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:33:19Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-10-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Background and aims: Acidic soil occupies 30% of the world’s ice-free land, and exchangeable aluminum (Al) availability increases under these conditions, being toxic to many plant species. However, some plants accumulate Al without damage to their metabolism. Vochysia tucanorum is an Al-accumulating species endemic to the cerrado vegetation with acidic soils in South America. Here, we predict that it is a calcifuge species. Methods: We assessed macro and micronutrient concentrations as well as Al accumulation, plant height and root length of potted plants grown on acidic and calcareous soil for 60 days. A LC-MS-based metabolite fingerprinting of plants on both conditions was also performed. Results: Plants grown on acidic soil showed higher biomass and Al concentration in roots and shoots than those grown on calcareous soil. Despite the higher concentration of macronutrients on plants grown on calcareous soil, micronutrients concentration was similar between plants grown on these soils. Plants grown on the calcareous soil showed necrotic leaves. The metabolite fingerprinting indicated significant changes in the metabolism of phenolics and organic acids. Conclusions: Due to the high Al accumulation in plants grown on acidic soil, and their inability to survive in calcareous soil, we conclude that V. tucanorum is an Al-accumulating species with calcifuge behavior. AsterBioChem research team School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto University of São Paulo (USP), Av. do Café s/n, Monte Alegre Institute of Biosciences São Paulo State University (UNESP), Av. 24-A, 1515 School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences São Paulo State University (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castelane, s/n Federal University of Uberlandia (UFU), Rua 20, 1600 Institute of Biosciences São Paulo State University (UNESP), Av. 24-A, 1515 School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences São Paulo State University (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castelane, s/n FAPESP: 2010/51454-3 FAPESP: 2013/21293-6 FAPESP: 2014/26866-7 CNPq: 304905/2015-1

Vochysia divergens (Vochysiaceae) is considered an invasive species in the wetlands of the Brazilian Pantanal, which hinders the cultivation of agricultural species. In this study, we evaluated the chemical profile by HPLC-DAD (high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector) of leaves extracts from V. divergens seedlings inoculated with endophytic fungi isolated from V. divergens roots. These fungi were collected on dry (D) and wet (W) seasons in the Pantanal. The presence of tannin hexahydroxydiphenoyl (HHDP)-galloyl-glucose and flavone 3',5'-dimethoxy-luteolin were predominant in the seedlings inoculated with endophytic fungi W experiments at 100 and 80%, respectively. Likewise, flavone 3',5-dimethoxy-luteolin-7-O-β-glucoside showed a similar representation in the two evaluated periods, compared with 5-methoxy-luteolin, which was detected only in seedlings inoculated with W endophytic fungi. This approach is new to V. divergens, which has no scientific data on its in vitro elicitation, in the search for a better understanding of the ecological relationships of this species.

This study aimed to isolate and characterize microsatellite markers for Qualea grandiflora and to test their transferability to congeneric species Qualea multiflora and Qualea parviflora. These three species are widespread in the Cerrado, the largest, richest and probably the most threatened tropical savanna in the world. We characterized ten markers in 40 individuals belonging to two populations of Q. grandiflora and eight markers in 20 individuals belonging to one population of Q. multiflora and Q. parviflora. In Q. grandiflora, considering all 40 analyzed individuals, the number of alleles per locus ranged from eight to 21, and the average was 11.60. The mean number of alleles per locus was 8.8 and 7.3 in each population. The observed and expected heterozygosities (Ho and He) within populations varied from 0.235 to 0.944 and from 0.225 to 0.932, respectively. In Q. multiflora the number of alleles varied from two to 11 with an average of 5.75; the Ho ranged from 0.150 to 0.950, while He ranged from 0.191 to 0.817. In Q. parviflora, considering the seven polymorphic loci, the number of alleles ranged from two to 13, with an average of 7.5, while Ho ranged from 0.211 to 0.944, and He ranged from 0.193 to 0.906. The polymorphism level of the microsatellite markers here described enable them as powerful tools for future population genetic studies in these species, helping to answer ecological and evolutionary questions.

The Gomeira (Vochysia pyramidalis Mart.), belonging to the family Vochysiaceae, is a plant species from the Brazilian cerrado used in folk medicine because of its reputedly anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-bacterial properties. However, scientific data concerning this species are scarce. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to conduct an anatomical and histochemical assessment of this plant species and characterize the chemical composition of its essential oil. For the anatomical evaluation, the leaves, stems and petals were fixed and subjected to common plant anatomy techniques. For the histochemical tests, fresh samples of the stems, leaves and petals were sectioned using a microtome and stained with different dyes to identify the chemical components. The essential oil was obtained from fresh flowers and both dry and fresh leaves using hydrodistillation and was characterized by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The anatomical analysis showed several xeromorphic characteristics, which suggest that the mucilaginous channeland idioblasts are the only secretory structures present in this species. The histochemical tests revealed the presence of secondary metabolites belonging to two different chemical classes: the phenolic compounds and terpenes. The chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS), and hexadecanol; pentacosane and farnesol were identified as its main components. Key words: Brazilian cerrado in Goias state, secretory structures, farnesol, secondary metabolites, terpenes.

The Pantanal is the largest wetland in the world with extremely high plant and animal diversity, but large areas have been invaded by Vochysia divergens Pohl (Vochysiaceae), a tree that is native to the Amazon Basin, and Curatella americana L. (Dilleniaceae), a tree that is native to the Brazilian savanna (cerrado). V. divergens is reportedly floodadapted, thus its ability to invade the Pantanal may not be surprising, but the invasion of C. americana is counterintuitive, because this species is adapted to the well-drained soils of the cerrado. Thus, we were interested in comparing the photosynthetic capacity, in terms of CO2 conductance, carboxylation, and electron transport of these species over a seasonal flooding cycle. Given that V. divergens is reportedly flood-adapted, we predicted that this species would have a higher photosynthetic capacity than C. americana, especially under flooding. To test this hypothesis we measured the photosynthetic CO2 response (PN/Cc) of V. divergens and C. americana within 1 year to determine, if photosynthetic capacity varied systematically over time and between species. Contrary to our hypothesis, V. divergens did not always have a higher photosynthetic capacity than C. americana. Rather, species differences were influenced by temporal variations in flooding and the leaf age. Leaf CO2 assimilation and photosynthetic capacity of both species were lower during the flood period, but the differences were not statistically significant. The physiological performance of both species was strongly related to leaf N and P concentrations, but P limitation appeared to be more important than N limitation for these species and ecosystem. Photosynthetic capacity was higher and more stable for V. divergens, but such an advantage did not result in a statistically significant increase in PN. Our results suggest that both species are tolerant to flooding even though they are adapted to very different hydrological conditions. Such physiological plasticity, especially for C. americana, might be a key feature for the ability to survive and persist in the seasonally flooded Pantanal.

Leaves have a variety of morphological and anatomical characters mainly influenced by climatic, edaphic and biotic factors. The aim of this study was to describe the anatomical leaf traits of Qualea parviflora from three phytophysiognomies. The studied phytophysiognomies were Amazon Savannah on rocky outcrops (ASR), Transition Rupestrian Cerrado (TRC), and Cerradão (CDA). Freehand sections of the leaf blade were made and stained with 0.5% astra blue and with basic fuchsin. From the adaxial and abaxial leaf surface, freehand paradermal sections were made for epidermis analysis. The Jeffrey´s method, with modifications, was used in the epidermis dissociation process. The samples from the TRC phytophysiognomy had relatively smaller ordinary epidermal cells, higher abundance of trichomes, and mesophyll with few intercellular spaces, in comparison to the other phytophysiognomies. The leaves from the ASR phytophysiognomy had higher stomatal index (SI = 21.02), and five to six layers of sclerenchyma surrounding the midrib vascular bundle. The secondary vascular bundles had thicker cell walls and the bundle sheath extended up to the epidermal tissue of both leaf sides. Leaves from the CDA phytophysiognomy had mesomorphic environmental traits, such as a thinner cuticle. It is concluded that trees from ASR and TRC phytophysiognomies have xeromorphic traits following the environmental conditions where they occur.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:27:00Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2016-01-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Phytotoxic secondary metabolites produced by plants have been studied as possible sources of bioher-bicides. However, several environmental factors can change the secondary metabolism of plants, and thus, the production of these compounds. Among these factors, seasonality can be a source of variation in the content of all classes of secondary metabolites. In this study, we evaluated the phytotoxic effect of aqueous extracts of leaves from Byrsonima intermedia A. Juss. (Malpighiaceae), Gochnatia polymorpha (Less.) Cabrera (Asteraceae), Luehea candicans Mart. (Tiliaceae), Miconia chamissois Naudin (Melastomataceae), and Qualea cordata Spreng (Vochysiaceae) (species of the Brazilian savanna), collected both during the dry and the rainy season, on germination and seedling growth of maize and cucumber. The analysed parameters were affected by all leaf extracts collected during both seasons. However, a greater phytotoxic effect was observed when leaves were collected during the dry or during the rainy season, depending on the savanna species studied, on the target species, and on the parameters evaluated. The phytochemical screening of all extracts was also evaluated and allowed the identification of anthraquinones, triterpenoids, saponins, and tannins. The composition of extracts differed between the seasons for all species. This study highlights the importance of considering savanna seasonality when studying the phytotoxicity of the species of this biome. Department of Biological Sciences Universidade Estadual Paulista – UNESP, 2100 Avenida Dom Antônio Department of Biological Sciences Universidade Estadual Paulista – UNESP, 2100 Avenida Dom Antônio FAPESP: 2013/14413–5

Made available in DSpace on 2018-12-11T17:26:24Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2015-12-01 Leaf area (LA) is commonly used to evaluate plant traits such as leaf development and plant growth, which depend on sunlight interception. However, methods for obtaining LA are destructive and require many leaf samples that might not be available. The use of linear equations to estimate LA without destructive procedures has been successfully used in crops and weeds studied in the field and in potted-plant experiments. In the Brazilian savanna (Cerrado), many studies still depend on destructive leaf sampling because equations would be specific for each species. We developed a non-destructive model to estimate LA of five Vochysiaceae species from the cerrado, as this family exclusively comprised Al-accumulating species. In this study, LA versus leaf length (L) and leaf width (W) was regressed, and the best-fitted model (LA = −2.133 + 0.719 LW, R2 = 0.99) was validated to estimate LA in Qualea cordata Spreng., Qualea grandiflora Mart., Salvertia convallariodora A. St.-Hil., Vochysia cinnamomea Pohl., and Vochysia tucanorum Mart. with precise accuracy. This model may help scientists with distinct interests in plants from this family. Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Av. do Café s/n Departamento de Biologia Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n Departamento de Botânica Instituto de Biociências Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Av. 24-A 1515 Departamento de Biologia Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n Departamento de Botânica Instituto de Biociências Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Av. 24-A 1515

RESUMO Neste trabalho foi caracterizada a florística e a estrutura de um Cerradosensu stricto localizado no município de Jaborandi, oeste baiano. Para tanto, foram amostrados todos os indivíduos com diâmetro à 30cm da altura da base (D30cm ≥ 5cm) presentes em área amostral de dois hectares composta por 20 parcelas de 1000 m2 (20m x 50m). Foram encontrados 2054 indivíduos (1027 ind.ha-1), com área basal de 8,24 m2.ha-1, distribuídos em 58 espécies pertencentes a 42 gêneros e 24 famílias. A família Fabaceae apresentou maior número de espécies (12), seguida de Myrtaceae (8) e Vochysiaceae (5). Os descritores fitossociológicos avaliados revelaram uma comunidade caracterizada pela presença de poucas espécies dominantes, onde a maioria pode ser considerada como pouco comuns e raras. As estruturas diamétrica e da altura evidenciaram uma vegetação equilibrada e composta predominantemente por indivíduos de pequeno porte, onde a riqueza é relevante, assim como a diversidade local, que foi estimada em 2,95 nats.ind-1 pelo índice de Shannon-Wiener. ABSTRACT In this study it was characterized the structure and floristic of the cerradosensu stricto located in Jaborandi, a city of western Bahia State. All individuals were sampled based on diameter height (D30cm ≥ 5cm) present in a sample area of two hectares comprising 20 plots of 1000 m2 (20m x 50m). Individuals were found in total of 2054 (1027 ind.ha-1), on a basal area of 8.24 m2.ha-1and 58 species belonging to 42 genera and 24 families. Fabaceae had the largest number of species (12), followed by Myrtaceae (8) and Vochysiaceae (5). The phytosociological descriptors evaluated, have shown a community characterized by the presence of a few dominant species, where most can be regarded as unusual and rare. The diametrical structure and height presented a balanced vegetation, predominantly composed by small individuals. Here, richness is relevant, as well as local diversity, which was estimated at 2.95 nats.ind-1 by the Shannon-Wiener index.

Ethnopharmacological relevance The species Qualea grandiflora and Qualea multiflora , which belong to the Vochysiaceae family, are common in the Brazilian savannah (Cerrado biome), and the local inhabitants use these species to treat external ulcers and gastric diseases and as an anti-inflammatory agent. Studies have demonstrated that these plants contain compounds that exhibit pharmacological activities; however, the risks associated with their consumption are not known. Material and methods In the present study, the mutagenicity of polar and apolar extracts from Qualea grandiflora and Qualea multiflora were assessed by employing the Ames assay with and without metabolic activation. Additionally, phytochemical analyses (HPLC–ESI-IT-MS, HPLC–UV-PDA and GC–IT-MS) were performed to identify the chemical constituents present in these species, including the evaluation of physico-chemical properties, such as polarity or apolarity of the organic compounds, which are related to each fraction obtained. These studies provide important information regarding the biochemical behaviour of these compounds. Results All extracts exhibited mutagenicity, inducing frameshift mutations and base substitutions in DNA. Phytochemical analysis identified terpenes, ellagic acid derivatives and phytosteroids. Conclusions The mutagenicity observed might be due to the presence of pentacyclic triterpenes and polyphenols, which are able to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and result in the potential to cause DNA damage. The genetic risk identified in this present work shows that special attention should be considered for the use of compounds obtained from these plant species in medicinal treatments. Further studies must be conducted to identify safe therapeutic doses.

(Test of hypotheses about herbivory and chemical defences of Qualea parviflora (Vochysiaceae) in Brazilian Cerrado). Qualea parviflora Mart. (Vochysiaceae), a widely distributed tree found in different habitats in Brazilian Cerrado (savanna), provides resources for a great variety of insects. In this study, we tested two hypotheses about plant investment in anti-herbivore defences along a fertility gradient in Cerrado: the carbon/nitrogen balance (CNBH) and resource availability (RAH). We also investigated how the pattern of herbivory varies through the year and among three types of vegetation in Brazilian Cerrado - campo sujo, cerrado sensu strictu and cerradao. Sampling was conducted in three types of vegetation and in rainy (January and November) and dry months (April and July). Damage on 20 completely expanded leaves, leaf nutrients, sclerophlylly, total phenols and tannins were recorded for each plant (n = 30). When leaves were young, less sclerophyllous, and with higher concentration of nutrients and tannins, damage by herbivores was about 7% in cerrado sensu stricto and 3% in campo sujo. Mature leaves did not show any significant difference on herbivory among habitats, that varied from 6 to 9%. Nutrient availability to plants is an important factor determining production of secondary metabolites in Q. parviflora, corroborating the CNBH. The absence of correlation between damaged leaf area and tannin concentration did not corroborate the RAH, suggesting that tannin production is not strongly influenced by herbivores on Q. parviflora.

We investigated the pattern of aluminum (Al) accumulation in leaf tissues of native hyperaccumulator Vochysiaceae species Qualea grandiflora, Callisthene major, and Vochysia pyramidalis, from the Brazilian Cerrado. Non-accumulator Sclerolobium paniculatum was used as a control species. We expected a strong compartmentalization of Al in non-active leaf cell compartments such as cell walls and vacuoles in Al-accumulating species and the absence of Al in critical metabolic sites such as the chloroplasts. Plant leaves were harvested in the field and cut in small segments for histological analysis; hematoxylin dye was used for Al localization in tissues. Results of soil analysis of the three sites and the concentration of Al in leaves indicated that there is no direct relationship between Al availability in soils and Al hyperaccumulation among the Vochysiaceae species evaluated. The cross-sections of leaf tissues showed hematoxylin color in the palisade and spongy parenchyma cells (chloroplast) of Q. grandiflora and C. major. The vascular system of Q grandiflora was not colored, but some cells from the xylem region of C. major were stained. In contrast, the adaxial and abaxial epidermal cells of V. pyramidalis were colored by hematoxylin, as were some cells from the vascular bundle, but color formation was not observed in the cells of palisade parenchyma. Al was not detected in leaves of S. paniculatum. We concluded that, although hyperaccumulation of Al is a common trait in the Vochysiaceae family, the processes of storage and detoxification in leaf tissues differ among the species. Two of the three hyperaccumulator species use chloroplasts as a sink for Al, with no apparent signs of toxicity. Therefore, the physiological role of Al in plant tissues remains to be elucidated. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Vochysia condorensis is described and illustrated as a new species from the Cordillera del Cóndor region of southeastern Ecuador, where it occurs exclusively on plateaus of quartzitic sandstone of the Hollín Formation and adjacent slopes. The species is placed in Vochysia section Ciliantha subsection Megalanthae and is compared with its most closely related congeners within the subsection: V. duquei and V. gigantea.

We developed allometric equations to predict whole-tree leaf area (A(l)), leaf biomass (M(l)) and leaf area to sapwood area ratio (A(l):A(s)) in five rain forest tree species of Costa Rica: Pentaclethra macroloba (Willd.) Kuntze (Fabaceae/Mim), Carapa guianensis Aubl. (Meliaceae), Vochysia ferru-gi-nea Mart. (Vochysiaceae), Virola koshnii Warb. (Myristicaceae) and Tetragastris panamensis (Engl.) Kuntze (Burseraceae). By destructive analyses (n = 11-14 trees per species), we observed strong nonlinear allometric relationships (r(2)or = 0.9) for predicting A(l) or M(l) from stem diameters or A(s) measured at breast height. Linear relationships were less accurate. In general, A(l):A(s) at breast height increased linearly with tree height except for Penta-clethra, which showed a negative trend. All species, however, showed increased total A(l) with height. The observation that four of the five species increased in A(l):A(s) with height is consistent with hypotheses about trade--offs between morphological and anatomical adaptations that favor efficient water flow through variation in the amount of leaf area supported by sapwood and those imposed by the need to respond quickly to light gaps in the canopy.

Callisthene fasciculata Mart. is a tree belonging to the Vochysiaceae family. Its wood is moderately heavy and resistant and used to make poles, beams, and other structures. The aim of this work was to evaluate seed germination and the initial growth of seedlings of C. fasciculata at different temperatures and in different substrates. Seeds were collected from fruits in the Pantanal de Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. In one experiment, the seeds were subjected to constant temperatures of 20, 25, 30 and 35 °C and to alternating temperatures of 20-30 and 25-35 °C (on paper substrate). In another experiment, the seeds were subjected to temperatures of 20 and 25 °C on three substrates (sand, vermiculite and between paper) in a germinator. The experiment had a randomized design, with four replicates of 25 seeds per treatment. The F-values obtained for germination indicated no significant effect of substrate or temperature on the final germination percentage. The analyses revealed no effect of a treatment interaction (temperature x substrate) on either germination or average germination time; however, a treatment interaction effect was observed on the germination speed index. The treatment combinations yielding the best performance were between paper substrate at 20 °C and sand substrate at 25 °C. There was a significant effect of the interaction between temperature and substrate on seedling growth, with increased root growth observed in the between paper substrate at 25 °C and increased aerial component growth in both sand at 20 °C and vermiculite at 25 °C. The between paper treatment at 25 °C yielded the greatest final seedling size. Between paper is the most recommended substrate for the production of seedlings due to its ease of handling and lower probability of contamination. RESUMOCallisthene fasciculata Mart. é uma árvore da família Vochysiaceae com madeira moderadamente pesada e resistente, utilizada na fabricação de postes, vigas, entre outros usos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a germinação das sementes e crescimento de plântulas em diferentes temperaturas e substratos, a partir de frutos coletados no Pantanal de Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul. As sementes foram submetidas as temperaturas constantes de 20, 25, 30 e 35 °C e alternadas de 20-30 e 25-35 °C (substrato sobre papel) e posteriormente, temperaturas de 20 e 25 °C em três substratos (areia, vermiculita e entre papel), com quatro repetições de 25 sementes por tratamento em germinador. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado. A análise conjunta dos dados indica que não ocorreu interação entre os tratamentos (substratos x temperatura) para as variáveis germinação e tempo médio de germinação; somente o índice de velocidade de germinação apresentou interação, sendo melhores os tratamentos entre papel (20 °C) e areia (25 °C). Em relação ao crescimento das plântulas, ocorreu efeito significativo nas interações entre tratamentos, com melhor crescimento do sistema radicular no substrato entre papel (25 °C), parte aérea, substrato areia (20°C) e substrato vermiculita (25 °C). Levando-se em consideração o tamanho final das plântulas, o tratamento entre papel a 25 °C foi o que proporcionou melhor desenvolvimento. O substrato entre papel, devido a facilidade de manuseio e menor probabilidade de contaminação, é o mais recomendado para a produção de mudas.

O presente trabalho foi realizado na FLONA de Paraopeba, MG, e teve como objetivo o levantamento florístico das fanerófitas, ao longo de um gradiente de cerradão e cerrado sensu stricto, em uma área de 2.600 m^2. Foram encontradas 91 espécies, pertencentes a 71 gêneros de 41 famílias. As famílias mais representativas foram Leguminosae, Myrtaceae, Malpighiaceae, Vochysiaceae, Rubiaceae e Melastomataceae. Os gêneros Miconia, Myrcia, Erythroxylum e Qualea foram os mais ricos. Magonia pubescens destacou-se em número de indivíduos. A similaridade florística mostrou a separação das parcelas em dois grupos, em que o primeiro apresentou um nível de similaridade de cerca de 45%, e o segundo foi dividido em dois grandes subgrupos, sendo que o primeiro mostrou nível de similaridade de cerca de 38%, enquanto as demais parcelas não formaram grupos definidos. A ordenação das espécies pela análise de correspondência canônica sugeriu que Magonia pubescens, Bauhina holophylla e Terminalia brasiliensis tenderam a ser mais abundantes nas áreas com valores mais altos de pH, Ca, Mg e H+Al. A variação não explicada das demais espécies pode estar associada a outras variáveis não analisadas, além de um complexo conjunto de fatores que estão envolvidos na determinação da composição da vegetação. The objective of this work was to carry out the floristic survey of phanerophytes along a gradient of "cerrado sensu stricto " and "cerradão" in an area of 2,600m^2 in the FLONA (Floesta Nacional – National Forest) of Paraopeba, MG, Brazil. A total of 91 species pertaining to 71 genera and 41 families were found. The most representative families were Leguminosae, Myrtaceae, Malpighiaceae, Vochysiaceae, Rubiaceae and Melastomataceae. Miconia, Myrcia, Erythroxylum and Qualea were the richest genera. Magonia pubescens was outstanding in number of individuals. The floristic similarity showed the separation of the plots in two groups, the first one showed a similarity level around 45%, and the second group was divided into two large groups, the first one showed a similarity level around 38% and the remaining plots did not form definite groups. The species ordination by canonical correspondence analysis suggests that Magonia pubescens, Bauhinia holophylla and Terminalia brasiliensis tended to be most abundant species in areas with higher values of pH, Mg, H+Al. The non-explained variation for the other species could be associated to other non-analyzed variables as well as to a complex set of factors that are involved in the vegetation composition determination.

Qualea parviflora Mart. (Vochysiaceae) is a deciduous tree, commonly observed in campo sujo, cerrado sensu stricto and cerradao vegetation types in Brazilian cerrado (savannas). In this study we investigated herbivory, nutritional, and water status effects on leaf sclerophylly of Q. parviflora. Twenty fully expanded leaves were taken from 10 plants in each vegetation type four times a year. Mean leaf concentration of N, P, K, Ca, C, Al, Si, and percentage of total phenols, herbivory and tannins were measured on a plant basis. Leaf specific mass (LSM) (g m 2 ), a sclerophylly index, and pre-dawn leaf water potential (MPa) were also recorded. Soil samples below each tree were collected to quantify N-NO3, N-NH4, P, K, Mn, soil moisture, organic matter, Si, and Al. Qualea parviflora showed a LSM from 69 to 202 g m 2 and leaves were younger and less sclerophyllous in November (beginning of rainy season). Q. parviflora inhabiting the cerradao had leaves with higher concentration of nutrients and lower sclerophylly while trees in campo sujo and cerrado sensu stricto did not show significant differences in leaf sclerophylly. The concentrations of N, P, K and tannins had an inverse relationship with leaf age. Concentration of phenols, Al, C, Ca, Si, C/N and Ca/K increased with leaf age. The concentrations of P and Ca/K ratio in leaves explained 60% of variation observed in leaf sclerophylly. We did not find any significant relationship between the level of sclerophylly and water potential or herbivory. Our results corroborate the hypothesis that predicts lower concentrations of essential macronutrients would be the main factors influencing higher sclerophylly in leaves of Q. parviflora plants in Cerrado.

Some of the most interesting but still most contentious disjunct biogeographical distributions involve Southern Hemisphere tropical and warm temperate families. The PHMV clade of Myrtales includes four families (Psiloxylaceae, Heteropyxidaceae, Myrtaceae, and Vochysiaceae) that exhibit a number of these biogeographical patterns. The related Psiloxylaceae and Heteropyxidaceae are small families restricted in distribution to the recent volcanic Mascarene Islands to the east of Madagascar and to southeast Africa, respectively. Myrtaceae are found on three major Gondwanan regions (South America, Australasia, and Africa). Because the New World taxa are almost exclusively fleshy fruited, it is unclear whether the family distribution is a classic Gondwanan vicariance pattern or results from one or more long‐distance dispersal events over ocean barriers. The Vochysiaceae represent one of a handful of families with amphi‐Atlantic distributions vigorously argued to support both long‐distance dispersal over the Atla...

Cerambycidae coletados em Surumoni, Amazonas, Venezuela, com o auxílio de uma grua, por armadilha de interceptação de vôo e armadilha luminosa nas copas de Matayba guianensis Aubl e Vochysia sp. resultaram em novos registros para 14 espécies e descrição de quatro novas: Erythropterus urucuri sp. nov. (Heteropsini), Eriphus ruBELLus sp. nov. (Trachyderini), Lissonotus kuaiuba sp. nov. (Lissonotini) e Acyphoderes itaiuba sp. nov. (Rhinotragini).Cerambycidae (Coleoptera) collected in Venezuela at the canopy of Matayba (Sapindaceae) and Vochysia (Vochysiaceae). Cerambycidae collected in Surumoni, Amazonas, Venezuela, with help of a crane, made with interception and light traps in the canopy of Matayba guianensis Aubl and Vochysia sp. resulted in new records for 14 species and descriptions of four new species: Erythropterus urucuri sp. nov. (Heteropsini), Eriphus ruBELLus sp. nov. (Trachyderini), Lissonotus kuaiuba sp. nov. (Lissonotini) and Acyphoderes itaiuba sp. nov. (Rhinotragini).

New hyphomycetes are described in association with leaves of native plants of the family Vochysiaceae, as part of studies of cerrado fungi. Six new species are described belonging to genera Alternaria (A. qualeae sp. nov.), Janetia (J. salvertiae sp. nov.), Passalora (P. qualeae sp. nov.) and Periconiella (P. longispora sp. nov., P. qualeae-grandiflorae sp. nov. and P. campo-grandensis sp. nov.). A key to the species of Periconiella on Qualea is provided.

A conspicuous feature of Vochysiaceae flowers is their single fertile stamen. In some genera, the stamen is in front of a petal, whereas in others it is in front of a sepal. This difference has been attributed to two independent reductions, which implies the stamen is not homologous across the family. The observation that genera with an antesepalous stamen have only one petal, whereas those with an antepetalous stamen have three or five petals, led us to the hypothesis that in all genera the stamen arises in an antepetalous position, but that it is displaced during development in single-petaled taxa. We examined developing buds of five genera using scanning electron microscopy and serial sectioning and conclude that the stamen in all genera is fundamentally antepetalous. The stamen is not displaced. The petal, however, appears to be displaced in some genera. Further, the position of the fertile stamen in Erisma has been misinterpreted. We discuss the evolution of the androecium in this family in a phylogenetic context and consider the significance of symmetry and of loss vs. suppression in the development of Vochysiaceae flowers.

The distribution of seed fatty acids of 16 species of Vochysiaceae native to Brazil, corresponding to the genera Callisthene , Qualea , Salvertia and Vochysia , and amounting to 57 samples, were studied. The methyl esters of the fatty acids were analyzed by GC–EIMS. For most species, fatty acid patterns are seemingly useful for species characterization. Intraspecific variability of samples of Salvertia grandiflora seems to have geographic significance. With one exception, palmitic and oleic acids predominate in the fatty acids distribution of Qualea and Callisthene . Q. grandiflora possesses exceptional amounts of lauric acid. Relatively high amounts of either C 20– C 22 (saturated or monounsaturated) or stearic acids characterize Salvertia and Vochysia . UPGMA analysis of fatty acids distribution based on Euclidean distances resulted in a cluster combining Callisthene and all samples of Qualea , except Q. grandiflora . Samples of Vochysia are combined into several clusters. The dendrogram is suggestive of taxonomic relationships, allowing the distinction of taxa down to the sub-sectional level. V. pyramidalis , from section Ciliantha , subsection Ferrugineae , has closer chemical affinities with species of section Vochysiella , subsection Decorticantes . Comparing with monomers of polysaccharide seed cell walls of Vochysiaceae, fatty acid patterns revealed lower intraspecific variability and higher taxonomic resolution.

Several leaf anatomical features are potentially systematically informative within both the family Vochysiaceae and the order Myrtales, notably tracheoidal idioblasts, mucilage cells and secretory canals. Tracheoids with spiral wall thickenings are present in the mesophyll of most species of Vochysia, and also occur in several other families of Myrtales. Mucilage cells are common in the leaf epidermis in some Vochysiaceae. Secretory ducts are present in the midrib in Salvertia and Vochysia, which are apparently closely related, although Salvertia also shares some leaf anatomical characters with Qualea and Callisthene. Anatomical data do not support the segregation of Ruizterania from Qualea; leaves of R. albiflora leaves are very similar to those of Q. paraensis in venation pattern, and leaf and stem anatomy. Different venation patterns are characteristic of sections within the genus Qualea, but within the large genus Vochysia, leaf anatomy is variable even within a subsection. Amongst other Myrtales, leaf anatomy of Vochysiaceae most closely resembles that of Combretaceae and Onagraceae. © 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2002, 138, 339–364.

In Amazonian rain forest trees of Vochysia vismiaefolia (Vochysiaceae), ants were found to induce twig structures that resembled classical ant domatia. This phenomenon is novel for ant-plants, which commonly develop domatia without the activity of ants. Eight species of ants were recorded inside the domatia of six individual trees, but domatia were most numerous and characteristic when induced and inhabited by an undescribed species of Pseudomyrmex on two trees. To investigate the mechanism of domatium growth, we drilled holes into young twigs: the expansion of the twig diameter surrounding the holes was significantly accelerated, comparable to domatia formation. Domatia induction is discussed as a putative step in the evolution of ant-plants.

O estudo foi desenvolvido na Reserva Particular do Patrimônio Natural do Panga, localizada no Município de Uberlândia, Estado de Minas Gerais. Realizou-se, pelo método de parcelas, o levantamento florístico e a análise dos parâmetros fitossociológicos das espécies arbóreas com circunferência do tronco > ou = 15cm, numa faixa de 840m x 20m (1,68ha), abrangendo comunidades vegetais contíguas de cerradão e cerrado (sentido restrito). Foram coletadas amostras compostas de solo, numa profundidade de 0 a 10cm, em 12 diferentes parcelas, para determinar a sua composição química. Na amostragem total foram encontrados 3.137 indivíduos distribuídos em 107 espécies e 43 famílias. Nas 25 parcelas de cerradão (1,0ha) ocorreram 93 espécies, das quais Qualea grandiflora e Vochysia tucanorum apresentaram os maiores índices de valor de importância (IVI). Em 0,68ha de cerrado, ocorreram 76 espécies e 37 famílias, sendo que as espécies de maior IVI foram Qualea grandiflora e Q. parviflora. Fabaceae, Vochysiaceae e Myrtaceae apresentaram o maior número de espécies, nas duas comunidades vegetais.

Vochysia tucanorum Mart. (Vochysiaceae) is a very widely distributed species in the cerrado and forests in Brazil, from the State of Bahia to Parana. Its seed germination was analysed under eight treatments using different conditions of light and temperature. Up to 73 days, at least ca. 93% of the seeds germinated in all treatments, except under alternating temperatures of 35°/10°C (62%). Light enhanced germination, except under constant temperature of 25°C when seeds are not photoblastic. At this temperature, the highest percentage of germination was found. Initial vegetative growth was analysed by comparing the effects of shading, by means of different percentages of full daylight (100%, 45%, 10.6%, 4.8%), and soils from cerrado and forest. During 123 days, no mortality was recorded and cotyledons persisted on the seedlings of all treatments. In general, the seedlings of V. tucanorum were found to be more or less indifferent to the soil from cerrado or forest and shading seems to promote height increment. However, total dry mass was larger under a radiation of 45% full daylight and smaller under extreme conditions (100% or 4.8% full daylight).

Foliar gas exchange characteristics, understorey microclimate, and crown irradiation were assessed for saplings of eight canopy tree species in two plots of neotropical rain forest with different degrees of canopy opening. Species studied belonged to different putative guilds: shade intolerants (both short-lived--pioneers--and long-lived), intermediates, and shade-tolerants. A considerable overlap was recorded between species in values of the photosynthetic rate per unit leaf area (PN). The highest median PN (1.26 µmol m-2 s-1) was recorded in the pioneer Croton killipianus, while slightly lower median values were recorded in Simarouba amara and Pentaclethra macroloba, and markedly lower values in two species of Vochysiaceae (Qualea paraense and Vochysia ferruginea), both putative intolerants. Highest median stomatal conductance (gs) was also shown by C. killipianus, while S. amara, P. macroloba, and L. procera exhibited intermediate values, and the lowest gs was shown by V. ferruginea and Q. paraense. Overall irradiance and crown irradiation, PN, and gs of saplings were higher in the plot which had previously received a silvicultural treatment. Most values of photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) were

A total of 3029 cuttings were harvested from coppiced stumps of 96 trees representing six provenances of Vochysia guatemalensis. There was significant variation in diameter between provenances with tree stumps from La Ceiba in Honduras being the largest with a mean of 13.4 cm compared with 10.5 cm for Siquirres in Costa Rica. Regression analysis was utilised to determine the influence of provenance and diameter on the numbers of coppice shoots produced by each tree and the subsequent rooting ability of cuttings taken from them. Significantly more shoots and cuttings were produced on trees with larger diameters. There was also a significant provenance influence on shoot and cutting production. The fitted regression model predicted a difference of 20 cuttings from stumps of the same diameter between provenances Florencia, Costa Rica and La Ceiba, Honduras. In contrast to the positive effect of large stump diameter on the number of cuttings produced, the rooting ability of cuttings was negatively influenced by the diameter of the stump. The average rooting percentage of cuttings from individual provenances varied between 30% and 70% with an overall rooting percentage of 64%. The implications of these results for commercial vegetative propagation programmes are discussed.

Qualea grandiflora Mart. (Vochysiaceae), commonly known as "pau-terra", is an arborous species native to the Brazilian savannah which possess commercial interests, as it can be used either as an ornamental or as a medicinal plant. "Pau-terra" can also be used in the heterogeneous reforestation of areas which are destined for restoration of permanent preservation degraded areas. Propagation studies with this species are scarce, being necessary then further clarification regarding the factors that influences the germination process. In this context, the objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of different temperatures, substrates and light conditions on seed germination. We selected light brown seeds which were subjected to different interactions between temperatures (15-25, 20-30, 25 and 30°C), substrate (paper, sand and vermiculite) and light (light and dark). All seeds were later dry-incubated at 32°C for 3, 6 and 12 hours. After treatments, seeds were kept in BOD at 58% RH and the following parameters were calculated: germination (%G) and germination speed index (GSI); the formation of normal and abnormal seedlings and the number dead seeds. Interaction was observed for all variables. In the optimum temperature range, the seeds behaved as photoblastic neutral or indifferent. Under alternating temperatures, darkness enhanced the germination, especially when combined with the lower temperatures. We noted that the sowing in sand, at 25°C, allowed the maintenance of suitable combinations of germination and seedling development. With respect to desiccation tolerance, "pau-terra" seeds presented an orthodox behavior, with a linear increase of the vigor as function of drying. Qualea grandiflora Mart. (Vochysiaceae), conhecida como pau-terra, é uma espécie arbórea nativa do cerrado brasileiro que apresenta interesse comercial, como ornamental e medicinal, podendo ainda ser empregada em reflorestamentos heterogêneos, destinados á recomposição de áreas degradadas de preservação permanente. Estudos de propagação com essa espécie são escassos, sendo necessários maiores esclarecimentos quanto aos fatores que influenciam no processo germinativo. Nesse contexto, objetivou-se avaliar a influência de diferentes temperaturas, substratos e condições de luminosidade na germinação de sementes de pau-terra. Foram selecionadas sementes de coloração marrom clara e submetidas a interação entre temperaturas (15-25, 20-30, 25 e 30°C), substratos (sobre papel, entre areia e entre vermiculita) e luz (claro e escuro), e a secagem em estufa a 32 °C, por 3, 6 e 12 horas. Após o tratamento, as sementes foram mantidas em BOD com 58% UR e calculados os parâmetros germinabilidade (%G) e índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG), formação da plântula normal e anormais e de sementes mortas. Foi observada interação para todas as variáveis analisadas. Na faixa de temperatura ótima, as sementes apresentaram comportamento fotoblástico neutro ou indiferente. Sob temperaturas alternadas, o escuro favoreceu a germinação, principalmente quando em combinação com a temperatura mais baixa. A semeadura entre areia a 25 °C permite a manutenção de combinações adequadas para a germinação e desenvolvimento da plântula. Com relação à tolerância a dessecação, as sementes de pau terra apresentam comportamento ortodoxo, havendo um incremento linear do vigor em função da secagem.

There are many definitions of extrafloral nectaries (EFNs), but those that define EFNs as nectaries that are not involved in pollination (e.g. Fiala & Maschwitz 1991) could be the most simple and correct- EFNs have been recorded from more than 93 angiosperm families (Elias 1983, Koptur 1992) in at least 2200 species (Keeler 1989). These glands secrete nectar that attracts many ant taxa, mainly Myrmicinae, Formicinae and Dolichoderinae (Oliveira & Brandao 1991). Many authors have demonstrated that the associations between ants and EFNs are beneficial to the plant. In these cases ants feed on nectar and protect the plants against several types of herbivores (Bentley 1977, Horvitz & Schemske 1984,. Koptur 1984). Nevertheless, Boecklen (1984), O'Dowd & Catchpole (1983) and Rashbrook

Despite intensive morphological and chemical studies on the Myrtales, the circumscription of the order remains poorly defined. To test the monophyly of Myrtales sensu Dahlgren and Thorne (Annals of the Missouri Botanical Garden 71: 633694, 1984), determine the relationships of some controversial families, and identify the most likely sister group of Myrtales, we conducted parsimony analyses on 80 rbcL sequences representing 36 taxa from families traditionally included in Myrtales and 44 taxa from other Rosidae. The consensus tree resulting from these analyses supports the monophyly of Myrtales and is substantially congruent with the circumscription of the order proposed by Dahlgren and Thorne (Annals of the Missouri Botanical Garden 71: 633-694, 1984), with one notable exception: in the rbcL tree Vochysiaceae are placed in Myrtales. A reanalysis of morphological attributes of Vochysiaceae revealed that the inclusion of the family in Myrtales is also supported by the combined occurrence of two typical myrtalean features of the wood: vestured pits and bicollateral vascular bundles. Furthermore, our analyses excluded Thymelaeaceae, Lecythidaceae, Haloragaceae, and Gunneraceae from Myrtales, suggesting that the association of these families with Myrtales, as previously proposed by other authors, may not reflect common ancestry. Finally, our analyses support a sister group relationship between the order Myrtales and a clade formed by an expanded Malvales, Sapindales, and an expanded Capparales.

Submitted by Guilherme Lemeszenski (guilherme@nead.unesp.br) on 2013-08-22T18:54:23Z No. of bitstreams: 1 S0101-81751995000300007.pdf: 1019398 bytes, checksum: 49512b4ff181599a3d9990ca85b82bdf (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2013-08-22T18:54:23Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 S0101-81751995000300007.pdf: 1019398 bytes, checksum: 49512b4ff181599a3d9990ca85b82bdf (MD5) Previous issue date: 1995-09-01 Made available in DSpace on 2013-09-30T19:46:19Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S0101-81751995000300007.pdf: 1019398 bytes, checksum: 49512b4ff181599a3d9990ca85b82bdf (MD5) S0101-81751995000300007.pdf.txt: 7999 bytes, checksum: bf2613b0c3496af34f238368f3cca1ef (MD5) Previous issue date: 1995-09-01 Submitted by Vitor Silverio Rodrigues (vitorsrodrigues@reitoria.unesp.br) on 2014-05-20T14:03:34Z No. of bitstreams: 2 S0101-81751995000300007.pdf: 1019398 bytes, checksum: 49512b4ff181599a3d9990ca85b82bdf (MD5) S0101-81751995000300007.pdf.txt: 7999 bytes, checksum: bf2613b0c3496af34f238368f3cca1ef (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-05-20T14:03:34Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S0101-81751995000300007.pdf: 1019398 bytes, checksum: 49512b4ff181599a3d9990ca85b82bdf (MD5) S0101-81751995000300007.pdf.txt: 7999 bytes, checksum: bf2613b0c3496af34f238368f3cca1ef (MD5) Previous issue date: 1995-09-01 Oligonychus longipenis, sp.n. and the female allotype of O. psidium Estebanes & Baker, 1968 from Qualea grandiflora Mart. (Vochysiaceae) is described. The male of O. psidium is redescribed in Northwestern São Paulo (Brazil). This is the first record for 0. psidium in Brazil. Universidade Estadual Paulista Departamento de Zoologia Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz Departamento de Zoologia Universidade Estadual Paulista Departamento de Zoologia

The powdery mildew Uncinula heringeriana from leaves of Qualea grandiflora is described and validated. Uncinula viegasii sp. nov. from leaves of Q. parviflora , and U. alvimii sp. nov. from leaves of Bowdichia virgilioides are described from the cerrado of central Brazil. A key for identification of South American species of Uncinula is provided.

Vochysia Aublet (1775: 18) encompasses ca. 140 species, distributed from Mexico to southern Brazil. They are mainly large trees, with spurred yellow flowers, usually 3-petaled and with a single fertile stamen (Kawasaki 2007). The genus was described by Aublet (1775) in his work on plants from French Guiana as ‘Vochy’, taken from a native name among the Caribs, and after several latinizations the form ‘Vochysia’, proposed by Poiret (1808), was conserved.

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite primers were developed to investigate genetic diversity and population structure of Qualea grandiflora, a typical species of the Brazilian cerrado. • METHODS: and Results: Eight microsatellite loci were isolated using an enrichment cloning protocol. These loci were tested on a population of 110 individuals of Q. grandiflora collected from a cerrado fragment in Sao Paulo State, Brazil. The loci polymorphism ranges from seven to 19 alleles and the average heterozygosity value is 0.568, while the average polymorphic information content is 0.799. • CONCLUSIONS: The developed markers were found to be highly polymorphic, indicating their applicability to studies of population genetic diversity in Q. grandiflora.