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Estuaries are used by waterbirds as foraging, resting and nesting sites, serving also as shelter for migratory birds. The dynamics of this avifauna in an aquatic environment may be associated with the differences of time of day, tide height, temperature, wind speed and use of the site by different species. This study had the objective of evaluating behavioral aspects of aquatic birds, relating the influence of environmental variables with their activities. Bird counts were performed at the mouth of two important rivers of the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, during two-hour intervals throughout the day in monthly samplings between June (2015) and May (2016). A total of 44 species were recorded, ten of which were migratory. The most recorded behaviors were foraging and resting. The Kruskal-Wallis analysis indicated no significant difference in behavior between the sampling intervals. The Bray-Curtis similarity test resulted in three groups: 1) - species that foraged most of the time; 2) - species that rested most of the time; and 3) - same time in both activities. The Indicator Species Analysis showed that 17 species were associated with only one microhabitat and 15 species with more than one. The Canonical Correlation Analysis indicated that only tide height, temperature and rainfall variables were correlated with the behaviors performed and only the resting activity was positively correlated with all variables. This may be associated with thermoregulation and the ability of some species to stay in midlitoral at high tide. The results demonstrate that different waterbird species used the studied areas in different ways. Thus, the heterogeneity of microhabitats in an aquatic environment of extreme importance for the coexistence and maintenance of the diversity of waterbirds. Resumo Estuários são utilizados por aves aquáticas como locais de forrageio, descanso e nidificação, servindo, também, como pontos de parada para aves migratórias. A dinâmica dessa avifauna em um ambiente pode estar associada a diferenças entre horários do dia, altura da maré, temperatura, velocidade do vento e uso do local. Esse trabalho teve o objetivo de avaliar aspectos comportamentais de aves aquáticas, relacionando a influência de variáveis ambientais com suas atividades. Amostragens mensais foram realizadas na foz de dois importantes rios do Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil, entre junho de 2015 e maio de 2016, em intervalos de duas horas no decorrer do dia. Um total de 44 espécies foram registradas, dez das quais foram migratórias. Os comportamentos mais observados foram forrageio e descanso. A análise de Kruskall-Wallis não indicou diferenças significativas no comportamento entre os horários de amostragem. O teste de similaridade Bray-Curtis resultou em três agrupamentos: 1) - espécies que forragearam na maior parte do tempo; 2) - espécies que descansaram na maior parte do tempo; e 3) - mesma quantidade de tempo em ambas atividades. A Análise de Espécies Indicadoras mostrou que 17 espécies estiveram associadas com apenas um microhabitat e 15 espécies com mais de um. A Análise de Correlação Canônica indicou que apenas as variáveis maré, temperatura e precipitação foram significativamente correlacionadas com os comportamentos demonstrados e apenas a atividade de descanso foi positivamente correlacionada com as todas as variáveis. Isso pode estar associado com a termorregulação e com a habilidade de algumas espécies de permanecer no mediolitoral durante a maré cheia. Os resultados demonstram que diferentes espécies de aves aquáticas utilizaram as áreas estudadas de diferentes maneiras. Assim, a heterogeneidade de microhabitats em um ambiente aquático é de extrema importância para a coexistência e a manutenção da diversidade de aves.

Se presenta el primer listado de grupos de invertebrados bentónicos del sistema lagunar de Mandinga (SLM). Se realizaron siete colectas en temporadas de secas de 2008 a 2015 y una en temporada lluviosa de 2015. Los organismos endobénticos se colectaron con una draga y los organismos epibénticos, con una red tipo Renfro y chinchorro. Todos los organismos se identificaron hasta el nivel permisible. El listado está conformado por un total de 43 grupos zoológicos, distribuidos en ocho filos, siete clases, nueve órdenes, 16 familias y tres tipos de larvas. Los grupos Decapoda (10), Gastropoda (8), Amphipoda (4), Bivalvia (3), Tanaidacea (3) e Isopoda (3), fueron los más diversos, seguidos en menor medida por los grupos que se determinaron a niveles superiores a Familia (12). La diversidad de grupos es similar a la de otros sistemas costeros veracruzanos, donde los órdenes Decapoda, Amphipoda y Tanaidacea fueron los más diversos, seguidos por Isopoda. Los resultados de la presente investigación, representan un aporte importante para el conocimiento de la diversidad del sistema estudiado y de la distribución de los grupos en Veracruz y golfo de México.

The rupture of a mining dam in southeastern Brazil in 2015 was the country's greatest environmental tragedy. In order to evaluate the ecological risks of the mine tailings on the Rio Doce estuary, this study assessed trace metal contamination and sediment quality indices up to 2.9 y after the dam rupture. Surface sediments were collected from 17 stations on the Rio Doce estuary and Cd, Pb, Cr, Zn, Cu, and As concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Four ecological risk indices (modified contamination degree [mCd], pollution load index [PLI], risk index [RI], and sediment quality guideline quotient [SQG-Q]) suggest a high risk by metal contamination with possible adverse biological effects, with moderate seasonal variability. Based on a precautionary approach, our results support fisheries closures and the need for public health monitoring in the affected areas, and support other studies that suggest chronic metal contamination of the Rio Doce estuary. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2020;16:655-660. © 2020 SETAC.A ruptura de uma barragem de mineração no sudeste do Brasil em 2015 causou a maior tragédia ambiental do país. Para avaliar os riscos ecológicos dos rejeitos de minério no estuário do Rio Doce, este estudo avaliou os índices de contaminação por metais traços e qualidade dos sedimentos até 2,9 anos após a ruptura da barragem. Os sedimentos de superfície foram coletados em 17 estações no estuário do Rio Doce e as concentrações de Cd, Pb, Cr, Zn, Cu e As foram determinadas por ICP-OES. Quatro índices de risco ecológico (mCd, PLI, RI e SQG-Q) sugerem um alto risco de contaminação por metais com possíveis efeitos biológicos adversos, com variabilidade sazonal moderada. Com base em uma abordagem preventiva, nossos resultados apoiam o fechamento da pesca e a necessidade de monitoramento da saúde pública nas áreas afetadas, além de apoiar outros estudos que sugerem contaminação crônica por metais no estuário do Rio Doce. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2020;16:655-660.

Composed of three channels, a bay and an extensive mangrove area, the Santos-Sao Vicente-Bertioga estuarine complex, which is located in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is one of the most important water resources for the region. It hosts the activities of the largest Brazilian port and is used for recreational and subsistence activities. Due to its complexity and different forms of use, the study of its hydrodynamics is of extreme importance and an ongoing concern for researchers and decision makers. Generally, hydrodynamic studies are performed through field monitoring, which is a limited approach because it is discrete in space and time. In view of these limitations, it is necessary to apply field data in conjunction with other tools that allow the integrated assessment of the environment; one of these tools is numerical modeling. Based on this background, this paper presents a hydrodynamic study of the estuarine complex through the application of three-dimensional numerical modeling. Our objective was to improve the representativeness of water level and currents in the water column through time and space, thereby building a background model for future studies involving the understanding of the water circulation in the system. The modeling results showed a high degree of agreement with the in situ measurements. Concerning the water circulation of the complex, the results indicated that the three channels that make up the complex had distinct behaviors; flood currents were dominant in the Santos channel, while ebb currents were dominant in the Sao Vicente and Bertioga channels. The strongest currents were observed in the Santos channel. We also show that the influence of river discharge and channel morphology creates subregions with different hydrodynamic behaviors within the same estuarine channel.

A set of three nested hydrodynamic models was carried out, from part of Southeastern Brazilian shelf towards the Estuarine System of Santos, Sao Vicente and Bertioga (ESSSVB), to reproduce the storm tides in which the Civil Defence alert status was reached throughout 2016, known for the occurrence of severe storm surges. The ESSSVB model – called Level 2 – has 80 m grid resolution and is nested into an intermediary grid — Level 1, which in turn is nested into a mesoscale grid comprising part of Southeastern Brazilian shelf – Level 0, all of them with a vertical discretisation of 12 sigma layers. The model grids are forced by tides, winds, elevation, temperature, salinity and river discharge. Furthermore, a detailed bathymetry is employed considering the mangrove areas. The simulations results lead to an average sea-level skill score of 0.96, with an average root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.15 m. For the along-channel component at each station analysed, the average skill and RMSE were 0.84 and 0.19 m/s. In 2016, five events reached the alert status; in these events, the simulations underestimated the surge in approximately 0.11 m, with average skill and RMSE of 0.96 and 0.15 m The peak errors reached 0.20 m at Palmas and 0.34 m at Barnabe, revealing the importance of more precise freshwater inputs and meteorological forcing. Nevertheless, although the modelled storm surges were below the observed values, the agreement with data reveals that this model setup can be used in early warning systems, therefore helping local civil defences in decision making. The model evaluation indicates an important improvement when compared to the operational two-dimensional model. Another important objective here achieved was the reproduction of storm tides produced by different patterns of astronomical and meteorological forcing, especially extratropical cyclones formation and displacement.

This work describes the water circulation of Bahía Santa Elena using velocity fields and hydrographic data obtained from a ship-mounted Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler and a vertical profiler Conductivity–Temperature–Depth sonde, during two campaigns in August and October of 2019. Data were taken in a cross-bay transect in the main channel of the Bahía Santa Elena during a complete tidal cycle. The hydrographic data obtained during the two sampling campaigns suggest a reverse estuarine circulation; tidally averaged values of density and water velocities revealed a dense outflow at the bottom layer in the bay. This is the first description of an inverse estuary circulation pattern in Costa Rica and the second in Central America. Understanding the hydrographic properties of the bay is crucial for undertaking future research projects on water quality and biological communities. Este trabajo describe la circulación del agua de Bahía Santa Elena utilizando campos de velocidad y datos hidrográficos obtenidos de un generador de perfiles de corriente Doppler acústico montado en un barco y una sonda de perfil vertical de conductividad-temperatura-profundidad, durante dos campañas en agosto y octubre de 2019. Se tomaron datos en un transecto a través de la bahía en el canal principal de la Bahía Santa Elena durante un ciclo de marea completo. Los datos hidrográficos obtenidos durante las dos campañas de muestreo sugieren una circulación estuarina inversa; Los valores promediados por las mareas de la densidad y las velocidades del agua revelaron un denso flujo de salida en la capa inferior de la bahía. Esta es la primera descripción de un patrón de circulación de estuario inverso en Costa Rica y la segunda en Centroamérica. Comprender las propiedades hidrográficas de la bahía es fundamental para emprender futuros proyectos de investigación sobre la calidad del agua y las comunidades biológicas. Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica Departamento de Física

Polychaetes play a significant role in benthic communities’ ecology; they dominate the infauna, recycle nutrients from the water column and are commonly used as biological indicators. Along the Gulf of Urabá (Colombian Caribbean), particularly for the zones of the Marirrío Bay and the Rionegro Cove, there are no reports about ecological aspects of polychaete species; only a few taxonomic studies have been conducted. In this research we evaluate the relationship between polychaete species associated with red mangrove roots, Rhizophora mangle, and some physicochemical variables of the water column; also, we made some notes about the spatial distributions of polychaetes species within the two study areas. We found that the environmental variables that best explain polychaetes community segregation are the dissolved oxygen and electrical conductivity; temperature seems to have not a significant effect. In terms of spatial distribution, we found that Alitta succinea, Capitella cf. capitata and Ficopomatus miamiensis occupied the inner, middle and outer zones for both study area and seasons, while Stenoninereis sp. 1 (rainy and dry season) and the exotic polychaete Ficopomatus uschakovi (rainy season) were found just in Rionegro Cove. Finally, the species Nicolea modesta is registered by first time for the Gulf of Urabá, Colombian Caribbean. Los poliquetos tienen un papel importante en la ecología de las comunidades bénticas, dominan la infauna, reciclan nutrientes de la columna de agua y son comúnmente usados como indicadores biológicos. En el Golfo de Urabá (Caribe Colombiano), específicamente para las zonas de Bahía Marirrío y Ensenada de Rionegro no existen estudios sobre la ecología de los poliquetos, solo se han desarrollado algunos estudos taxonómicos. En esta investigación se evaluó la relación entre algunas variables fisicoquímicas y las especies de poliquetos encontradas. Adicionalmente, se realizaron algunas observaciones sobre las distribución espacial de estas especies en las dos zonas de estudio. Se encontró que las variables que mejor explican las segregación de las especies de poliquetos fueron el oxígeno disuelto y la conductividad eléctrica; la temperatura no tuvo un efecto significativo. En términos de distribución espacial se encontró que las especies Alitta succinea, Capitella cf. capitata y Ficopomatus miamiensis ocuparon las zonas interna, media y externa de las dos áreas de estudio en las dos temporadas de muestreo; mientras que Ficopomatus uschakovi (temporada de lluvia) y Stenoninereis sp. 1 (ambas temporadas) fueron registradas solamente la Ensenada de Rionegro en diferentes temporadas. Finalmente, las especies Nicolea modesta es registrada por primera vez para el Golfo de Urabá.

Dilution experiments were conducted during a two-year survey in the Bahía Blanca estuary (SWAtlantic Ocean) to evaluate seasonal variations of microzooplankton grazing (m) and phytoplankton growth (μ). The trophic interactions between these groupswere investigated in relation to anthropogenic eutrophication. For this purpose, two sites exposed differently to sewage input in the estuarywere selected. The percentage of primary production grazed by microzooplankton averaged 79%, although this percentage showed high seasonal variability. The lowest consumer control was found in winter and summer, and was associated with high density of chain-forming diatoms. Conversely, the microzooplankton grazing exerted heavy control on phytoplankton biomass during spring and fall, in concurrence with the highest density of nanoflagellates. Results showed average differences between μ and m close to zero during most of the annual cycle, suggesting microzooplankton control of autotrophic prey in the two sites. Under high exposure to sewage, however, experimental results evidenced the prevalence of non-linear feeding response, poor trophic phasing at lowphytoplankton growth rate and lower reactivity of microzooplankton grazing. Regardless their exposure to sewage input, microzooplankton was an important loss term of phytoplankton in the estuarine system and appear as a primary factor defining phytoplankton biomass accumulation. Fil: López Abbate, María Celeste. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Bahía Blanca. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía; Argentina Fil: Barria, Maria Sonia. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Bahía Blanca. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía; Argentina Fil: Pettigrosso, Rosa Elsa. Universidad Nacional del Sur; Argentina Fil: Guinder, Valeria Ana. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Bahía Blanca. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía; Argentina Fil: Dutto, María Sofía. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Bahía Blanca. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía; Argentina Fil: Berasategui, Anabela Anhi. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Bahía Blanca. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía; Argentina Fil: Chazarreta, Carlo Javier. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Bahía Blanca. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía; Argentina Fil: Hoffmeyer, Monica Susana. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Bahía Blanca. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía. Universidad Nacional del Sur. Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía; Argentina. Universidad Tecnológica Nacional; Argentina

Estuaries are critical to the life histories and development of many marine species, and support some of the most productive aquatic ecosystems. However, owing to their geographic accessibility, many estuaries face considerable anthropogenic threats, which can be exacerbated in developing nations. Understanding the ecological implications of anthropogenic activities as a precursor to dedicated conservation activities requires comprehensive assessments of baseline trophic relationships. This study addresses a shortfall in such information for two tropical, coastal ecosystems globally identified as priority areas for biodiversity conservation: the Paranagua estuarine complex; and the Cananeia-Iguape estuarine lagoon system in southern Brazil. Ecological relationships were investigated through carbon and nitrogen stable isotope (delta C-13 and delta N-15) determination in sediments, plant fragments and the muscle tissues of marine species occupying different trophic levels, including benthic invertebrates, ichthyofauna (Stellifer rastrifer, Paralonchurus brasiliensis, and Isopisthus parvipinnis), and delphinids (Sotalia guianensis and Pontoporia blainvillei). Isotope ratios facilitated distinguishing plant fragments, sediments (which were terrestrially influenced) and biota (predominantly marine influenced). However, despite variation among anthropogenic stressors, isotope ratios did not vary between the studied estuaries, implying similar impacts on trophic relationships which might reflect some inter-estuary mixing. All ichthyofauna and the delphinids had similar generalist diets and shared the same trophic niche, which may reflect their consistent spatio-temporal distributions and habitat patterns in the estuaries. The data illustrate the utility of isotopically characterizing biodiversity-hotspot estuaries as a mechanism for rapidly assessing ecological relationships between key species and regional habitats. Such an approach can be used to evaluate ecological connectivity as a baseline for management and might be applied more broadly, embracing multiple regions as part of estuarine and coastal biome conservation efforts.

Polychaetes play an important role in the structure and functioning of benthic communities in mangroves; however, knowledge about these organisms in the Maranhão Amazon coast is scarcity. This study analyzed the ecological aspects of polychaete community in the Quebra Pote mangrove in Maranhão State. Four sampling campaigns were carried out during both rainy and dry periods between November 2013 and July 2014, using 100 meters long transects set perpendicular to the waterline at three zones 50 m between them. A total of 521 organisms were identified belonging to ten families and 15 species; Nephtys simoni, Notomastus sp., and Paraonis sp. represented 58.92 % of all samples. Mobile deposit-feeders polychaetes were dominant and abundant. The Quebra Pote mangrove showed high values of diversity and evenness. The spatial distribution indicated that several species such as Capitella sp., Heteromastus sp., N. simoni, Notomastus sp., Paradoneis sp., Paraonis sp., Scoloplostexana, Sigambra grubei, and Syllis gracilis magellanica were present in all mangrove zones. The diversity and abundance of polychaetes were greater in lower mesolittoral (Zone 1), with a dominance of Avicennia schaueriana. The abundance of polychaetes decreased along transects from the lower mesolittoral to upper mesolittoral areas, suggesting that the presence of domestic sewage effects supersedes the vegetation effect, Los poliquetos desempeñan un importante papel en la estructura y funcionamiento de las comunidades bentónicas de manglares; sin embargo, el conocimiento sobre estos organismos permanece escaso en la costa amazónica de Maranhão, Brasil. Este estudio analizó los aspectos ecológicos de la comunidad de poliquetos del manglar Quebra Pote, Estado de Maranhão. Se realizaron cuatro recolectas durante el período de secas y lluvias, entre noviembre 2013 y julio 2014, se delimitó un transecto de 100 metros de longitud, perpendicular a la línea de agua, con tres zonas distantes entre sí de 50 m. Se cuantificaron 521 individuos distribuidos en diez familias y 15 especies; Nephtys simoni, Notomastus sp. y Paraonis sp., correspondieron al 58,92 % del total muestreado. Los poliquetos detritívoros móviles fueron dominantes y abundantes. El manglar Quebra Pote presentó elevados valores de diversidad y equidad. En la distribución espacial, se observó que varias especies estuvieron presentes en todas las zonas del manglar, por ejemplo Capitella sp., Heteromastus sp., N. simoni, Notomastus sp., Paradoneis sp., Paraonis sp., Scoloplos texana, Sigambra grubei y Syllis gracilis magellanica. La diversidad y abundancia de poliquetos fueron mayores en el mediolitoral inferior (Zona 1), con predominio de Avicennia schaueriana. A lo largo de las zonas se observó que la abundancia de poliquetos decrece del mediolitoral inferior hacia al mediolitoral superior, probablemente como consecuencia del desagüe doméstico, que suplantó el efecto de la vegetación, The authors are thankful to the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development–CNPq for the financial support provided through a research scholarship granted to the first author, which allowed the execution of this study

Modifications in the natural landscape of the Lower Jaguaribe River Basin, associated with global climate changes, contribute to changes in the hydrodynamics of the Lower Basin of Jaguaribe river ecosystem, increasing contaminants bioavailability, among them mercury (Hg). Concentrations of Hg measured in the estuarine fauna (13 species of bonyfish and 5 of invertebrates) showed variations in Hg concentrations related to feeding habits. Highest concentrations in both, invertebrates and fish, were found in carnivorous species. However, no significant differences were found between the mean Hg concentrations in carnivores and omnivores fishes, and between carnivorous and filter feeders invertebrates, which may be related to intrinsic characteristics such as size, sexual maturity and diet composition. Modificações na paisagem natural aliadas às mudanças climáticas globais, alteram a hidrodinâmica da Bacia Inferior do rio Jaguaribe, possibilitando maior biodisponibilidade de contaminantes, entre eles o mercúrio (Hg). Análise das concentrações de Hg na fauna estuarina (13 espécies de peixes e 5 de invertebrados) mostraram variações nas concentrações de Hg relacionadas aos hábitos alimentares das espécies. Tanto entre invertebrados quanto nos peixes, as maiores concentrações foram encontradas nas espécies carnívoras. Entretanto, não foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre as concentrações médias entre peixes carnívoros e onívoros, e entre invertebrados carnívoros e filtradores, o que pode estar relacionado as características biológicas específicas, como tamanho, estado de maturação e composição da dieta.

The present study describes the spatial and temporal structure of the estuarine fish community in the internal sector of the Amazon Estuary. Samples were obtained in the main channels and tidal creeks of Guajará and Marajó Bays and Guamá River. A total of 41,516 fish specimens were collected, representing 136 taxa, 38 families and 12 orders. In the dry season, the mean salinity of the main channel increased along a limnic-marine gradient, between the Guamá River and the Marajó Bay. Species richness was lowest in the mouth of the Guamá River and in the right margin of the Guajará Bay. Fish species composition and environmental guilds differed markedly among areas: Migrants and Freshwater Stragglers were dominant in the Guamá River and the Guajará Bay, while Estuarine, Marine Stragglers and Migrants predominated in the Marajó Bay. However, the trophic guilds were still relatively well balanced, in functional terms. Piscivores and Zoobenthivores were the dominant feeding functional groups in all the studied areas. In this study, the assessment of the community and the use of the guild approach were efficient to describe the structure and functioning of the assemblages of estuarine fish also helping to assess the anthropogenic pressures in the area. O presente estudo descreve a estrutura espacial e temporal da comunidade de peixes estuarinos da porção interna do estuário Amazônico. Amostras foram obtidas no canal principal e canais de maré das Baías do Guajará e Marajó e rio Guamá. Foram coletados um total de 41.516 espécimes, correspondendo 136 espécies, 38 famílias e 12 ordens. Na estação seca, a salinidade média no canal principal aumentou ao longo do gradiente limnico–marinho, entre o rio Guamá e a Baía do Marajó. A riqueza de espécies foi mais baixa na foz do rio Guamá e na margem direita da baía do Guajará. A composição das espécies e as guildas ambientais diferiram significativamente entre as áreas: Migrantes e Ocasionais de água doce foram dominantes no rio Guamá e na Baía do Guajará, enquanto Estuarinas, Marinhas Migrantes e Ocasionais dominaram na Baía do Marajó. Contudo, as guildas tróficas foram relativamente bem balanceadas, em termos funcionais. Piscívoros e Zoobentívoros foram os grupos alimentares dominantes em todas as áreas. Neste estudo, a avaliação da comunidade e o uso da abordagem com guildas foram eficientes para descrever a estrutura e o funcionamento das assembleias de peixes estuarinos e também como ferramenta na avaliação das pressões antrópicas na área.

Two neotropical estuaries affected by different anthropogenic factors were studied. We report levels of metals and metalloids in water and sediment as well as their influence on genetic, biochemical and morphological biomarkers in the native fish Centropomus parallelus. Biomarkers reflected the fish health status. Multivariate statistics indicated both spatial and temporal changes in both water and sediment, which are linked to the elemental composition and health status of inhabitant fish, showing the biggest influence of surface water, followed by sediments and interstitial water. Bioaccumulation in fish muscle was useful to identify elements that were below detection limits in water, pointing out the risk of consuming fish exceeding allowance limits for some elements (As and Hg in this case). Multivariate statistics, including physical, chemical and biological issues, presents a suitable tool, integrating data from different origin allocated in the same estuary, which could be useful for future studies on estuarine systems. Fil: Souza, Iara C.. Universidade Federal do Sao Carlos; Brasil Fil: Duarte, Ian D.. Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo; Brasil Fil: Pimentel, Natieli Q.. Universidade Federal do Sao Carlos; Brasil Fil: Rocha, Lívia D.. Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo; Brasil Fil: Morozesk, Mariana. Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo; Brasil Fil: Bonomo, Marina M.. Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo; Brasil Fil: Azevedo, Vinicius C.. Universidade Federal do Sao Carlos; Brasil Fil: Pereira, Camilo D.S.. Universidade Santa Cecília; Brasil Fil: Monferran, Magdalena Victoria. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos Córdoba. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas. Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos Córdoba; Argentina Fil: Milanez, Camilla R. D.. Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo; Brasil Fil: Matsumoto, Silvia T.. Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo; Brasil Fil: Wunderlin, Daniel Alberto. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos Córdoba. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Facultad de Ciencias Químicas. Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos Córdoba; Argentina Fil: Fernandes, Marisa N.. Universidade Federal do Sao Carlos; Brasil

Synchronization in the events of the reproductive cycle in female Neohelice granulata Dana, 1851 were studied from samples taken weekly and biweekly from September to December 2006 in the Laguna Mar Chiquita. The timing and larval hatching and synchronicity were inferred from numbers of ovigerous females and observing the stages of embryonic development. Synchronization in larval hatching also was observed in females in experiments in dark for a period of 48 hours, at three different salinities (10, 23 and 33 ppm). In addition plankton sampling were performed in order to study larval exportation at the field and its link to the tidal and light/dark cycles. We found that ovigerous females of N. granulata have a marked synchronization in embryonic development which results in that most of berried females are close to hatching within a period of maximum tidal range (days). Within this period, there is a synchronization of hatching at a time scale of hours, governed by environmental conditions. The salinity range used in this study (10-32?) did not affect hatching synchronicity neither time to hatch. Hatching was synchronized according to endogenous rhythms governed mainly by the tidal cycle and secondarily by the breadth of it. It is also conditioned by the light-dark cycle through an exogenous cycle, so that the hatchings would occur mostly at night high tides. La sincronización en los eventos del ciclo reproductivo en las hembras de Neohelice granulata Dana, 1851 fue estudiada a partir de muestras semanales y quincenales realizadas entre septiembre y diciembre del 2006 en la Laguna Mar Chiquita. La sincronización y eclosión larval fue inferida a partir de la variación en el porcentaje de las hembras ovígeras y la observación de los estadios del desarrollo embrionario. La sincronización en la eclosión larval, además, fue observada en hembras puestas a oscuridad en el laboratorio por un periodo de 48 hs, a tres salinidades distintas (10, 23 y 33 ppm). También se realizaron muestreos de plancton en el campo, donde se estudió el proceso de exportación larval relacionándolo con el ciclo de mareas y el de luz/oscuridad. Se muestra que las hembras ovígeras de N. granulata tienen una marcada sincronización en el desarrollo embrionario lo que se traduce en que la mayoría de las hembras ovígeras estén próximas a la eclosión dentro de un periodo de máximas amplitudes de marea (días). Dentro de este periodo, se produce una sincronización de la eclosión a una escala temporal más chica (horas) regida por condiciones ambientales. Dentro del rango de salinidad empleado en este trabajo (10-32‰) la eclosión no resultó afectada. Las eclosiones se sincronizan de acuerdo a ritmos endógenos regidos principalmente por el ciclo de mareas y secundariamente por la amplitud de la misma. A su vez, también está condicionado por el ciclo de luz-oscuridad a través de un ciclo exógeno, de forma que las eclosiones se producirían mayoritariamente en mareas altas nocturnas. Fil: Sanchez Vuichard, Guillermina. Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Departamento de Biología; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Farias, Nahuel Emiliano. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Mar del Plata. Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras; Argentina; Argentina Fil: Luppi, Tomas Atilio. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Mar del Plata. Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras; Argentina; Argentina

Teredinidae are wood-boring mollusks found in marine and estuarine regions. Evaluation of the distribution and abundance of Teredinidae is a very important task, as the impact of the destruction of wood in man-made structures is still underestimated, mainly in tropical regions. It is also know that temperature and salinity are key factors affecting the abundance and activity of Teredinidae due to their effects on the physiological responses of Teredinidae. The aim of this study was to evaluate the distribution and abundance of Teredinidae along the Rio de Janeiro coast according to temperature range and pattern. Artificial pine collectors were used and remained immersed for three months in four regions at 14 sites. We recorded seven species of Teredinidae, identified according to their pallets. Ilha Grande Bay was the region with the highest density and species richness, and the region with the lowest was Guanabara Bay. One gradient of abundance related to temperature was found. The most abundant species were Lyrodus floridanus and Teredo furcifera. Besides temperature, wood availability among regions was another important factor. For the first time, we recorded the occurrence of Bankia destructa on the Rio de Janeiro coast, but this record does not indicate any species introduction or expanding distribution range. Resumo Teredinidae são moluscos marinhos ou estuarinos perfuradores e degradadores de madeira. Avaliar sua distribuição e abundância se mostrou importante, uma vez que a destruição de madeira é ainda subestimada, sobretudo em regiões tropicais. Dados de literatura têm mostrado também que temperatura e salinidade são dois fatores que afetam fisiologicamente as espécies de Teredinidae. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram avaliar a distribuição e abundância de Teredinidae ao longo da costa do Rio de Janeiro, em relação ao padrão de temperatura e sua variação. Coletores artificiais de pinho foram imersos por três meses em 14 localidades em quatro regiões do estado. Sete espécies foram registradas e identificadas pela forma de suas palhetas. Os maiores valores de densidade e riqueza específica foram registrados na Baía da Ilha Grande e os menores, na Baía de Guanabara. Foi observado um gradiente na abundância relacionado à temperatura. As espécies mais abundantes foram Lyrodus floridanus e Teredo furcifera. Além da temperatura, a diferença na disponibilidade de madeira entre as regiões parece ser também um fator importante. Pela primeira vez registramos a ocorrência de Bankia destructa para o Rio de Janeiro, embora este registro não signifique introdução ou expansão de distribuição.

The sodium metabisulphite salt is usually used in shrimp culture to prevent black spot. Unfortunately the toxicological effect of this xenobiotic in decapod crabs is unknown. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the sodium metabisulphite LC50 - 96 h in the mangrove species Ucides cordatus. Crabs were collected in the tidal creek margins in Bragança estuarine and were submitted to preliminary test (screening) and posterior definitive test. Crabs were exposed in five different concentrations and a control group in five replicates, two crabs per recipient (5 L) during 96 hours. A negative correlation was observed to sodium metabisulphite concentration in relation to dissolved oxygen and pH. At the end of the experiment were obtained the following mortality index in relation to sodium metabisulphite concentrations: 100% in 86.0 mg.L-1, 74% in 62.0 mg.L-1, 52% in 52.0 mg.L-1, 44% in 38.0 mg.L-1. The value of LC50 - 96 h for U. cordatus was determinate at 42.58 mg.L-1/Na2S2O5. The results strongly indicate that sodium metabisulphite is toxic for U. cordatus, and this crab could be used for biomonitoring the environmental impact.O metabissulfito de sódio é um sal habitualmente usado no cultivo de camarão a fim de se evitar a melanose. Infelizmente o efeito toxicológico deste xenobiótico em caranguejos decápodes é desconhecido. O presente estudo objetiva investigar o LC50 - 96 h do metabissulfito de sódio na espécie Ucides cordatus em manguezal. A coleta dos caranguejos foi realizada nas margens do canal de maré estuarino em Bragança/PA. Os caranguejos foram submetidos a um teste preliminar (screening) e posteriormente ao teste definitivo, e foram expostos a cinco concentrações diferentes e um grupo controle com cinco repetições, com dois caranguejos por recipiente (5 L) durante 96 horas. Houve correlação negativa no aumento da concentração de metabissulfito de sódio com o oxigênio dissolvido e pH. No final do experimento foram obtidos os seguintes níveis de índice de mortalidade em relação s concentrações de metabissulfito de sódio: 100% em 86,0 mg.L-1, 74% em 62,0 mg.L-1, 52% em 52,0 mg.L-1, 44% em 38,0 mg.L-1. O valor da LC50 96h para U. cordatus foi determinado em 42,58 mg.L-1/Na2S2O5. Os resultados indicam que o metabissulfito de sódio é tóxico para U. cordatus e este caranguejo pode ser usado para biomonitoramento do impacto ambiental.

The present study focused on the decapod fauna of the fluvial-estuarine environment of the Guajará Bay, in the Brazilian state of Pará, where specimens were collected monthly from six sites, from May 2006 to April 2007. A total of 6,793 specimens were captured, belonging to 11 species of crab and shrimp: eight palaemonids - Macrobrachium amazonicum (Heller, 1862), Macrobrachium surinamicum Holthuis, 1948, Macrobrachium carcinus (Linnaeus, 1758), Macrobrachium rosenbergii (De Man, 1879), Macrobrachium spp. 1-4 -, one portunid - Callinectes bocourti A. Milne-Edwards, 1879 -, and two trichodactylids - Sylviocarcinus devileii H. Milne-Edwards, 1853 and Sylviocarcinus pictus (Milne-Edwards, 1853). While no significant differences were found in the ecological indices of diversity with respect to season, site, or trap size, a tendency for increased abundance and species richness was found during the dry season (August-November), in particular at some sites, apparently reflecting the influence of the estuary's saline wedge.

A study on sediment surface diatom composition in relation to both protein/carbohydrate content and salinity was carried out in Montevideo Bay and the adjacent coastal zone. Samples were seasonally taken during one year along a human impact gradient, and the trophic conditions were assessed from the biochemical composition of the surface sediment organic matter. The co-occurrence of the marine-brackish (Actinocyclus curvatulus, Actinocyclus gallicus, Coscinodiscus excentricus, Coscinodiscus radiatus, Hyalodiscus subtilis, Paralia sulcata) and freshwater diatom flora (Aulacoseira granulata, Aulacoseira italica, Aulacoseira muzzanensis, Actinocyclus normanii, Amphora copulata, Cyclotella meneghiniana, Nitzschia linearis), suggests myxohaline estuarine conditions in the study area. The sampling stations located within the bay, close to several contamination sources, exhibited hypertrophic conditions as indicated by the highest levels of protein content, but also by the high relative abundances of Actinocyclus normanii and Cyclotella meneghiniana, as both diatom species are very well established cosmopolitan proxies of aquatic degradation. The levels of both protein and carbohydrate content, but also photosynthetic pigments, recorded in the adjacent coastal zone suggest meso-eutrophic conditions as contamination levels from the inner bay might become diluted off shore. Multivariate diatom species-environmental data relationships, indicate that the trophic gradient is hierarchically more important than salinity in explaining the diatom distribution. The present data imply an improvement in our ability of assessing organic contamination in the study area, since both biological and biopolymer variables were introduced for the first time as a tool for assessing the benthic health/degradation in one of the most populated regions of the Río de la Plata.Foi realizado um estudo da salinidade e da composição das diatomáceas presentes no sedimento superficial em relação ao conteúdo de proteínas/carboidratos na Baía de Montevidéu e região costeira adjacente. Foram obtidas amostras sazonalmente durante um ano ao longo de um gradiente de impacto ambiental humano, e as condições tróficas foram determinadas através da análise da composição bioquímica da matéria orgânica do sedimento superficial. A coocorrência de espécies de diatomáceas marinhas-salobras, (Actinocyclus curvatulus, Actinocyclus gallicus, Coscinodiscus excentricus, Coscinodiscus radiatus, Hyalodiscus subtilis, Paralia sulcata) e diatomáceas indicadoras de águas doces (Aulacoseira granulata, Aulacoseira italica, Aulacoseira muzzanensis, Actinocyclus normanii, Amphora copulata, Cyclotella meneghiniana, Nitzschia linearis) sugerem condições mixohalinas estuarinas na área de estudo. As estações amostradas dentro da baía, próximas às fontes contaminadoras, apresentam condições hipertróficas apontadas pelos maiores valores de proteínas e pela alta abundância relativa de Actinocyclus normanii e Cyclotella meneghiniana, sendo que ambas espécies são consideradas cosmopolitas e indicadoras de degradação aquática. As concentrações de proteínas e carboidratos, bem como os pigmentos fotossintéticos registrados na região costeira adjacente sugerem condições meso-eutróficas e uma diluição dos níveis de contaminação do interior da baía rumo à região externa. A análise multivariada entre espécies de diatomáceas e parâmetros ambientais indica que o gradiente trófico possui hierarquicamente maior peso que a salinidade na explicação da distribuição das diatomáceas. Os resultados obtidos demonstram um aperfeiçoamento na habilidade de determinar a contaminação orgânica dentro da área de estudo, já que pela primeira vez tanto as variáveis orgânicas quanto os biopolímeros foram introduzidos como ferramenta para a determinação da relação degradação/saúde de uma das mais populosas regiões do Río de la Plata.

The appropriate feeding regime for larvae and post-larvae of crustacean decapods is essential for successful larval culture. Reports on the development and morphology of the mouthparts and foregut of these crustaceans have aided in the selection of appropriate larval foodstuffs and consequently increased larval survival and growth rate during development. In the present study, the functional morphology of foregut and mouthparts was investigated in larvae and post-larvae of the freshwater prawn M. amazonicum (Heller, 1862). From observations gathered on both the outer and inner feeding apparati the first stage larvae have obligatory lecithotrophy and feeding behaviour is initiated after molting to the second stage. The foregut of the larvae undergoes diverse morphological changes during larval development and the larval foregut of this species is primarily a mixing organ due to the absence of gastric mills and similar structures. After metamorphosis into post-larvae, drastic morphological changes occur in the foregut and mouthparts to adapt the animals to feed on the greater diversity of foods that are available in their new benthic habitat.

Previous studies examining the dynamics of succession on artificial reefs have predominantly focussed on fish communities and largely ignored the role of fouling assemblages in explaining the patterns of community structure associated with artificial reefs. The objective of this study was to record the development of epibiotic assemblages on three "design specific" (Reef Ball®) estuarine artificial reefs systems located in Lake Macquarie, Botany Bay and St Georges Basin in New South Wales, Australia. Recruitment to the artificial reefs was relatively rapid with the majority of taxa identified over the two-year study period observed within the first year post-deployment. The artificial reefs in Lake Macquarie and St Georges Basin were characterised by low diversity with four and nine taxa recorded respectively in contrast to the sixteen taxa observed on the Botany Bay reefs. Results indicated no significant differences in percentage cover of taxa among reefs in either St Georges Basin or Lake Macquarie. In contrast, comparisons between individual Botany Bay reefs identified significant differences in the percentage cover of species between artificial reefs. Analysis of assemblage structure with reef age indicated discrete patterns among estuaries with an overall reduction in the percentage cover of filamentous turfing algae (FTA) identified for all reef systems with an increase in reef age. Variations in environmental and physical conditions (turbidity, water flow, wave action and proximity to naturally occurring reef) may have contributed to the observed differences in fouling assemblages between estuaries and between artificial reefs within Botany Bay.Estudos prévios que examinaram a dinâmica de sucessão em recifes artificiais foram focalizados nas comunidades de peixes, e sempre ignoraram o papel exercido pelos organismos incrustantes sobre a estruturação das comunidades associadas aos recifes artificiais. O presente estudo tem por objetivo registrar o desenvolvimento das assembléias epibióticas em três sistemas de recifes artificiais estuarinos com desenho específico (Reef Ball®) localizados em Macquarie Lake, Botany Bay e Bacia de St Georges em New South Wales, Australia. O recrutamento nos recifes artificiais foi relativamente rápido e a maioria dos táxons identificados durante o período dos dois anos de estudo já pode ser observada no primeiro ano. Os recifes de Macquarie Lake e da Bacia de St Georges foram caracterizados por baixa diversidade, sendo registrado o número máximo de seis táxons; em contraste, nos recifes de Botany Bay foram observados dezesseis taxa. Os resultados indicaram que não houve diferença significativa na porcentagem de cobertura dos grupos taxonômicos, tanto na Bacia de St Georges quanto em Macquarie Lake. Por sua vez, as porcentagens de cobertura das espécies nos recifes de Botany Bay mostraram diferenças significativas dentro do complexo recifal. A análise da estrutura das assembléias, quando se considera a idade do recife, indicou a ocorrência de padrões discretos entre os estuários, havendo em geral uma redução da porcentagem de cobertura das algas filamentosas formadoras de tufos (AFT) com o aumento da idade recifal. As diferenças nas condições ambientais e físicas (turbidez, fluxo de água, ação das ondas e proximidade do recife natural) existentes entre estuários e recifes artificiais, podem ter contribuído para as variações observadas nas assembléias incrustantes em Botany Bay.

We evaluated relationships between (1) salinity and species richness and (2) frontal zones and community structure for the rocky intertidal macrobenthic community of the Uruguayan coast. A large-scale sampling design (extent ~500 km) covering 9 rocky shores across 3 intertidal levels was performed between September and November 2002. The linear relationship between salinity and species richness (minimum at the freshwater extreme) and the lack of correlation between variation in salinity and richness rejected two previous empirical models, explaining variations in species richness along the salinity gradient. Other factors (e.g. turbidity) may explain this discrepancy. The estuarine front defined two communities—freshwater and estuarine-marine—differing in species composition and richness. The freshwater community was characterised by low richness and few individuals confined to crevices or tide pools, and must be structured by physical processes (e.g. desiccation); the estuarine-marine community, with individuals occupying almost all available substrata, must be structured by both physical and biological processes. A marine front, separating estuarine and marine habitats, had a weak effect on community structure although estuarine and marine assemblages differed according to species characterising different functional groups. We conclude that the position of the estuarine frontal zones is important for explaining large-scale patterns of community structure in the study area. En este trabajo evaluamos las relaciones entre (1) la salinidad y la riqueza específica, y (2) las zonas frontales y la estructura de la comunidad macrobentónica del intermareal rocoso de la costa uruguaya. Un diseño de muestreo de gran escala, aplicado entre septiembre y noviembre de 2002, cubrió 9 puntas rocosas y 3 niveles intermareales. La relación lineal entre la riqueza específica y la salinidad (mínima riqueza hacia el extremo dulceacuícola del gradiente) y la ausencia de relación entre la riqueza y las variaciones temporales en la salinidad descartaron dos modelos previos que intentaban explicar las variaciones de riqueza a lo largo del gradiente salino. Otros factores (e.g. turbidez) podrían explicar estas discrepancias. El frente salino definió dos comunidades, de agua dulce y estuarina-marina, diferenciadas en su composición y riqueza específica. La comunidad dulceacuícola se caracterizó por pocos individuos, confinados a grietas o piletas de marea y estaría estructurada por procesos físicos (e.g. desecación). La comunidad estuarina-marina, compuesta por un mayor número de especies, ocupando casi la totalidad del sustrato disponible, estaría estructurada por procesos físicos e interacciones biológicas. El frente marino, que separa los hábitats marinos y estuarinos, tuvo un efecto reducido sobre la estructura de la comunidad, aunque se pudieron diferenciar agrupaciones marinas y estuarinas a partir de especies de diferentes grupos funcionales. A partir de estos resultados, concluimos que la posición del frente estuarino es importante para explicar los patrones de gran escala en la comunidad estudiada.

O conteúdo estomacal de 137 exemplares de Potamotrygon motoro provenientes de 3 localidades (Muaná, Afuá e Lago Arari) na ilha de Marajó foi analisado. Os valores do Índice Relativo de Importância (IRI) e respectiva porcentagem (%IRI) foram calculados. O nível de repleção 1 (¼ cheio) foi o mais representativo para ambos os sexos, assim como para exemplares imaturos e maduros. A maioria dos itens alimentares analisados encontrava-se bastante digerido. A identificação dos itens alimentares indicou a presença de 15 ordens, incluindo insetos, moluscos, crustáceos, anelídeos e peixes. Diferenças na dieta entre os locais amostrados foram observadas ao se comparar as %IRI, sendo crustáceos o item preferencial em Afuá, peixes no Lago Arari e moluscos em Muaná. The stomach contents of 137 examples of Potamotrygon motoro caught in 3 locations (Muaná, Afuá and Lake Arari) on Marajó Island were analysed. The values of the Index of Relative Importance (IRI) and its respective percentage (%IRI) were calculated. The level of repletion 1 (¼ full) was the most representative for both sexes, as well as for immature and mature specimens. Most of the food items found were well-digested. The food items identification indicated the presence of 15 orders, including insects, mollusks, crustaceans, annelids and fish. Differences in diet were observed among the locations studied when comparing %IRI, crustaceans being the most preferred in Afuá, fish in Lake Arari and mollusks in Muaná.

RESUMEN: Nereididae Blainville, 1818, es una de las familias de gusanos poliquetos errantes más representativas, con cerca de 535 especies descritas en 43 géneros, y de gran importancia biológica y económica. El objetivo de esta investigación fue realizar un análisis taxonómico de los neréidido asociados a las raíces de mangle rojo, Rhizophora mangle, en el archipiélago de San Andrés, Providencia y Santa Catalina. El archipiélago forma parte de la Reserva de Biosfera Seaflower. San Andrés es la isla más importante en el archipiélago, con 27 km2 de área emergida, mientras que isla Providencia, localizada a 95 km al norte de San Andrés, posee 17 km2; ambas islas tienen buen desarrollo de bosque de manglar, compuesto principalmente por R. mangle. Los neréididos, depositados en la Colección de Invertebrados Marinos de la Universidad de Antioquia (CEMUA), fueron identificados con la ayuda de claves actualizadas, mediante disección y extracción de estructuras con valor taxonómico. Se encontraron cuatro especies de poliquetos de la familia Nereididae: Neanthes acuminata, Neanthes succinea, Neanthes sp., y Platynereis mucronata. De las especies identificadas, N. succinea y N. acuminata habían sido registradas para el Caribe colombiano, y solo N. succinea había sido registrada para el archipiélago. Consideraciones sistemáticas, ecológicas y biogeográficas fueron adicionadas para cada especie. ABSTRACT: The family Nereididae Blainville, 1818, is one of the most representative group of errant polychaete worms, with about 535 described species in 43 genera, with great biological and ecological importance. The aim of this research was to make a taxonomic analysis of the nereidids associated to red mangrove roots, Rhizophora mangle, in the San Andrés, Old Providence and Santa Catalina Archipelago. This archipelago is part of the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve. San Andrés is the largest island, having 27 km2 of landmass area, while Old Providence Island, located 95 km to the north of San Andrés, has 17 km2; both islands have well developed mangrove forests, composed mainly by R. mangle. The nereidids, deposited in the Coleccion Estuarina y Marina de la Universidad de Antioquia (CEMUA), were identified with updated keys, by performing dissections and extracting parts with taxonomic value. Four species of polychaetes from the family Nereididae were found: Neanthes acuminata, Neanthes succinea, Neanthes sp., and Platynereis mucronata. Only N. succinea and N. acuminata had been reported from the Colombian Caribbean, being N. succinea the only species previously reported from the archipielago. In addition, systematic, ecological and biogeographical considerations were added for each species. COL0013263

VALENTIM, S. S.; MENEZES, M. O. B. Scientometric study of scientific literature on the estuaries of Ceará State. Arquivos de Ciências do Mar, Fortaleza, v. 49, n. 2, p. 104-114, ago./dez. 2016. Estuaries are one of most important coastal environmental system it has been a subject of study worldwide. Many researches have been done on estuarine dynamics, especially regarding the circulation and mixing process, in order to understand the principles of estuarine physical oceanography. However the knowledge on estuaries of Ceará state about hydrodynamics conditions has a significant unequal distribution of studies realized over different sectors of the Ceará coast. An inventory was realized to select the main publications available from estuaries of Ceará state inside physical oceanography area. Resulting in a total of 100 publications. These publications were classified as Grey and White literature and the type of literature is associated with low or high repercussion in the academic community. Results showed that 77% was classified as Grey literature and 23% White literature. 52% of studies were realized on estuaries located in east coast of Ceará state (sector 3), mainly in the Jaguaribe river by the great importance of this system, 22% in the west and extreme west coast (sector 1), 21% in the metropolitan region of Fortaleza (sector 2) and 5% are studies in more than one estuaries or sector of coast. There was a historical evolution of research in the estuaries of Ceará, with increase in the number of published studies and consequently a higher level of knowledge, mainly in the Jaguaribe River basin. Os estuários são ambientes costeiros de grande importância econômica, social e ambiental ao redor do Mundo. Muitos estudos têm sido realizados sobre dinâmica estuarina, principalmente relacionado com circulação e processo de mistura para melhor compreensão dos princípios da oceanografia física estuarina. A distribuição dos estudos realizados nos estuários do Estado do Ceará relacionado com a área de hidrodinâmica estuarina apresenta uma desigualdade e/ou um maior interesse pelo principal sistema estuarino da região, o rio Jaguaribe, o que reflete em quantidades distintas de estudos entre os três setores da costa cearense. Ao todo foram selecionados 100 estudos publicados para realizar uma distribuição dos estudos em relação o setor da costa e classificação em Literatura Cinza e Literatura Branca. Os resultados mostram que 77% das publicações são classificadas como Literatura Cinza e 23% como Literatura Branca. 52% dos estudos foram realizados em estuários localizados no litoral leste (setor 3), sendo 42 estudos no estuário do rio Jaguaribe, 22% nos estuários do litoral oeste e extremo oeste (setor 1), 21% nos estuários da região metropolitana de Fortaleza (setor 2), e, 5% são estudos realizados em mais de um estuário e/ou setor do litoral.

Mangroves are transitional ecosystems between terrestrial and marine environments, and are distinguished by a high abundance of animals, plants, and fungi. Although macrofungi occur in different types of habitat, including mangroves, little is known about their community structure and dynamic. Therefore the aim of this study was to analyze the diversity of macrofungi in a number of Brazilian mangroves, and the relationship between such diversity, precipitation and area of collection. A total of 32 field trips were undertaken from 2009 to 2010, and macrofungi were studied in four 250×40m transects: Timbó and Santa Cruz Channel on the Northern coast, and Maracaípe and Ariquindá on the Southern coast. All basidiomata found along the transects were placed in paper bags, air-dried and identified using existing literature. It was found that Northern areas predominantly featured Avicennia schaueriana mangroves, while Rhizophora mangle dominated in Southern transects. A total of 275 specimens were collected, and 33 species, 28 genera, 14 families and six orders were represented. Overall abundance and species richness did not vary significantly among areas, but varied according to time, being higher during the rainy season. Subtle differences in composition were observed over time and between areas, probably due to variations in plant species occurrence. Further studies with collections during months of greater precipitation in transects dominated by different mangrove species of the same ecosystem are suggested to assess the overall diversity of mycobiota in these ecosystems. Los manglares son ecosistemas de transición entre los ambientes terrestres y marinos, y se distinguen por la gran abundancia de animales, plantas y hongos. Aunque los macrohongos se encuentran en diferentes tipos de hábitat, incluidos los manglares, poco se sabe acerca de la estructura de su comunidad y dinámica. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la diversidad de macrohongos en los manglares de Brasil y su relación con la precipitación y área de recolección. Se realizaron un total de 32 salidas de campo entre 2009 y 2010, y los macrohongos fueron estudiados en cuatro transectos de 250×40m: Timbó y Canal de Santa Cruz en la costa norte y Maracaípe y Ariquindá en la costa sur. Todos los basidiomas encontrados a lo largo de los transectos se colocaron deshidratados en bolsas de papel, y se identificaron con ayuda de la literatura preexistente. Se encontró que las zonas del norte predominantemente presentaron Avicennia schaueriana, mientras Rhizophora mangle domina en transectos del sur. Se recolectaron un total de 275 especímenes y 33 especies, 28 géneros, 14 familias y seis órdenes estuvieron representados. Abundancia y riqueza de especies en general no varió significativamente entre las áreas, pero si varió en el tiempo, siendo mayor durante la estación lluviosa. Se observaron diferencias sutiles en la composición a través del tiempo y entre áreas, probablemente debido a las variaciones en la presencia de las especies de plantas. Otros estudios con recolectas durante los meses de mayor precipitación en transectos dominados por diferentes plan- tas de manglar en el mismo ecosistema son deseables para acceder a la diversidad de la micobiota.

This study aims to understand the fluvial contribution to the estuary and thence to the ocean and the behavior of the suspended particulate matter (SPM) and particulate Cu and Zn during spring tide cycles and during the dry and rainy seasons in 2005, 2006, and 2008, at the Jaguaribe River Estuary, NE Brazil. The distribution of metals concentrations in SPM during dry and rainy seasons suggests a lithogenic origin of aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), and copper (Cu), as a result of erosion and leaching of soils in the drainage basin due to anthropogenic drivers, such as urbanization, shrimp farming, and agriculture. Anthropogenic drivers also affect Zn flows associated with SPM during the dry season. The highest discharges of SPM and particulate metals occurred during rainy periods due higher freshwater volumes observed in the estuarine channel. The results strongly suggest that the high variability of discharges typical of semiarid drainagebasins can be underestimated with the use of secondary data, showing the necessity of obtaining data in situ

Pb, Cd, Zn, and Cu concentrations and their distribution in liver, gill, and muscle tissues of the catfish Cathorops spixii and Genidens genidens were investigated in order to provide information concerning the bioaccumulation processes in these species. Fish were collected in one estuary subject to slight human influence (Cananéia) and in two regions within the Santos-São Vicente estuary, São Paulo, Brazil, subject to distinct anthropogenic influences: 1) industrial and 2) domestic. In general, the highest concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were found in the liver tissue. Muscle showed the lowest values of metal accumulation for all the elements investigated. Regarding the distribution and the metal pollution index (MPI), the levels of the metals analyzed decreased in the following order: liver>gill>muscle. MPI results suggest that gill and liver are important organs to exemplify the bioaccumulation process and are also better able to reflect both recent and chronic exposure to metals.Concentrações de Pb, Cd, Zn e Cu e sua distribuição no fígado, brânquias e músculo dos bagres Cathorops spixii e Genidens genidens foram determinadas visando fornecer informações sobre os processos de bioacumulação desses metais nas espécies. Os peixes foram coletados no estuário de Cananéia e em duas regiões do estuário de Santos-São Vicente, ambos em São Paulo, Brasil. Esses estuários apresentam distintas influências antropogênicas, sendo o primeiro deles submetido a impacto industrial e o segundo a impacto doméstico. Em geral, as maiores concentrações de Cu, Zn, Cd e Pb foram obtidas no tecido hepático. No músculo foram encontrados os menores valores de acumulação para todos os elementos investigados. Quanto à distribuição dos metais e ao seu índice de poluição (Índice de Poluição por Metais-IPM), os níveis diminuíram na seguinte ordem: fígado>brânquias>músculo. Resultados do IPM sugerem que as brânquias e o fígado são importantes órgãos para indicar processos de bioacumulação, sendo também os melhores para refletir exposições crônica e recente a metais.

Macrobrachium amazonicum é o crustáceo dulcícola mais frequentemente consumido pelas populações ribeirinhas da Amazônia. Entretanto, apesar de sua relativa abundância e vasto conhecimento da espécie a partir de dados de cultivo, pouco se conhece sobre sua biologia no ambiente natural, especialmente quanto à forma de utilização de canais fortemente influenciados pelas marés. Amostras desse camarão foram coletadas em setembro/06 (período seco) e março/07 (período chuvoso), em dois canais perenes da Baía do Guajará, Pará, utilizando armadilhas (matapis) como as utilizadas pelos pescadores locais para identificar a distribuição espacial dos organismos. Os canais de maré são utilizados por camarões de todos os tamanhos nas duas estações do ano, inclusive para a reprodução. A maior abundância de indivíduos da espécie foi encontrada no período seco, nas áreas a montante dos canais. Postula-se que a abundante matéria orgânica alóctone e a busca de locais protegidos podem ser os fatores que explicam a concentração da abundância e da atividade reprodutiva nas áreas a montante dos canais. Macrobrachium amazonicum is the most frequently consumed freshwater crustacean by river communities of the Amazon. Despite its relative abundance and vast knowledge on the species from data on cultivated specimens, little is known regarding its biology in the natural environment, especially its use of creeks that are strongly influenced by the tide. Specimens of Macrobrachium amazonicum were collected in September 2006 (dry season) and March 2007 (rainy season) from two perennial creeks of the Guajará Bay in the state of Pará (northern Brazil), using traps similar to the matapis used by local fishermen to identify the spatial distribution of the species. Shrimps of all sizes use the tidal creeks in both seasons, including for breeding purposes. The greatest abundance of the species occurred in headwater areas and in the dry season. It is suggested that abundant allochthonous organic matter and the preference for protected areas may explain the abundance and breeding activity of this species in the headwaters of the creeks.

O camarão de água doce Macrobrachium equidens, nativo da região do Indo-Pacífico, foi registrada pela primeira vez na costa da Amazônia Brasileira. Esta espécie foi encontrada habitando o mesmo ambiente que duas espécies nativas do gênero Macrobrachium: M. amazonicum e M. acanthurus, e é morfologicamente muito similar à última. A identificação dessa espécie foi confirmada pela análise da sequencia genética do gene mitocondrial Citocromo Oxidase (COI). Uma descrição detalhada das características morfológicas e biologia reprodutiva de M. equidens neste novo ambiente que é apresentada. The freshwater prawn Macrobrachium equidens, which is native species of the Indo-Pacific Region, was recorded for the first time on the Amazon coast of Brazil. This species was found to inhabit the same environment as two native Macrobrachium species, M. amazonicum and M. acanthurus, and is morphologically very similar to the latter. The identification of the species was confirmed by the genetic analysis of sequences of the mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase (COI) gene. A detailed description of the morphological features and reproductive biology of M. equidens in this new environment is presented.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo determinar as variações espaço-temporal do microfitoplâncton e variáveis ambientais no estuário do rio Formoso, litoral sul do estado de Pernambuco. As coletas ocorreram em três pontos, no período chuvoso (maio a julho/2002) e estiagem (outubro a dezembro/2002). As amostras do plâncton foram obtidas através de arrastos horizontais superficiais, com rede de abertura de malha de 64¼m. Foram registrados in situ dados sobre temperatura e transparência e, concomitantemente, coletadas amostras de água utilizando a garrafa tipo Kitahara para a análise de salinidade, pH, oxigênio dissolvido, sais nutrientes e biomassa. Foram identificados 204 táxons predominando o grupo das diatomáceas (75%), destacando-se como dominantes Chaetoceros costatus Pavillard, Chaetoceros curvisetus Cleve, Chaetoceros sp., Coscinodiscus centralis Ehrenberg, seguidas dos dinoflagelados (10,79%), cianofíceas (6,37%), clorofíceas (3,92%), euglenofíceas (3,43%) e silicoflagelados (0,49%). As concentrações de oxigênio demonstraram uma alta capacidade de renovação do ambiente devido ao aporte de águas marinhas; maiores concentrações de nutrientes e biomassa algácea ocorreram durante o período chuvoso e nas baixa-mares. A pluviometria e o aporte marinho foram os parâmetros que mais influenciaram na hidrologia e na distribuição da comunidade fitoplanctônica com reflexo na riqueza taxonômica. This work aimed to evaluate spatial and temporal variations of the microphytoplankton and environmental variables in the Formoso River estuary, southern coast of Pernambuco state. The samples were collected at three stations, in the rainy season (May to July/2002) and dry season (October to December/2002). The plankton samples were obtained through horizontal superficial hauls, with a 64ìm-mesh net. Temperature and transparency were recorded in situ and, at the same time, water samples were collected using a Kitahara bottle to analyze salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrients and biomass. A total of 204 taxa were identified with the diatom group (75%) ranking first; dominant species were Chaetoceros costatus Pavillard, Chaetoceros curvisetus Cleve, Chaetoceros sp., Coscinodiscus centralis Ehrenberg, followed by the dinoflagellates (10.79%), cyanophycea (6.37%), chlorophycea (3.92%), euglenophycea (3.43%) and silicoflagellates (0.49%). Oxygen concentrations evidence a high capacity of environment renewal due to sea-water input; higher concentrations of nutrients and microalgae biomass occurred during the rainy season and at low tide. The parameters rainfall and sea-water input influenced hydrology and phytoplankton community distribution to the greatest degree, contributing to species richness.

This paper reports the results obtained from studies on the estuarine phytoplankton of the Paraíba do Norte River in northeastern Brazil. Surface and near-bottom samples were taken at four stations numbered seawards, during high and low tides from September 1978 to September 1979. A total of 139 phytoplankters were encountered. Diatoms and dinoflagellates showed highest diversity in most saline areas. Typical freshwater organisms were restricted to stations I and II where salinity was more reduced. Maximum cell densities were: 11,256,000 cells/1, 4,380,000 cells/1, 1,276,000 cells/1 and 1,035,000 cells/1, for stations I, II, III and IV, respectively. Sewage enrichments were probably responsible for the greatest values of the first two stations. However, in these stations the turbidity reduces light penetration, limiting phytoplankton growth particularly during the rainy season. The phytoflagellates (maximum of up to 4,874,000 cells/1) and the diatoms Thalassiosira spp (maximum of up to 9,262,000 cells/1) were dominant during the annual cycle. Other important taxa were Navicula spp, Cylindrotheca closterium, Paralia sulcata, Thalassionema nitzschioides and the dinoflagellate Protoperidinium spp. Seasonal variations of phytoplankton densities, dissolved oxygen, phosphate, water transparency, temperature, salinity and suspended material are also presented.

O presente estudo descreve e ilustra em detalhes os quatro primeiros estágios de Alpheus estuariensis Christoffersen, 1984 a partir de larvas cultivadas em laboratório. Duas fêmeas ovígeras foram coletadas no canal de maré do estuário de Bragança, estado do Pará, nordeste do Brasil. Após a eclosão, as larvas foram colocadas em pequenos recipientes (com 10 larvas em cada). As fêmeas foram depositadas no Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi (MPEG 0803) e as larvas de cada estágio larval no Museu zoológico da Universidade de São Paulo (MUSP18452). Foram dissecadas 10 larvas e exúvias com finas agulhas sob um microscópio ocular. Comparações morfológicas com outros estudos reportados sobre o desenvolvimento larval de espécies de Alpheus são brevemente discutidas. Here we describe and illustrate in detail four early zoeal stages of Alpheus estuariensis Christoffersen, 1984 from larvae reared in the laboratory. Two ovigerous females were collected in the tidal creek of the Bragança estuary, state of Pará, northeastern Brazil. After hatching, the larvae were placed in small containers (with 10 larvae in each). Females were deposited in the Museu Paraense Emilio Goeldi (MPEG 0803) and the larvae of each larval stage in the Zoological Museum of São Paulo University (MUSP18452). Ten larvae and exuviae were dissected with fine needles under an ocular microscope. Morphological comparisons with previous studies on larval development of the Alpheus species are briefly discussed.

O processo de contaminação por mercúrio em ecossistemas aquáticos é discutido, levando-se em consideração as características biogeoquímicas atuantes nesses sistemas que resultam em uma maior mobilização e biodisponibilidade do mercúrio para incorporação na cadeia alimentar, eventualmente aumentando a exposição humana ao metal. Traça-se um paralelo entre sistemas aquáticos amazônicos e estuários, ambientes que, pela elevada capacidade de complexação do mercúrio por compostos orgânicos dissolvidos, tendem a manter esse elemento sob formas biodisponíveis, aptas a sofrerem metilação e biomagnificação por meio da cadeia alimentar. Mercury contamination in aquatic ecosystems in Brazil is discussed by comparing the biogeochemical characteristics resulting in increasing mobilization and bioavailability to food chains and eventually increasing human exposure to mercury. We compare key Amazonian systems and some estuaries, which due to the high complexing capacity of Hg by dissolved organic matter; maintain elevated concentrations of mercury under readily bioavailable forms, able to undertake methylation and biomagnification through food chains.

Um estudo da distribuição fotoperiódica e sazonal das zoeas de Brachyura foi realizado no estuário do Rio Jaguaribe, Pernambuco, Brasil. Amostras de plâncton foram obtidas bimestralmente, durante o ano de 2001, em diferentes marés e nos períodos noturno e diurno em duas estações de coleta. Foram identificados 14 táxons, onde a família Ocypodidae, representada pelas larvas de Ucides cordatus (Linnaeus, 1763) e Uca spp., foi a mais abundante, seguida de Xanthidae e Grapsidae. Na estação próxima à foz, os táxons estiveram bem distribuídos, além de ter apresentado um maior número de famílias identificadas. As larvas de Ocypodidae, Grapsidae e Morfotipo B indicaram um movimento de dispersão para áreas costeiras, enquanto que os Pinnotheridae indicaram uma provável retenção nas águas do estuário. A elevada ocorrência de zoeas no primeiro estágio larval reforça o importante papel dos estuários como berçários para diversas espécies de crustáceos. A survey regarding the diel and seasonal distribution of brachyuran zoea was accomplished in the Jaguaribe estuary, state of Pernambuco, Brazil. Plankton samples were obtained bimonthly, throughout the year of 2001, in different tides and during day and night periods, at two sampling stations. Fourteen taxa were identified, among which Ocypodidae, represented by Ucides cordatus (Linnaeus, 1763) and Uca spp. zoea, was the most abundant one, followed by Xanthidae and Grapsidae. In the station close to the estuary opening, the taxa were well distributed, besides presenting a larger number of identified families. Ocypodidae, Grapsidae and Morphotype B zoea indicated a dispersion movement into coastal areas, while Pinnotheridae indicated a probable retention within the estuarine waters. The high occurrence of zoea in the first larval stages reinforces the important role of estuaries as nursery grounds for several crustacean species.

The productivity of Ria de Aveiro is sustained by the large quantities of dissolved inorganic nutrients, mainly from freshwater inputs (e.g. agricultural drainage) and organic-rich anthropogenic point sources (e.g. urban sewage). The concentration of silicate and nitrate showed a similar seasonal variation and conservative behaviour, since 63 to 96% of the total variance of the concentration of silicate and 88 to 96% of the total variance of the concentration of nitrate were explained by salinity. On the other hand, the concentration of nitrite, ammonium, and phosphate did not seem dependent on the freshwater inputs, showing a random distribution with salinity. Nutrient concentrations were always higher in the two inner areas than at the outer boundary of the system. Chlorophyll a showed higher concentrations throughout spring and summer, and also in the inner areas. The annual variation of N:P, N:Si and phytoplankton biomass suggests that there is a large excess of nitrate. The results suggest that within a system with low overall eutrophic condition (OEC) and low susceptibility (US-NEEA index), the quality status of different areas within the system can vary (Applying the EU-WFD criteria proposed for the trophic classification of the Baltic Sea). This work also suggests that in coastal lagoons such as Ria de Aveiro, where the quality status of certain specific areas may vary, these particular areas should be taken under consideration for specific monitoring programmes and management measurements, particularly with regard to anthropogenic point sources., La productividad de la Ría de Aveiro está sostenida por grandes cantidades de nutrientes inorgánicos disueltos, procedentes principalmente de aportes de aguas dulces (e.g. de la drenaje agrícola) y por puntos de ricos aportes orgánicos de origen antropogénico (e.g. aguas residuales urbanas). La concentración de silicatos y nitratos mostraron variaciones estacionales similares un comportamiento conservativo, en el que la salinidad explicó del 63 al 96% de la varianza total de la concentración de silicato y un 88 al 96% de la varianza total de la concentración nitratos. Al contrario, la concentración de nitrito, amonio, y fosfato no pareció depender de los aportes de agua dulce, mostrando una distribución al azar con la salinidad. Las concentraciones de nutrientes fueron siempre más altas en las dos áreas más internas, cuando se compararon con el límite exterior del sistema. La clorofila a presentó mayores concentraciones a lo largo de la primavera y verano, y fue siempre más alta en las áreas interiores. La variaciónanual de N:P, N:Si y biomasa de fitoplancton sugieren que hay un gran exceso de nitratos. Los resultados sugieren que dentro de un sistema con una condición eutrófica general baja (OEC) y un bajo índice de susceptibilidad (US-NEEA), el estatus de calidad de las diferentes áreas dentro del sistema puede variar (EU-WFD cuando se aplican criterios utilizados en la clasificación de niveles de nutrientes en aguas de transición y de la condición trófica del mar del Norte). Este trabajo también sugiere que en lagunas costeras como la Ría de Aveiro, donde el estatus de calidad de ciertas áreas puede variar, estas áreas particulares deberían ser tenidas en consideración para programas específicos de control y decisiones sobre medidas de gestión, es decir considerando los puntos de aporte antropogénicos.

Leaf consumption by herbivores in mangroves of the Dagua river estuary, Pacific coast of Colombia. Herbivore leaf consumption of various mangrove species in relation to environmental factors and leaf hardness were studied in the Dagua river estuary, Colombia. Leaf consumption and damage were assessed by measuring the percentage of area attacked by herbivores, distinguishing between consumption and damage. The species that suffered the highest consumption, such as Avicennia germinans (Avicenniaceae) and Laguncularia racemosa (Combretaceae), had softer leaves and less herbivore species when compared with Rhizophora spp. (Rhizophoraceae) and Pelliciera rhizophorae (Theaceae). The abundance and diversity of leaf grazing and its variability among mangrove species in the Dagua River estuary, show the importance of the trophic dynamics of live vegetable matter, in spite of their relatively low contribution to removing organic matter. Rev. Biol. Trop. 54 (4): 1205-1214. Epub 2006 Dec. 15Se estudió el consumo foliar por herbívoros en hojas de varias especies de mangle con relación a los factores ambientales y la dureza de las hojas en el estuario del río Dagua. La intensidad del consumo o de los daños producidos en las hojas se cuantificó determinando el porcentaje de área foliar afectado por herbívoros separando las distintas señales de consumo o daño de las hojas. Las especies más consumidas, como A germinans y L. racemosa, presentan el menor número de tipos de huellas de daños y menor dureza que las especies menos consumidas como Rhizophora sp. y P. rhizophorae. La abundancia y diversidad de huellas de ataque por herbívoros y su variabilidad a lo largo del estuario del río Dagua, muestra la importancia de los procesos de consumo de tejido vegetal vivo en el bosque de manglar dentro de la red trófica del sistema estuarino

This paper provides the results of a taxonomic survey of the Cyanophyceae/Cyanobacteria in a frenge red mangrove forest in the estuaries of Estreito dos Mosquitos and Coqueiros, São Luís, State of Maranhão, Brazil. A total of 15 taxa were identified in 8 families, as follows: Synechoccaceae (2), Chroococcaceae (1), Hyellaceae (1), Xenococcaceae (1), Oscillatoriaceae (1), Scytonemataceae (2), Phormidiaceae (5) and Pseudanabaenaceae (2). The species listed in this paper are all new descriptions for Maranhão, and one of them is a new ocurrence for Brazil. Este trabalho fornece resultados de um levantamento taxonômico das Cyanophyceae/Cyanobacteria em um bosque de franja de mangue vermelho nos estuários dos Estreitos dos Coqueiros e dos Mosquitos, São Luís, Estado do Maranhão, Brasil. Um total de 15 táxons foram identificados em 8 famílias, como segue: Synechoccaceae (2), Chroococcaceae (1), Hyellaceae (1), Xenococcaceae (1), Oscillatoriaceae (1), Scytonemataceae (2), Phormidiaceae (5) e Pseudanabaenaceae (2). Todas as espécies listadas neste artigo são descrições novas para o Maranhão e uma delas é citação nova para o Brasil.

The fauna of Spartina alterniflora from upper and lower shore levels has been monthly studied, from August 1981 to July 1982, in the Cananeia estuarine region, southern coast of São Paulo State, Brazil (25º02'S - 47º56'W). Biological samples were obtained by quadrats from two transects parallel to the water level. The mean density for the upper transect was 3,230 ind/m² and 2,403 ind/m² for the lower transect. Isopoda was the dominant group at both belts, Polychaeta was present consistently at lower transect and Gastropoda was at upper one. Monthly fluctuations of densities of several groups was related to plant biomass.

Primary growth was analysed on artificial substrata submerged at three sites of the Santos estuary (State of São Paulo, Brazil). Research on sessile ciliates was emphasized because they were the most conspicuous organisms of the primary growth developed along this estuary. Zoothamnium commune, dominated near the headwaters of the estuary, where the greatest amount of suspended matter in the water was found. Ephelota gemmipara dominated downstream. Although short time variability was observed in the colonization of substrata submerged on subsequent days, seasonal patterns could be determined. These patterns were characterized by a greater number of rare species of sessile ciliates, and a higher density of the most frequent ones, during spring and summer.

CIMAR, IRET The present study shows spatial patterns in the faunal assemblage of decaying wood and sediments, with emphasis on the polychaetes. The survey was executed across a salinity gradient in a tropical mangrove estuary of Costa Rica. To capture the organisms we analyzed decomposing logs found in the Terraba mangrove and sediment samples were taken with a corer in the sand bottom. Seven different phyla were found in the sediment samples. Of the 192 individuals found in the sediment samples, 18 were polychaetes belonging to nine families and 11 species. Analyses of decaying wood resulted in 2 564 individuals distributed in five phyla. Polychaetes accounted for 429 individuals belonging to eight families and 16 species. Although, polychaetes were more abundant in decaying wood, and their diversity was lower. The abundance of polychaetes in decaying wood was negatively correlated with the number of individuals of Mollusca, Hexapoda and Crustacea. A change in the composition of polychaetes in decaying wood was found along the salinity gradient of this estuarine zone. Dissimilarities in the composition of benthic fauna in decaying wood and sediments in the Térraba mangrove showed that biodiversity was increased by the microhabitats inside the mangrove forest. Finally, several genera or species of polychaetes are new records for Costa Rica and the Central American Pacific Coast. El presente estudio muestra patrones espaciales en el ensamblaje faunístico de madera en descomposición y sedimentos, con énfasis en los poliquetos. La prospección se realizó a través de un gradiente de salinidad en un estuario de manglares tropicales de Costa Rica. Para capturar los organismos, analizamos los troncos en descomposición encontrados en el manglar de Terraba y se tomaron muestras de sedimentos con un descorazonador en el fondo de arena. Se encontraron siete filos diferentes en las muestras de sedimento. De los 192 individuos encontrados en las muestras de sedimentos, 18 eran poliquetos pertenecientes a nueve familias y 11 especies. Los análisis de madera en descomposición dieron como resultado 2 564 individuos distribuidos en cinco filos. Los poliquetos representaron 429 individuos pertenecientes a ocho familias y 16 especies. Aunque, los poliquetos eran más abundantes en la madera en descomposición y su diversidad era menor. La abundancia de poliquetos en la madera en descomposición se correlacionó negativamente con el número de individuos de Mollusca, Hexapoda y Crustacea. Se encontró un cambio en la composición de los poliquetos en la madera en descomposición a lo largo del gradiente de salinidad de esta zona estuarina. Las diferencias en la composición de la fauna bentónica en la madera en descomposición y los sedimentos en el manglar Térraba mostraron que los microhábitats dentro del manglar aumentaron la biodiversidad. Finalmente, varios géneros o especies de poliquetos son nuevos registros para Costa Rica y la Costa Pacífica Centroamericana. O presente estudo mostra padrões espaciais na assembléia faunística de madeira em decomposição e sedimentos, com ênfase nos poliquetas. A pesquisa foi executada em um gradiente de salinidade em um estuário de mangue tropical da Costa Rica. Para capturar os organismos, analisamos toras em decomposição encontradas no manguezal Terraba e amostras de sedimentos foram coletadas com uma sonda no fundo de areia. Sete diferentes filos foram encontrados nas amostras de sedimento. Dos 192 indivíduos encontrados nas amostras de sedimentos, 18 eram poliquetas pertencentes a nove famílias e 11 espécies. As análises de madeira em decomposição resultaram em 2.564 indivíduos distribuídos em cinco filos. Os poliquetas representaram 429 indivíduos pertencentes a oito famílias e 16 espécies. No entanto, os poliquetas eram mais abundantes na madeira em decomposição e sua diversidade era menor. A abundância de poliquetas na madeira em decomposição foi negativamente correlacionada com o número de indivíduos de Mollusca, Hexapoda e Crustacea. Uma mudança na composição dos poliquetas na madeira em decomposição foi encontrada ao longo do gradiente de salinidade desta zona estuarina. Dissimilaridades na composição da fauna bentônica em madeira em decomposição e sedimentos no manguezal de Térraba mostraram que a biodiversidade foi aumentada pelos microhabitats dentro da floresta de mangue. Finalmente, vários gêneros ou espécies de poliquetas são novos registros para a Costa Rica e a costa do Pacífico da América Central. Universidad de Costa Rica Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica Instituto Regional de Estudios en Sustancias Tóxicas

Otolith trace elements were used as natural tags to study the dispersal patterns of goby larvae in an estuary. Ninety-six larval gobies representing 10 species were collected in the estuary of Gongshytyan Creek in northwestern Taiwan in September 1997. Fifteen trace elements in fish otoliths were analysed with solution-based ICPMS. Trace elemental composition in otoliths differed significantly among the species. Habitat use by the larvae of the 10 species can be divided into four groups, based on principal component analysis of otolith elemental composition. All 10 goby species used the estuary as a nursery area irrespective of the fish being amphidromous or non-amphidromous. A part of the population may be lost during larval dispersal, as indicated from trace elemental composition recorded in the otolith. Se utilizó la composición elemental en los otolitos de larvas de góbidos como trazadores naturales para estudiar los patrones de dispersión en un estuario. Durante septiembre de 1997 se recolectaron 96 larvas de góbidos pertenecientes a 10 especies distintas en el estuario de Gongshytyan Creek situado en el noroeste de Taiwan . Se analizaron 15 elementos traza mediante espectroscopia de masas (ICPMS). La composición de elementos traza en los otolitos difirió significativamente entre especies. En base al Análisis de Componentes Principales de la composición elemental de los otolitos, los hábitats utilizados por las 10 especies pudieron dividirse en 4 grupos. Las 10 especies de góbidos usan el estuario como área de cría, independientemente de que las especies sean anfidromas o no-anfidromas. La composición elemental determinada para los otolitos analizados, permitió comprobar que una parte de la población puede ser perdida durante la dispersión larvaria.