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Tornadoes are columns of air in very high rotation, which have high destructive power. The phenomenon happens in Brazil, but its occurrence is little recognized. In this work, we intend to characterize the multiple vortex tornado that occurred in Marechal Cândido Rondon and Quatro Pontes in 2015, to find out if there was the possibility of identifying the hook echo in the radar image. For that, the images made available by the Meteorology System of Paraná were compared with the course of the phenomenon. The analyzes performed allowed the glimpse of a hook in the area of occurrence, demonstrating that the event had a signature. However, the subscription took place very quickly, with only 7 minutes in advance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tapirus terrestris populations are declining due to habitat loss and hunting. Our objective is to estimate the minimum viable population size for tapirs in the Atlantic Forest. A Population Viability Analysis was conducted using VORTEX. Demographic parameters were based on data published in the scientific literature. Demographically and genetically viable populations should have more than 30 and 200 individuals, respectively. Sensitivity analysis suggests that mortality rate, sex ratio and inbreeding depression are important for population persistence. Preserving tapir populations is important to avoid local extinction, preserve intra-specific diversity, maintain evolutionary potential and ensure tapirs play their ecological roles within ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A population viability analysis (PVA) was conducted to assess the minimum viable population (MVP) of the Atlantic Forest spiny rat Trinomys eliasi, a species threatened by habitat loss and restricted geographical distribution. Objectives were to suggest quasi-extinction thresholds, estimate minimum areas of suitable habitat (MASH) and MVPs, and compare results with the species’ current status. The computer package VORTEX was used. The model predicted sizes of 200 animals to achieve demographic stability, but buffering declines in genetic variability required populations of 2000 animals. Estimated MASHs were approximately 250 and 2500 ha for demographic and genetic stability, respectively. Mortality rate and mean litter size were the most sensitive parameters to changes in model assumptions. The protection of known populations and the search for extant populations are the first steps in conservation. T. eliasi''s issue could help protecting the coastal shrubland ecosystem of Rio de Janeiro state. Observing IUCN''s criteria for listing threatened species, it is suggested that T. eliasi should be ranked as vulnerable in red lists. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]