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Yellowish myotis present a seasonal reproduction, influenced by rainfall distribution, in which the testis mass, germ cell composition, and brown adipose tissue (B.A.T.) mass change along the reproductive stages. In the present study, tissue xenografts were performed in immunodeficient mice to investigate spermatogenesis development in a stable endocrine milieu and the possible androgenic role of B.A.T. In this study, 41 adult male bats were captured in the Santuário do Caraça, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The gonads and B.A.T. were collected, weighed, and grafted under the mice's back skin. Mice biometric and hormonal data were evaluated after grafting, and the testis grafts and mice gonads were fixed for histological and immunohistochemical analyses. As a result, testis grafts from adult bats presented a continuous germ cell development in all reproductive stages, showing round spermatids in all testis tissues. Furthermore, testis fragments in the Rest stage presented elongating spermatids as the most advanced germ cell type in the seminiferous epithelium after 7 months of grafting. These data indicated that yellowish myotis spermatogenesis could be continued (presenting a constant spermatogonial differentiation) in a stable endocrine milieu, as found in mice. In addition, the best spermatogenic development was achieved when testis fragments were transplanted at their lowest activity (Rest stage). Regarding the B.A.T. grafts, the adipose tissue consumption by mice increased seminal vesicle mass and testosterone serum levels. This data proves that B.A.T. is related to testosterone synthesis, which may be critical in stimulating the differentiation of spermatogonia in yellowish myotis. Lay summary Bats are essential seed dispersers, pollinators, and agricultural pest regulators. Despite their ecological importance, bats face different threats due to environmental destruction and usually have few offspring per year. This study aimed to understand better how bats reproduce, but studying them in captivity is complicated and may not replicate what happens in the natural environment. To overcome this obstacle, we transplanted tissues from bats into mice which allowed in-depth research in lab conditions into bat reproduction. We looked at the tissues of adult bats after they had been transplanted into mice, and this allowed us to see which types of tissue played a critical role in reproduction.

Yellowish myotis is a Neotropical vespertilionid bat that presents a seasonal reproduction. The sperm is produced in the Mature stage, stored in the Regressed stage and released in the Rest stage (mating period). Aiming to understand, for the first time, the relationship between testis and epididymis physiology in yellowish myotis reproduction, the spermatogenesis length, sperm production, and seminal parameters were herein evaluated. Fifty-one adult male bats were captured in Santuario do Caraca, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The gonads were collected in the Maturing and Mature stages for histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analyses, whereas the epididymis was evaluated in all reproductive stages for seminal studies. Our results demonstrated that the yellowish myotis spermatogenic process is fast, lasting 31.70 ± 0.15 days. Despite the low Sertoli cell efficiency (6.60 ± 1.23), the high numbers of Sertoli cells per testis enable an elevated sperm production in the Mature stage. The sperm concentration, vitality, and motility presented the highest values in the Regressed stage; however, in this period, an increased incidence of sperm morphological defects was detected. In the following period (Rest stage), a drastic reduction of defective sperm was observed, suggesting quality control of sperm before the mating period. Furthermore, the epididymis ability to maintain a long-term sperm-storage was observed in 26.7% of the bats in the Maturing stage. In summary, yellowish myotis presented a fast and high sperm production during the Mature stage. These sperms are stored and selected before mating period.

Bats of the Anoura geoffroyi species have a wide distribution in the Neotropics, occurring in North, Central and South America. The formation of large colonies enhances the important ecological role developed by the species in the pollination of a wide variety of plants. In this work a concomitant study in two colonies of Anoura geoffroyi was conducted, emphasizing the structure and population dynamics of the species. These colonies are located in one of the main regions of mineral interest in Brazil, the Iron Quadrangle, state of Minas Gerais. It was observed that the colonies represent large populations with a marked variation in population density throughout the year and may aggregate thousands of individuals during the early reproductive period. Both colonies showed sexual segregation behavior with the shelters occupied mostly by males in the first months of the year. Females arrive in the caves for mating at the peak of the dry season. They remain in the shelter until nearly the end of gestation, leaving the studied caves in early summer where they seek another shelter (maternity colony) for the completion of gestation (birth) and subsequent care of the offspring. Therefore, it was concluded that the intrinsic characteristics of the natural history of the species have important implications for its conservation, since the preservation of diurnal shelters is closely related to the reproductive cycle of the species. In turn, the current Brazilian legislation allows the suppression of natural underground cavities based on studies that, depending on the sampling period, may be insufficient to detect the use of these essential shelters for the completion of the reproductive cycle of species. These that are considered relatively common, with a fundamental ecosystem role for epigeal and underground environments, and which are not on the official lists of endangered species. Morcegos da espécie Anoura geoffroyi possuem ampla distribuição na região neotropical, ocorrendo nas Américas do Norte, Central e do Sul. A formação de grandes colônias potencializa o importante papel ecológico desenvolvido pela espécie na polinização de grande variedade vegetal. Neste trabalho, foi realizado o estudo concomitante em duas colônias de Anoura geoffroyi, dando ênfase à estrutura e dinâmica populacional da espécie. Essas colônias se encontram localizadas em uma das principais regiões de interesse mineral do Brasil, o Quadrilátero Ferrífero, estado de Minas Gerais. Como resultados, observamos que as colônias representam populações numerosas com uma variação na densidade populacional acentuada ao longo do ano podendo agregar milhares de indivíduos durante o início do período reprodutivo. Ambas as colônias apresentaram comportamento de segregação sexual com os abrigos ocupados majoritariamente por machos nos primeiros meses do ano. As fêmeas chegam nas cavernas para acasalamento no pico da estação seca. Estas permanecem no abrigo até próximo do fim da gestação, abandonando as cavernas estudadas no início do verão onde procuram outro abrigo (colônia maternidade) para a conclusão da gestação (nascimento) e posterior cuidado dos filhotes. Desta forma, concluímos que as características intrínsecas da história natural da espécie têm implicações importantes para a sua conservação já que a preservação dos abrigos diurnos está intimamente relacionada com o ciclo reprodutivo da espécie. Por sua vez, a legislação brasileira vigente permite a supressão de cavidades naturais subterrâneas tendo como base estudos que, a depender do período de amostragem, podem ser insuficientes para detectar o uso destes abrigos essenciais para a conclusão do ciclo reprodutivo de espécies consideradas relativamente comuns, com um papel ecossistêmico fundamental para ambientes epígeos e subterrâneos, e que não constam nas listas oficiais de espécies ameaçadas de extinção.

Parasitic relationships between Neotropical bats and their ectoparasites are not well known, even though parasitism is one of the factors that can affect the fitness of a host population. This study characterized parasite-host relationships in relation to sex, age, body size and reproductive status in a population of Anoura geoffroyi using the indices of Prevalence, Mean Intensity and Mean Abundance. Total prevalence for 93 sampled bats was 94.6%. Two species of streblid flies that are considered primary parasites of A. geoffroyi, Exastinion clovisi (n = 203) and Anastrebla modestini (n = 152), were the most abundant ectoparasites, followed by Trichobius sp. (n = 7). Two mite species, Periglischrus vargasi (Spinturnicidae) (n = 98) and Spelaeorhynchus praecursor (Spelaeorhynchidae) (n = 11), were also found. We recorded higher mean abundance and intensity of parasitism in pregnant females compared to reproductive males and reproductively inactive females, for different specific associations of ectoparasites. Host age and body condition had no effect on the parasitological indices. Even with high rates of parasitism, parasitic load did not influence host body condition, but infestation rates by mites were higher in reproductive males and higher by flies in reproductive females, showing that ectoparasites can have variable influences between the different stages of the life history of these host bats. Thus, the reproductive activity of the hosts could be an adverse factor for resistance to parasite infestations.

Bats are parasitized by many different arthropods, among which the dipteran families Nycteribiidae and Streblidae are exclusive to bats. Researches that relate the ecology of ectoparasites with their hosts are fundamental for understanding issues related to the interactions between these two groups, in addition to epidemiological aspects of pathogen transmission. The present study evaluated the rate of infestation by dipteran (Streblidae) ectoparasites in two colonies of Anoura geoffroyi associated with caves in the southeastern Brazil. It also evaluated whether parasitological indices differ significantly with regard to host sex and reproductive condition. A total of 1377 bats were captured, of which 84% were parasitized. From these, a total of 5047 streblid bat flies belonging to three species of three genera were collected and identified. The most abundant was Exastinion clovisi (57%), followed by Anastrebla modestini (30%) and Trichobius propinquus (13%). In general, the populations of ectoparasites fluctuated throughout the year, with peaks of abundance during the rainy season. The sex ratios for the species of ectoparasites were close to one, which differs from what is reported in the literature. In addition, there were significant differences in parasitism rates in relation to host sex and reproductive condition. In both populations, ectoparasite infestation of pregnant or lactating females was significantly higher than for non-reproductive females. New studies aimed at assessing whether these higher rates of infestation have any effect on female bat reproduction are needed.

This study investigated the reproductive dynamics of a colony of Geoffroy's tailless bat (Anoura geoffroyi), an important pollinating bat, in a highland area of Southeastern Brazil. The colony was monitored each month from November 2014 to December 2015 with 154 males and 117 females captured. Testicular and ovarian histological data from 31 adult males and 22 adult females were obtained. Body condition index of male and female, and gonadosomatic index, epididymis-somatic index and Sertoli cell efficiency were analyzed. Females with spermatozoa in uterine crypts, embryos in oviducts, gravid uteri, and pregnant females were registered during the rainy season (November-March) and into the beginning of the following dry season (April), indicating asynchrony of births. The ovaries showed all types of ovarian follicles, and a polarized ovary cortex was found, differing from the organization pattern of most mammals. The testes showed continuous spermatic activity, but testicular parameters analyzed showed significantly higher values during the rainy season. A shorter mating period during the beginning of this season was detected, when values of the gonadosomatic and epididymis-somatic indexes, and Sertoli cell efficiency showed more pronounced differences in relation to the remaining period of study. Unlike polyestry known for some Neotropical phyllostomids, the reproductive cycle of A. geoffroyi was characterized as seasonal monoestrous, with the main reproductive events occurring during the rainy season, as the best time for females to reproduce, but with offspring recruitment occurring predominantly during the dry season, a period with fewer food resources.

Incluye contenido parcial de los autores Abstract.Mammalian carnivores are considered a key group in maintaining ecologicalhealth and can indicate potential ecological integrity in landscapes where they occur. Carni-vores also hold high conservation value and their habitat requirements can guide managementand conservation plans. The order Carnivora has 84 species from 8 families in the Neotropicalregion: Canidae; Felidae; Mephitidae; Mustelidae; Otariidae; Phocidae; Procyonidae; andUrsidae. Herein, we include published and unpublished data on native terrestrial Neotropicalcarnivores (Canidae; Felidae; Mephitidae; Mustelidae; Procyonidae; and Ursidae). NEOTRO-PICAL CARNIVORES is a publicly available data set that includes 99,605 data entries from35,511 unique georeferenced coordinates. Detection/non-detection and quantitative data wereobtained from 1818 to 2018 by researchers, governmental agencies, non-governmental organi-zations, and private consultants. Data were collected using several methods including cameratrapping, museum collections, roadkill, line transect, and opportunistic records. Literature(peer-reviewed and grey literature) from Portuguese, Spanish and English were incorporated inthis compilation. Most of the data set consists of detection data entries (n=79,343; 79.7%) butalso includes non-detection data (n=20,262; 20.3%). Of those, 43.3% also include count data(n=43,151). The information available in NEOTROPICAL CARNIVORES will contribute tomacroecological, ecological, and conservation questions in multiple spatio-temporal perspec-tives. As carnivores play key roles in trophic interactions, a better understanding of their distri-bution and habitat requirements are essential to establish conservation management plans andsafeguard the future ecological health of Neotropical ecosystems. Our data paper, combinedwith other large-scale data sets, has great potential to clarify species distribution and relatedecological processes within the Neotropics. There are no copyright restrictions and no restric-tion for using data from this data paper, as long as the data paper is cited as the source of theinformation used. We also request that users inform us of how they intend to use the data.

Incluye contenido parcial de los autores Biological invasion is one of the main threats to native biodiversity. For a speciesto become invasive, it must be voluntarily or involuntarily introduced by humans into a nonna-tive habitat. Mammals were among first taxa to be introduced worldwide for game, meat, and labor, yet the number of species introduced in the Neotropics remains unknown. In this dataset, we make available occurrence and abundance data on mammal species that (1) transposeda geographical barrier and (2) were voluntarily or involuntarily introduced by humans into theNeotropics. Our data set is composed of 73,738 historical and current georeferenced recordson alien mammal species of which around 96% correspond to occurrence data on 77 speciesbelonging to eight orders and 26 families. Data cover 26 continental countries in the Neotrop-ics, ranging from Mexico and its frontier regions (southern Florida and coastal-central Floridain the southeast United States) to Argentina, Paraguay, Chile, and Uruguay, and the 13 coun-tries of Caribbean islands. Our data set also includes neotropical species (e.g.,Callithrixsp.,Myocastor coypus,Nasua nasua)considered alien in particular areas of Neotropics. The mostnumerous species in terms of records are fromBossp. (n=37,782),Sus scrofa(n=6,730), andCanis familiaris(n=10,084); 17 species were represented by only one record (e.g., Syncerus caf-fer, Cervus timorensis, Cervus unicolor, Canis latrans). Primates have the highest number of spe-cies in the data set (n=20 species), partly because of uncertainties regarding taxonomicidentification of the generaCallithrix,which includes the speciesCallithrix aurita, Callithrixflaviceps, Callithrix geoffroyi, Callithrix jacchus, Callithrix kuhlii, Callithrix penicillata, andtheir hybrids. This unique data set will be a valuable source of information on invasion riskassessments, biodiversity redistribution and conservation-related research. There are no copy-right restrictions. Please cite this data paper when using the data in publications. We alsorequest that researchers and teachers inform us on how they are using the data

Myotis levis (yellowish myotis) is a small Neotropical insectivorous vespertilionid bat that provides valuable ecosystem services, such as control of disease vectors and agricultural pests. Aiming to describe the fluctuations of the reproductive organs throughout the year, the gonads and epididymis from 124 adult bats were histologically evaluated. These animals were captured in Santuario do Caraca, Minas Gerais, Brazil. After the initial screening, six bats per reproductive stage (in a representative month) had specific organs harvested for further investigation. The gonads, epididymis, accessory sex gland and brown adipose tissue were collected for biometric analyses. Furthermore, yellowish myotis testis was evaluated through histomorphometric and molecular assays, whereas blood samples were collected for hormonal analyses. The data were compared among the reproductive stages and correlated with rainfall distribution. As a result, we demonstrated that yellowish myotis presented a seasonal reproduction showing testis regression and rest, resembling the pattern exhibited by temperate-zone vespertilionid bats. During the Mature stage, after the peak of rainfall distribution, yellowish myotis testicles were fully developed for gamete production and maximum testosterone synthesis. These findings indicate a significant influence of this environmental factor on yellowish myotis reproduction. Following that, the accessory sex gland, brown adipose tissue and epididymis weights increased in the Regressed stage. The epididymis sperm storage occurred for at least 8 months and was observed in the Regressed, Rest and beginning of the Maturing stage. This reproductive fluctuation is interesting because the reactivation of the gonads coincided with the least amount of sperm in the epididymis.

We provide the first report of the frequency of leucism for a species of Neotropical bat. Leucism is an anomaly of the skin pigmentation of an animal that manifests itself as the total or partial loss of the natural color of the species, and can affect part of or the entire body. During a study involving capture and marking individuals of a population of A. geoffroyi residing in a cave in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, seven individuals with some degree of depigmentation were recorded out of 616 individuals marked, for a frequency of 1.1%. Since leucism is due to recessive gene expression, these findings may indicate that the population is isolated and possesses a high level of endogamy. Factors that may be responsible for this condition in the studied population remain unknown. Resumo: Relatamos aqui o primeiro registro de frequência de leucismo em uma espécie de morcego Neotropical. Leucismo é uma anomalia na pigmentação da pele dos animais que consiste na perda total ou parcial da cor natural da espécie, podendo acometer partes ou todo o corpo do animal. Em um estudo de captura e marcação de indivíduos de uma população de A. geoffroyi abrigada em uma caverna localizada no estado de Minas Gerais, foram registrados sete indivíduos com algum grau de despigmentação dentre 616 indivíduos marcados, representando 1.1% da população. Leucismo é um tipo de anomalia de coloração de expressão gênica recessiva, portanto, esse resultado pode indicar isolamento da população e nível elevado de endogamia. Fatores que podem levar à esta condição nessa população são desconhecidos.

The mite species Monunguis streblida Wharton, 1938 (Neothrombidiidae) is reported in association with dipteran ectoparasites (Streblidae) of Brazilian bats for the first time. A 1-year study of two populations of the bat Anoura geoffroyi Gray, 1838 in caves in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, found them to be parasitized by four species of streblids, three of which were parasitized by M. streblida. Three hundred and thirty-two individuals of M. streblida were collected in association with 135 individuals of Anastrebla modestini Wenzel, 1966, two individuals of A. caudiferae Wenzel, 1976, and two individuals of Trichobius sp. (dugesii complex). The predominant association of M. streblida with A. modestini suggests a preference for this host for the larvae of this mite. Fluctuations in the abundance of mites were found to accompany seasonal cycles and fluctuations in the abundance of their main host, with the mites being more abundant in months with higher temperatures and greater rainfall. The present work represents the first formal record of the occurrence of M. streblida in South America, increasing its range of occurrence southward by more than 5000 km.

The large fruit-eating phyllostomid bat, Artibeus lituratus (Olfers, 1818), forearm 69-75 mm, body mass 66-82 g, has a diversified geographic distribution in the Neotropical region. Therefore it is subjected to different climatic conditions that affect its reproduction, leading to different reproductive strategies such as continuous reproduction, seasonal monoestry or seasonal bimodal polyestry. In this study we used morphometric and histological methods to analyze the annual reproductive activity of A. lituratus males in a population living in the Atlantic Forest, Southeastern Brazil. Testis mass, epididymis mass, gonadosomatic index, seminiferous tubule diameter, and Leydig cell nucleus diameter showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the two seasons (wet: October to March; dry: April to September). Additionally, the cauda epididymis was packed with sperm throughout the period of study. Our data indicate that in this population spermatogenic activity was continuous throughout the year. Slight variations in accumulated frequency of pre-meiotic, meiotic and post-meiotic stages of the seminiferous epithelium cycle were observed when compared to other bat species, probably due to species-specific characteristics.

The occurrence of anomalous coloration (albinism, leucism and melanism) in mammals is a rare phenomenon in nature, but this phenomenon has been reported for several species of mammals. In this study, we report on the occurrence of leucism in Eira barbara by examining three road-killed individuals and two sightings of live animals in Reserva Particular do Patrimônio Natural Santuário do Caraça, southeastern Brazil. In addition, we examined tayra specimens housed in mammal collections from Brazil and USA. The animals found dead and those sighted had a whitish yellow fur on the body and head, resulting in lighter coloration than the coloring pattern commonly observed in tayras. Despite these lighter color pattern, the specimens showed parts of soft tissue, such as iris and the skin, with pigmentation very similar to that present in individuals with the typical color pattern. This set of factors indicates the specimens recorded were in fact leucistic and not albino. Among the specimens examined in the scientific collections, we found nine individuals from different localities that presented the whitish yellow color pattern. Some studies attribute the higher frequency of cases of leucism due to small populations and / or with some mechanism of reproductive isolation. Thus, analysis of the genetic variability of populations containing individuals with such characteristics should be considered. On the other hand, the occurrence of polymorphic color phenotype in tayras indicates that hypotheses related to the fixation of recessive characteristics, or on possible environmental adaptive advantages of these phenotypes can be tested. Resumo A ocorrência de coloração anômala (albinismo, leucísmo e melanismo) em mamíferos é um fenômeno raro na natureza, mas ela tem sido relatada para diversas espécies. Neste trabalho nós relatamos a ocorrência de leucísmo em Eira barbara por meio do exame de três indivíduos encontrados mortos atropelados por veículos e pela visualização direta de indivíduos vivos na Reserva Particular do Patrimônio Natural Santuário do Caraça, sudeste brasileiro. Em adição, nós consultamos coleções de mamíferos em museus do Brasil e dos Estados Unidos da América. Os animais encontrados mortos e os avistados apresentavam pelagem amarela esbranquiçada no corpo e na cabeça, resultando em uma coloração muito mais clara que o padrão de coloração comumente observado em iraras. Apesar deste padrão de coloração mais claro, os espécimes apresentavam partes do tecido mole, tais como a íris e a pele, com pigmentação muito semelhante àquela presente em indivíduos com padrão de coloração típico da espécie. Este conjunto de fatores indicou que os espécimes registrados eram de fato leucísticos e não albinos. Dentre os espécimes examinados nas coleções científicas, nós encontramos nove indivíduos de diferentes localidades que apresentavam o padrão de coloração esbranquiçado. Alguns estudos atribuem a frequência elevada de casos de leucísmo a pequenas populações e / ou com algum mecanismo de isolamento reprodutivo. Dessa forma, análises da variabilidade genética de populações contendo indivíduos com essas características devem ser consideradas. Por outro lado, a ocorrência de fenótipos de coloração polimórficos em iraras indica que hipóteses podem ser testadas tanto com relação à fixação de caraterísticas recessivas, quanto sobre possíveis vantagens adaptativas ambientais desses fenótipos.

We present here a compilation of the mammal species associated with the Reserva Particular do Patrimônio Natural (RPPN) Santuário do Caraça. From records confirmed by captures, visual observations, and indirect evidence we list 70 species of mammals, including Alouatta guariba, Chrysocyon brachyurus, Leopardus pardalis, Leopardus wiedii, Pecari tajacu, Puma concolor, Tapirus terrestris and Trinomys moojeni that are considered to be threatened species according to the Red Lists (Minas Gerais, Brazil, IUCN) and nine species endemic to the Atlantic Forest. Our findings reaffirm the importance of the reserve for the conservation of mammals, but also identify areas in need of further investigation, particularly regarding the threatened species.

Yellowish myotis, Myotis levis, is a seasonal, epididymal sperm-storing Neotropical vespertilionid. In the dry season, males show simultaneous testis regression and sperm storage in cauda epididymis, enabling them to mate during this season. In this study, we investigated seasonal variations in body mass, diameter and height of seminiferous tubules and nuclei of Leydig cells in a population of southeastern Brazil. We also determined the frequencies of the stages of the seminiferous epithelium cycle (SEC) of mature individuals of this population. Body mass and diameter of Leydig cell nuclei showed no significant differences between dry and rainy seasons and stages of annual reproductive cycle; however, all other morphometric parameters varied significantly. The relative cumulative frequency of pre-meiotic stages of the SEC (1-3) was 51%, of meiotic stage (4) was 2% and of post-meiotic stages (5-8) was 47%. We confirmed that the yellowish myotis presents seasonal sperm production as revealed by testis regression and epididymal sperm storage during the dry season.

The evaluation of the health status of wild populations has received much attention in conservation projects, as it is considered an important but neglected component of species’ ecological fitness. Considering the increasing interest in the conservation and health of Neotropical wildlife species, the aim of this study was to improve the knowledge on blood parameters of maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) populations from two different protected areas. We performed comparisons of hematological and serum biochemistry data (urea and creatinine dosage) from a total of 17 healthy adult maned wolves cage-trapped and chemically restrained in Serra do Cipo National Park (four females and three males) and Galheiro Private Natural Reserve (four females and six males), both located in Southeast Brazil. Lymphocyte counts were significantly higher in males from the smallest and non-buffered area, the private reserve, which most likely reflects differences in pathogen exposure. Serum creatinine and urea concentrations were higher in females and in animals of both genders from the largest and buffered area, the national park, the latter of which we hypothesized to be an effect of greater protein intake due to higher prey availability. The results highlight that there are slight differences in physiological parameters between populations of wild mammal species, which must be taken into account in health evaluations or assessments of the effects of anthropogenic disturbance on wildlife health.

With a nearly global distribution the ves- pertilionid bat Myotis represents one of the most excep- tional examples of adaptive radiation among mammals. We investigated the reproductive activity of the vesper- tilionid bat yellowish myotis, Myotis levis ,f rom ah igh- land area in Southeastern Brazil. The data were obtained through histological analyses of the male and female genital systems from February 2010 to May 2011. The testes of the adult yellowish myotis showed seasonal morphological characteristics which were cate- gorized in the following stages: rest, maturing, mature, and mating. Rest and maturing males were recorded throughout the rainy season (October-March). In the rest stage no spermatogenesis was observed and the epididymal duct was devoid of spermatozoa. Maturing individuals had started spermatogenesis and few sper- matozoa were found in the epididymal duct. Mature males were found toward the end (February-March) of the rainy season, when full spermatogenic activity was recorded and spermatozoa were packed in the epididy- mal duct. Although not recorded, mating probably occurred in the middle of the dry season (April-Sep- tember) when the cauda epididymis was enlarged and packed with sperm. The spermatozoa remained stored in the cauda epididymis for at least three months when the testes entered into regression. The ovaries showed all types of ovarian follicles throughout the study period except mature follicles which were registered only in July (mid-dry season). Lactating females were captured in the beginning of the rainy season. The sea- sonal reproductive characteristics of the yellowish myotis from this Neotropical highland area were simi- lar those of epididymal sperm-storing temperate ves- pertilionids. J. Morphol. 274:1230-1238, 2013. V C 2013

Species richness and abundance of bats were studied in four nature reserves, including a karst area which has many potential rocky shelters for bats, such as caves and rock crevices. The reserves were located in the greater Belo Horizonte metropolitan area, one of the most populated regions of Brazil, within the Atlantic Forest, and Cerrado (Brazilian savanna) ecological domains. Bats were sampled using mist-nets and, in the karst area, also by active searches in shelters. A total of 1,599 bats were captured representing 30 species belonging to four families. There was little similarity among the four chiropteran faunas. The greatest species richness was found in the karst area with 22 species recorded whereas richness estimates in the other areas indicated the need for further studies. Two hundred and sixty-five individuals of 14 species were captured from 56 shelters. Most of the shelters were frequently used for diurnal roosts, and all the bats found belonged to the Phyllostomidae, with the exception of Myotis nigricans (Vespertilionidae), Nyctinomops laticaudatus (Molossidae) and Peropteryx macrotis (Emballonuridae). The sanguinivorous Desmodus rotundus was the most common species in the shelters. The results of this study demonstrate the importance of maintaining multiple protected areas to ensure a representative fauna of bats in a region characterized by a vegetation transition zone and with intense economic activity and high environmental impact. This study also demonstrates the importance of rock shelters for maintaining local bat richness and the importance of active searches for bats in their diurnal roosts for a more thorough sampling of the bat fauna at a given locality.

Despite the singular morphology of the male genital system and the different reproductive strategies of marsupials, little emphasis has been given to the testis morphology and spermatogenic kinetics in this mammalian order. The present study aimed to investigate the testis function and the duration of spermatogenesis in the southeastern four-eyed opossum, Philander frenatus. Testes of six adult males were routinely processed for histological and stereological analyses. In order to determine the duration of spermatogenesis, intratesticular injections of tritiated thymidine were performed 1h, 13days and 21days before the sacrifice. Based on the development of the acrosomic system, ten stages of the seminiferous epithelium cycle were characterized. The mean body and testis weights for the P. frenatus were respectively 326±20g and 0.4±0.05g, providing a gonadosomatic index of 0.3±0.02%. The most advanced germ cell types labeled at 1h, 13days and 21days after thymidine injections were, respectively, preleptotene spermatocytes at stage IV, pachytene spermatocytes at stage IV and diplotene spermatocytes at stage IX. Based on the stages frequencies and the most advanced labeled germ cells, each spermatogenic cycle and the entire spermatogenic process lasted respectively 13.5±0.5 and 60.9±2.4days. When compared to the vast majority of eutherian mammals already investigated, these data indicate that the Philander frenatus presents a relatively long duration of spermatogenesis.

New World species of the Hystricognathi comprise a group of rodents that exhibit poorly understood social behaviour. One such species, the echimyid Thrichomys apereoides, has a behavioural and social repertoire which suggests the use of its eversible anal gland in communication between individuals; however, no information on the morphology of this gland is available. In this study, the anal gland of nineteen adult individuals (11 males and 8 females) was analysed through histological and histochemical techniques. The gland was located in the submucosal of the anal region, cranial to the anus, and had an opening located dorsally in the rectum mucosa at approximately 1 mm from the anus. The gland was characterized as seromucous, secreting neutral glycoprotein. Not all individuals studied presented secretion in the glandular ducts, indicating a possible functional variation in the gland. This was the first record of an anal gland of the seromucous type in rodents.

Sertoli cells play an essential role in spermatogenesis, being determinant of male reproduction capability. In this study we determined and compared the Sertoli cell efficiency (SCE), i.e. the ratio of the number of round spermatids to the number of Sertoli cells, of three species of Neotropical chiropterans, Anoura geoffroyi, Artibeus lituratus and Myotis levis, and additionally we tested for correlations between SCE, the combined mass of the testes and epididymides (CMTE), and the body condition index (BCI), considering that both BCI and testis mass can influence gonadal function of males. For SCE determination, the number of round spermatids and Sertoli cells present in stage 1 of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium were counted. The Sertoli cell efficiency (mean ± 1 SD) was 4 ± 2.4 for A. geoffroyi, 4 ± 1.0 for A. lituratus and 6 ± 2.0 for M. levis. No significant variation was observed in SCE among the species, but A. lituratus exhibited a statistically significant correlation between CMTE and BCI. Anoura geoffroyi and M. levis exhibited significant positive correlations between SCE and CMTE, but not between SCE and BCI. Previous studies have shown that, unlike A. lituratus, A. geoffroyi and M. levis are subject to strong mating pressures, leading us to hypothesize that these findings may be related to differential mating pressures between species.

Wild canids are under many pressures, including habitat loss, fragmentation and disease. The current lack of information on the status of wildlife health may hamper conservation efforts in Brazil. In this paper, we examined the prevalence of canine pathogens in 21 free-ranging wild canids, comprising 12 Cerdocyon thous (crab-eating fox), 7 Chrysocyon brachyurus (maned wolf), 2 Lycalopex vetulus (hoary fox), and 70 non-vaccinated domestic dogs from the Serra do Cipó National Park area, Southeast Brazil. For wild canids, seroprevalence of antibodies to canine parvovirus, canine adenovirus, canine coronavirus and Toxoplasma gondii was 100 (21/21), 33 (7/21), 5 (1/19) and 68 (13/19) percent, respectively. Antibodies against canine distemper virus, Neospora caninum or Babesia spp. were not found. We tested domestic dogs for antibodies to canine parvovirus, canine distemper virus and Babesia spp., and seroprevalences were 59 (41/70), 66 (46/70), and 42 (40/70) percent, respectively, with significantly higher prevalence in domestic dogs for CDV (P

In this study we investigated the male testicular activity and the reproductive condition of females in relation to their external reproductive characteristics (pregnant, lactating, post-lactating) in the phyllostomid bat Artibeus lituratus (Olfers, 1818). Five hundred and twenty six individuals were examined (197 males and 329 females) in the period December 2001 to May 2003. Throughout the study most males displayed large scrotal testes. Thirty-three males were randomly selected for histological examination at various times throughout the year and were found to have spermatogenic testes. The reproductive characteristics of the females indicated that they were reproductively active mainly during the wet season. Pregnancy occurs at the end of the dry season and parturition in the wet season. Most individuals captured after this season, mainly the females, were sexually immature. Our results suggest a seasonal monoestrous reproductive pattern for the species; however, adult males being fertile throughout the year could suggest polyoestry. Seasonal polyoestry is a possibility. There was, however, no evidence that females had more than one pregnancy per year.

The spiny rat (Trinomys moojeni) is a rodent found in the Atlantic Forest, which is considered one of the most diverse and threatened biomes in the world. Knowledge on reproductive biology and physiology is critical to conservation and species management, allowing the prevention of extinction and the use of males in natural and artificial reproduction programs. The main objectives of the present study were to investigate the testis structure as well as spermatogenic and Sertoli cell efficiency in the spiny rat captured in the Caraça Natural Reserve, a fragment of the Atlantic Forest located in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Ten sexually mature spiny rats were analyzed. Intraperitoneal injections of tritiated thymidine were administered to estimate duration of spermatogenesis. The testes were perfused-fixed in buffered glutaraldehyde and routinely processed for histological and morphometric analyses as well as the characterization of the stages of seminiferous epithelium cycle. Volume density (%) of seminiferous tubules and Leydig cells were 97 +/- 0.3 and 0.3 +/- 0.02, respectively. The duration of one spermatogenic cycle and total duration of spermatogenesis were 8.6 +/- 0.1 and 38.5 +/- 0.5 days, respectively. Due to the very great volume density of the seminiferous tubules, short duration of spermatogenesis, tubule length per gram of testis (approximately 40 m), great Sertoli cell efficiency (approximately 15 spermatids per Sertoli cell) and large number of Sertoli cells per testis gram (53 million), spermatogenic efficiency in the spiny rat (82 million) is by far the greatest of the mammalian species investigated thus far.

Dietary analysis was performed to determine the variations in diet of some small neotropical species of mammals collected in seasonal areas of the cerrado (a savannah-like grassland) and semi-deciduous forest. Food items were determined based on the analysis of stomach contents of 126 animals (one didelphid and five sigmodontine rodent species). Most species presented herbivorous-omnivorous habits, with a preference for the vegetative parts of plants. Akodon montensis Thomas (1913) was the most abundant species in the forest area and demonstrated a uniform consumption of animal and vegetal items through the year, and contained 65.7% plant material in its diet. Necromys lasiurus (Lund, 1841) was the most abundant in the cerrado with 72.6% of vegetation in its diet, but showed a high consumption of animal items during the rainy season. Oligoryzomys nigripes (Olfers, 1818) contained 95.1% of plant material, while Oxymycterus delator (Thomas, 1903) consumed 61.6% invertebrates, mainly insects. The didelphid Philander frenatus (Olfers, 1818) consumed invertebrates (47.7%), small vertebrates (7.3%) and plant material (44.9%).

A population of the Neotropical marsupial Didelphis albiventris (Lund, 1840) living in an urban forest fragment was studied. Population structure and the influence of sex and age on two variables related to habitat use (Daily home range - MCP and Habitat use intensity - UI) obtained by the spool-and-line technique were analysed. There were 20 males and 29 females studied (N = 49). No sexual dimorphism was apparent in adult individuals. There were 16 males and 24 females tracked using the spool-and-line device. There were significant differences found in the mean size of the daily home range, which was greater in adults than in sub-adults. Regarding the habitat use intensity there were also significant differences related to age. There were no significant differences in MCP and UI related to the sex of the individuals. Besides the analyzed factors, the variables related to habitat use are possibly influenced by other factors, especially, the ones related to the conservation status of the fragment.Neste estudo foi analisada uma população do marsupial neotropical Didelphis albiventris (Lund, 1840), em um fragmento florestal urbano, e foram analisados aspectos da estrutura da população, e a influência do sexo e da idade em duas variáveis relativas ao uso do hábitat - Área de Vida Diária (MCP) e Intensidade de Uso do Hábitat (UI), obtidas com a técnica do carretel de rastreamento. Foram estudados 49 indivíduos marcados, dos quais 20 eram machos e 29 eram fêmeas. Dos animais adultos, não foi encontrado qualquer dimorfismo sexual. De 40 indivíduos rastreados com carretel (16 machos, 24 fêmeas), diferenças significativas no MCP foram encontradas, sendo que os indivíduos adultos apresentaram tamanhos médios maiores que os sub-adultos. Quanto à UI, diferenças significativas foram observadas também relacionadas à idade. Não foram encontradas diferenças entre sexos com relação ao MCP e IU. Além dos fatores analisados, as variáveis relativas ao uso do hábitat possivelmente são influenciadas por outros fatores, especialmente aqueles relacionados ao estado de conservação do fragmento.

Este artigo apresenta um metodo simples, seguro e eficiente para a captura e imobilizacao quimica de tres especies de canideos silvestres da regiao do Parque Nacional da Serra do Cipo, no bioma Cerrado do Sudeste brasileiro. Medidas morfologicas e dados de anestesia obtidos durante as capturas tambem sao descritos. Tais dados sao essenciais devido a necessidade de pesquisas invasivas para programas de monitoramento, analises de casos clinicos, e investigacoes ecologicas ou epidemiologicas em populacoes cativas ou de vida livre de canideos neotropicais.

We present new data on the life history and a new locality of occurrence ofTrinomys moojeni (Pessoaet al., 1992). The study was conducted in a region considered to be a transition zone between the Cerrado and the Atlantic Forest biomes in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Animals were sampled by the capturemark-recapture (CMR) methods between January 2001 and January 2002. Fifteen males and 34 females were captured and a total of 29 individuals were studied. Seasonal variation in the numbers ofT. moojeni males and females captured was observed; no sexual dimorphism was recorded. There was no evidence for the existence of a defined mating season. During the year, females remained in the vicinity of the study area while males dispersed over longer distances as evidenced by the fewer number of males captured. This suggests that females are more territorial.

We describe the foraging behaviour of the Brazilian squirrelSciurus aestuans Linnaeus, 1776 in a natural free-living population, in an area with a high concentration of palm fruitsSyagrus romanzoffiana (Chamisso) Glassman. Our objective was to investigate if the abundance ofS. romanzoffiana fruits, an important food item for squirrels, temporally influenced the foraging behaviour of this population. The observations were carried out over an eight-month (April–November 2001) period. Fruiting phenology ofS. romanzoffiana was also monitored. The most consumed food item for this period was the fruit ofS. romanzoffiana (70%), followed by foods of human origin (14%). The percentage of time spent feeding increased in September, and the time spent travelling declined in September, October and November, when females were observed showing evidence of reproductive activity. At the same timeS. romanzoffiana fruits become available. The consumption of human items illustrates the opportunistic feeding habit of these squirrels, but variations in foraging behaviour detected probably were more strongly related to availability ofS. romanzoffiana fruits.

The reproductive activity of two species of wild rodents was studied in the Serra do Rola-Moca State Park (PERM), in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. From October 1998 to October 1999 specimens of Akodon montensis (Thomas 1913) were captured in an area of seasonal semi-deciduous forest, while specimens of Bolomys lasiurus (Lund 1840) were captured in a cerrado area (a savannah-like grassland). The determination of the reproductive condition was based on histological and histometric analyses of testes and external characteristics of gonads. The volume of the testes, diameter of the seminiferous tubules and depth of the seminiferous epithelium were measured. Akodon montensis showed a seasonal annual reproductive cycle divided into four stages (recrudescence, activity or proliferation, regression and rest) with the reproductive activity mainly occurring during the rainy season. In contrast, B. lasiurus presented reproductive activity during almost the whole year. For both species the volume of the testes was an effective indicator of their reproductive condition. We suggest that the histological and histometric analysis of the gonads of males, together with the observations of external characteristics of gonads of males and females, may assist in identifying the reproductive condition of these animals.

From the analysis of 230 scats, the diet of the maned wolves, Chrysocyon brachyurus (Illiger, 1815), was determined in a private natural reserve in southeastern Brazil in which ecotourism activities are developed and the animals are deliberately fed bovine meat. A total of 569 occurrences of food items were recorded, of which 56.8% were of animal origin and 29.1% of vegetal origin. Rodents, insects and birds added up to 35.8% of the occurrences, yet accounted for 68.5% of the total number of preys (277). Insects, however, had practically no importance (0.1%) in the total estimated biomass consumed. Even though the fruit Solanum lycocarpum St.-Hil. is a common food item in the diet of the maned wolf, its occurrence in the diet at the Serra do Caraça Reserve was insignificant, accounting for only 4.8% of the total number of food item occurrences and 3.4% of the total estimated biomass consumption. Food items of anthropic origin and inorganic items (e.g., plastic) represented 14.1% of all occurrences, which shows that the animals are used to the presence of humans. Seasonal variations in consumption were found for S. lycocarpum (c² = 10,09; p < 0,001), for other fruits (c² = 19,73; p < 0,001), and for reptiles (c² = 15,56; p < 0,001), all of which were more frequently eaten during the dry months. There was a significant correlation between the availability of small mammals and their consumption by the maned wolves (r s = 0.59; p = 0.041), yet the same was not observed for the fruits of S. lycocarpum (r s = 0,101; p = 0,754). Our findings stress the need for a better understanding of the effects of additional foods on the natural feeding habits of the maned wolf.

Une communaute de petits mammiferes a ete etudiee dans le sud-est du Bresil de septembre 1992 a aout 1993. La composition specifique et quelques parametres concernant les especes les plus frequentes ont ete obtenus dans la foret semidecidue, la foret galerie et la savane herbeuse. Quatre especes de marsupiaux et dix especes de rongeurs ont ete captures. Quatre especes sont propres aux deux forets (Caluromys lanatus, Micoureus cinereus, Oecomys concolor et Oryzomys capito); cinq especes, a la savane (Pseudoryzomys simplex, Oxymycterus roberti, Bolomys lasiurus, Oryzomys subflavus et Cavia aperea), Les especes Didelphis albiventris, Akodon montensis et Oligoryzomys nigripes ont ete capturees dans les trois habitats; Nectomys squamipes, dans la foret galerie et la savane. La partie plus importante de la biomasse a ete representee par les marsupiaux dans les deux forets et par les rongeurs en savane. On a constate des variations d'abondance pour certaines des especes capturees dans differents habitats. La reproduction a ete periodique pour D. albiventris et O. capito; pour A. montensis et O. subflavus la reproduction a ete constante pendant toute la periode d'etude.

Descriptions of Sciurus ingrami Thomas, 1901 nests are not available in the literature. In this study, a survey was made of the distribution of S. ingrami nests in a woodlot located near to the headquarters of the Serra do Caraça Reserve, in state of Minas Gerais, where there is a high concentration of Syagrus romanzoffiana (Chamisso) Glassman palm tree, among other exotic tree species. The nest-building behaviour and the nest characteristics, such as height from the ground, total circumference, diameter of the entrance, and the position of the nest in the tree - in the crown, along the trunk or in a side branch, were described. Não existe na literatura a descrição de ninhos de Sciurus ingrami Thomas, 1901. Neste estudo, foi examinada a distribuição espacial de ninhos desta espécie, localizados em área de vegetação de crescimento secundário, próxima a área construída da Reserva Particular do Patrimônio Natural Serra do Caraça, Minas Gerais, onde há grande concentração da palmeira Syagrus romanzoffiana (Chamisso) Glassman, entre outras espécies exóticas de árvores. O comportamento de construção e as características dos ninhos, tais como, altura em relação ao solo, circunferência total, diâmetro da entrada e a posição dos ninhos na árvore foram descritos.

With a nearly global distribution the vespertilionid bat Myotis represents one of the most exceptional examples of adaptive radiation among mammals. We investigated the reproductive activity of the vespertilionid bat yellowish myotis, Myotis levis, from a highland area in Southeastern Brazil. The data were obtained through histological analyses of the male and female genital systems from February 2010 to May 2011. The testes of the adult yellowish myotis showed seasonal morphological characteristics which were categorized in the following stages: rest, maturing, mature, and mating. Rest and maturing males were recorded throughout the rainy season (October-March). In the rest stage no spermatogenesis was observed and the epididymal duct was devoid of spermatozoa. Maturing individuals had started spermatogenesis and few spermatozoa were found in the epididymal duct. Mature males were found toward the end (February-March) of the rainy season, when full spermatogenic activity was recorded and spermatozoa were packed in the epididymal duct. Although not recorded, mating probably occurred in the middle of the dry season (April-September) when the cauda epididymis was enlarged and packed with sperm. The spermatozoa remained stored in the cauda epididymis for at least three months when the testes entered into regression. The ovaries showed all types of ovarian follicles throughout the study period except mature follicles which were registered only in July (mid-dry season). Lactating females were captured in the beginning of the rainy season. The seasonal reproductive characteristics of the yellowish myotis from this Neotropical highland area were similar those of epididymal sperm-storing temperate vespertilionids.

Analysis of 105 scats of the maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) collected in central Brazil yielded 304 occurrences of food items of which fruits of Solanum lycocarpum, rodents, and birds accounted for 61.5%. By analysis of minimum number of individual animals, rodents and birds were 75% of a total of 156 prey. On the other hand, fruits of S. lycocarpum and armadillos (Dasypus spp.) were the bulk of the total estimated biomass consumption, yielding 63.7% in a total of 73.5 kg. Rodents were mostly captured during the dry season, while miscellaneous fruits were consumed mostly in the wet season. The consumption of S. lycocarpum fruits and armadillos was aseasonal. Small rodents were taken in about the ranks of abundance in the study area, but S. lycocarpum fruits were actively searched by maned wolves, for its occurrence is limited to secondary savanna. Prey and fruits typical of savanna (‘cerrado’) and grassland (‘campo’) were the bulk of species, occurrences, prey numbers, and biomass consumed. These findings reinforce the importance of conservation of cerrado and campo in central Brazil. Despite maned wolf being a vulnerable species, its feeding habits are opportunistic, and the main reasons for its decline are likely to be habitat destruction and human disturbance.

The objective of this study was to investigate some parameters of the space use by individuals in a population of the hystricognath rodent Thrichomys apereoides (Lund, 1839), using the spool-and-line tracking technique. This technique is useful for investigating characteristics of habitat use by individuals since it allows the mapping of the places where the individuals move. We evaluated three parameters of space use by 34 individuals of T. apereoides: 1) The daily home range (DHR) or the area used by individuals in their daily activities, 2) the distance moved on the leaf litter, and 3) the distance moved above ground using twigs, logs and rocks. The analysis of space use on such a small scale allows a better understanding of how individuals perceive and use the available space. The significant effect of age on DHR and the effect of the sex on the movements above ground were observed. Adult males had larger DHRs than adult females and subadults, and adult females showed the lowest displacement above ground. A statistically significant effect of the sex and seasonal period and the interaction between them was also observed on the size of DHRs of adults. During the dry season, females had lower DHRs than males and both females and males moved less on leaf litter in this season. There was no seasonal effect on the movement of males and females above ground, as well as no significant effect of age and sex on the movement of the individuals on leaf litter. We found that individuals responded differently to some aspects of the habitat structure and concluded that the pattern of movement is influenced by the sex and the age of the individuals and may vary according to ecological conditions.

In this study, we aimed to assess whether free-ranging wild canids are exposed to heavy metals in one of the most developed and populated regions of Brazil. Hair of 26 wild canids (maned wolves Chrysocyon brachyurus, crab-eating foxes Cerdocyon thous, and hoary foxes Lycalopex vetulus) from the Cerrado biome in Southeast Brazil were analyzed by spectrophotometry to detect cadmium, chromium, and lead, and also the essential copper, iron, manganese, and zinc traces. All samples showed traces of copper, iron, manganese, and zinc. Non-essential lead was detected in 57% (2.35 ± 0.99 mg/kg), and chromium in 88% (2.98 ± 1.56 mg/kg) of samples. Cadmium traces (detection limit 0.8 mg/kg) were not found. Crab-eating foxes had more copper, iron, and manganese in hair than maned wolves. Correlations among element levels differed between maned wolves and crab-eating foxes. Concentrations of chromium and lead were outstandingly higher than in wild canids from other areas. Addressing the causes of such levels and the impacts of the heavy metal pollution in Neotropical ecosystems is urgent for animal health and conservation purposes. We argue that heavy metal pollution should be considered as dangerous threats to wildlife health in Brazil and recommend hair sampling as a biomonitoring tool for heavy metals in Neotropical terrestrial mammals.

Tapirs are considered generalist herbivores and the differences in the proportions of dietary items are often attributed to differences in the habitats where individuals live. This study characterized the feeding habit of Tapirus terrestris (Linnaeus, 1758) in a nature reserve in south-eastern Brazil, located in a region considered a transition zone between the Cerrado (Brazilian savanna) and the Atlantic Forest biomes. Fecal samples from T. terrestris individuals were collected monthly at six sampling areas that encompassed a total of 242.22 ha. There were 147 fresh samples found (77 during the dry season and 70 during the wet season). The diet of the tapirs in this reserve was characterized by the prevalent browsing on leaves and stems. There was a low frequency of fruit seeds in the diet of the tapirs during both the wet and dry seasons. However, in the dry season a higher percentage of samples containing seeds was observed. Fruits of Rubiaceae, Solanaceae, and Annonaceae were most consumed during the dry season. Most of the fruit seeds found presented small mean diameter (3.7-8.4 mm) and most of the fruits were capsules and dry fruits. The characteristics of the fruits consumed by the tapirs indicate that they forage in the lower forest stratum and upon species from Cerrado. Additionally, Psidium myrtoides O. Berg. clusters found in the study site suggest that the tapirs may be acting as dispersal agents of this species.

Based on the finding of remains (tracks, scats, and hairs), an analysis was made of the core area and centre of activity of maned wolves, Chrysocyon brachyurus (Illiger, 1815), living in a private natural reserve in which ecotourism activities are developed and these animals are daily fed bovine meat. A total of 465 samples of remains were recorded. Using the fixed kernel method, the area encompassing all samples recorded was estimated at 25.7 km², yet 50% of all samples were found in an area of only 1.5 km², representing 5.8% of the total area covered. For estimating the core area of the animals, the frequency of occurrence of the samples was determined by superimposing a 50 x 50 m cell grid over a map of the area encompassing all recorded occurrences. Based on the cells containing more than six occurrences, the animals' core area was 0.99 km², which included the place where the animals are fed. The centre of activity was located only 0.50 km from this place. The high negative correlation (r = -0.93, p < 0.05) between the densities of the recorded occurrences and the distances from these to the sanctuary indicates that the core area and centre of activity are conditioned by artificial feeding.A área central e o centro de atividade de lobos-guará, Chrysocyon brachyurus (Illiger, 1815), foram determinados através de seus vestígios (fezes, pegadas e pêlos) em uma reserva natural particular, onde esses animais estão sujeitos à alimentação artificial e sofrem influência de atividades turísticas. No total, foram registrados 465 vestígios, sendo que 65,8% corresponderam à estação seca. Através do método Kernel fixo, a área compreendida por todos os vestígios foi de 25,7 km², sendo que 50% encontravam-se em uma área de apenas 1,5 km², o que representou 5,8% do total da área amostrada. A área central de atividade dos animais foi obtida pelo cálculo da freqüência dos registros dos vestígios através da sobreposição de uma quadrícula subdividida em células de 50 x 50 m sobre a área que abrangia todos os registros. Considerando as células com mais de seis registros a área central de atividade atribuída aos animais foi de 0,99 km², o que abrangeu a sede da reserva onde os animais são alimentados. O centro de atividade localizou-se somente a 0,50 km da sede. A alta correlação negativa (r = -0,93, p < 0,05) obtida entre as densidades dos registros e suas distâncias até a sede da reserva indicaram que o centro de atividade e o tamanho da área de maior intensidade de uso são condicionados pela alimentação artificial.

The Serra do Caraça Reserve is situated in the southern portion of the Espinhaço Mountain Range, and contains areas of "campos de altitude", "cerrado" and atlantic forest. This study had as its objective the registering of the bats species that occur in the reserve. The data collection was carried out in one year through monthly samplings, using mist nets set on trails, and also through hand capture. A total of 246 individuals were collected (0.72 bats/net-hour), distributed across 15 species, belonging to the families Phyllostomidae (83.0%; nine species), Vespertilionidae (12.5%; three species) and Molossidae (4.5%; three species). The most abundant species were Sturnira lilium (E. Geoffroy, 1810) (n = 121, 60.5%), Myotis nigricans (Schinz, 1821) (n = 21, 10.5%) and Platyrrhinus lineatus (E. Geoffroy, 1810) (n = 10, 5.0%), and less represented were Lasiurus blossevilli (Lesson y Garnot, 1826) (n = 2, 1.0%), Eumops perotis (Schinz, 1821) (n = 2, 1.0%) e Vampyressa pusilla (Wagner, 1843) (n = 1, 0.5%). The richness of species found and the non-occurrence of phyllostomines in the reserve could be indicative of some level of forest disturbance.

Transmission of disease between wildlife, domestic animals, and humans is of great concern to conservation issues and public health. Here we report on the prevalence of anti-Leishmania sp. antibodies in 21 wild canids (7 Chrysocyon brachyurus, 12 Cerdocyon thous, and 2 Lycalopex vetulus) and 74 free domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) sampled around the Serra do Cipó National Park. In dogs, the apparent prevalence was 8.1% and in wild canids it was 19% (2 crab-eating foxes, C. thous, and 2 maned wolves, C. brachyurus). Management of the domestic dog population with evaluation of incidence changes in humans and wildlife, and enlightenment on the role of wild reservoirs are essential issues for future action and research.

CNPq - Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico FAPEMIG - Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais CAPES - Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior O vespertilionídeo Myotis levis é um morcego insetívoro neotropical que apresenta padrão reprodutivo sazonal, caracterizado por uma flutuação cíclica dos órgãos reprodutivos ao longo do ano. Devido a sua importância ecológica e singularidade de estratégias reprodutivas, o objetivo desse estudo foi investigar os aspectos celulares, moleculares e endócrinos envolvidos na reprodução de M. levis. Machos adultos foram capturados na colônia de M. levis, localizada na RPPN Santuário do Caraça, Minas Gerais, Brasil. As gônadas, epidídimos, glândulas sexuais acessórias, tecido adiposo marrom e sangue foram coletados para a realização de análises biométricas, histológicas, morfométricas, de imunomarcação e hormonais. Além disso, fragmentos testiculares e tecidos adiposos marrons foram utilizados para a realização de xenoenxerto em camundongos imunodeficientes. Como resultados, após pico de precipitação, ocorre um aumento significativo da massa testicular e o desenvolvimento da espermatogênese de M. levis nos estágios de Maturação e Maduro. No estágio Maduro, uma rápida e elevada produção espermática ocorre associada ao aumento do diâmetro nuclear e volume das células de Leydig, máxima expressão da enzima esteroidogênica 3-Beta-HSD e elevados níveis séricos de testosterona de M. levis. Durante esses períodos, o tecido adiposo marrom é consumido, favorecendo a síntese de testosterona (comprovada por meio do xenoenxerto do tecido adiposo marrom). No estágio de Regressão, as massas dos epidídimos e glândulas sexuais acessórias possuem os maiores valores. Os espermatozoides ficam armazenados na cauda do epidídimo por oito meses. A concentração, vitalidade e motilidade espermática apresentam maiores taxas no estágio de Regressão, mas a maior incidência de gametas morfologicamente normais ocorre no período do acasalamento (estágio de Repouso). Após realizar o xenoenxerto de fragmentos testiculares, percebemos que a espermatogênese progride até a fase espermiogênica em todos os estágios reprodutivos em um modelo receptor com níveis hormonais estáveis. Esses dados reforçam a influência da sazonalidade e variação hormonal na reprodução de M. levis. As novas informações sobre o ciclo reprodutivo de M. levis e o uso de xenoenxerto de tecidos são vitais para compreender a reprodução de vespertilionídeos neotropicais. Estudos sobre a reprodução de morcegos são cruciais nos aspectos ecológico e econômico. Além de serem bioindicadores, os morcegos podem controlar populações de insetos que causam prejuízos em culturas agrícolas e que promovem a disseminação de doenças na população. The vespertilionid Myotis levis is a neotropical insectivorous bat, which presents a seasonal reproductive pattern, characterized by a cyclic fluctuation of reproductive organs along the year. Considering its ecological importance and unique reproductive strategies, this study aimed to investigate the cellular, molecular, and endocrine aspects involved in M. levis reproduction. The adult male bats were captured from M. levis colony located in RPPN Santuário do Caraça, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The gonads, epididymides, accessory sex glands, brown adipose tissue, and blood were collected to perform biometric, histological, morphometric, immunostaining and hormonal analyses. Moreover, testis fragments and brown adipose tissue were used for xenografting in immunodeficient mice. As results, after a rainfall peak, a significant increase of testis mass and spermatogenesis development of M. levis occurs in the Maturing and Mature stages. In the Mature stage, a fast and elevated sperm production occurs associated with an increase in nuclear diameter and volume of Leydig cells, maximum expression of the steroidogenic 3-Beta-HSD enzyme, and elevated testosterone serum levels of M. levis. During these periods, the brown adipose tissue is consumed, supporting testosterone synthesis (proven through brown adipose tissue xenograft). In the Regressed stage, epididymis and accessory sex gland masses reach higher values. The spermatozoa remain stored in epididymis cauda for eight months. The sperm concentration, vitality, and motility presented high rates in the Regressed stage; however, the higher incidence of normal morphological gametes occurred in the mating period (Rest stage). After performing the xenograft of testis fragments, we realize that spermatogenesis progressed until the spermiogenic phase in all reproductive stages in a recipient model with stable hormonal levels. These data reinforced the influence of seasonality and hormonal variation in M. levis reproduction. The new information concerning the reproductive cycle of M. levis and the use of tissue xenografts are vital for understanding the reproduction of neotropical vespertilionids. The studies about bat reproduction are crucial for the ecological and economic aspects. Besides being bioindicators, bats can control insect populations that cause damage to crop and promote disease dissemination in the population.

CNPq - Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico A perda e fragmentação de hábitats é uma das maiores ameaças à biodiversidade e à manutenção dos serviços ecossistêmicos, podendo trazer implicações fisiológicas para a fauna silvestre. O objetivo desta tese foi avaliar como alterações na paisagem impactam a higidez de morcegos de diferentes guildas tróficas. No Capítulo 1 foi feita uma revisão bibliográfica abordando o estado da arte a respeito de morcegos e agrotóxicos. Foi observado que as pesquisas sobre o tema estão concentradas no Hemisfério Norte, principalmente nos EUA. Apenas 5% das espécies de todo mundo já foram estudadas, predominantemente espécies insetívoras. Os inseticidas foram os agrotóxicos mais pesquisados, principalmente os organoclorados. Dessa forma, o conhecimento sobre os efeitos de agrotóxicos em morcegos ainda é insuficiente para uma avaliação de risco de suas populações ou seu uso como bioindicadores. No Capítulo 2, foi apresentado um método para determinação de resíduos de 48 tipos de agrotóxicos por cromatografia gasosa acoplada a espectrometria de massas em músculo de morcego. O método de extração miniaturizado viabiliza análises de resíduos quando a quantidade de amostra é limitada. Além disso, por utilizar menor quantidade de reagentes reduz o custo, impacto no meio ambiente e na saúde dos pesquisadores, sendo, portanto, possível realizar este tipo de avaliações em morcegos como bioindicadores. No Capítulo 3, foi feita uma avaliação das implicações fisiológicas relacionadas a diferentes perfis de uso e ocupação do solo. Foram coletados morcegos de uma área de proteção, o Parque Nacional da Serra do Cipó (PARNA Cipó), MG, e uma área com atividade agropecuária intensa, no município de Uberaba, MG. Apesar das diferenças no uso e ocupação do solo entre as áreas estudadas, os morcegos apresentaram respostas similares. Contudo, foi verificado que as guildas tróficas são afetadas diferentemente. Os morcegos frugívoros de ambas as áreas apresentaram menor atividade das enzimas SOD, CAT e GST e baixas concentrações de MDA, o que pode ser explicado pela maior ingestão de antioxidantes provenientes da dieta, além da menor produção de espécies reativas do oxigênio (EROs). A análise histopatológica do fígado revelou que os animais apresentaram prevalências similares nas duas áreas, com algumas diferenças relacionadas às guildas. Morcegos hematófagos do PARNA Cipó apresentaram maior prevalência de esteatose e, juntamente com morcegos frugívoros de Uberaba, apresentaram maiores frequências de balonamento, sugerindo que esses animais estão submetidos a fatores antropogênicos capazes de induzir distúrbios no metabolismo hepático. Os morcegos hematófagos de Uberaba apresentaram maior prevalência de inflamação portal, e os morcegos insetívoros de Uberaba apresentaram maiores prevalência de inflamação lobular e portal. Embora os perfis de uso e ocupação das áreas sejam diferentes, o estado de saúde dos animais é semelhante, havendo algumas diferenças entre guildas tróficas. Essas diferenças parecem estar relacionadas à maneira como cada grupo responde às alterações ambientais, além de aspectos da biologia e ecologia próprios de cada guilda. Considerando que morcegos de diferentes guildas tróficas apresentam respostas fisiológicas diferentes às alterações na paisagem, ressalta-se a importância de se conhecer as respostas de cada guilda para mensurar os prejuízos relacionados aos serviços ecossistêmicos prestados por esses animais, bem como determinar quais guildas ou espécies podem ser usadas como bioindicadores de qualidade ambiental. The loss and fragmentation of habitats is one of the greatest threats to biodiversity and the maintenance of ecosystem services, and may have physiological implications for the wild fauna. The objective of this thesis was to evaluate how changes in the landscape may impact the health of bats from different trophic guilds. In Chapter 1, a bibliographic review was made addressing the state of the art regarding bats and pesticides. It was observed that research on the topic is concentrated in the Northern Hemisphere, mainly in the USA. Only 5% of the world's species have been studied, predominantly insectivorous species. Insecticides were the most searched pesticides, mainly organochlorines. Thus, the knowledge about the effects of pesticides on bats is still insufficient for a risk assessment of their populations or their use as bioindicators. In Chapter 2, a method for determining residues of 48 types of pesticides by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry in bat muscle was presented. The miniaturized extraction method makes feasible the analysis when the volume of sample is limited. In addition, by using fewer reagents, it reduces the cost, impact on the environment and on the health of researchers, making it possible, therefore, to carry out this type of evaluation on bats as bioindicators. In Chapter 3, an assessment was made of the physiological changes linked to different lands use and occupation profiles. Bats were collected from a protected area, the Serra do Cipó National Park (PARNA Cipó), MG, Brazil, and an area with intense agricultural activity, in the municipality of Uberaba, MG, Brazil. Despite the differences in land use and occupation between the studied areas, bats showed similar responses. However, it was found that trophic guilds are affected differently. Frugivorous bats in both areas showed lower activity of the enzymes SOD, CAT and GST and low concentrations of MDA, which can be explained by the greater intake of antioxidants from the diet, in addition to the lower production of reactive oxigen species (ROS). Histopathological analysis of the liver revealed that the animals had similar prevalences in the two areas, with some differences related to the guilds. Hematophagous bats from PARNA Cipó had a higher prevalence of steatosis and, together with frugivorous bats from Uberaba, had higher frequencies of ballooning degeneration, suggesting that these animals are subjected to anthropogenic factors capable of inducing disturbances in hepatic metabolism. Hematophagous bats from Uberaba had a higher prevalence of portal inflammation, and insectivorous bats from Uberaba had a higher prevalence of lobular and portal inflammation. Although the profiles of use and occupation of the areas are different, the health status of the animals is similar, with some differences between trophic guilds. These differences seem to be related to the way each group responds to environmental changes, in addition to aspects of biology and ecology specific to each guild. Considering that bats from different trophic guilds present different physiological responses to changes in the landscape, the importance of knowing the responses of each guild to measure the losses related to the ecosystem services provided by these animals is emphasized, as well as determining which guilds or species can be used as bioindicators of environmental quality.