The document summarizes a study on the nesting ecology of Hilaire's Side-necked Turtle (Phrynops hilarii) in Brazil. Key findings include:
1) Nests were monitored in natural and artificial conditions, with incubation periods varying from 157-271 days naturally and 130-191 days artificially.
2) Hatching success was higher under artificial conditions, ranging from 50-100% compared to 43-75% naturally.
3) Nest temperatures averaged 24.2-27.3°C naturally and 18.8-28.6°C artificially, with hatchlings emerging larger under artificial incubation.
Soil fauna and nutrient management for improving agricultural production thro...CSM _BGBD biodiversity
1) Farmers in Oumé, Côte d'Ivoire are facing decreasing soil fertility due to deforestation for cocoa and coffee farms. A study evaluated the effects of 9-month legume fallows using Pueraria phaseoloides and Cajanus cajan on soil properties, soil fauna, and subsequent maize growth.
2) The study found that legume fallows increased earthworm densities and diversity compared to a natural fallow control. Phytoparasitic nematode densities were also lower under legumes.
3) Maize yields were higher on legume fallow plots compared to the control, though not significantly for grain yield. Total biomass and 100
The Effect of Perches on the Behavior of Caged White Leghorn PulletsJourdan Ringenberg
This study examined the effects of providing perches in cages housing white leghorn pullets from hatch to 17 weeks of age. The key findings were:
1) Mortality was higher in cages with perches from hatch to 3 weeks of age, primarily due to omphalitis and starvation.
2) Drinking behavior differed between treatments, with pullets in perched cages drinking more at 2 weeks but less at 4-5 weeks.
3) During the dark period, a greater proportion of perched pullets ate at younger ages but control pullets ate more at older ages.
4) Eating behavior during the light period did not differ between treatments.
Lizards are vertebrate ectotherms, which like other animals maintain their body temperature (Tb) within a relatively narrow range in order to carry out crucial physiological processes during their life cycle. The preferred body temperature (Ts) that a lizard voluntarily selects in a laboratory thermal gradient
provides a reasonable estimate of what a lizard would attain in the wild with a minimum of associate costs in absence of constraints for thermoregulation
This document discusses systems approaches for analyzing smallholder agriculture. It provides a 10-point "Farming Systems Decalogue" for conducting on-farm systems analysis, including dealing with farm diversity, spatio-temporal variability, and crop-livestock interactions. It also discusses the properties of smallholder farming systems, including anisotropy and heterogeneity. Examples are given of on-farm nutrient flows and the complexity of crop-livestock systems.
This study examined variation in the epidermal shields of the carapace and plastron in Trachemys dorbigni turtles from Brazil. Some individuals presented additional or divided epidermal shields, including supernumerary costal and vertebral shields. While variation in epidermal shield number is common in turtles, this study provides the first documentation of carapace scute pattern variation in T. dorbigni, with anomalies observed in 7.7-14.3% of individuals examined. Environmental factors during embryonic development may influence scute pattern variation in this species.
This document describes the megalopae of Paraxanthus barbiger crab for the first time based on field-collected samples from Chile over a year. It finds high seasonal variation in size but consistent morphological characteristics. Molecular sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene from megalopae and adults confirms identification at the species level despite morphological plasticity. This validation technique and description of a dominant crab species' larvae aids population dynamics studies in the region.
Mangrove, seagrass, and coral reef habitats were compared to test their potential nursery functions. [1] Juvenile fish densities were generally higher in mangroves and seagrass, though this pattern was only seen in 7 of 54 comparisons. [2] Assemblage compositions also differed, with few shared species between habitats. [3] Relative predation rates were lower in mangroves and seagrass, with juvenile fish surviving 2.7 times longer on average than in coral reefs. While some nursery function was observed, results caution against generalizing that all mangroves and seagrass beds equally contribute to fish populations.
Reptiles are cold-blooded animals that can survive on land and in water. There are four main groups of reptiles: crocodiles, lizards, turtles, and snakes. Crocodiles are found in tropical environments and can stay underwater for over an hour. Lizards come in many varieties and shed their skin as they grow. Turtles have a hard shell and can retract their head inside. Snakes shed their skin several times per year as they grow and are carnivorous.
Soil fauna and nutrient management for improving agricultural production thro...CSM _BGBD biodiversity
1) Farmers in Oumé, Côte d'Ivoire are facing decreasing soil fertility due to deforestation for cocoa and coffee farms. A study evaluated the effects of 9-month legume fallows using Pueraria phaseoloides and Cajanus cajan on soil properties, soil fauna, and subsequent maize growth.
2) The study found that legume fallows increased earthworm densities and diversity compared to a natural fallow control. Phytoparasitic nematode densities were also lower under legumes.
3) Maize yields were higher on legume fallow plots compared to the control, though not significantly for grain yield. Total biomass and 100
The Effect of Perches on the Behavior of Caged White Leghorn PulletsJourdan Ringenberg
This study examined the effects of providing perches in cages housing white leghorn pullets from hatch to 17 weeks of age. The key findings were:
1) Mortality was higher in cages with perches from hatch to 3 weeks of age, primarily due to omphalitis and starvation.
2) Drinking behavior differed between treatments, with pullets in perched cages drinking more at 2 weeks but less at 4-5 weeks.
3) During the dark period, a greater proportion of perched pullets ate at younger ages but control pullets ate more at older ages.
4) Eating behavior during the light period did not differ between treatments.
Lizards are vertebrate ectotherms, which like other animals maintain their body temperature (Tb) within a relatively narrow range in order to carry out crucial physiological processes during their life cycle. The preferred body temperature (Ts) that a lizard voluntarily selects in a laboratory thermal gradient
provides a reasonable estimate of what a lizard would attain in the wild with a minimum of associate costs in absence of constraints for thermoregulation
This document discusses systems approaches for analyzing smallholder agriculture. It provides a 10-point "Farming Systems Decalogue" for conducting on-farm systems analysis, including dealing with farm diversity, spatio-temporal variability, and crop-livestock interactions. It also discusses the properties of smallholder farming systems, including anisotropy and heterogeneity. Examples are given of on-farm nutrient flows and the complexity of crop-livestock systems.
This study examined variation in the epidermal shields of the carapace and plastron in Trachemys dorbigni turtles from Brazil. Some individuals presented additional or divided epidermal shields, including supernumerary costal and vertebral shields. While variation in epidermal shield number is common in turtles, this study provides the first documentation of carapace scute pattern variation in T. dorbigni, with anomalies observed in 7.7-14.3% of individuals examined. Environmental factors during embryonic development may influence scute pattern variation in this species.
This document describes the megalopae of Paraxanthus barbiger crab for the first time based on field-collected samples from Chile over a year. It finds high seasonal variation in size but consistent morphological characteristics. Molecular sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene from megalopae and adults confirms identification at the species level despite morphological plasticity. This validation technique and description of a dominant crab species' larvae aids population dynamics studies in the region.
Mangrove, seagrass, and coral reef habitats were compared to test their potential nursery functions. [1] Juvenile fish densities were generally higher in mangroves and seagrass, though this pattern was only seen in 7 of 54 comparisons. [2] Assemblage compositions also differed, with few shared species between habitats. [3] Relative predation rates were lower in mangroves and seagrass, with juvenile fish surviving 2.7 times longer on average than in coral reefs. While some nursery function was observed, results caution against generalizing that all mangroves and seagrass beds equally contribute to fish populations.
Reptiles are cold-blooded animals that can survive on land and in water. There are four main groups of reptiles: crocodiles, lizards, turtles, and snakes. Crocodiles are found in tropical environments and can stay underwater for over an hour. Lizards come in many varieties and shed their skin as they grow. Turtles have a hard shell and can retract their head inside. Snakes shed their skin several times per year as they grow and are carnivorous.
Heritability estimates of, genetic and phenotypic correlations among some sel...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that evaluated carcass traits in Japanese quails. It found that sex significantly influenced most carcass traits, with females having higher weights for some traits than males. The quails had an average dressing percentage of 72.36%. Heritability estimates for the carcass traits ranged from low to high. All carcass traits were positively genetically correlated with pre-slaughter live weight. Phenotypic correlations between live weight and other traits followed the same trend as genetic correlations. The study concluded that Japanese quail have high efficiency for meat production and indirect selection could be used to improve the carcass traits.
Body temperature and haematological indices of boars exposed to direct solar ...Alexander Decker
This study examined the effects of exposure to direct sunlight on body temperature and blood profiles of Large White and crossbred boars in Nigeria. Twenty-four boars were exposed to sunlight for either 0 (control), 45, or 60 minutes daily for 4 weeks. Body temperature and blood samples were collected and analyzed. Ambient temperature averaged 27.8°C indoors and 40.5°C outdoors. Body temperature increased with exposure duration for both genotypes. Several blood parameters also differed between exposed and control boars. The Large White boars were generally more affected by heat stress compared to the crossbred boars. Providing shade and shelters could help pigs cope with heat stress in tropical environments.
Life history of the Hog Plum Beetle, Podontia quatuordecimpunctata (Linnaeus,...Open Access Research Paper
Hog plum beetle (Podontia quatuordecimpunctata) is a serious pest of hog plum tree and both their adults and larvae defoliate the hog plum tree. However, its developmental information and proper identification as well as precise photographs of each developmental stages have not been well studied and recorded. Thus, the goal of this research was to establish the developmental characteristics of P. quatuordecimpunctata. Life history was conducted in laboratory conditions at an average temperature 28 °C ± 1.2 an average 65 ± 5% relative humidity (RH), and a light: dark ratio (12L : 12D). The female beetles were laid clusters of eggs in numerous layers, with 9 to 53 eggs in each cluster. The durations of each developmental stage were 6.16±0.93, 3.16±0.24, 3.29±0.25, 3.21±0.33, 4.54±0.33, 5.54±0.49, and 20.92±2.7 days for the incubation, 1st instar, 2nd instar, 3rd instar, 4th instar, pre pupa, and pupa, respectively. The longevity of male and female adult beetles was found to be 42.33±6.6 days and 50.66±9.8 days, respectively. Results revealed that this study will be a valuable source of biological information for a better understanding and management of this pest species. Check out more by following link https://innspub.net/life-history-of-the-hog-plum-beetle-podontia-quatuordecimpunctata-linnaeus-1767-coleoptera-chrysomelidae-with-photographs-of-each-developmental-stage/
This study compared the thermoregulation of Chinampo cattle, Holstein cattle, and Jersey cattle in a hot, arid region of northwest Mexico from June to December. Rectal temperature and respiratory rate were recorded for each breed. The results showed that Holstein cattle had the highest rectal temperatures, especially in September, indicating they were least tolerant to heat stress. Chinampo cattle maintained rectal temperatures and respiratory rates closest to normal limits and had the lowest physiological responses to increasing heat stress, showing they were most tolerant to high temperatures.
This research article studied the fecundity and gonado-somatic index of Trichiurus lepturus, an important commercial fish species, along the coast of Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. The study found that females outnumbered males in the population. Spawning occurred in November and December, as indicated by peak gonado-somatic index values that synchronized with full and new moon phases. Fecundity, or number of eggs produced, was positively correlated with total body length, weight, and ovary weight, with ovary weight found to be the best predictor of fecundity. Understanding the reproductive characteristics of this species can aid in fisheries management.
Bats are often observed in the city of Ouagadougou; they are found in homes, offices and open spaces, especially under large trees. They are consumed as bushmeat and used by Traditional Medical Practitioners. In the context of re-emerging zoonosis, it is important to produce comprehensive knowledge about problematic species such as a bat. Then, the aim of this study is to produce reliable information about bat diversity and its distribution in the city of Ouagadougou. To achieve this goal, bats were captured in the city of Ouagadougou from July to November 2017 using a mist net in 15 stations. Eleven species belonging to nine genera and four families (Molossidae, Nyteridae, Pteropodidae and Vespertilionidae) have been inventoried. While Eidolon helvum is the most observable species in the city of Ouagadougou, Epomophorus gambianus, Scotophilus leucogaster and Nycticeinops schlieffenii are the most occurring species in samples. Kamboinse, Kossodo and Premier Ministère are the sites with the highest species diversity.
This document reports on several cases of anomalous scutation and morphology in turtles and lizards:
1) A three-toed box turtle with only one vertebral scute, representing an anomalous reduction.
2) A Brazilian slider turtle exhibiting kyphosis, or dorsal curvature of the carapace, representing the first reported case in this species.
3) Observations of predation including a centipede preying on a whiptail lizard, representing the first record of this predator-prey relationship, and a six-lined racer snake attempting to swallow a six-scaled tegu, providing a rare example of saurophagy in this genus of lizard.
This document summarizes a study on rearing, reproduction, and hybridization of Darwin's rhea (Rhea pennata) in Argentina. The study was conducted in two stages from 1980-1984 and 1991-2005 at experimental stations. In the first stage, chicks were collected from the wild to establish a breeding stock. In the second stage, fertile eggs were collected from wild nests to avoid introducing parasites. Data was collected on incubation, hatching rates, growth rates, and reproductive characteristics of the rheas under captive conditions. The goal was to contribute to the development of a ratite industry in Argentina using an indigenous South American species.
This study examined the cold tolerance of different life stages of bed bugs. It found:
1) The mean supercooling point for all bed bug life stages ranged from -21.3°C to -30.3°C, indicating they are freeze intolerant.
2) Exposure to temperatures below -13°C resulted in 100% mortality within days for all life stages.
3) A model was developed estimating survival at temperatures above -12°C even after 1 week of continuous exposure.
4) The study provides recommendations for freezing items potentially infested with bed bugs, including exposing them to temperatures below -13°C for multiple days to ensure all life stages are killed.
This document summarizes a study on the biology of Hypsopygia postflava, a snout moth parasitic on the nest of the paper wasp Polistes olivaceus. Key findings include:
1) H. postflava was found for the first time parasitizing P. olivaceus nests in Vietnam.
2) The lifecycle of H. postflava was studied, ranging from 33-49 days on average.
3) Survivorship of larvae was 88% and pupae was 82.5%. The sex ratio of emerged moths was 1:1.26 female to male.
Morpho-biometric characterization of the indigenous Djallonke sheep in Ngaoun...Open Access Research Paper
In order to study the morpho-biometric characterisation of the indigenous Djallonke sheep Ngaoundere, 126 adult indigenous Djallonke sheep (38 males and 88 females) were sampled from January to December 2020. The results of this study show that the coat colour is dominated by white; the horns, mane and Pendulous are less present; the facial profile is convex and the ears are semi-pendent. In addition, ear length, body length, chest depth, croup length and tail length showed significant differences (p<0.05). The correlation (r=0.844) between the substernal gracility index and the auriculo-thoracic index revealed the existence of sub-populations of indigenous Djallonké sheep that can be the subject of an improvement and preservation programme.
The document summarizes a study that examined differences in decomposition and insect activity on pig carrion placed in sunlit versus shaded locations during winter in Canberra, Australia. 8 pig carcasses were placed in cages either in full sun or full shade and observed over approximately 3 months. No significant difference was found in temperature or decomposition rate between sunlit and shaded carrion. However, the insect populations and species present did vary strongly, with more insects and larger populations observed on the sunlit carrion. Forensic entomology methods were used to analyze the insect data and determine estimates of the post mortem interval.
This study examined the effect of ration level on the energy allocation of the predatory beetle Notiophilus biguttatus. The beetles' energy budgets were defined by measuring egg production, respiration, and defecation rates at different ration levels. These measurements were used to estimate the energy allocated to reproduction and maintenance. The key findings were that (1) egg production, respiration rates, and energy content of feces all increased with higher ration levels, (2) more energy was allocated to reproduction at higher ration levels potentially at the cost of other metabolic processes, and (3) non-reproductive females required less maintenance energy than reproductive females.
This document summarizes a study that measured the temperatures inside nests of the Australian water dragon (Physignathus lesueurii) over several days in November and December. The study found:
1) Nest temperatures remained relatively constant, between 23-29°C, even as external temperatures varied more widely.
2) The highest nest temperatures were recorded on a sunny day in early December, while overcast days saw maximums below 25°C.
3) Nest temperatures were generally lower than those reported for similar sized tropical lizards, remaining cooler than external temperatures to prevent overheating of eggs.
Reproductive Parameters of Diastocera trifasciata (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleopte...AkesseNarcice
This work is the first which describes the details of the stages of the development, reproductive parameters. It provides the durations of the different stages of development of this species
Diastocera trifasciata, formerly known as Analeptes trifasciata, which causes crop losses in many West African cashew nut producing countries
Phenotypic correlation between the external and internal egg quality traits o...Alexander Decker
This study examined the internal and external quality traits of 360 Pharaoh quail eggs collected over 6 weeks. It found:
1) External traits like egg weight, length, breadth, and shell weight showed significant positive correlations with each other. Egg weight was positively correlated with most other external traits.
2) Internal traits like yolk weight, length, height and index showed significant positive correlations with each other. Yolk index was positively correlated with yolk height and albumen height.
3) The results suggest egg weight is a determinant of many external traits and changes in internal quality. Egg weight can be used to determine shell quality in quail eggs.
This document examines various life history traits of dicyemids to understand their reproductive strategies and adaptations to living as endoparasites in cephalopod renal organs. It finds that dicyemids have a hermaphroditic gonad that produces roughly equal numbers of eggs and sperm. Fecundity increases with adult body size. Embryo size correlates with host size, suggesting host factors influence dispersal and infection of new hosts. While individual fecundity is low, total reproductive capacity per community is high due to asexual multiplication within the host. Adult size appears constrained by the volume and features of the renal habitat within different host species.
This study investigated how shade affects the development of the fungal pathogen Entomophaga grylli in its host, the clearwinged grasshopper Camnula pellucida. Grasshoppers were placed in cages with east shade, west shade, or no shade (control). Mortality was monitored daily. Non-linear regressions showed no significant relationship between survival and treatment. Temperatures were higher in east shade unexpectedly. While shade did not significantly affect survival, disease still had a large impact, showing the need for further study using eggs in controlled conditions to prevent cross-contamination.
Behavior and performance of lactating sows and pigletsreared indoors or outdoorsAmanda D'avila Verardi
This document summarizes a study comparing the behavior and productivity of lactating sows and their litters reared indoors in farrowing crates or outdoors in farrowing huts. The study found that sows housed indoors spent more time lying and drinking than outdoor sows, while outdoor piglets spent more time walking, playing, and nursing than indoor piglets. However, the different housing systems did not significantly influence production parameters such as litter size or piglet mortality. Overall, the outdoor system allowed for a richer behavioral repertoire in piglets but did not impact productivity.
Este documento descreve um estudo sobre quelônios no Parque Estadual Delta do Jacuí no Rio Grande do Sul. Foram encontradas quatro espécies de quelônios que ocupam diferentes tipos de hábitats no parque. A destruição e fragmentação de habitat, poluição e desinformação humana são as principais ameaças identificadas às espécies de quelônios no local.
This document summarizes a study of chelonian species in the Delta do Jacuí State Park in Brazil. Four chelonian species were found, including the Orbigny's slider turtle which made up 66% of captures. Species occupied different habitat types, from permanent wetlands to temporary and human-influenced areas. The main threats were determined to be habitat destruction, fragmentation, and pollution from human activities.
Heritability estimates of, genetic and phenotypic correlations among some sel...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes a study that evaluated carcass traits in Japanese quails. It found that sex significantly influenced most carcass traits, with females having higher weights for some traits than males. The quails had an average dressing percentage of 72.36%. Heritability estimates for the carcass traits ranged from low to high. All carcass traits were positively genetically correlated with pre-slaughter live weight. Phenotypic correlations between live weight and other traits followed the same trend as genetic correlations. The study concluded that Japanese quail have high efficiency for meat production and indirect selection could be used to improve the carcass traits.
Body temperature and haematological indices of boars exposed to direct solar ...Alexander Decker
This study examined the effects of exposure to direct sunlight on body temperature and blood profiles of Large White and crossbred boars in Nigeria. Twenty-four boars were exposed to sunlight for either 0 (control), 45, or 60 minutes daily for 4 weeks. Body temperature and blood samples were collected and analyzed. Ambient temperature averaged 27.8°C indoors and 40.5°C outdoors. Body temperature increased with exposure duration for both genotypes. Several blood parameters also differed between exposed and control boars. The Large White boars were generally more affected by heat stress compared to the crossbred boars. Providing shade and shelters could help pigs cope with heat stress in tropical environments.
Life history of the Hog Plum Beetle, Podontia quatuordecimpunctata (Linnaeus,...Open Access Research Paper
Hog plum beetle (Podontia quatuordecimpunctata) is a serious pest of hog plum tree and both their adults and larvae defoliate the hog plum tree. However, its developmental information and proper identification as well as precise photographs of each developmental stages have not been well studied and recorded. Thus, the goal of this research was to establish the developmental characteristics of P. quatuordecimpunctata. Life history was conducted in laboratory conditions at an average temperature 28 °C ± 1.2 an average 65 ± 5% relative humidity (RH), and a light: dark ratio (12L : 12D). The female beetles were laid clusters of eggs in numerous layers, with 9 to 53 eggs in each cluster. The durations of each developmental stage were 6.16±0.93, 3.16±0.24, 3.29±0.25, 3.21±0.33, 4.54±0.33, 5.54±0.49, and 20.92±2.7 days for the incubation, 1st instar, 2nd instar, 3rd instar, 4th instar, pre pupa, and pupa, respectively. The longevity of male and female adult beetles was found to be 42.33±6.6 days and 50.66±9.8 days, respectively. Results revealed that this study will be a valuable source of biological information for a better understanding and management of this pest species. Check out more by following link https://innspub.net/life-history-of-the-hog-plum-beetle-podontia-quatuordecimpunctata-linnaeus-1767-coleoptera-chrysomelidae-with-photographs-of-each-developmental-stage/
This study compared the thermoregulation of Chinampo cattle, Holstein cattle, and Jersey cattle in a hot, arid region of northwest Mexico from June to December. Rectal temperature and respiratory rate were recorded for each breed. The results showed that Holstein cattle had the highest rectal temperatures, especially in September, indicating they were least tolerant to heat stress. Chinampo cattle maintained rectal temperatures and respiratory rates closest to normal limits and had the lowest physiological responses to increasing heat stress, showing they were most tolerant to high temperatures.
This research article studied the fecundity and gonado-somatic index of Trichiurus lepturus, an important commercial fish species, along the coast of Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. The study found that females outnumbered males in the population. Spawning occurred in November and December, as indicated by peak gonado-somatic index values that synchronized with full and new moon phases. Fecundity, or number of eggs produced, was positively correlated with total body length, weight, and ovary weight, with ovary weight found to be the best predictor of fecundity. Understanding the reproductive characteristics of this species can aid in fisheries management.
Bats are often observed in the city of Ouagadougou; they are found in homes, offices and open spaces, especially under large trees. They are consumed as bushmeat and used by Traditional Medical Practitioners. In the context of re-emerging zoonosis, it is important to produce comprehensive knowledge about problematic species such as a bat. Then, the aim of this study is to produce reliable information about bat diversity and its distribution in the city of Ouagadougou. To achieve this goal, bats were captured in the city of Ouagadougou from July to November 2017 using a mist net in 15 stations. Eleven species belonging to nine genera and four families (Molossidae, Nyteridae, Pteropodidae and Vespertilionidae) have been inventoried. While Eidolon helvum is the most observable species in the city of Ouagadougou, Epomophorus gambianus, Scotophilus leucogaster and Nycticeinops schlieffenii are the most occurring species in samples. Kamboinse, Kossodo and Premier Ministère are the sites with the highest species diversity.
This document reports on several cases of anomalous scutation and morphology in turtles and lizards:
1) A three-toed box turtle with only one vertebral scute, representing an anomalous reduction.
2) A Brazilian slider turtle exhibiting kyphosis, or dorsal curvature of the carapace, representing the first reported case in this species.
3) Observations of predation including a centipede preying on a whiptail lizard, representing the first record of this predator-prey relationship, and a six-lined racer snake attempting to swallow a six-scaled tegu, providing a rare example of saurophagy in this genus of lizard.
This document summarizes a study on rearing, reproduction, and hybridization of Darwin's rhea (Rhea pennata) in Argentina. The study was conducted in two stages from 1980-1984 and 1991-2005 at experimental stations. In the first stage, chicks were collected from the wild to establish a breeding stock. In the second stage, fertile eggs were collected from wild nests to avoid introducing parasites. Data was collected on incubation, hatching rates, growth rates, and reproductive characteristics of the rheas under captive conditions. The goal was to contribute to the development of a ratite industry in Argentina using an indigenous South American species.
This study examined the cold tolerance of different life stages of bed bugs. It found:
1) The mean supercooling point for all bed bug life stages ranged from -21.3°C to -30.3°C, indicating they are freeze intolerant.
2) Exposure to temperatures below -13°C resulted in 100% mortality within days for all life stages.
3) A model was developed estimating survival at temperatures above -12°C even after 1 week of continuous exposure.
4) The study provides recommendations for freezing items potentially infested with bed bugs, including exposing them to temperatures below -13°C for multiple days to ensure all life stages are killed.
This document summarizes a study on the biology of Hypsopygia postflava, a snout moth parasitic on the nest of the paper wasp Polistes olivaceus. Key findings include:
1) H. postflava was found for the first time parasitizing P. olivaceus nests in Vietnam.
2) The lifecycle of H. postflava was studied, ranging from 33-49 days on average.
3) Survivorship of larvae was 88% and pupae was 82.5%. The sex ratio of emerged moths was 1:1.26 female to male.
Morpho-biometric characterization of the indigenous Djallonke sheep in Ngaoun...Open Access Research Paper
In order to study the morpho-biometric characterisation of the indigenous Djallonke sheep Ngaoundere, 126 adult indigenous Djallonke sheep (38 males and 88 females) were sampled from January to December 2020. The results of this study show that the coat colour is dominated by white; the horns, mane and Pendulous are less present; the facial profile is convex and the ears are semi-pendent. In addition, ear length, body length, chest depth, croup length and tail length showed significant differences (p<0.05). The correlation (r=0.844) between the substernal gracility index and the auriculo-thoracic index revealed the existence of sub-populations of indigenous Djallonké sheep that can be the subject of an improvement and preservation programme.
The document summarizes a study that examined differences in decomposition and insect activity on pig carrion placed in sunlit versus shaded locations during winter in Canberra, Australia. 8 pig carcasses were placed in cages either in full sun or full shade and observed over approximately 3 months. No significant difference was found in temperature or decomposition rate between sunlit and shaded carrion. However, the insect populations and species present did vary strongly, with more insects and larger populations observed on the sunlit carrion. Forensic entomology methods were used to analyze the insect data and determine estimates of the post mortem interval.
This study examined the effect of ration level on the energy allocation of the predatory beetle Notiophilus biguttatus. The beetles' energy budgets were defined by measuring egg production, respiration, and defecation rates at different ration levels. These measurements were used to estimate the energy allocated to reproduction and maintenance. The key findings were that (1) egg production, respiration rates, and energy content of feces all increased with higher ration levels, (2) more energy was allocated to reproduction at higher ration levels potentially at the cost of other metabolic processes, and (3) non-reproductive females required less maintenance energy than reproductive females.
This document summarizes a study that measured the temperatures inside nests of the Australian water dragon (Physignathus lesueurii) over several days in November and December. The study found:
1) Nest temperatures remained relatively constant, between 23-29°C, even as external temperatures varied more widely.
2) The highest nest temperatures were recorded on a sunny day in early December, while overcast days saw maximums below 25°C.
3) Nest temperatures were generally lower than those reported for similar sized tropical lizards, remaining cooler than external temperatures to prevent overheating of eggs.
Reproductive Parameters of Diastocera trifasciata (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleopte...AkesseNarcice
This work is the first which describes the details of the stages of the development, reproductive parameters. It provides the durations of the different stages of development of this species
Diastocera trifasciata, formerly known as Analeptes trifasciata, which causes crop losses in many West African cashew nut producing countries
Phenotypic correlation between the external and internal egg quality traits o...Alexander Decker
This study examined the internal and external quality traits of 360 Pharaoh quail eggs collected over 6 weeks. It found:
1) External traits like egg weight, length, breadth, and shell weight showed significant positive correlations with each other. Egg weight was positively correlated with most other external traits.
2) Internal traits like yolk weight, length, height and index showed significant positive correlations with each other. Yolk index was positively correlated with yolk height and albumen height.
3) The results suggest egg weight is a determinant of many external traits and changes in internal quality. Egg weight can be used to determine shell quality in quail eggs.
This document examines various life history traits of dicyemids to understand their reproductive strategies and adaptations to living as endoparasites in cephalopod renal organs. It finds that dicyemids have a hermaphroditic gonad that produces roughly equal numbers of eggs and sperm. Fecundity increases with adult body size. Embryo size correlates with host size, suggesting host factors influence dispersal and infection of new hosts. While individual fecundity is low, total reproductive capacity per community is high due to asexual multiplication within the host. Adult size appears constrained by the volume and features of the renal habitat within different host species.
This study investigated how shade affects the development of the fungal pathogen Entomophaga grylli in its host, the clearwinged grasshopper Camnula pellucida. Grasshoppers were placed in cages with east shade, west shade, or no shade (control). Mortality was monitored daily. Non-linear regressions showed no significant relationship between survival and treatment. Temperatures were higher in east shade unexpectedly. While shade did not significantly affect survival, disease still had a large impact, showing the need for further study using eggs in controlled conditions to prevent cross-contamination.
Behavior and performance of lactating sows and pigletsreared indoors or outdoorsAmanda D'avila Verardi
This document summarizes a study comparing the behavior and productivity of lactating sows and their litters reared indoors in farrowing crates or outdoors in farrowing huts. The study found that sows housed indoors spent more time lying and drinking than outdoor sows, while outdoor piglets spent more time walking, playing, and nursing than indoor piglets. However, the different housing systems did not significantly influence production parameters such as litter size or piglet mortality. Overall, the outdoor system allowed for a richer behavioral repertoire in piglets but did not impact productivity.
Este documento descreve um estudo sobre quelônios no Parque Estadual Delta do Jacuí no Rio Grande do Sul. Foram encontradas quatro espécies de quelônios que ocupam diferentes tipos de hábitats no parque. A destruição e fragmentação de habitat, poluição e desinformação humana são as principais ameaças identificadas às espécies de quelônios no local.
This document summarizes a study of chelonian species in the Delta do Jacuí State Park in Brazil. Four chelonian species were found, including the Orbigny's slider turtle which made up 66% of captures. Species occupied different habitat types, from permanent wetlands to temporary and human-influenced areas. The main threats were determined to be habitat destruction, fragmentation, and pollution from human activities.
Liolaemus occipitalis is a small lizard found in coastal sand dunes in southern Brazil. The study examined the annual activity patterns of L. occipitalis over one year. It found that the lizard is active year-round but its daily and seasonal activity varies according to climate changes. Most activity occurred under sand (73%), followed by under vegetation (14%). Activity peaks in spring and summer occurred in the morning and afternoon, diminishing during hottest parts of the day. Thermoregulation, involving movement between sunlight and shade, is an important factor influencing the lizard's habitat use and activity patterns.
The thermal biology of the small sand lizard Liolaemus occipitalis was studied in coastal sand dunes in southern Brazil. L. occipitalis maintained an average body temperature of 30.89°C that varied seasonally and daily depending on microhabitat temperatures. The substrate temperature was the main source for thermoregulation, accounting for most of the variation in lizard body temperatures across seasons. L. occipitalis is a rock-dwelling, thigmothermic, and heliothermic species that regulates its temperature behaviorally based on microclimate conditions.
This document describes a new species of lizard, Liolaemus arambarensis, discovered in southern Brazil. The new species is compared to other members of the Liolaemus wiegmannii group. L. arambarensis is distinguished by its dorsal color pattern and some aspects of its scales. It exhibits sexual dimorphism and is omnivorous. The natural history, morphology, and karyotype of L. arambarensis are analyzed.
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This is part 1 of my Java Learning Journey. This Contains Custom methods, classes, constructors, packages, multithreading , try- catch block, finally block and more.
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How to Make a Field Mandatory in Odoo 17Celine George
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Philippine Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP) CurriculumMJDuyan
(𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝟏𝟎𝟎) (𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝟏)-𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐬
𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐏𝐏 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐮𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬:
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1. Herpetological Conservation and Biology 4(3):306-312.
Submitted: 24 September 2008; Accepted: 16 September 2009.
NEST TEMPERATURE, INCUBATION TIME, HATCHING,
AND EMERGENCE IN THE HILAIRE’S SIDE-NECKED TURTLE
(PHRYNOPS HILARII)
CLÓVIS S. BUJES AND LAURA VERRASTRO
Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Animal, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul,
Av Bento Gonçalves, 9500 Prédio 43435, Sala 105, Campus do Vale, CEP 91501-970. Porto Alegre, RS – Brazil,
e-mail: chelonia_rs@hotmail.com
Abstract.—The nest dimensions, physical characteristics of the eggs, thermal exposure, incubation period, and
hatchling emergence were investigated. A total of 12 nests were monitored: six (N = 50 eggs) in natural conditions
and six (N = 28 eggs) in artificial conditions. Nests constructed by females have an aperture, a neck, and an
incubation chamber with mean dimension of 143 by 126 mm. Eggs (N = 78) were characterized as spherical, 34 x 32
mm, with a calcareous shell and mean mass of 21.5 g. The incubation period varied from 157 to 271 days, in natural
conditions, and from 130 to 191 days under artificial conditions; whereas, hatching success varied from 43 to 75%,
and from 50 to 100%, respectively. The mean temperature inside the natural nests ranged from 24.2 to 27.3°C;
whereas, under artificial conditions it ranged from 18.8 to 28.6°C. Significantly more hatchlings emerged from eggs
incubated under artificial conditions than from natural nests.
Key Words.—Chelidae; development; emergence; freshwater turtles; hatching; incubation; nest temperature; Phrynops
hilarii
INTRODUCTION and lotic environments (Bujes and Verrastro 2008). In
this region, nesting activity occurs from September to
All chelonians are oviparous and lay their eggs in October and February to March, being associated with
nests constructed by females in sandy substrates, or a minimum mean air temperatures of 26°C. Females
under dry leaves and detritus. Chelonians can build produce 10–22 eggs with hard shells, and present daily
their nests in shady areas, or open areas with higher bimodal nesting activity with peaks at sunrise and
exposure to solar radiation (Ewert 1979). A sunset (Bujes 1998). The objectives of our study were
combination of favorable location, substrate type (e.g., to examine the influence of soil temperature on the
sandy, muddy, or decomposing vegetation), and egg incubation period and on the phenotypic variation of
depth can lead to an optimum environment for the hatchlings; as well as, the hatching and emergence
embryonic development. As chelonian eggs do not behavior from the nest in natural and artificial
receive any direct parental care, embryonic conditions, eliminating potential effects of the
development (i.e., incubation, hatching, and juvenile substrate humidity.
emergence) depends on the environmental conditions
to which the eggs are exposed. MATERIALS AND METHODS
The thermal and moisture conditions of the nest are
important for egg incubation, influencing the We identified 18 nests of Phrynops hilarii and
development rate, incubation time (Yntema 1978), and randomly selected six, which we monitored from
survivorship of the embryo (Packard and Packard
1988; Booth 1998). Moreover, thermal and hydric
conditions determine sex in many chelonian species
(Bull 1980; Ewert and Nelson 1991), play an
important role in the size of neonates (Packard et al.
1987; Packard and Packard 1993), and on their
locomotor development (Miller et al. 1987; Janzen
1995). Iincubation temperature, however, has a
greater influence on species that lay eggs with a hard
shell (Janzen 1993) than water content of the soil
(Leshem and Dmi’el 1986). Humidity does not appear
to affect the embryo or hatchling’s metabolism in
these species (Packard et al. 1979, 1981; Packard and
Packard 1991).
Hilaire´s Side-necked Turtle, Phrynops hilarii (Fig.
1), is the second most abundant chelonian species in FIGURE 1. Female Hilaire’s Side-necked Turtle, Phrynops hilarii
the delta of the Jacuí River of Brazil inhabiting lentic (Testudines, Chelidae). (Photographed by Clóvis Bujes)
306
2. Bujes and Verrastro.—Nesting Ecology in Hilaire’s Side-necked Turtle
monitored coolers with eggs weekly and we recorded
nest temperatures and egg status. When the substrate
was dry, we added water to maintain substrate
hydration. We defined hatching as the pipping of the
eggs; whereas, emergence was defined as when
hatchlings left the nest chamber.
We counted, weighed, and measured neonates, both
in natural and artificial conditions. Measurements
included straight-line carapace length (CL) and
maximum width (CW), plastron length (PL) and width
(PW), and shell height (SH; for details see Bujes
2008). After an observation period of approximately
two weeks, we released the hatchlings in an area of
lentic and vegetated waters, close to the nesting site.
We calculated the variation between mean egg mass
FIGURE 2. Aerial photography of the study area: Pintada Island, and the variation among eggs from different nests with
Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). We used an F-
test to calculate the difference between biometric data
September 2004 to October 2005. The nesting site
of the hatchlings hatched in natural and artificial
was located in a grassy area between two buildings of
conditions. We ran statistical tests using the computer
the Delta do Jacuí State Park, south of Mauá canal, on
program SPSS 11.0 for Windows. For each test, α =
Pintada Island (30°01’52”S, 51°15’07”W), Porto
0.05).
Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil (Fig. 2).
We recorded air (measured about 100 mm from the
RESULTS
surface of the nest), substrate, and nest chamber (i.e.,
among the eggs) temperatures immediately after
The dimensions of the egg chambers in the six nests
oviposition using mercury thermometers (± 1°C).
varied from 110 to 149 mm ( = 126.33 mm, SD =
Total depth (from the surface to the end of the
16.98, N = 6) in minimum width, and from 130 to 170
incubation chamber) and the diameters (highest vs.
mm ( = 143.33, sd = 15.06, N = 6) in maximum
lowest) of the nests were measured with a measuring
width; the depth of the nests varied between 116 and
tape (± 1.0 mm). We removed eggs from the nest,
170 mm ( = 151 mm, SD = 18.71, N = 6). The last
which we counted, marked, and weighed using a
egg laid by a female was located between 30 and 75
digital scale (Giros PG-500®; total capacity of 500 g,
mm below the surface ( = 53.83 mm, SD = 18.22, N
± 0.1 g). We also measured eggs (in their longest and
= 6).
shortest diameter) with a 200 mm Mitutoyo® caliper
We characterized the eggs of P. hilarii as smooth,
(± 0.05 mm).
calcareous, and spherical ranging between 0.88 and
We randomly chose 40% of the eggs from each nest
1.0 mm ( = 0.956, SD = 0.03, N = 78). The mean
and incubated them under artificial conditions. We
length of the larger axis of the eggs varied between
returned the remaining eggs to the original nests,
30.9 and 37.0 mm ( = 34.12 mm, SD = 1.13, N = 78);
where they were replaced in the same order they were
the smaller axis varied from 30.1 to 35.4 mm ( =
removed. We placed a silicon rod (20.0 cm in length x
32.62 mm, SD = 1.31, N = 78), and the egg mass
0.5 cm in width) vertically, in the center of the
varied between 17.0 and 26.3 g ( = 21.47 g, SD = 2.1,
incubation chamber among the eggs and the eggs were
N = 78). The mean egg mass was significantly
then reburied. To protect and facilitate the locating
different among nests (F = 73.47, df = 5, P < 0.001),
each nest, we surrounded the nest and the silicon bar
and the variation of mass among eggs from the same
by a plastic screen. We monitored the temperatures
nest was 0.77 g.
that the eggs were exposed to inside the nests, as well
The incubation period of the eggs under natural
as soil and air temperature (at 100 mm above the
conditions varied from 157–271 days ( = 221.5 days,
surface) at three hour intervals for a period of 24 h
SD = 49.33, N = 6); whereas, under artificial
every month during the first five months of the
conditions, incubation time varied from 130–191 days
incubation period. Approximately 1 h before the
( = 167.8 days, SD = 23.51, N = 6). Hatching
beginning of each monitoring period, we carefully
success varied from 43 to 75% (30 hatchlings out of
removed the silicon bar from the nest and in its place
50 eggs) under natural conditions; whereas, in the
we inserted a 200 mm mercury thermometer. We
laboratory, it varied from 50 to 100% (25 hatchlings
could observe any hatchling movement inside the
out of 28 eggs; Table 1). There were four non-viable
incubation chamber through the hole made by the
eggs with no visible signs of development.
silicon bar.
The mean temperature inside nests varied from 24.2
We placed eggs incubated under artificial conditions
to 27.3°C (Fig. 3). This was similar to the mean
in coolers (1000 mm x 400 mm x 350 mm) with a
temperature of the substrate, which varied from 24.6 to
substrate composed of two parts of equal volumes of
27.1°C, and to the air temperature that ranged from
vermiculite to one part of water by volume. We
307
3. Herpetological Conservation and Biology
TABLE 1. Number of eggs, number of hatchlings, hatching rate, and incubation and emergence periods in the nests of Phrynops hilarii from
Brazil incubated in natural (N) and artificial (A) conditions.
Oviposition Number Number of Hatching rate Incubation Emergence
Nest date of Eggs hatchlings (%) (days) (days)
Ph1N 10/12/04 7 3 42.9 255 68 ± 3
Ph1A 4 4 100 186 ~2
Ph2N 10/14/04 12 7 58.3 269 3
Ph2A 6 6 100 183 ~3
Ph3N 10/21/04 7 4 57.1 189 5
Ph3A 5 4 80.0 164 ~2
Ph4N 10/21/04 8 6 75.0 157 12
Ph4A 5 5 100 130 ~4
Ph5N 09/14/04 8 5 62.5 188 4
Ph5A 4 4 100 153 ~3
Ph6N 09/08/04 8 5 62.5 271 10
Ph6A 4 2 50.0 191 ~1
Total 78 55
23.4 to 25.3°C (Table 2). Thermal limits recorded in because we discovered that the plastic screen had
the nesting area varied from 9ºC (soil surface) to 27ºC confined these emerged hatchlings three days after the
(50 mm deep) between July and September 2004, and last observation. This nest presented the longest time
from 16ºC (air) to 40ºC (soil surface) between October inside the nest after observing activity of hatchlings: a
and December of the same year. The mean total of 68 days. We did not observe external yolk
temperature in the incubation chamber was 22.2°C sacs on any of the emerged hatchlings (all hatchlings
(SD = 2.94, ranging from 18 to 30ºC, N = 94). had flat plastrons).
Neonates hatched under laboratory experiments Under laboratory conditions, all hatchlings emerged
were larger than those hatched from natural nests at night and had a visible external yolk sac. Most
(Table 3). All measurements between the two groups, hatchlings (92%) were inactive and stayed semi-buried
including mass, were significantly different (P < in the incubator vermiculite for approximately four
0.001), with exception of PW (P = 0.016). days. During this period, the hatchlings absorbed the
Under natural conditions, neonates hatched at dusk yolk while expanding their shells, losing the oval
(1800–2000) in 66% (4/6) of nests. Hatchlings shape of the carapace and the folding of the plastron.
emerged from one nest after 2200 because we found After this period, all hatchlings increased activity.
hatchlings at the nest site at 0600. In another nest, we Hatchling emergence was synchronous under both
could not accurately estimate the time of emergence, natural and artificial conditions.
Temperature (°C)
LOCAL TIME (HRS)
FIGURE 3. Representation of thermal variation observed in the nests of Phrynops hilarii in a 24-h period in the first five months of
incubation in natural conditions in Pintada Island, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil.
308
4. Bujes and Verrastro.—Nesting Ecology in Hilaire’s Side-necked Turtle
TABLE 2. Mean temperatures (ºC), standard deviation (SD), extreme values, and sample size (N) of the air, substrate, and interior of the
nests of Phrynops hilarii in Pintada Island, Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil.
Mean temperatures (ºC)
Nest Air Substrate Nest N
1 23.4 24.6 24.2 40
SD = 5.28, 13–33 SD = 5.62, 15–36 SD = 3.98, 17–30
2 24.1 26.3 26.2 40
SD = 5.31, 13–33 SD = 6.72, 15–42 SD = 3.49, 20–32
3 25.3 27.1 26.1 40
SD = 5.72, 13–37 SD = 7.73, 14–43 SD = 4.38, 18–35
4 24.5 27.0 27.3 40
SD = 4.44, 18–33 SD = 6.91, 17–47 SD = 4.41, 19–35
5 23.4 25.2 25.8 64
SD = 5.35, 14–33 SD = 6.31, 13–40 SD = 3.91, 19–36
6 24.0 26.1 26.4 64
SD = 5.43, 14–37 SD = 6.36, 12–42 SD = 3.64, 17–35
DISCUSSION temperatures in natural conditions and the absence of
supplemental heating in the laboratory. Comparatively,
The nesting activity, structure, and nesting site for eggs of P. geoffroanus incubated in mean temperatures
Phrynops hilarii has been described by Bujes (1998). between 27.3°C and 30.0°C, had incubation periods
In that study, the mean nest depth recorded was 121.3 that varied from 115 to 186 days (Lisboa et al. 2004).
mm, varying between 100 and 150 mm. In the present Incubation periods for clutches exposed to varying
study, the mean depth was 151 mm (ranging from 116 thermal regimes ranged from 156 to 173 days (Kardon
to 170 mm). The number of eggs in P. hilarii nests 1981), 206 and 319 days (Guix et al. 1989), and 149
has varied from 1–23 eggs, which has been thought to and 331 days (Molina 1989).
be related to the size and physiological conditions of Under natural conditions, incubation temperatures
the female (Cabrera 1998). Astort (1984) suggested varied from 17 to 36ºC in the nest chamber, while at
that the nests of this species may vary from 8–32 eggs. the soil surface they varied from 12 to 47ºC, and in the
The mean number of eggs per clutch we recorded was air ranged from 13 to 37ºC. In Australian chelonians,
similar to that found by Bujes (1998), who worked in a with nests at a depth of 180 mm, the temperature
similar geographic area with similar vegetation, soil, extremes in the interior of the egg chamber were 18
and climatic conditions to the Delta do Jacuí State and 26ºC (Goode and Russell 1968). The location of
Park. the nest influenced the variation in temperature in the
Cabrera (1998) described the eggs of P. hilarii as egg chamber. Nests exposed to the sun during the
spherical, with a white, smooth, and hard shell, and a morning and afternoon experience thermal
diameter ranging from 27–37 mm. The recorded oscillations. In one nest from the second temperature
values in our study (from 30 to 37 mm) are within this profile, the eggs experienced an increase in
range. The incubation period of the eggs of P. hilarii temperature of 10ºC followed by a decrease in 11ºC in
in natural conditions have been found to range from a 24-hour period: temperatures oscillated from 19ºC
70–140 days (Cabrera 1998). The longest incubation (at 0900) to 29ºC (at 1500), and then to 18ºC (at 0600).
period recorded for this species, in artificial Another nest located in an area that was exposed to the
conditions, was 69 days, with a constant temperature sun from 1100 to 1700 only experienced small thermal
of 34.5ºC (Piña and Argañaraz 2003). In our study, the variation (~ 4ºC) during the same time-period.
incubation period was relatively long in both natural Hewavisenthi and Parmenter (2001) observed that
(157 to 271 days) and laboratory conditions (130 to hatchlings of Natator depressus from eggs incubated
191 days), which probably was due to the smooth in the laboratory, with temperatures oscillating
TABLE 3. Mean (sample size), standard deviation, and range of carapace length (CL), carapace width (CW), shell height (SH), plastron
length (PL), plastron width (PW), and mass (g) of the hatchlings of Phrynops hilarii born in natural and artificial conditions.
.
Natural conditions Artificial conditions
CL 36.74 (31) 42.91 (25)
1.472, 35.2–40.1 0.959, 41–45.8
CW 28.88 (31) 34.01 (25)
0.739, 27.2–30.1 1.271, 31.3–36.4
SH 13.37 (31) 15.21 (25)
0.476, 12.8–14.6 1.503, 10–17.2
PL 31.42 (31) 37.75 (25)
0.551, 30.4–32.8 0.848, 36.7–40.6
PW 18.48 (31) 18.61 (25)
0.612, 17.3–19.2 2.25194, 16.2–23.6
MASS 8.74 (31) 13.56 (25)
0.404, 8.15–9.60 0.718, 12.5–15.4
309
5. Herpetological Conservation and Biology
between 26 and 29ºC, were significantly larger and the hatchlings of P. hilarii that we incubated in
had less energetic reserves than those incubated at artificial conditions, but the development of the
32ºC. Eggs of P. hilarii that we incubated in artificial hatchlings was faster. Conversely, the development of
conditions also produced larger hatchlings than those hatchlings from natural nests was slower and the
incubated under natural conditions. The mean animals took up more nutrients from their yolk sac,
temperature in artificial conditions of incubation developing into smaller hatchlings with larger nutrient
(22.2°C) was lower than the lowest mean temperature reserves.
found inside the incubation chamber (24.2°C). Our results for P. hilarii provide valuable baseline
Therefore, we believe that the thermal environment in data for this species. Incubation times suggest that
the natural nests influenced the morphological and they do not have direct development. Future research
physiological characteristics (i.e., apparent egg yolk or should address if embryonic diapause and/or
not) in the hatchlings, similar to those observed in embryonic aestivation are responsible for these long
artificial conditions. incubation times, both in nature and under laboratory
Hatchling Emydura macquarrii and Chelonia conditions. The effect of varying hydric and
expansa (in the family Chelidae) had significant temperature conditions in the laboratory should be
responses to the amount of rain and to the associated undertaken to understand embryogenesis in this
temperature changes (Booth 1998). In both species, species and what mechanisms in nature control
hatchlings emerged from the nest during or after development in this species.
intense rainfall. We did not find a relationship
between the emergence of hatchlings of P. hilarii and Acknowledgments.—This work was partially
the amount of rain or temperature change. financed by Fundação O Boticário de Proteção à
Hatchlings in four of six nests that we monitored Natureza (FBPN: Projeto Chelonia-RS, registry 0594-
emerged at dusk (from 1800–2000). In one nest, the 20032). We had logistic support from the Instituto
hatchlings emerged from 2200–0600, avoiding the Gaúcho de Estudos Ambientais (InGA), the Secretaria
high temperatures of the day. Hatchlings emerged Estadual do Meio Ambiente (SEMA), and
alone, quickly, and in a synchronized way, thus Departamento de Zoologia da Universidade Federal do
supporting the observations made by Congdon et al. Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS). We thank Júlio César
(1983). After emergence, hatchlings moved fast on Munerato, Janaína Bujes, and Flávio de Barros Molina
the surface, probably searching for water, as suggested for offering suggestions about our research.
by Plummer (2007) for hatchling Apalone mutica.
We found a lag period between hatching and LITERATURE CITED
emergence in one nest (68 days), which has also been
reported for marine (Christens 1990; Godfrey and Astort, E.D. 1984. Dimorfismo sexual secundario de
Mrosovsky 1997) and other freshwater chelonians Phrynops hilarii (D.y B., 1835) y su conducta
(Bager and Fagundes 2007; Greaves and Litzgus reproductora en cautiverio (Testudines, Chelidae).
2007). This temporal discontinuity may be enough to Revista del Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales
change the shape of the carapace of the neonates of P. “Bernardino Rivadavia” 13:107–113.
hilarii from oval to the flat shape we observed in the Bager, A., and C.K. Fagundes. 2007. Trachemys
species. This lag time leads to the consumption of the dorbigni hatchling overwintering. Herpetological
residual reserve of the yolk sac (Nagle et al. 2003), Review 38:335–336.
and higher temperatures of the microhabitat may Booth, D.T. 1998. Nest temperature and respiratory
trigger emergence (Plummer 2007). gases during natural incubation in the Broad-shelled
Hatchlings of P. hilarii we incubated in artificial River Turtle, Chelodina expansa (Testudinata:
conditions were larger than those incubated in natural Chelidae). Australian Journal of Zoology 46:183–
conditions, thus supporting the hypothesis that cooler 191.
incubation temperature yields larger hatchlings. The Bujes, C.S. 1998. Atividade de nidificação de
body size of hatchlings is an important component of Phrynops hilarii (Testudines, Chelidae) na Reserva
later success (Miller et al. 1987; Janzen 1993; Janzen Biológica do Lami, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil.
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CLÓVIS SOUZA BUJES is the Coordinator of the Chelonia-RS LAURA VERRASTRO is an Associate Professor at Federal
Project (long-term research about the biology and conservation of University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. She graduated with a
freshwater turtles in southern Brazil). He is a graduate in B.S. in Biological Sciences from the Universidad de La Republica
Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Rio Grande Oriental Del Uruguay; a Master’s in Ecology and Ph.D. in Natural
do Sul; earned a Master in Biosciences (Zoology) from Pontifícia Resources from the Federal University of São Carlos – Brazil.
Universidade Católica of Rio Grande do Sul, and a Ph.D. in She serves as an advisor for Zoology and Lizard Ecology in the
Animal Biology (Biodiversity) from the Federal University of southern Brazil. (Photographed by Gustavo Scaron).
Rio Grande do Sul. He has studied Herpetology since 1992, with
an emphasis on environmental education and in natural history
and conservation of reptiles (chelonians and lizards) in southern
Brazil. (Photographed by Camila De León).
312