ScienceDaily (2009-08-14) -- A switch from annual to multiyear colonies and a willingness to feed just about any prey to their young have allowed invasive yellowjacket wasps to disrupt native populations of insects and spiders on two Hawaiian islands, a new study has found.
"They're consuming anything from geckos to shearwater to tree lice to more juicy items that you would expect them to eat, like caterpillars. They're just like little vacuum cleaners," said Erin Wilson, who recently completed her doctorate at UC San Diego and is the lead author of the study reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences this week.
The sheer numbers are changing the ecology of Hawaii's endangered ohia woodlands and subalpine shrublands. "It's not just what they're killing," Wilson said. "They're also collecting great amounts of nectar, drawing down the resources for anything else that might want to feed on it whether it's native insects or birds like the Hawaiian honeycreepers."
Read full news at: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090720190609.htm
13 agosto 2009
27 julio 2009
Noblella coloma sp. nov.
A new species of Noblella (Amphibia: Strabomantidae) from the western slopes of the Andes of Ecuador
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of Noblella from the western slope of the Ecuadorian Andes. The new taxon is distinguished from all other species in the genus by lacking dorsal marks (i.e., interobital bar, scapular and sacral chevrons) and by having a bright orange venter. The new species and Noblella heyeri are the only species of Noblella reported in the Pacific Andean versant. We provide an osteological description of the new species and a key for the species in Noblella.
Cita / Citation: Guayasamín, J.M., A. Terán-Valdez. (2009) A new species of Noblella (Amphibia: Strabomantidae) from the western slopes of the Andes of Ecuador. Zootaxa 2161: 47–59.
Mas información: www.mapress.com/zootaxa/2009/f/z02161p059f.pdf
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of Noblella from the western slope of the Ecuadorian Andes. The new taxon is distinguished from all other species in the genus by lacking dorsal marks (i.e., interobital bar, scapular and sacral chevrons) and by having a bright orange venter. The new species and Noblella heyeri are the only species of Noblella reported in the Pacific Andean versant. We provide an osteological description of the new species and a key for the species in Noblella.
Cita / Citation: Guayasamín, J.M., A. Terán-Valdez. (2009) A new species of Noblella (Amphibia: Strabomantidae) from the western slopes of the Andes of Ecuador. Zootaxa 2161: 47–59.
Mas información: www.mapress.com/zootaxa/2009/f/z02161p059f.pdf
New Taxonomy Centrolenidae
Phylogenetic systematics of Glassfrogs (Amphibia: Centrolenidae) and their sister taxon Allophryne ruthveni
Abstract.-- Based on a molecular phylogeny, a new phylogenetic taxonomy that is compatible with both the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) and the PhyloCode is proposed for Glassfrogs and their sister taxon, Allophryne ruthveni. The arrangement presented herein emphasizes the recognition of clades having (i) significant statistical support and congruence among phylogenetic estimation methods (i.e., parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference criteria), (ii) congruence among genetic markers, and (iii) morphological and/or behavioral distinctiveness. Also, when previously recognized groups are recovered as monophyletic or nearly monophyletic, we propose taxa that minimize the number of name changes required to make these groups monophyletic, preserving the names and contents of previous classifications (i.e., nomenclatural stability). The evolutionary proximity of Centrolenidae and Allophrynidae is recognized by combining these families into an unraked taxon, Allocentroleniae—a proposal that maintains the traditional names and species contents of Centrolenidae and Allophrynidae. We arrange centrolenid diversity in two subfamilies: Centroleninae and Hyalinobatrachinae. Within Centroleninae, the diagnosis and species content of the genera Centrolene, Cochranella, and Nymphargus are modified; Teratohyla is resurrected and modified, and Chimerella, Espadarana, Rulyrana, Sachatamia, and Vitreorana are proposed as new genera. The other subfamily, Hyalinobatrachinae, contains the new genus Celsiella and a modified Hyalinobatrachium that fully corresponds to the former fleischmanni Group. Additionally, the genus Ikakogi is described. Ikakogi could not be assigned with confidence to either subfamily and it is placed as incertae sedis in Centrolenidae. The data at hand suggest that Ikakogi tayrona is a lineage as old as the subfamilies Hyalinobatrachinae and Centroleninae. The revised taxonomy differs markedly from previous arrangements, which were based on phenetics and few morphological characters. Most of the genera defined herein are confined to distinct biogeographic regions, highlighting the importance of geography in the speciation of Glassfrogs. The principal limitation of this proposal is that it is based on an incomplete sampling of taxa (54% of the recognized Glassfrogs). Although diagnoses are based on phenotypic traits, there are several cases (16% of all species) in which the allocation of species is ambiguous because of morphological homoplasy and the lack of molecular data. Finally, in an attempt to facilitate species identification, comparison, and generic placement, we provide photographs for most (~ 96%) of the recognized centrolenid species.
Cita / Citation: Guayasamin, J. M., S. Castroviejo-Fisher, L. Trueb, J. Ayarzagüena, M. Rada, y C. Vilà. (2009) Phylogenetic systematics of glassfrogs (Amphibia: Centrolenidae) and their sister taxon Allophryne ruthveni. Zootaxa 2100:1-97.
Mas información: http://www.mapress.com/zootaxa/2009/f/zt02100p097.pdf
Abstract.-- Based on a molecular phylogeny, a new phylogenetic taxonomy that is compatible with both the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN) and the PhyloCode is proposed for Glassfrogs and their sister taxon, Allophryne ruthveni. The arrangement presented herein emphasizes the recognition of clades having (i) significant statistical support and congruence among phylogenetic estimation methods (i.e., parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference criteria), (ii) congruence among genetic markers, and (iii) morphological and/or behavioral distinctiveness. Also, when previously recognized groups are recovered as monophyletic or nearly monophyletic, we propose taxa that minimize the number of name changes required to make these groups monophyletic, preserving the names and contents of previous classifications (i.e., nomenclatural stability). The evolutionary proximity of Centrolenidae and Allophrynidae is recognized by combining these families into an unraked taxon, Allocentroleniae—a proposal that maintains the traditional names and species contents of Centrolenidae and Allophrynidae. We arrange centrolenid diversity in two subfamilies: Centroleninae and Hyalinobatrachinae. Within Centroleninae, the diagnosis and species content of the genera Centrolene, Cochranella, and Nymphargus are modified; Teratohyla is resurrected and modified, and Chimerella, Espadarana, Rulyrana, Sachatamia, and Vitreorana are proposed as new genera. The other subfamily, Hyalinobatrachinae, contains the new genus Celsiella and a modified Hyalinobatrachium that fully corresponds to the former fleischmanni Group. Additionally, the genus Ikakogi is described. Ikakogi could not be assigned with confidence to either subfamily and it is placed as incertae sedis in Centrolenidae. The data at hand suggest that Ikakogi tayrona is a lineage as old as the subfamilies Hyalinobatrachinae and Centroleninae. The revised taxonomy differs markedly from previous arrangements, which were based on phenetics and few morphological characters. Most of the genera defined herein are confined to distinct biogeographic regions, highlighting the importance of geography in the speciation of Glassfrogs. The principal limitation of this proposal is that it is based on an incomplete sampling of taxa (54% of the recognized Glassfrogs). Although diagnoses are based on phenotypic traits, there are several cases (16% of all species) in which the allocation of species is ambiguous because of morphological homoplasy and the lack of molecular data. Finally, in an attempt to facilitate species identification, comparison, and generic placement, we provide photographs for most (~ 96%) of the recognized centrolenid species.
Cita / Citation: Guayasamin, J. M., S. Castroviejo-Fisher, L. Trueb, J. Ayarzagüena, M. Rada, y C. Vilà. (2009) Phylogenetic systematics of glassfrogs (Amphibia: Centrolenidae) and their sister taxon Allophryne ruthveni. Zootaxa 2100:1-97.
Mas información: http://www.mapress.com/zootaxa/2009/f/zt02100p097.pdf
Phylogenetic relationships of glassfrogs (Centrolenidae) based on mitochondrial and nuclear genes
Abstract.-- Glassfrogs (family Centrolenidae) represent an exceptionally diverse group among Neotropical anurans, but their evolutionary relationships never have been assessed from a molecular perspective. Mitochondrial and nuclear markers were used to develop a novel hypothesis of centrolenid phylogeny. Ingroup sampling included 100 terminals, with 78 (53%) of the named species in the family, representing most of the phenotypic diversity described for the group. Thirty-five species representing taxa traditionally associated with glassfrogs were used as outgroups. Gene sampling consisted of complete or partial sequences of three mitochondrial (12S, 16S, ND1) and three nuclear markers (c-myc exon 2, RAG1, POMC) for a total of approximately 4362bp. Phylogenies were estimated using maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian analyses for individual genes and combined datasets. The separate analysis of mitochondrial and nuclear datasets allowed us to clarify the relationships within glassfrogs; also, we corroborate the sister-group relationship between Allophryne ruthveni and glassfrogs. The new phylogeny differs significantly from all previous morphology-based hypotheses of relationships, and shows that hypotheses based on few traits are likely to misrepresent evolutionary history. Traits previously hypothesized as unambiguous synapomorphies are shown to be homoplastic, and all genera in the current taxonomy (Centrolene, Cochranella, Hyalinobatrachium, Nymphargus) are found to be poly- or paraphyletic. The new topology implies a South American origin of glassfrogs and reveals allopatric speciation as the most important speciation mechanism. The phylogeny profoundly affects the traditional interpretations of glassfrog taxonomy, character evolution, and biogeography-topics that now require more extensive evaluation in future studies..
Cita / Citation: Guayasamin, J. M., S. Castroviejo-Fisher, J. Ayarzagüena, L. Trueb y C. Vilà. (2008) Phylogenetic relationships of glassfrogs (Centrolenidae) based on mitochondrial and nuclear genes. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 48:574-595.
Mas información: http://www.puce.edu.ec/zoologia/vertebrados/personal/colaboradores/jmguayasamin/index.html
Abstract.-- Glassfrogs (family Centrolenidae) represent an exceptionally diverse group among Neotropical anurans, but their evolutionary relationships never have been assessed from a molecular perspective. Mitochondrial and nuclear markers were used to develop a novel hypothesis of centrolenid phylogeny. Ingroup sampling included 100 terminals, with 78 (53%) of the named species in the family, representing most of the phenotypic diversity described for the group. Thirty-five species representing taxa traditionally associated with glassfrogs were used as outgroups. Gene sampling consisted of complete or partial sequences of three mitochondrial (12S, 16S, ND1) and three nuclear markers (c-myc exon 2, RAG1, POMC) for a total of approximately 4362bp. Phylogenies were estimated using maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian analyses for individual genes and combined datasets. The separate analysis of mitochondrial and nuclear datasets allowed us to clarify the relationships within glassfrogs; also, we corroborate the sister-group relationship between Allophryne ruthveni and glassfrogs. The new phylogeny differs significantly from all previous morphology-based hypotheses of relationships, and shows that hypotheses based on few traits are likely to misrepresent evolutionary history. Traits previously hypothesized as unambiguous synapomorphies are shown to be homoplastic, and all genera in the current taxonomy (Centrolene, Cochranella, Hyalinobatrachium, Nymphargus) are found to be poly- or paraphyletic. The new topology implies a South American origin of glassfrogs and reveals allopatric speciation as the most important speciation mechanism. The phylogeny profoundly affects the traditional interpretations of glassfrog taxonomy, character evolution, and biogeography-topics that now require more extensive evaluation in future studies..
Cita / Citation: Guayasamin, J. M., S. Castroviejo-Fisher, J. Ayarzagüena, L. Trueb y C. Vilà. (2008) Phylogenetic relationships of glassfrogs (Centrolenidae) based on mitochondrial and nuclear genes. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 48:574-595.
Mas información: http://www.puce.edu.ec/zoologia/vertebrados/personal/colaboradores/jmguayasamin/index.html
Pristimantis andinognomus sp. nov.
A Minute New Ecuadorian Andean Frog (Anura: Strabomantidae, Pristimantis)
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of Pristimantis from a cloud forest at 2450–2800 m in the Cordillera Oriental in southern Ecuador (Zamora Chinchipe). The new species has a maximum snout–vent length of 17.9 mm (average SVL of 21 males
= 12.3 mm ± 1.2, and of 19 females = 15.9 mm ± 1.3). This new species is the second smallest frog from Ecuador and smallest Pristimantis. Morphologically and phylogenetically, the new species is similar to P. caeruleonotus and P. colodactylus. It is distinguished from them and its congeners by its size, tuberculation, a distinct color pattern consisting of tan blotches on dorsum, spots on a brown venter, minute brown spots on anterior and posterior surfaces of the thighs, and other morphological features. Determination of small body size in frogs is discussed and meristic data of 40 minute frogs are compiled..
Cita / Citation: Lehr, E. & L. A. Coloma. (2008) A minute new Ecuadorian Andean frog (Anura: Strabomantidae, Pristimantis). Herpetologica 64(3): 354–367..
Mas información: http://www.puce.edu.ec/zoologia/vertebrados/personal/lacoloma/index.html
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of Pristimantis from a cloud forest at 2450–2800 m in the Cordillera Oriental in southern Ecuador (Zamora Chinchipe). The new species has a maximum snout–vent length of 17.9 mm (average SVL of 21 males
= 12.3 mm ± 1.2, and of 19 females = 15.9 mm ± 1.3). This new species is the second smallest frog from Ecuador and smallest Pristimantis. Morphologically and phylogenetically, the new species is similar to P. caeruleonotus and P. colodactylus. It is distinguished from them and its congeners by its size, tuberculation, a distinct color pattern consisting of tan blotches on dorsum, spots on a brown venter, minute brown spots on anterior and posterior surfaces of the thighs, and other morphological features. Determination of small body size in frogs is discussed and meristic data of 40 minute frogs are compiled..Cita / Citation: Lehr, E. & L. A. Coloma. (2008) A minute new Ecuadorian Andean frog (Anura: Strabomantidae, Pristimantis). Herpetologica 64(3): 354–367..
Mas información: http://www.puce.edu.ec/zoologia/vertebrados/personal/lacoloma/index.html
Cochranella mcdiarmidi sp. nov.
A New Species of Glassfrog (Anura: Centrolenidae) from the Foothill Andean Forests of Ecuador and Peru
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of glassfrog assigned to the genus Cochranella (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura: Centrolenidae) from the Foothill Evergreen forests on the southeastern Andean slopes of Ecuador and northeastern Andean slopes of Peru. The new species is characterized by its moderate-sized body (25.4–26.9 mm in adult males), medium-sized eyes (eye diameter/third disc width= 1.4–1.9), distinctive coloration in life (olive green with light spots) and in preservative (grayish lavender with pale spots), dorsal skin covered with flat warts and low tubercles, parietal peritoneum mostly white (covered by iridophores), thick ulnar folds, and extensive hand and foot webbing. In addition, we provide the first record of Nymphargus posadae from Peru, found in sympatry with the new species at the Cordillera del Cóndor..
Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D.F., P. J. Venegas, M. Rada & R. Schulte. 2008. A new species of Glassfrog (Anura, Centrolenidae) from the Foothill Andean forests of Ecuador and Peru. Herpetologica 64(3): 342-353..
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of glassfrog assigned to the genus Cochranella (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura: Centrolenidae) from the Foothill Evergreen forests on the southeastern Andean slopes of Ecuador and northeastern Andean slopes of Peru. The new species is characterized by its moderate-sized body (25.4–26.9 mm in adult males), medium-sized eyes (eye diameter/third disc width
= 1.4–1.9), distinctive coloration in life (olive green with light spots) and in preservative (grayish lavender with pale spots), dorsal skin covered with flat warts and low tubercles, parietal peritoneum mostly white (covered by iridophores), thick ulnar folds, and extensive hand and foot webbing. In addition, we provide the first record of Nymphargus posadae from Peru, found in sympatry with the new species at the Cordillera del Cóndor..Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D.F., P. J. Venegas, M. Rada & R. Schulte. 2008. A new species of Glassfrog (Anura, Centrolenidae) from the Foothill Andean forests of Ecuador and Peru. Herpetologica 64(3): 342-353..
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Amazonian Amphibian Diversity
Amazonian Amphibian Diversity Is Primarily Derived from Late Miocene Andean Lineages
Abstract.-- The Neotropics contains half of remaining rainforests and Earth's largest reservoir of amphibian biodiversity. However, determinants of Neotropical biodiversity (i.e., vicariance, dispersals, extinctions, and radiations) earlier than the Quaternary are largely unstudied. Using a novel method of ancestral area reconstruction and relaxed Bayesian clock analyses, we reconstructed the biogeography of the poison frog clade (Dendrobatidae). We rejected an Amazonian center-of-origin in favor of a complex connectivity model expanding over the Neotropics. We inferred 14 dispersals into and 18 out of Amazonia to adjacent regions; the Andes were the major source of dispersals into Amazonia. We found three episodes of lineage dispersal with two interleaved periods of vicariant events between South and Central America. During the late Miocene, Amazonian, and Central American-Chocoan lineages significantly increased their diversity compared to the Andean and Guianan-Venezuelan-Brazilian Shield counterparts. Significant percentage of dendrobatid diversity in Amazonia and Chocó resulted from repeated immigrations, with radiations at <10.0 million years ago (MYA), rather than in situ diversification. In contrast, the Andes, Venezuelan Highlands, and Guiana Shield have undergone extended in situ diversification at near constant rate since the Oligocene. The effects of Miocene paleogeographic events on Neotropical diversification dynamics provided the framework under which Quaternary patterns of endemism evolved.
Taxonomic proposals: Some changes to Grant et al.’s taxonomy were suggested by this paper, including:
- The proposed split of Dendrobatidae into two families (i.e., Allobatidae and Dendrobatidae) was not followed and this paper returned Dendrobatidae to a single family.
- This paper restricted Colostethus to the group of C. latinasus and allies (species in Colostethus 1 clade). Colostethus sensu lato is applied to the aggregate of species found in Colostethus 1 and 2 clades in their phylogeny.
- This paper synonymized Adelphobates, Excidobates, Minyobates, Oophaga, and Ranitomeya in the genus Dendrobates.
- Allobates craspedoceps was found within Hyloxalus, so a new combination was proposed: Hyloxalus craspedoceps.
- Hyloxalus argyrogaster was found with Colostethus sensu lato, so its new combination is Colostethus argyrogaster.
- Allobates peruensis (closely allied to A. kingsburyi) is a valid name.
Cita / Citation: Santos, J.C., et al. (2009) Amazonian Amphibian Diversity Is Primarily Derived from Late Miocene Andean Lineages. PLoS Biol 7(3): e1000056. doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.1000056.
Mas información: http://www.plosbiology.org/article/info:doi/10.1371/journal.pbio.1000056
Abstract.-- The Neotropics contains half of remaining rainforests and Earth's largest reservoir of amphibian biodiversity. However, determinants of Neotropical biodiversity (i.e., vicariance, dispersals, extinctions, and radiations) earlier than the Quaternary are largely unstudied. Using a novel method of ancestral area reconstruction and relaxed Bayesian clock analyses, we reconstructed the biogeography of the poison frog clade (Dendrobatidae). We rejected an Amazonian center-of-origin in favor of a complex connectivity model expanding over the Neotropics. We inferred 14 dispersals into and 18 out of Amazonia to adjacent regions; the Andes were the major source of dispersals into Amazonia. We found three episodes of lineage dispersal with two interleaved periods of vicariant events between South and Central America. During the late Miocene, Amazonian, and Central American-Chocoan lineages significantly increased their diversity compared to the Andean and Guianan-Venezuelan-Brazilian Shield counterparts. Significant percentage of dendrobatid diversity in Amazonia and Chocó resulted from repeated immigrations, with radiations at <10.0 million years ago (MYA), rather than in situ diversification. In contrast, the Andes, Venezuelan Highlands, and Guiana Shield have undergone extended in situ diversification at near constant rate since the Oligocene. The effects of Miocene paleogeographic events on Neotropical diversification dynamics provided the framework under which Quaternary patterns of endemism evolved.
Taxonomic proposals: Some changes to Grant et al.’s taxonomy were suggested by this paper, including:
- The proposed split of Dendrobatidae into two families (i.e., Allobatidae and Dendrobatidae) was not followed and this paper returned Dendrobatidae to a single family.
- This paper restricted Colostethus to the group of C. latinasus and allies (species in Colostethus 1 clade). Colostethus sensu lato is applied to the aggregate of species found in Colostethus 1 and 2 clades in their phylogeny.
- This paper synonymized Adelphobates, Excidobates, Minyobates, Oophaga, and Ranitomeya in the genus Dendrobates.
- Allobates craspedoceps was found within Hyloxalus, so a new combination was proposed: Hyloxalus craspedoceps.
- Hyloxalus argyrogaster was found with Colostethus sensu lato, so its new combination is Colostethus argyrogaster.
- Allobates peruensis (closely allied to A. kingsburyi) is a valid name.
Cita / Citation: Santos, J.C., et al. (2009) Amazonian Amphibian Diversity Is Primarily Derived from Late Miocene Andean Lineages. PLoS Biol 7(3): e1000056. doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.1000056.
Mas información: http://www.plosbiology.org/article/info:doi/10.1371/journal.pbio.1000056
Enyalioides touzeti sp. nov.
A new species of Enyalioides (Iguanidae: Hoplocercinae) from southwestern Ecuador
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of Enyalioides from lowland cloud forests in southwestern Ecuador. This represents the third species in the genus known to occur west of the Andes in South America; the other two species are E. heterolepis and E. oshaughnessyi. Among other characters, the new species can be distinguished from other members in the genus by having small, keeled, paravertebrals; a series of skin folds on the lateral aspects of body and neck; size-homogeneous scales on body and limbs; distinct caudal segments; and an extensive dark patch on the gular region of adult males. Morphological similarity suggests that the new species, which we call E. touzeti, is closely related to E. oshaughnessyi.
Cita / Citation: Torres-Carvajal, O. et al. (2008) A new species of Enyalioides (Iguanidae: Hoplocercinae) from southwestern Ecuador. Pap. Avulsos Zool. (São Paulo) 48(20): 227-235 . Available from: <http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0031-10492008002000001&lng=en&nrm=iso>.
Mas información: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0031-10492008002000001&lng=en&nrm=iso
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of Enyalioides from lowland cloud forests in southwestern Ecuador. This represents the third species in the genus known to occur west of the Andes in South America; the other two species are E. heterolepis and E. oshaughnessyi. Among other characters, the new species can be distinguished from other members in the genus by having small, keeled, paravertebrals; a series of skin folds on the lateral aspects of body and neck; size-homogeneous scales on body and limbs; distinct caudal segments; and an extensive dark patch on the gular region of adult males. Morphological similarity suggests that the new species, which we call E. touzeti, is closely related to E. oshaughnessyi.
Cita / Citation: Torres-Carvajal, O. et al. (2008) A new species of Enyalioides (Iguanidae: Hoplocercinae) from southwestern Ecuador. Pap. Avulsos Zool. (São Paulo) 48(20): 227-235 . Available from: <http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0031-10492008002000001&lng=en&nrm=iso>.
Mas información: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0031-10492008002000001&lng=en&nrm=iso
23 julio 2008
Centrolene condor sp. nov.
A new species of glassfrog from the elfin forests of the Cordillera del Cóndor, southeastern Ecuador (Anura: Centrolenidae)
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of glassfrog of the genus Centrolene (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura: Centrolenidae) that inhabits the elfin forests of the Cordillera del Cóndor, an isolated mountain chain separated from the Cordillera Oriental of the Andes by the valley of the River Zamora. This new species is characterized by having vomerine teeth; a subacuminated snout in dorsal view and strongly sloping in profile; a tympanic annulus rather indistinct; shagreened dorsal skin with low warts and abundant spicules; a subcloacal area granular with several enameled warts; humeral spines in adult males; enameled ulnar folds; enameled metatarsal folds; a row of distinct enameled tubercles along the outer tarsal edges; and a green dorsum in life with abundant light and dark flecks. This taxon is the most distinct of a phenetic-set of species that includes Centrolene altitudinale, C. buckleyi, C. heloderma, C. hesperium, C. lemniscatum, and C. venezuelense.
Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D.F. & Morales-Mite, M.A. (2008) A new species of glassfrog from the elfin forests of the Cordillera del Cóndor, southeastern Ecuador (Anura: Centrolenidae). Herpetozoa 21 (1/2): 49-56.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of glassfrog of the genus Centrolene (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura: Centrolenidae) that inhabits the elfin forests of the Cordillera del Cóndor, an isolated mountain chain separated from the Cordillera Oriental of the Andes by the valley of the River Zamora. This new species is characterized by having vomerine teeth; a subacuminated snout in dorsal view and strongly sloping in profile; a tympanic annulus rather indistinct; shagreened dorsal skin with low warts and abundant spicules; a subcloacal area granular with several enameled warts; humeral spines in adult males; enameled ulnar folds; enameled metatarsal folds; a row of distinct enameled tubercles along the outer tarsal edges; and a green dorsum in life with abundant light and dark flecks. This taxon is the most distinct of a phenetic-set of species that includes Centrolene altitudinale, C. buckleyi, C. heloderma, C. hesperium, C. lemniscatum, and C. venezuelense.
Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D.F. & Morales-Mite, M.A. (2008) A new species of glassfrog from the elfin forests of the Cordillera del Cóndor, southeastern Ecuador (Anura: Centrolenidae). Herpetozoa 21 (1/2): 49-56.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Synonymy petersi ametarsia
Taxonomic identity of Cochranella petersi Goin, 1961
and Centrolenella ametarsia Flores, 1987
Abstract.-- We assess the taxonomic status of Hyalinobatrachium petersi and Cochranella ametarsia based on the examination of type material and recently collected specimens. We conclude that the material assigned to them is morphologically undistinguishable from two previously described species (Cochranella pulverata and Cochranella oyampiensis, respectively) and, therefore, are junior synonyms.
Cita / Citation: Guayasamin, J.M., Cisneros-Heredia, D.F. & Castroviejo-Fisher, S. (2008) Taxonomic identity of Cochranella petersi Goin, 1961 and Centrolenella ametarsia Flores, 1987. Zootaxa 1815: 25-34.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
and Centrolenella ametarsia Flores, 1987
Abstract.-- We assess the taxonomic status of Hyalinobatrachium petersi and Cochranella ametarsia based on the examination of type material and recently collected specimens. We conclude that the material assigned to them is morphologically undistinguishable from two previously described species (Cochranella pulverata and Cochranella oyampiensis, respectively) and, therefore, are junior synonyms.
Cita / Citation: Guayasamin, J.M., Cisneros-Heredia, D.F. & Castroviejo-Fisher, S. (2008) Taxonomic identity of Cochranella petersi Goin, 1961 and Centrolenella ametarsia Flores, 1987. Zootaxa 1815: 25-34.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Cochranella mache
Natural history and intraspecific variation of the Ecuadorian Blue Glassfrog Cochranella mache Guayasamin & Bonaccorso, 2004
Abstract.-- We present new information on the natural history and intraspecific variation of Cochranella mache GUAYASAMIN & BONACCORSO, 2004. It is a nocturnal species associated with small streams across primary and old secondary forests in the Cordillera Mache-Chindul, endemic to the Seasonal Evergreen forests of the West Ecuadorian Region. Intraspecific and sex-related variation is noted in several characters, including dorsal skin texture, expression of the dermal folds, cloacal ornamentation, expression of the supratympanic fold, and extent of iridophores on the hepatic peritoneum. Dramatic chromatic changes in life are reported, showing a unique pattern in Centrolenidae, its dorsal pattern changes from bluish-green with a dull yellow patch on the head and abundant yellow spots, to a lavender/light blue dorsum with a bright yellow patch on the head and abundant orange spots. In order to provide future researchers with useful information to characterize the species, we present a numbered diagnosis for Co. mache that includes all new information.
Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D.F., Delia, J., Yánez-Muñoz, M.H. & Ortega-Andrade, H.M. (2008) Natural history and intraspecific variation of the Ecuadorian Blue Glassfrog Cochranella mache Guayasamin & Bonaccorso, 2004. Herpetozoa 21 (1/2): 57 - 66.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Abstract.-- We present new information on the natural history and intraspecific variation of Cochranella mache GUAYASAMIN & BONACCORSO, 2004. It is a nocturnal species associated with small streams across primary and old secondary forests in the Cordillera Mache-Chindul, endemic to the Seasonal Evergreen forests of the West Ecuadorian Region. Intraspecific and sex-related variation is noted in several characters, including dorsal skin texture, expression of the dermal folds, cloacal ornamentation, expression of the supratympanic fold, and extent of iridophores on the hepatic peritoneum. Dramatic chromatic changes in life are reported, showing a unique pattern in Centrolenidae, its dorsal pattern changes from bluish-green with a dull yellow patch on the head and abundant yellow spots, to a lavender/light blue dorsum with a bright yellow patch on the head and abundant orange spots. In order to provide future researchers with useful information to characterize the species, we present a numbered diagnosis for Co. mache that includes all new information.
Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D.F., Delia, J., Yánez-Muñoz, M.H. & Ortega-Andrade, H.M. (2008) Natural history and intraspecific variation of the Ecuadorian Blue Glassfrog Cochranella mache Guayasamin & Bonaccorso, 2004. Herpetozoa 21 (1/2): 57 - 66.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Osornophryne puruanta
A new species of Osornophryne (Anura: Bufonidae) from the Andean highlands of northern Ecuador
Abstract.-- Gleusenkamp & Guayasamin (2008) described a new species of the genus Osornophryne from the vicinities of Laguna de Puruanta and Laguna de San Marcos in the Andean highlands of northeastern Ecuador. The new species is the largest known member of the genus (female snout-vent length = 40.5–47.1 mm; males unknown) and is remarkable for having a smooth dorsal skin lacking conical tubercles and interspersed with numerous glandular pustules. The new species has a clutch size of about 30 eggs and is likely nocturnal.
Cita / Citation: Gluesenkamp, A. G. & Guayasamin, J.M. (2008) A new species of Osornophryne (Anura: Bufonidae) from the Andean highlands of northern Ecuador. Zootaxa 1828: 18-28.
Correo electrónico del autor: Andrew Gluesenkamp andy@gluesenkamp.com.
Abstract.-- Gleusenkamp & Guayasamin (2008) described a new species of the genus Osornophryne from the vicinities of Laguna de Puruanta and Laguna de San Marcos in the Andean highlands of northeastern Ecuador. The new species is the largest known member of the genus (female snout-vent length = 40.5–47.1 mm; males unknown) and is remarkable for having a smooth dorsal skin lacking conical tubercles and interspersed with numerous glandular pustules. The new species has a clutch size of about 30 eggs and is likely nocturnal.
Cita / Citation: Gluesenkamp, A. G. & Guayasamin, J.M. (2008) A new species of Osornophryne (Anura: Bufonidae) from the Andean highlands of northern Ecuador. Zootaxa 1828: 18-28.
Correo electrónico del autor: Andrew Gluesenkamp andy@gluesenkamp.com.
Pristimantis gagliardoi
A new frog species (Strabomantidae: Pristimantis) from the High Andes of Southeastern Ecuador
Abstract.-- Bustamante & Mendelson (2008) described Pristimantis gagliardoi, a new medium sized (SVL 19.06–33.64 mm) Pristimantis species from the Andean forests of southeastern Ecuador. This species was referred to the P. unistrigatus group. It differs from other members in the unistrigatus group by the presence of large conical tubercles on the eyelid and heel, small conical ulnar and tarsal tubercles, suprascapular dermal ridges, and bronze iris.
Cita / Citation: Bustamante, M. R. & Mendelson, J.R., III (2008) A new frog species (Strabomantidae: Pristimantis) from the High Andes of Southeastern Ecuador. Zootaxa 1820: 49/59.
Correo electrónico del autor: Martin Bustamante mrbustamante@puce.edu.ec.
Abstract.-- Bustamante & Mendelson (2008) described Pristimantis gagliardoi, a new medium sized (SVL 19.06–33.64 mm) Pristimantis species from the Andean forests of southeastern Ecuador. This species was referred to the P. unistrigatus group. It differs from other members in the unistrigatus group by the presence of large conical tubercles on the eyelid and heel, small conical ulnar and tarsal tubercles, suprascapular dermal ridges, and bronze iris.
Cita / Citation: Bustamante, M. R. & Mendelson, J.R., III (2008) A new frog species (Strabomantidae: Pristimantis) from the High Andes of Southeastern Ecuador. Zootaxa 1820: 49/59.
Correo electrónico del autor: Martin Bustamante mrbustamante@puce.edu.ec.
25 abril 2008
COPEIA articles
Secondary Homonymy of Bufo proboscideus Spix, 1824, with Phryniscus proboscideus Boulenger, 1882
Abstract.-- Chaparro et al. (2007) placed Rhamphophryne Trueb, 1971 into the synonymy of Rhinella Fitzinger, 1826. This resulted in Bufo (Oxyrhynchus) proboscideus Spix, 1824 (formerly Rhinella proboscidea) and Phryniscus proboscideus Boulenger, 1882 (formerly Rhamphophryne proboscidea) rendered as secondary homonyms. The new name Rhinella boulengeri is provided as a replacement for the junior name, Phryniscus proboscideus.
Cita / Citation: Chaparro, J.C., Pramuk, J.B., Gluesenkamp, A.G., and Frost D.R. (2007) Secondary Homonymy of Bufo proboscideus Spix, 1824, with Phryniscus proboscideus Boulenger, 1882. COPEIA 2007(4): 1029.
Correo electrónico del autor: Juan Carlos Chaparro jchaparroauza@yahoo.com.
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A Name for the Species of Allobates (Anura: Dendrobatoidea: Aromobatidae) from the Magdalena Valley of Colombia
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of Allobates from the Magdalena Valley in Colombia. The new species and its sister species, A. talamancae, are the only two species of Allobates known to occur west of the Andes. The new species differs from A. talamancae in being smaller, possessing a diffuse pale oblique lateral stripe, and exhibiting strong swelling of finger III in adult males. Tadpoles also differ in the relative size of anterior and posterior labial papillae; in the new species anterior papillae are conspicuously larger than posterior papillae, whereas in A. talamancae they are subequal in size. Allobates talamancae and the new species are allopatric. Among the cis-Andean species of Allobates, the new species most resembles A. melanolaemus, which also possesses a diffuse pale oblique lateral stripe and a solid black throat in adult males, but from which it differs in being smaller and adult males having finger III strongly swollen and solid black pigmentation covering the chest and most of the belly..
Cita / Citation: Grant, T., Acosta, A., and Rada, M. (2007) A Name for the Species of Allobates (Anura: Dendrobatoidea: Aromobatidae) from the Magdalena Valley of Colombia. COPEIA 2007(4): 844–854.
Correos electrónicos de los autores: Taran Grant taran.grant@pucrs.br, Andres Acosta andres.acosta@javeriana.edu.co, Marco Rada radamarco@hotmail.com.
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Global Rates of Habitat Loss and Implications for Amphibian Conservation
Abstract.-- A large number of factors are known to affect amphibian population viability, but most authors agree that the principal causes of amphibian declines are habitat loss, alteration, and fragmentation. We provide a global assessment of land use dynamics in the context of amphibian distributions. We accomplished this by compiling global maps of amphibian species richness and recent rates of change in land cover, land use, and human population growth. The amphibian map was developed using a combination of published literature and digital databases. We used an ecoregion framework to help interpret species distributions across environmental, rather than political, boundaries. We mapped rates of land cover and use change with statistics from the World Resources Institute, refined with a global digital dataset on land cover derived from satellite data. Temporal maps of human population were developed from the World Resources Institute database and other published sources. Our resultant map of amphibian species richness illustrates that amphibians are distributed in an uneven pattern around the globe, preferring terrestrial and freshwater habitats in ecoregions that are warm and moist. Spatiotemporal patterns of human population show that, prior to the 20th century, population growth and spread was slower, most extensive in the temperate ecoregions, and largely exclusive of major regions of high amphibian richness. Since the beginning of the 20th century, human population growth has been exponential and has occurred largely in the subtropical and tropical ecoregions favored by amphibians. Population growth has been accompanied by broad-scale changes in land cover and land use, typically in support of agriculture. We merged information on land cover, land use, and human population growth to generate a composite map showing the rates at which humans have been changing the world. When compared with the map of amphibian species richness, we found that many of the regions of the earth supporting the richest assemblages of amphibians are currently undergoing the highest rates of landscape modification.
Cita / Citation: Gallant, A.L., Klaver, R.W., Casper, G.S., and Lannoo, M.J. (2007) Global Rates of Habitat Loss and Implications for Amphibian Conservation. COPEIA 2007(4): 967–979.
Correo electrónico del autor: Michael J. Lannoo mlannoo@iupui.edu.
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Experimental Evidence for Aposematism in the Dendrobatid Poison Frog Oophaga pumilio
Abstract.-- Brightly colored poison frogs of the family Dendrobatidae contain an alkaloid-based chemical defense against predation. The bright coloration of these frogs is generally considered an aposematic signal to potential predators; however, relatively few studies have specifically tested this hypothesis. Herein we report the results of a field-based experiment designed to test the hypothesis of aposematism in the dendrobatid frog, Oophaga (
=Dendrobates) pumilio from the La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica. We used plasticine frog models to evaluate natural predation rates as a function of color. Predation rates on brown models were almost twice that of red models, suggesting that predators avoid brightly colored frog models. Birds accounted for the majority of attacks on the models. The results of this study provide experimental evidence in support of the hypothesis that bright coloration in dendrobatids functions as an aposematic signal to predators.
Cita / Citation: Saporito, R.A., Zuercher, R., Roberts, M., Gerow, K.G., and Donnelly., M.A. (2007) Experimental Evidence for Aposematism in the Dendrobatid Poison Frog Oophaga pumilio. COPEIA 2007(4): 1006–1011.
Correo electrónico del autor: Ralph Saporito ralph.saporito@gmail.com.
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Phylogeny and Ecology Determine Morphological Structure in a Snake Assemblage in the Central Brazilian Cerrado
Abstract.-- To investigate the role of ecological and historical factors in the organization of communities, we describe the ecomorphological structure of an assemblage of snakes (61 species in six families) in the Cerrado (a savanna-like grassland) of Distrito Federal, Brazil. These snakes vary in habits, with some being fossorial, cryptozoic, terrestrial, semi-aquatic, or arboreal. Periods of activity also vary. A multivariate analysis identified distinct morphological groups associated with patterns of resource use. We report higher niche diversification compared to snakes in the Caatinga (a semi-arid region in northeastern Brazil), with fossorial and cryptozoic species occupying morphological space that is not occupied in the Caatinga. Monte Carlo permutations from canonical phylogenetic ordination revealed a significant phylogenetic effect on morphology for Colubridae, Colubrinae, Viperidae, Elapidae, and Boidae indicating that morphological divergence occurred in the distant past. We conclude that phylogeny is the most important factor determining structure of this Neotropical assemblage. Nevertheless, our results also suggest a strong ecological component characterizes a peculiar snake fauna.
Cita / Citation: França, F.G.R., Mesquita, D.O., Nogueira, C.C., and Araújo, A.F.B. (2008) Phylogeny and Ecology Determine Morphological Structure in a Snake Assemblage in the Central Brazilian Cerrado. COPEIA 2008(1): 23–38.
Correo electrónico del autor: Frederico G.R França fgrf@unb.br .
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Ecology of Anolis nitens brasiliensis in Cerrado Woodlands of Cantão
Abstract.-- We studied the ecology of Anolis nitens brasiliensis during late-dry and early-wet season 2005 in a Cerrado habitat in Tocantins state, Brazil. Most lizards were found on tree trunks or leaf litter in non-flooded igapó forest. Most were found in shade or filtered sun on both cloudy and sunny days. Body temperatures (Tbs) averaged 30.6°C and did not vary among microhabitats. Microhabitats exposed to direct sun consistently reached extremely high temperatures whereas microhabitats in shade or filtered sun provided temperatures throughout the day allowing lizard activity. Nineteen prey categories were found in lizard stomachs, but the diet was dominated by spiders, crickets/grasshoppers, ants, and beetles. Although lizards that ate large prey ate fewer prey, no correlation existed between size or number of prey and lizard body size (SVL). Males were larger in SVL and mass than females, and males had relatively longer hind limbs than females. Females were variable but larger in body width. In general, the ecology of Anolis n. brasiliensis is similar to that of its Amazonian relatives, with the exception that it lives in a more thermally extreme environment and is active at slightly higher Tbs. Ecological traits of this lizard, particularly its reliance on relatively low Tb for activity, suggest that it might be particularly vulnerable to local extinction if its habitat is altered. The presence and apparent widespread distribution of A. n. brasiliensis in the Cerrado provides further evidence that the “vanishing refuge” theory cannot account for geographical patterns of distribution in the A. nitens complex.
Cita / Citation: Vitt, L.J., Shepard, D.B., Vieira, G.H.C., Caldwell, J.P., Colli, G.R., and Mesquita , D.O. (2008) Ecology of Anolis Nitens Brasiliensis in Cerrado Woodlands of Cantão. COPEIA 2008(1): 144–153.
Correo electrónico del autor: Laurie J. Vitt vitt@ou.edu
Abstract.-- Chaparro et al. (2007) placed Rhamphophryne Trueb, 1971 into the synonymy of Rhinella Fitzinger, 1826. This resulted in Bufo (Oxyrhynchus) proboscideus Spix, 1824 (formerly Rhinella proboscidea) and Phryniscus proboscideus Boulenger, 1882 (formerly Rhamphophryne proboscidea) rendered as secondary homonyms. The new name Rhinella boulengeri is provided as a replacement for the junior name, Phryniscus proboscideus.
Cita / Citation: Chaparro, J.C., Pramuk, J.B., Gluesenkamp, A.G., and Frost D.R. (2007) Secondary Homonymy of Bufo proboscideus Spix, 1824, with Phryniscus proboscideus Boulenger, 1882. COPEIA 2007(4): 1029.
Correo electrónico del autor: Juan Carlos Chaparro jchaparroauza@yahoo.com.
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A Name for the Species of Allobates (Anura: Dendrobatoidea: Aromobatidae) from the Magdalena Valley of Colombia
Abstract.-- We describe a new species of Allobates from the Magdalena Valley in Colombia. The new species and its sister species, A. talamancae, are the only two species of Allobates known to occur west of the Andes. The new species differs from A. talamancae in being smaller, possessing a diffuse pale oblique lateral stripe, and exhibiting strong swelling of finger III in adult males. Tadpoles also differ in the relative size of anterior and posterior labial papillae; in the new species anterior papillae are conspicuously larger than posterior papillae, whereas in A. talamancae they are subequal in size. Allobates talamancae and the new species are allopatric. Among the cis-Andean species of Allobates, the new species most resembles A. melanolaemus, which also possesses a diffuse pale oblique lateral stripe and a solid black throat in adult males, but from which it differs in being smaller and adult males having finger III strongly swollen and solid black pigmentation covering the chest and most of the belly..
Cita / Citation: Grant, T., Acosta, A., and Rada, M. (2007) A Name for the Species of Allobates (Anura: Dendrobatoidea: Aromobatidae) from the Magdalena Valley of Colombia. COPEIA 2007(4): 844–854.
Correos electrónicos de los autores: Taran Grant taran.grant@pucrs.br, Andres Acosta andres.acosta@javeriana.edu.co, Marco Rada radamarco@hotmail.com.
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Global Rates of Habitat Loss and Implications for Amphibian Conservation
Abstract.-- A large number of factors are known to affect amphibian population viability, but most authors agree that the principal causes of amphibian declines are habitat loss, alteration, and fragmentation. We provide a global assessment of land use dynamics in the context of amphibian distributions. We accomplished this by compiling global maps of amphibian species richness and recent rates of change in land cover, land use, and human population growth. The amphibian map was developed using a combination of published literature and digital databases. We used an ecoregion framework to help interpret species distributions across environmental, rather than political, boundaries. We mapped rates of land cover and use change with statistics from the World Resources Institute, refined with a global digital dataset on land cover derived from satellite data. Temporal maps of human population were developed from the World Resources Institute database and other published sources. Our resultant map of amphibian species richness illustrates that amphibians are distributed in an uneven pattern around the globe, preferring terrestrial and freshwater habitats in ecoregions that are warm and moist. Spatiotemporal patterns of human population show that, prior to the 20th century, population growth and spread was slower, most extensive in the temperate ecoregions, and largely exclusive of major regions of high amphibian richness. Since the beginning of the 20th century, human population growth has been exponential and has occurred largely in the subtropical and tropical ecoregions favored by amphibians. Population growth has been accompanied by broad-scale changes in land cover and land use, typically in support of agriculture. We merged information on land cover, land use, and human population growth to generate a composite map showing the rates at which humans have been changing the world. When compared with the map of amphibian species richness, we found that many of the regions of the earth supporting the richest assemblages of amphibians are currently undergoing the highest rates of landscape modification.
Cita / Citation: Gallant, A.L., Klaver, R.W., Casper, G.S., and Lannoo, M.J. (2007) Global Rates of Habitat Loss and Implications for Amphibian Conservation. COPEIA 2007(4): 967–979.
Correo electrónico del autor: Michael J. Lannoo mlannoo@iupui.edu.
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Experimental Evidence for Aposematism in the Dendrobatid Poison Frog Oophaga pumilio
Abstract.-- Brightly colored poison frogs of the family Dendrobatidae contain an alkaloid-based chemical defense against predation. The bright coloration of these frogs is generally considered an aposematic signal to potential predators; however, relatively few studies have specifically tested this hypothesis. Herein we report the results of a field-based experiment designed to test the hypothesis of aposematism in the dendrobatid frog, Oophaga (
=Dendrobates) pumilio from the La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica. We used plasticine frog models to evaluate natural predation rates as a function of color. Predation rates on brown models were almost twice that of red models, suggesting that predators avoid brightly colored frog models. Birds accounted for the majority of attacks on the models. The results of this study provide experimental evidence in support of the hypothesis that bright coloration in dendrobatids functions as an aposematic signal to predators.Cita / Citation: Saporito, R.A., Zuercher, R., Roberts, M., Gerow, K.G., and Donnelly., M.A. (2007) Experimental Evidence for Aposematism in the Dendrobatid Poison Frog Oophaga pumilio. COPEIA 2007(4): 1006–1011.
Correo electrónico del autor: Ralph Saporito ralph.saporito@gmail.com.
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Phylogeny and Ecology Determine Morphological Structure in a Snake Assemblage in the Central Brazilian Cerrado
Abstract.-- To investigate the role of ecological and historical factors in the organization of communities, we describe the ecomorphological structure of an assemblage of snakes (61 species in six families) in the Cerrado (a savanna-like grassland) of Distrito Federal, Brazil. These snakes vary in habits, with some being fossorial, cryptozoic, terrestrial, semi-aquatic, or arboreal. Periods of activity also vary. A multivariate analysis identified distinct morphological groups associated with patterns of resource use. We report higher niche diversification compared to snakes in the Caatinga (a semi-arid region in northeastern Brazil), with fossorial and cryptozoic species occupying morphological space that is not occupied in the Caatinga. Monte Carlo permutations from canonical phylogenetic ordination revealed a significant phylogenetic effect on morphology for Colubridae, Colubrinae, Viperidae, Elapidae, and Boidae indicating that morphological divergence occurred in the distant past. We conclude that phylogeny is the most important factor determining structure of this Neotropical assemblage. Nevertheless, our results also suggest a strong ecological component characterizes a peculiar snake fauna.
Cita / Citation: França, F.G.R., Mesquita, D.O., Nogueira, C.C., and Araújo, A.F.B. (2008) Phylogeny and Ecology Determine Morphological Structure in a Snake Assemblage in the Central Brazilian Cerrado. COPEIA 2008(1): 23–38.
Correo electrónico del autor: Frederico G.R França fgrf@unb.br .
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Ecology of Anolis nitens brasiliensis in Cerrado Woodlands of Cantão
Abstract.-- We studied the ecology of Anolis nitens brasiliensis during late-dry and early-wet season 2005 in a Cerrado habitat in Tocantins state, Brazil. Most lizards were found on tree trunks or leaf litter in non-flooded igapó forest. Most were found in shade or filtered sun on both cloudy and sunny days. Body temperatures (Tbs) averaged 30.6°C and did not vary among microhabitats. Microhabitats exposed to direct sun consistently reached extremely high temperatures whereas microhabitats in shade or filtered sun provided temperatures throughout the day allowing lizard activity. Nineteen prey categories were found in lizard stomachs, but the diet was dominated by spiders, crickets/grasshoppers, ants, and beetles. Although lizards that ate large prey ate fewer prey, no correlation existed between size or number of prey and lizard body size (SVL). Males were larger in SVL and mass than females, and males had relatively longer hind limbs than females. Females were variable but larger in body width. In general, the ecology of Anolis n. brasiliensis is similar to that of its Amazonian relatives, with the exception that it lives in a more thermally extreme environment and is active at slightly higher Tbs. Ecological traits of this lizard, particularly its reliance on relatively low Tb for activity, suggest that it might be particularly vulnerable to local extinction if its habitat is altered. The presence and apparent widespread distribution of A. n. brasiliensis in the Cerrado provides further evidence that the “vanishing refuge” theory cannot account for geographical patterns of distribution in the A. nitens complex.
Cita / Citation: Vitt, L.J., Shepard, D.B., Vieira, G.H.C., Caldwell, J.P., Colli, G.R., and Mesquita , D.O. (2008) Ecology of Anolis Nitens Brasiliensis in Cerrado Woodlands of Cantão. COPEIA 2008(1): 144–153.
Correo electrónico del autor: Laurie J. Vitt vitt@ou.edu
06 noviembre 2007
Bufo anderssoni synonym of Rhaebo guttatus
The taxonomic status of Rhaebo anderssoni (Melin, 1941) (Anura: Bufonidae)
Abstract.-- Bufo anderssoni Melin, 1941 is synonymised with Rhaebo guttatus (Schneider, 1799) based on direct comparison of the holotypes of both and fresh material. All characters of the former fall within the intraspecific variation of R. guttatus. The few characters used in the original description to distinguish anderssoni from guttatus (narrower interorbital space, smaller tympanum and smaller size) are not considered important interspecific differences, but rather dependent on ontogenetic development.
Cita / Citation: Barrio-Amorós, C. L. & Castroviejo-Fisher, S. (2007) The taxonomic status of Rhaebo anderssoni (Melin, 1941) (Anura: Bufonidae). Salamandra 43(4): 250-253.
Correos electrónicos de los autores: Cesar L. Barrio-Amoros cesarlba@yahoo.com, Santiago Castroviejo-Fisher santiago.castroviejo@ebc.uu.se.
Abstract.-- Bufo anderssoni Melin, 1941 is synonymised with Rhaebo guttatus (Schneider, 1799) based on direct comparison of the holotypes of both and fresh material. All characters of the former fall within the intraspecific variation of R. guttatus. The few characters used in the original description to distinguish anderssoni from guttatus (narrower interorbital space, smaller tympanum and smaller size) are not considered important interspecific differences, but rather dependent on ontogenetic development.
Cita / Citation: Barrio-Amorós, C. L. & Castroviejo-Fisher, S. (2007) The taxonomic status of Rhaebo anderssoni (Melin, 1941) (Anura: Bufonidae). Salamandra 43(4): 250-253.
Correos electrónicos de los autores: Cesar L. Barrio-Amoros cesarlba@yahoo.com, Santiago Castroviejo-Fisher santiago.castroviejo@ebc.uu.se.
Stress in Invasive Cane Toads
Invasion, stress, and spinal arthritis in cane toads
Abstract.-- The impact of invasive species on biodiversity has attracted considerable study, but impacts of the invasion process on the invaders themselves remain less clear. Invading species encounter conditions different from those in their ancestral habitats and are subject to intense selection for rapid dispersal. The end result may be significant stress on individual organisms, with consequent health problems. Our studies on invasive cane toads in Australia reveal severe spinal arthritis in c. 10% of large adult toads, associated with the same factors (large body size, frequent movement, and relatively long legs) that have enabled toads to invade so rapidly across the Australian tropics.
Cita / Citation: Brown, G. P., Shilton, C., Phillips, B. L. & Shine, R. (2007) Invasion, stress, and spinal arthritis in cane toads. PNAS 104(45). 10.1073/pnas.0705057104
Autor a quien correspondencia debe ser dirigida: Richard Shine rics@bio.usyd.edu.au
Enlace al Abstract (acceso gratis a la publicación completa en paises de Latinoamerica):
http://www.pnas.org/cgi/content/abstract/104/45/17698
Abstract.-- The impact of invasive species on biodiversity has attracted considerable study, but impacts of the invasion process on the invaders themselves remain less clear. Invading species encounter conditions different from those in their ancestral habitats and are subject to intense selection for rapid dispersal. The end result may be significant stress on individual organisms, with consequent health problems. Our studies on invasive cane toads in Australia reveal severe spinal arthritis in c. 10% of large adult toads, associated with the same factors (large body size, frequent movement, and relatively long legs) that have enabled toads to invade so rapidly across the Australian tropics.
Cita / Citation: Brown, G. P., Shilton, C., Phillips, B. L. & Shine, R. (2007) Invasion, stress, and spinal arthritis in cane toads. PNAS 104(45). 10.1073/pnas.0705057104
Autor a quien correspondencia debe ser dirigida: Richard Shine rics@bio.usyd.edu.au
Enlace al Abstract (acceso gratis a la publicación completa en paises de Latinoamerica):
http://www.pnas.org/cgi/content/abstract/104/45/17698
04 noviembre 2007
Underestimation of Species Richness in Neotropical Frogs
Underestimation of Species Richness in Neotropical Frogs Revealed by mtDNA Analyses
Abstract.-- Background. Amphibians are rapidly vanishing. At the same time, it is most likely that the number of amphibian species is highly underestimated. Recent DNA barcoding work has attempted to define a threshold between intra- and inter-specific genetic distances to help identify candidate species. In groups with high extinction rates and poorly known species boundaries, like amphibians, such tools may provide a way to rapidly evaluate species richness. Methodology. Here we analyse published and new 16S rDNA sequences from 60 frog species of Amazonia-Guianas to obtain a minimum estimate of the number of undescribed species in this region. We combined isolation by distance, phylogenetic analyses, and comparison of molecular distances to evaluate threshold values for the identification of candidate species among these frogs. Principal Findings. In most cases, geographically distant populations belong to genetically highly distinct lineages that could be considered as candidate new species. This was not universal among the taxa studied and thus widespread species of Neotropical frogs really do exist, contrary to previous assumptions. Moreover, the many instances of paraphyly and the wide overlap between distributions of inter- and intra-specific distances reinforce the hypothesis that many cryptic species remain to be described. In our data set, pairwise genetic distances below 0.02 are strongly correlated with geographical distances. This correlation remains statistically significant until genetic distance is 0.05, with no such relation thereafter. This suggests that for higher distances allopatric and sympatric cryptic species prevail. Based on our analyses, we propose a more inclusive pairwise genetic distance of 0.03 between taxa to target lineages that could correspond to candidate species. Conclusions. Using this approach, we identify 129 candidate species, two-fold greater than the 60 species included in the current study. This leads to estimates of around 170 to 460 frog taxa unrecognized in Amazonia-Guianas. Significance. As a consequence the global amphibian decline detected especially in the Neotropics may be worse than realised.
Cita / Citation: Fouquet, A., Gilles, A., Vences, M., Marty, C., Blanc, M. & Gemmellet, N. J. (2007) Underestimation of Species Richness in Neotropical Frogs Revealed by mtDNA Analyses. PLoS ONE 2(10): e1109. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0001109
Acceso libre al artículo y al pdf / Open access to the article and its pdf: http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0001109
<<PLoS ONE (eISSN-1932-6203) is an international, peer-reviewed, open-access, online publication. PLoS ONE welcomes reports on primary research from any scientific discipline. PLoS ONE is published by the Public Library of Science (PLoS), a nonprofit organization. PLoS ONE's start-up phase is supported by a grant from the Open Society Institute.>>
Abstract.-- Background. Amphibians are rapidly vanishing. At the same time, it is most likely that the number of amphibian species is highly underestimated. Recent DNA barcoding work has attempted to define a threshold between intra- and inter-specific genetic distances to help identify candidate species. In groups with high extinction rates and poorly known species boundaries, like amphibians, such tools may provide a way to rapidly evaluate species richness. Methodology. Here we analyse published and new 16S rDNA sequences from 60 frog species of Amazonia-Guianas to obtain a minimum estimate of the number of undescribed species in this region. We combined isolation by distance, phylogenetic analyses, and comparison of molecular distances to evaluate threshold values for the identification of candidate species among these frogs. Principal Findings. In most cases, geographically distant populations belong to genetically highly distinct lineages that could be considered as candidate new species. This was not universal among the taxa studied and thus widespread species of Neotropical frogs really do exist, contrary to previous assumptions. Moreover, the many instances of paraphyly and the wide overlap between distributions of inter- and intra-specific distances reinforce the hypothesis that many cryptic species remain to be described. In our data set, pairwise genetic distances below 0.02 are strongly correlated with geographical distances. This correlation remains statistically significant until genetic distance is 0.05, with no such relation thereafter. This suggests that for higher distances allopatric and sympatric cryptic species prevail. Based on our analyses, we propose a more inclusive pairwise genetic distance of 0.03 between taxa to target lineages that could correspond to candidate species. Conclusions. Using this approach, we identify 129 candidate species, two-fold greater than the 60 species included in the current study. This leads to estimates of around 170 to 460 frog taxa unrecognized in Amazonia-Guianas. Significance. As a consequence the global amphibian decline detected especially in the Neotropics may be worse than realised.
Cita / Citation: Fouquet, A., Gilles, A., Vences, M., Marty, C., Blanc, M. & Gemmellet, N. J. (2007) Underestimation of Species Richness in Neotropical Frogs Revealed by mtDNA Analyses. PLoS ONE 2(10): e1109. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0001109
Acceso libre al artículo y al pdf / Open access to the article and its pdf: http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0001109
<<PLoS ONE (eISSN-1932-6203) is an international, peer-reviewed, open-access, online publication. PLoS ONE welcomes reports on primary research from any scientific discipline. PLoS ONE is published by the Public Library of Science (PLoS), a nonprofit organization. PLoS ONE's start-up phase is supported by a grant from the Open Society Institute.>>
09 octubre 2007
Cochranella erminea sp. nov.
Cochranella erminea, a new species of Centrolenidae (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura) from Amazonian Peru)
Abstract.--We describe a new species of Centrolenidae, Cochranella erminea n. sp., from the Amazonian lowlands of the department of Junín, Peru. This new species is diagnosed from other centrolenids by having vomerine teeth, bones green in life, parietal peritoneum and pericardium white, all other visceral peritonea clear, dorsum in life viridian to olive green with abundant enameled (bright white) flecks/spots on flat warts, and scattered larger dark blue spots on warts, extensive webbing between outer fingers, snout in profile slightly sloping anteroventraly, and rounded in dorsal view, iris in life between light grey and slate gray with fine darker gray reticulations. We also present new information on the distribution of C. truebae and C. ametarsia in Peru..
Cita / Citation: Torres-Gastello, C.P., J. Suarez-Segovia, J. & D.F. Cisneros-Heredia. 2007. Cochranella erminea, a new species of Centrolenidae (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura) from Amazonian Peru. Journal of the National Museum (Prague), Natural History Series 176 (1): 1-12.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Abstract.--We describe a new species of Centrolenidae, Cochranella erminea n. sp., from the Amazonian lowlands of the department of Junín, Peru. This new species is diagnosed from other centrolenids by having vomerine teeth, bones green in life, parietal peritoneum and pericardium white, all other visceral peritonea clear, dorsum in life viridian to olive green with abundant enameled (bright white) flecks/spots on flat warts, and scattered larger dark blue spots on warts, extensive webbing between outer fingers, snout in profile slightly sloping anteroventraly, and rounded in dorsal view, iris in life between light grey and slate gray with fine darker gray reticulations. We also present new information on the distribution of C. truebae and C. ametarsia in Peru..
Cita / Citation: Torres-Gastello, C.P., J. Suarez-Segovia, J. & D.F. Cisneros-Heredia. 2007. Cochranella erminea, a new species of Centrolenidae (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura) from Amazonian Peru. Journal of the National Museum (Prague), Natural History Series 176 (1): 1-12.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
31 agosto 2007
Nymphargus new genus
Revision of the characters of Centrolenidae (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura), with comments on its taxonomy and the description of new taxa of glassfrogs
Abstract.--Anurans of the family Centrolenidae are a diverse clade of arboreal frogs distributed across tropical America. Knowledge of their taxonomy, systematics, ecology, behavior, morphology, and other evolutionary aspects of their biology is deficient. Relationships among centrolenid species remain largely unresolved, with no satisfactory phylogenetic hypothesis, and none of the current genera has compelling evidence of monophyly. Further, understanding the phylogeny of glassfrogs is constrained by species-level taxonomic problems, including incorrect description of characters, incomplete analyses of intraspecific variation, and lack of appreciation of species diversity. Herein, we define and analyze the 23 characters that are useful, in combination, in diagnosing centrolenid species, and thereby provide a reference for the use of future workers. We propose revised classifications for the parietal and visceral peritoneal pigmentation, liver form and coloration of its associated hepatic peritoneum, nuptial excrescences, and hand ornamentation. We comment on the generic and species-level taxonomy of Centrolenidae, proposing the recognition of a new genus and describing a new species from Ecuador. We treat Hyla ocellifera Boulenger as a synonym of Centrolene prosoblepon (Boettger), Hyalinobatrachium cardiacalyptum McCranie & Wilson as a synonym of Hyalinobatrachium chirripoi (Taylor), and Hyalinobatrachium crybetes McCranie and Wilson as a synonym of Hyalinobatrachium colymbiphyllum (Taylor). We also present an annotated list of the species of glassfrogs from the Republic of Ecuador with some distributional remarks.
Resumen.--Los anuros de la familia Centrolenidae forman un clado diverso de ranas arbóreas distribuidas a lo largo de América tropical. El conocimiento sobre su taxonomía, sistemática, ecología, comportamiento, morfología y otros aspectos biológicos y evolutivos es deficiente. Las relaciones entre las especies de centrolénidos permanecen ampliamente sin resolver, sin hipótesis filogenéticas satisfactorias y todos los géneros actuales tienen evidencia clara de su no-monofília. Más aún, el entendimiento de la filogenia de las ranas de cristal está limitado por problemas taxonómicos al nivel de especies, incluyendo la descripción incorrecta de caracteres, análisis incompletos de la variación intraespecífica y la falta de apreciación de la diversidad de especies. En este trabajo, nosotro definimos y analizamos los 23 caracteres que son útiles, en combinación, para diagnosticar todas las especies de centrolénidos, proveyendo una referencia para el uso de futuros investigadores. Proponemos clasificaciones revisadas para la pigmentación de los peritoneos parietal y visceral, la forma del hígado y la coloración del peritoneo hepático asociado, las excrescencias nupciales y las ornamentaciones manuales. Comentamos sobre la taxonomía a nivel genérico y específico de Centrolenidae, proponiendo el reconocimiento de un nuevo género y la descripción de una nueva especie de Ecuador. Colocamos a Hyla ocellifera Boulenger como un sinónimo de Centrolene prosoblepon (Boettger); a Hyalinobatrachium cardiacalyptum McCranie & Wilson como sinónimo de Hyalinobatrachium chirripoi (Taylor); y a Hyalinobatrachium crybetes McCranie and Wilson como sinónimo de Hyalinobatrachium colymbiphyllum (Taylor). Presentamos una lista anotada de las especies de ranas de cristal de la República del Ecuador con algunos comentarios sobre su distribución.
Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D. F. & R. W McDiarmid. 2007. Revision of the characters of Centrolenidae (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura), with comments on its taxonomy and the description of new taxa of glassfrogs. Zootaxa 1572: 1-82.
Descargar el pdf de este artículo: HAZ CLICK AQUI
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Abstract.--Anurans of the family Centrolenidae are a diverse clade of arboreal frogs distributed across tropical America. Knowledge of their taxonomy, systematics, ecology, behavior, morphology, and other evolutionary aspects of their biology is deficient. Relationships among centrolenid species remain largely unresolved, with no satisfactory phylogenetic hypothesis, and none of the current genera has compelling evidence of monophyly. Further, understanding the phylogeny of glassfrogs is constrained by species-level taxonomic problems, including incorrect description of characters, incomplete analyses of intraspecific variation, and lack of appreciation of species diversity. Herein, we define and analyze the 23 characters that are useful, in combination, in diagnosing centrolenid species, and thereby provide a reference for the use of future workers. We propose revised classifications for the parietal and visceral peritoneal pigmentation, liver form and coloration of its associated hepatic peritoneum, nuptial excrescences, and hand ornamentation. We comment on the generic and species-level taxonomy of Centrolenidae, proposing the recognition of a new genus and describing a new species from Ecuador. We treat Hyla ocellifera Boulenger as a synonym of Centrolene prosoblepon (Boettger), Hyalinobatrachium cardiacalyptum McCranie & Wilson as a synonym of Hyalinobatrachium chirripoi (Taylor), and Hyalinobatrachium crybetes McCranie and Wilson as a synonym of Hyalinobatrachium colymbiphyllum (Taylor). We also present an annotated list of the species of glassfrogs from the Republic of Ecuador with some distributional remarks.
Resumen.--Los anuros de la familia Centrolenidae forman un clado diverso de ranas arbóreas distribuidas a lo largo de América tropical. El conocimiento sobre su taxonomía, sistemática, ecología, comportamiento, morfología y otros aspectos biológicos y evolutivos es deficiente. Las relaciones entre las especies de centrolénidos permanecen ampliamente sin resolver, sin hipótesis filogenéticas satisfactorias y todos los géneros actuales tienen evidencia clara de su no-monofília. Más aún, el entendimiento de la filogenia de las ranas de cristal está limitado por problemas taxonómicos al nivel de especies, incluyendo la descripción incorrecta de caracteres, análisis incompletos de la variación intraespecífica y la falta de apreciación de la diversidad de especies. En este trabajo, nosotro definimos y analizamos los 23 caracteres que son útiles, en combinación, para diagnosticar todas las especies de centrolénidos, proveyendo una referencia para el uso de futuros investigadores. Proponemos clasificaciones revisadas para la pigmentación de los peritoneos parietal y visceral, la forma del hígado y la coloración del peritoneo hepático asociado, las excrescencias nupciales y las ornamentaciones manuales. Comentamos sobre la taxonomía a nivel genérico y específico de Centrolenidae, proponiendo el reconocimiento de un nuevo género y la descripción de una nueva especie de Ecuador. Colocamos a Hyla ocellifera Boulenger como un sinónimo de Centrolene prosoblepon (Boettger); a Hyalinobatrachium cardiacalyptum McCranie & Wilson como sinónimo de Hyalinobatrachium chirripoi (Taylor); y a Hyalinobatrachium crybetes McCranie and Wilson como sinónimo de Hyalinobatrachium colymbiphyllum (Taylor). Presentamos una lista anotada de las especies de ranas de cristal de la República del Ecuador con algunos comentarios sobre su distribución.
Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D. F. & R. W McDiarmid. 2007. Revision of the characters of Centrolenidae (Amphibia: Anura: Athesphatanura), with comments on its taxonomy and the description of new taxa of glassfrogs. Zootaxa 1572: 1-82.
Descargar el pdf de este artículo: HAZ CLICK AQUI
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
27 agosto 2007
Centrolene durrellorum sp. nov.
A new species of glassfrog of the genus Centrolene from the foothills of Cordillera Oriental of Ecuador (Anura: Centrolenidae)
Abstract.--A new species of frog of the family Centrolenidae is described from Ecuador, Centrolene durrellorum sp. nov. This new taxon is the first species of the genus Centrolene known to inhabit the central and southern foothills of the Cordillera Oriental of Ecuador. The new species is diagnosed from other centrolenid taxa by its moderate body size (25.7–26.1 mm adult males), uniform coloration (green in life, pale lavender in preservative), rounded snout in dorsal and lateral views, presence of medium-sized straight humeral spines with a moderate spiny point in adult males and absence of guanophores on the visceral peritonea.
Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D. F. 2007. A new species of glassfrog of the genus Centrolene
from the foothills of Cordillera Oriental of Ecuador. Herpetozoa 20 (1/2): 27-34.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
Abstract.--A new species of frog of the family Centrolenidae is described from Ecuador, Centrolene durrellorum sp. nov. This new taxon is the first species of the genus Centrolene known to inhabit the central and southern foothills of the Cordillera Oriental of Ecuador. The new species is diagnosed from other centrolenid taxa by its moderate body size (25.7–26.1 mm adult males), uniform coloration (green in life, pale lavender in preservative), rounded snout in dorsal and lateral views, presence of medium-sized straight humeral spines with a moderate spiny point in adult males and absence of guanophores on the visceral peritonea.
Cita / Citation: Cisneros-Heredia, D. F. 2007. A new species of glassfrog of the genus Centrolene
from the foothills of Cordillera Oriental of Ecuador. Herpetozoa 20 (1/2): 27-34.
Mas información: http://www.cisneros-heredia.org/public
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