Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) are a group of microorganisms capable of improving
plant growth through symbiotic relationships. And chitosan is a biopolymer widely spread in
nature with beneficial properties that are extremely useful in plant development. The use of
these “green” products in agriculture has proven to be a sustainable and viable alternative, as
they are effective in improving crops and do not harm the environment. Therefore, the present
study aimed to evaluate the effect of inoculation with three species of PGPB (Bacillus subtilis,
Priestia megaterium and Priestia aryabhattai) and the application of chitosan via seed on the
morphological and biochemical aspects of Gossypium hirsutum L. (cotton). Two distinct
experiments were carried out. In the first, bacterial suspensions of the three PGPB species,
adjusted to 109 Colony Forming Units (CFU) per mL, were prepared and used for seed
inoculation by immersion. Four treatments with five replications each were established, one
being a control (non-inoculated seeds); treatment I with seeds inoculated with B. subtilis;
treatment II with seeds inoculated with P. megaterium; treatment III with seeds inoculated with
P. aryabhattai. The seeds were sown in seedling bags and plant growth was monitored for 60
days in a greenhouse. At the end, the plants were collected and the fresh mass of the roots and
shoots, the height of the shoot, the diameter of the stem and the number of leaves were
measured. For biochemical analyses, leaf samples from each treatment were collected and used
to determine chlorophylls a and b and carotenoids, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium
(K) content and concentration of soluble proteins. In the second experiment, chitosan
preparations diluted in acetic acid were used to soak the seeds. Five treatments were established,
a control (seeds not soaked), treatment I with seeds soaked in low molecular weight chitosan;
treatment II with seeds embedded in medium molecular weight chitosan; treatment III with
seeds embedded in modified chitosan (by galification) of low molecular weight; IV treatment
with seeds embedded in medium molecular weight modified chitosan. The seeds were sown in
a greenhouse and the same steps as in the first experiment were followed for morphological and
biochemical analyses. The results found in the first experiment showed that seeds inoculated
with P. aryabhattai showed significant improvements in the parameters of fresh mass, plant
height, stem diameter and number of leaves and in the contents of chlorophyll (a, b and total),
nitrogen (N) and proteins in relation to plants in the control treatment. Plants treated with P.
megaterium also achieved improvements in fresh mass, stem diameter and N and protein
content. These results indicate that these PGPB can promote the growth of cotton plants,
demonstrating a potential for use in improving this crop in the agricultural sector, and can be 

used in the preparation of biostimulants. The results found in the experiment with chitosan
proved to be uncertain, with the need for more in-depth and detailed studies to evaluate the
action of this biopolymer on the growth of cotton plants.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a constant threat to estuarine áreas.
Stimulation by inorganic fertilizers in contaminated sediments is used to accelerate the
remediation process and generate diverse responses to the benthic communities present
there. Considering benthic macrofauna as an ally in monitoring the bioremediationprocess, an in situ experimental study was developed using fertilizers composed of slow-release NPK (Osmocote) and fast-release (liquid) with the aim of investigating the effectof biostimulation on fauna recovery benthic in sediments contaminated by hydrocarbonsand possible differences in the structure of macrobenthos in relation to the two types offertilizers. A randomized block design was set up in the Atapuz region, located in theItapessoca river estuary – PE. 4 blocks were determined with 3 treatment areas: Control(C), Liquid Fertilizer (L) and Osmocote Fertilizer (O). Sediment samples were collectedbetween March and June 2023 for macrofauna and HPA analyses, and physicochemicaland sedimentological parameters were measured. 1503 specimens belonging to 29 taxadistributed in the phyla Annelida, Mollusca, Crustacea, Sipuncula and Nemertea wererecorded. Sigambra grubii was the dominant species at the study site, followed byOligochaeta and Anomalocardia flexuosa. No significant differences were found inrelation to density, richness, diversity and evenness in the benthic community (p > 0.05),PERMANOVA indicated significant differences only between sampling days (p < 0.05).The CAP analysis did not show any grouping that differed between the sampled points.PAH compounds were obtained in all samples throughout the study period, withconcentrations ranging from 0.30 ng/g-1 to 190.09 ng/g-1. Benzo[a]pyrene,benzo[a]anthracene and benzo[b]fluoranthene were the PAHs with thehighestconcentrations in the estuary. The concentrations of ∑16PAHs in the sediment reveal alightly to moderately contaminated area. Among the environmental variables, allpresented constant values throughout the experiment, except rainfall, which increasedsignificantly in the last month of collection. No variable stood out in the PCA in relationto treatments over the days. The increase in inorganic input did not cause decreases in theconcentrations of PAHs in the estuarine sediment, and the dosages used were not effectivein promoting an acceleration in the bioremediation process. The use of NPK-basedfertilizers did not exert strong influences on the benthic community and the two types ofinorganic fertilizers caused similar responses throughout the experiment.

Drought is one of the main factors limiting plant growth and establishment in environments
such as the Caatinga, and demands from species a sufficient biochemical, physiological and
morphological apparatus to enable them to overcome the challenges encountered in a semi-arid
environment of a Seasonally Dry Tropical Forest. Anthropogenic actions have directly
impacted the plant structure of this area, contributing to the intensification of the severity of
conditions, such as nutritional availability and access by plants. The work aimed to analyze the
morphophysiological responses of Pavonia varians and Megathyrsus maximus, species present
in the Caatinga of Pernambuco, under nutritional supplementation with Nitrogen – N,
Phosphorus – P, and Potassium – K under a regime of water restriction and rehydration. The
study was carried out in a greenhouse with young individuals of P. varians and M. maximus
collected in the Catimbau National Park in Pernambuco. Nutritional supplementation was
carried out through the application of 4 doses (40ml/pot) of a solution of N (6mM), P (2mM)
and K (6mM), starting 31 days after transplantation (DAT) of the plants. Until 51 DAT, the
plants are maintained under watering, keeping them at 70% humidity of the pot capacity
(control). 52 DAT, watering was suspended for 10 days and the first collection was carried out
and irrigation was reestablished for another 20 days, ending with a second collection of plants.
Through growth, physiological, oxidative, metabolic and nutritional stress analyses, it was
possible to verify the action of NPK in the responses to water restriction and rehydration in P.
varians and M. maximus. Proline was the main response modulated by nutritional
supplementation with NPK to water restriction in both species. P. varians and M. maximus
demonstrate responses to the NPK offered, however, recruiting different antioxidant defense
pathways to water restriction. P. varians mobilized a non-enzymatic pathway, with emphasis
on the action of proline, managing to reduce oxidative damage. M. maximus, in turn, also
benefited through the enzymatic activity of APX, however it was not possible to observe a
reduction in the levels of membrane damage. The study showed that the species demonstrate
different behaviors in response to drought due to the suspension of irrigation, especially when
supplemented with NPK. The results open spaces for future research to contribute to the
understanding of Stress and Nutrient dynamics in addition to contributing to species cultivation
and conservation strategies.

Non-native species can be introduced intentionally or accidentally, potentially causing negative
impacts. Pseudodiaptomus trihamatus and Temora turbinata are non-native species that are
part of the Copepoda clade and were introduced in Brazil in the 1970s and 1980s, respectively.
In Pernambuco, P. trihamatus had its first record in 2000-2001, while T. turbinata, in samples
from 1996. The present study aims to investigate the introduction and distribution of these two

species in estuarine systems of Pernambuco, in quantitative terms of abundance and co-
occurrence with native species, especially cogeneric ones. The following hypotheses were

considered: 1) Over time, there is a quantitative increase in the abundance of the non-native
species P. trihamatus and T. turbinata, in estuarine systems of Pernambuco; 2) The occurrence
of non-native species P. trihamatus and T. turbinata promoted a reduction in the participation
of cogeneric native species of the Pseudodiaptomidae and Temoridae families, respectively; 3)
The species P. trihamatus and T. turbinata have better spatial distribution in estuarine systems
of Pernambuco than the cogeneric native species, 4) The presence of the non-native species P.
trihamatus and T. turbinata has caused significant changes in the copepods assemblage. To
investigate the historical variation of P. trihamatus, the Capibaribe river estuary was selected
due to the greater availability of historical samples (since the 1980s, around 20 years before its
first record in Pernambuco), with samples referring to the interval being analyzed from 1987-
2023. To analyze the historical variation of T. turbinata, samples corresponding to the 1979-
2021 interval from the Santa Cruz Channel were analyzed. Regarding the current spatial
variation of both species, samples were analyzed for the years 2020-2021, collected in six
estuarine systems in Pernambuco. Samples were collected by superficial dragging, using a net
with a mesh aperture of 64 μm. Some criteria were established, aiming to standardize the
samples used. The Copepoda of the Pseudodiaptomidae and Temoridae families were identified
at the species level, and the others at the family level. This study indicates that the species P. 

trihamatus has occurred in the Capibaribe estuary since 1991, around 10 years before the first
record of the species in the state. Although the species showed an increase in its density and
frequency of occurrence over the years, only P. acutus had a significant increase in density.
Regarding spatial variation, P. trihamatus was recorded in four of the six estuaries studied and
was the third most representative species of the family. T. turbinata has occurred in the Santa
Cruz Channel since 1992, around 4 years earlier than what had been recorded for the state. The
species has increased in numerical terms, while T. stylifera has decreased. T. turbinata
contributed to the differences in the copepod assemblage over the years. In spacial variation, it
was recorded in six estuaries, while the native species was recorded in only three. This
dissertation provides information that can contribute to updating the population situation of T.
turbinata, which is classified as established, despite affecting a native species, which is one of
the characteristics of an invasive species.

Exploration of natural vegetation has a direct effect on environmental quality in several
regions, especially those included I the Brazilian semi-arid region. In the Caatinga, the largest
range of Seasonally Dry Tropical Forest in South America, anthropic activities are one of the
main conservation issues of the biome. Among the anthropic activities carried out in the
Caatinga, the goat breeding is the most harmful to the natural vegetation quality. This is
mainly due to the management of pasture goat farming in the region. Free grazing
compromises the structure of the habitat where goats occur, and consequently leads to the
imbalance of other animals, especially habitat-dependent species, such as scorpions.
Therefore, this work evaluated the potential effects caused by goat-free grazing on the
Caatinga scorpion assemblage. Specifically, the goat-effects farming on the diversity
(richness, abundance, and composition) of the scorpion assemblage as well as the body
condition of the animals were measured. Sampling took place in three municipalities located
in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. In each municipality, 24 transects were installed (6 in
areas with influence by goats and 6 without the goat influence) with 10mx30m, apart by 20m
each. Active searches were carried out at night (19:00-22:00h) with the aid of UV flashlights.
Each transect was covered for one hour by a pair of collectors. In total, 396 scorpions
distributed in six species were collected. Our results showed that scorpion’s diversity was
significantly affected by goat farming, with richness and abundance being reduced in areas
influenced by goats. Species composition was also affected, favoring habitat-generalist
species over habitat-specialist species. Finally, the body condition of scorpions was
negatively affected by the presence of goats, with scorpions having smaller body size and
mass. The free grazing of goats in areas of Caatinga natural vegetation resulted in a
simplification of the environment structure, negatively impacting the assemblage of
scorpions.

The diversity of ecosystems associated with the Brazilian Northeast territory has led to the
establishment of numerous plant species. Among the various existing species, those
belonging to the genus Bauhinia L. are still little studied in this region and their taxonomic
classification becomes difficult because they are based, in most cases, on few morphological
characters. From this perspective, the objective was to carry out a detailed taxonomic study,
seeking taxonomic novelties of the genus Bauhinia with emphasis on the Section Pauletia
Series Cansenia, as well as to better characterize morphologically the species of this genus
occurring in the Northeast. On that occasion, field expeditions were carried out to collect
botanical material and observe the species in their habitat. In addition, around 5000
specimens deposited in Brazilian and foreign herbaria, including standard collections, were
analyzed. Geographic distribution maps were prepared in SimpleMappr, using coordinates
obtained from herbarium specimens. Species conservation status was assessed using IUCN
criteria, with extent of occurrence (EOO) and area of occupancy (AOO) calculated using
GeoCAT. 20 species and two varieties of Bauhinia ser. Cansenia were recorded, occurring
in the Northeast, where the State of Bahia and the Cerrado domain presented the largest
number of species. Bauhinia cheilantha and B. subclavata are widely distributed in the
Northeast States, while five species are restricted to the State of Bahia and four occur only
in the State of Maranhão. Most species are endemic to Brazil, with six species exclusive to
the Northeast and five taxa considered threatened with extinction. In relation to taxonomic
novelties, three species were recently described of Bauhinia ser. Cansenia were described
for northeastern Brazil, namely: Bauhinia arleneae, B. andrade-limae and B. orbiculata.
Bauhinia arleneae occurs in the central-eastern region of the state of Bahia in humid tropical
forests and has entire, elliptical leaves with an acuminate apex and an obtuse base, glabrous
surfaces with three to five primary veins, paired flowers along the pseudoracemes and fruit
with reticulate valves leathery-woody. Bauhinia andrade-limae is restricted to the states of
Alagoas and Pernambuco, occurring in the Atlantic Forest and has bilobed, broadly ovate
leaves with an obtuse apex and a chordate base, cartaceous and glabrous, generally with nine
main veins, lenticelate stems, floral buds of up to 5.3 cm long at anthesis and legume with
woody, glabrous and reticulate valves. Bauhinia orbiculata is restricted to the northern part
of Chapada Diamantina, in the central area of the state of Bahia and occurs in seasonally dry
'carrasco' shrub vegetation, being characterized by entire leaves with nine primary veins,
rounded to obtuse apex and chordate base, abaxial face of the ferruginous leaf blade and
linear and smooth floral buds. We provide here descriptions, identification keys, illustrations,
distribution maps and taxonomic comments for all species.

Identifying the factors that accelerate changes in biodiversity has been a central theme in ecological
debates since the 18th and 19th centuries and continues to be a fundamental issue to this day. Changes
in biodiversity refer to any modification on species richness, abundance, and identity, which
determine changes on community structure over time. Although these biodiversity changes can be
accelerated by human activities or occur due to extreme temperature and precipitation events, the
underlying mechanisms determining these changes remain ambiguous. Freshwater ecosystems are
particularly sensitive to climate change due to their irregular features surrounded by terrestrial
landscapes, and because they are generally located in environments modified by human activities. In
these systems, climatic and anthropogenic factors have strongly altered the biodiversity of aquatic
communities, affecting them directly or indirectly. However, biotic groups that are phylogenetically
distinct or even have antagonistic relationships may respond in specific ways to these environmental
impacts. This thesis investigates the dynamics of diversity and distribution of organisms in aquatic
ecosystems, elucidating how different ecological and geographical factors influence spatial and
temporal patterns. We explore these issues by integrating empirical and meta-analytic methods, in
three chapters that cover distinct ecological structures: Chapter I – We conducted a systematic
review and meta-analysis to understand how elevation, at the global scale, influences the structure of
biotic communities, assessing the species richness of zooplankton and aquatic macrophytes along
altitudinal gradients, and identifying possible ecogeographic drivers underlying these relationships.
We compiled data from 84 studies covering 48 countries and extending to 4,200 meters above sea
level in six distinct freshwater ecosystems. We identified context-dependent patterns varying among
different taxonomic groups and habitat categories. In our study, elevation generally, but not
consistently, inversely correlated with species richness. Zooplankton richness, particularly among
Cladocera, showed a general negative effect with increasing elevation, while macrophytes show such
a trend mainly in flowing waters. Additionally, for both groups, the negative elevational influences
are more pronounced at higher latitudes, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. Chapter II – We
investigate the effects of seasonality on the zooplankton community in five temporary rock pools,
thus at the local scale. The main question of this chapter was to explore how local seasonal conditions
of rain and drought, drive abundance, richness, and evenness in the three different groups, Cladocera,
Copepoda, and Rotifera. We highlight seasonality as the main driver of the changes observed, with
differentiated effects among the taxonomic groups. Chapter III – We explored how climate and
habitat size shape the diversity of natural populations of Daphnia, their parasites, and disease risks at
the regional scale. We did this using a seven-year study database from 15 Michigan lakes. We found 

interdependencies between host and parasite, revealing that host richness and evenness fluctuate with
habitat size, but not consistently with parasites. We found no correlation between host and parasite
diversity, but host evenness is a key factor in modulating parasite transmission, highlighting a
negative relationship between host diversity and disease prevalence. This study reinforces the
understanding of how temporal, climatic, and altitudinal variables impact the biodiversity of aquatic
species. In all chapters, there is a common thread of extension of existing ecological theories,
highlighting the importance of taxonomic specificity, habitat complexity and the roles of abiotic and
biotic factors in biodiversity. 

Among the taxa of Euphorbiaceae, Manihot Mill. stands out for its great cultural, economic and
social importance for Brazil. The genus includes about 150 species and has a Neotropical
distribution, with the Amazon being its probable center of origin. Brazil has approximately 120
species, of which approximately 100 are endemic. Endemic species of Manihot constitute a
plant genetic heritage that can be used in breeding programs for the cultivable species Manihot
esculenta, through the transfer of genes of interest, helping to solve several problems, such as
intolerance to periods of drought, high temperatures, low protein and pest content. At the same
time, wild populations, especially endemic species, are under constant threat due to habitat
destruction and climate change. In this work, we aim to identify the distribution patterns of
Manihot species endemic to the Brazilian Northeast under current and future climate scenarios
(accentuation of climate change) associated with a taxonomic study, evaluate the potential
effects of climate change on the geographical distribution of endemic species of genus Manihot
in Northeast Brazil and confirm the presence of the suitability area in protected areas in the
future. In the first chapter, the results of the taxonomic study are presented, including
descriptions, illustrations, lectotypification, conservation status, distribution and richness of
endemic species of Northeastern Brazil. Fifteen endemic species were recognized, five of which
were lectotypified (M. dichotoma, M. jacobinensis, M. maracasensis, M. reniformis and M.
zehntneri). Among the studied species, 80% are in some category of threat, 13% are near
threatened and only 7% fit in the category of least concern. Bahia stands out for the high degree
of endemism of Manihot with 14 species. Only one species was found to be endemic to the
states of Sergipe and Alagoas. The Caatinga records the highest number of species (8), followed
by Cerrado (6) and Atlantic Forest (4). The Serra do Espinhaço, in the Bahia sector, is home to
the greatest richness of endemic species in Manihot, and they are especially associated with the 

Chapada Diamantina National Park. The second chapter presents the results of ecological niche
modeling of 11 Manihot endemic species for the Northeast, of which we predict the current and
future geographic distribution for the year 2100, using three different general circulation models
(CNRM, MIROC and MRI) and two climate change scenarios. We found that 45% and 54% of
species could have a partial reduction in their total range potential by the year 2100 in an
optimistic and pessimistic scenario, respectively, but some other species will increase their
distribution. We found that the area of future suitability for most species is within the
boundaries of some protected area. However, species that currently have a restricted
distribution, and that their potential range will be reduced in both the optimistic and pessimistic
scenarios, need to be prioritized for conservation. This study provides valuable information on
the future distribution of the endemic species of Manihot and shows that climate change can
have a potential positive or negative effect on the geographic distribution of the species. They
also help to understand the distribution of species and can provide subsidies for actions to
develop public policies for the conservation of taxa and phytogeographic domains, especially
those that are seriously threatened.

Marine mammals, as top marine predators, are considered sentinel species and may act as indicators of ocean health. Plastic residues are widely distributed in the oceans and are already recognised as hazardous contaminants. Once ingested, plastic residues can cause several adverse effects on wildlife, depending on the particle size and incidence. This study aimed to identify and characterise plastic ingestion (macro - microplastic) in the Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) from the Tropical Southwestern Atlantic by evaluating the stomach contents of a 10-year sampling retrospective. Plastic residues were extracted through KOH digestion and a subsample of particles was identified by LDIR Chemical Imaging System. Most of the individuals evaluated (38 out of 40) were contaminated, the most common polymers identified were PU, PET and EVA. Microplastics (7.77 ± SE 1.25 particle individuals-1 ) were more prevalent than larger plastic particles (0.15 ± 1.25 part. ind.-1 ). The interannual variability did not influence either the size or number of MPs ingested. However, smaller particles were detected during the rainy seasons. There was a positive correlation between the stomach content mass and the number of microplastics, suggesting contamination through trophic transfer.

Acoustic recognition is characterized by the ability of a listener to recognize a vocalizer by its acoustic characteristics. This recognition helps listeners to perceive and discriminate singers, which may contain information about degree of relatedness and reproductive status. This recognition may be facilitated by a congenital tuning of the auditory system to the vocal characteristics of coespecific, but success in this kind of recognition can be improved through life-long learning. Anuran females tend to prefer noticeable and distinguishable male reproductive songs that assure them that the caller is a co-species suitor. For this the males have species-specific acoustic characteristics, however, sounds of exotic species can interfere with this reproductive interaction, so that native and exotic species can present acoustic convergence, and it is then up to the efficiency of female acoustic recognition to overcome these obstacles. In the animal kingdom, acoustic recognition may be facilitated by a congenital attunement of the auditory system to vocal characteristics of co-species singers, but the success in this kind of recognition can be improved through life-long learning. However, there is still a lack of studies that aim to evaluate the effect of the age range of the female yearling on the acoustic recognition of vocalizing males. In this study, an experiment was conducted in a natural environment with the objective of evaluating whether there is a relationship between the age of anuran females and a better acoustic discrimination between the song of a native and an exotic male. As a result, we found that females responded significantly more to the native stimulus with no effect of age on these responses. Similarly, there was a faster response to the native stimulus when compared to the exotic, and there was no effect of age on this response. The results showed us that our predictions were not borne out. Females, although they distinguish between the songs of native and exotic males, this distinction is not related to their age. We believe that female anuran amphibians have learning limitations during the behavioral ontogeny of acoustic recognition due to the cost this would represent as a result of their short life span and consequent seasonality in their reproductive activity. 

Seed dispersal is a fundamental process in the life cycle of plants. Flowering plants have
developed different strategies to ensure the displacement of their diaspores. In tropical
forests, dispersal is mainly accomplished through interactions with different groups of
animals. Birds represent one of the most important of these groups. However, the
Anthropocene is characterized by intense deforestation, defaunation, and particularly
fragile ecological interactions. Significant effort has been devoted to trying to
understand the aspects related to the loss of these interactions. Within this context, the
general objective of this thesis was to investigate the factors that jeopardize the
processes of seed dispersal by birds in two hotspots for biodiversity conservation. First,
we analyzed the influence of environmental fragmentation by monitoring the
interactions in two areas of Cerrado stricto sensu with different conservation states: a
fragmented area and a continuous (conserved) area. We then evaluated how the
morphological correspondence between the ingestion capacity (beak width) of
dispersing birds and the size of ornithochoric diaspores (fruits and seeds with attributes
attractive to birds) can influence dispersal processes in a fragment of Atlantic Forest.
We interpret these results in light of the metrics used in the construction of interaction
networks and through empirical observations of interactions. We found that, in Cerrado,
environmental fragmentation had a negative influence on the diversity of the dispersing
bird guild and plant communities, in addition to causing functional homogenization,
favoring the predominance of interactions between generalist birds and plants with
small diaspores (≤ 10 mm). Further, our results in forest fragments demonstrate that the
relationship between diaspore size and bird beak width acts as a filter in the dispersal
process. We observed that dispersive resilience is lower in interactions involving larger
diaspores (≥ 15 mm). We also bring an interesting case study in which the
morphological incompatibility between the width of the beak of Hemithraupis guira 

(Thraupidae) and the size of the seeds of Cupania oblongifolia (Sapindaceae) seems to
act as a pressure (at the individual level) favoring the development of behavioral traits
to optimize foraging. Finally, we bring an article of scientific dissemination in which we
present, in a language accessible to the general public, the theme of the thesis and part
of the results found in the previous chapters. In short, our results demonstrate that
anthropic impacts affect the structure and organization of bird-diaspore interaction
networks. The mutual dependence of the species involved represents a major challenge
for the conservation of interactions.

Orthophytum Beer. (Bromeliaceae), comprises 54 species, is a saxicolous genus (rarely
terrestrial) and endemic to eastern Brazil. Its species occur mainly in the rocky quartzite
outcrops of the Espinhaço Range and granitic inselbergs of the Atlantic Forest of Minas Gerais
and Espírito Santo states, often restricted to small geographical areas. Within the family, it is a
relatively neglected group in terms of conservation, with only few species evaluated for
extinction. Therefore, this thesis aimed to reconstruct the biogeographic history of Orthophytum
and understand the processes that led to its diversification to promote the conservation of its
species and understand the evolutionary history of the group. This thesis also tried to answer
questions such as, “What are the distribution patterns, endemism areas, richness and diversity
of Orthophytum?”, “What is the center and epoch of origin of Orthophytum?”, “How did the
diversification of this genus occur?”, “What historical events possibly influenced its
diversification and establishment in restricted regions?”, “What is the currently conservation
status of the genus?” and “What are the possible threats to the survival of the genus in rocky
outcrops environments?”. For that, this thesis was divided into three chapters: In the first
chapter, a parsimonious analysis of endemism (PAE) was performed to identify the areas of
endemism of Orthophytum. In addition, the patterns of distribution, richness and diversity of
the genus were recognized. In the second chapter, a reconstruction of the biogeographic history
of the genus was performed based on a dated phylogeny by secondary calibration and inferred
based on four plastid and two nuclear markers. In the third and last chapter, the currently
conservation status of Orthophytum was evaluated according to IUCN criterion B and threats
to its survival were identified, providing a basis for its conservation. This study will improve
the knowledge about the biogeographic history of Bromeliaceae in general, enabling the
understanding of the behavior of the species in the face of significant changes in their habitat.
In addition, the data obtained in this study can be used for the monitoring, management, and
conservation of the ecosystems to which the species of these groups are associated.

The Espinhaço Range (ER) occupies part of the territories of Bahia and Minas Gerais in the
form of an imposing massif that is oriented in general north-south directions. Along its
extension, the domains that surround it exert a strong climatic influence which, in association
with the high altitudes, provide favorable conditions for the high richness and diversity of
endemic species recognized among the most varied plant groups. Convolvulaceae has a
cosmopolitan distribution, where the greatest richness and diversity of species is recorded in
tropical regions. In this work we seek to understand the diversification of Convolvulaceae,
one of the most diverse families of the flora of the Espinhaço Range, which is an area of high
endemism in Brazil. To achieve the proposed objectives, a database composed of about 2.600 

occurrence records compiled from SpeciesLink and Reflora was analyzed. One hundred and
eighty-six taxa were categorized into four distribution patterns: continuous, disjoint, centered
in the Bahian portion and centered in the Minas Gerais portion. Endemic species are found in
all distribution patterns. The Parsimony Analysis of Endemism pointed out two main centers
of endemism: one in the Minas Gerais portion (Planalto Diamantina) and the other in the
Bahia portion (Chapada Diamantina). The floristic similarity analysis also showed two main
groups, one in each portion, however, with low similarity between them. Richness and
diversity are concentrated in the Quadrilátero Ferrífero and mainly in Chapada Diamantina.
The Mid-Domain Effect is a model that applies very well to the richness of Convolvulaceae in
the altitudinal gradient of the Espinhaço Range.

The genus Diadumene (order Actiniaria) comprises some sea anemones with expressive
bioinvasive potential in several countries. The high tolerance to fluctuations in
temperature, salinity and desiccation, combined with high periodic rates of asexual
reproduction, contribute to the capacity of the species to colonize practically any type of
habitat and substrate, being found even in considerably polluted port areas. Since they are
benthic organisms, but with dispersion mediated by ships, the species are continually
cited as new occurrences for places beyond their region of origin. Brazil has 4 valid
species for the genus and recent studies exhibits an increasing number of records, mainly
for estuarine zones. In this work, through collections in estuarine and port regions in the
states of Maranhão, Ceará and Pernambuco, Northeast region of Brazil, we analyze
individuals associated with rocks, bridges and mangrove roots, collected at low tide in
the intertidal zone. In laboratory, the specimens were anesthetized, dissected, preserved
in 4% formalin and observed for the external and internal organization of taxonomically
relevant structures. Small tissue fragments were prepared in paraffin for the elaboration
of histological slides, stained with Hematoxylin/Eosin. Cnidom data were obtained
through squash preparations, and visualized with the aid of an optical microscope with
100X ocular magnification. As a result, we describe two new species, Diadumene sp. n.
1 and Diadumene sp. n. 2, we report new occurrences for the species Diadumene
paranaensis, Diadumene leucolena, and discuss about the variety of morphotypes of
Diadumene lineata found in the country. The descriptions presented here increase the
number of Diadumene species in Brazil to 6, and to 14 in the world, demonstrating a great
diversity of the group in the country for estuarine or port areas.

Studies about the ecological patterns of the species are of fundamental importance in the
generation of subsidies for the elaboration of conservation and management strategies. Lizards
have been presented as good models for ecological studies, however there is still a gap for
studies in this field about different species of lizards in the tropics. Among the species under
this condition, there is Tropidurus hygomi, endemic to the restinga regions of the northern coast
of Bahia and Sergipe and recently classified as vulnerable (VU A2bc) regional and nationally.
Based on the above, this study aimed to detect patterns of trophic and parasitic ecology of T.
hygomi, with the hypothesis that rainfall will be the main factor that will influence the variations
of these ecological slopes. The study was carried out in an area of restinga on the north coast
of Bahia, in the municipality of Camaçari, where individuals of the studied species were
collected monthly by manual collection. The specimens went through morphometric procedures
and optical scanning in search of ectoparasites. Afterwards, they were euthanized and dissected,
having their cavities and cavity organs investigated. The ecto and endoparasites found were
fixed in 70% alcohol and stored in properly identified microtubes. The digestive tracts of the
lizards were also investigated. Stomach contents were categorized and identified. Each prey
item was measured for maximum width and length. For trophic ecology, values of occurrence,
number and volume were estimated, in addition to obtaining the indices of importance for each
prey item. For parasitic ecology, values of prevalence, intensity and dominance coefficient were
estimated for each registered parasite species. Multivariate analyzes were performed to detect
statistical significance in trophic and parasitic variations and patterns. In addition, regression
tests of the intensity of parasites with the body condition of the hosts were performed. The
results of the current project revealed that the trophic and parasitic patterns of T. hygomi do not
occur in a generalized way, but present significant variations in terms of life stage and sex of
the host, as well as seasonality. The life stage was the main influencing factor in all the patterns
studied, in addition to acting closely in the close relationship between diet and the parasite-host
relationship. Trophic and parasitic patterns can both reflect and be sustained by a balanced
environment, while being susceptible to change if there are external impacts on the
environment.

Primate infants go through several stages of physical and cognitive development soon
after birth and are influenced by several factors, whether in the wild or even in captivity.
Soon after birth, they are exposed to the influence of their parents and non-parents. The
presence of other individuals in the group who help in the care of the offspring has been
the focus of studies on parental care, but it is not yet known about how the composition
of the group in general influences the motor development of infants. The common

marmoset Callithrix jacchus lives in social groups formed by a breeding pair and non-
breeding subordinate individuals and is characterized by the peculiar social system in

which non-breeding individuals help in the care of the offspring in a cooperative way.
We decided to test the following hypotheses, if the motor development of free-living C.
jacchus infants varies as a function of the number of non-breeding adults in the group, if
confirmed, we expect to find a delayed motor development of infants present in groups
with more helpers in in relation to infants present in a group with fewer adults helping.
We also seek to test the hypothesis whether the motor development of C. jacchus infants
in the wild varies according to the sex of the helpers, and if this is confirmed, we hope to
find a difference in the motor development of infants in relation to the number of females
in the development of infants. . Four groups of common marmosets were observed in the
wild, in an area of Atlantic Forest of Pernambuco, northeast of Brazil, which are
accustomed to human presence and their behaviors were recorded using the focal animal
method, from 05:00 am to 05:00 pm during the months of October/2001 to April/2002.
We collected behavioral data associated with the motor activity of infants between 1 and
4 months of age, where a motor diversity index was applied that indicates the motor
capacity of each infant during each month of age based on the ratio of the number of
adults and infants. , as well as the ratio of males and females to infants. The results pointed
to an interaction between the age of the infants and the composition of adults in the group
influencing the motor diversity of infants, mainly involving the participation of adult
females in the group.

Species of the genus Senna enantiostilia and flowers with rich morphological diversity. The
flowers have poricidal anthers and are pollinated by bees capable of vibrating stamens
(vibration pollination). The study was carried out in the Pedra Biological Reserve. This
dissertation is presented in two chapters. The first aims to investigate the proportion of floral
morphs from the morphological and functional assessment in Cassie species. Our hypothesis
is that the morphology assessment is similar to the morphological assessment, and distinct in
function, with the presence of the central morphology. Our data show that, in the
morphological evaluation, a proportion of flowers and similar rights However, no function
functionally lefts (FE), (FD) (FD) in different positions in the differences and on the
positioning of the models, in all the differences and on the positioning of the models in all
species and the distinct left contours in all species. . A greater meaning about the position of
the positioning of the sides, needs to be a greater understanding of the other alternatives,
pollen as structures and also their functionality, being able to have the use of the pollinator.
What aims to investigate the morphological sequence of stigmas and stigmas in pollinator
northern pollen collection, questions P1) How to investigate by the gynoecium sequence and
the stigmatic surface area according to the sequence: in the amount of pollen followed and do
the following: amplitude of capture?; P2) How different forms of gynoecium and stigmata?
From the selected results, similar values were selected in the formation of the styles of the
style, in both hays of pollen collection, in the evaluation of selection of typical tests not
presented in the selection of influence in the selective distribution of S. a directversiflora,
although not test of Pollen collection efficiency, the range of motion indicated directional
selection for smaller range of pollen collection, collecting the greatest amount of pollen.
Although it was verified that the aspects of the pistil shape were not important, the work
brings information about the reproductive aspects of S.

In the second half of 2019, an oil spill was documented in 882 coastal locations in the Northeast
of Brazil, a fundamental environment for the reproduction and development of sea turtles,
animals that roam the entire Brazilian coast and are threatened of extinction at the state, national
and international level. Direct or indirect contact with substances present in crude oil can cause
several damages to the health of these animals, such as inefficiency of vital organs and
bioaccumulation of toxic compounds. Hydrocarbons and trace elements are some of the
substances present in petroleum capable of bringing serious risks to the health of sea turtles,
therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the presence of these compounds in organisms, which in
the process of energy transfer, can cause damage to the entire ecosystem. From this, the
objective of this work was to carry out a qualitative and quantitative analysis of hydrocarbons
and trace elements in different tissues of stranded sea turtles on the coast of Northeast Brazil,
before (2016-2018) and after (2020-2021) the environmental disaster of the 2019 oil spill. 44
animals were collected between 2016 and 2018 (Group 1) and 38 between 2020 and 2021
(Group 2), which were found dead along beaches of the northeast coast. The animals were
collected and transported to the LEHP at UFRPE and to the PCCB at UERN, where the animals
were identified and biometrically measured. All individuals in Group 1 were identified as
Chelonia mydas and had a mean of 61.65 cm and 57.64 cm for the CCC and LCC, respectively.
In Group 2, 79% were identified as Chelonia mydas, 15% as Lepidochelys olivaceae and 11%
as Caretta caretta. Biometric measurements (CCC and CCW) showed averages of 61.65 cm
and 57.64 cm. Dissection was performed to remove liver and skeletal muscle samples from the
animals. The samples were subjected to homogenization and later stored in glass containers.
The samples from Group 2 were send to PUC-Rio, where the analysis of polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons were performed by the Sohxlet extraction method for the liver and QuEChERS
extraction method for the muscle. The identification and quantification of PAHs was performed
by GC-MS using the internal measurement method. The samples from group 1 and 2 were sent
to CENAPESQ - UFRPE where the quantification of the elements Al, Ar, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu,
Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, K, Se, Sr and Zn was performed, through ICP-OES. For group 2, 40 PAHs
were identified in the analyzed tissues. The main sum of total PAH was 202.2.21 ng/g in the
liver and 231,10 ng/g in the muscle, being Naphthalene, Pyrene, Phenanthrene and Fuoreno the
most abundant, which indicate the contamination by oil spills. The percentage of alkylated
PAHs, which also indicates the presence of oil, was high in both liver (48.24%) and muscle
(41.03%). No difference was observed for PAH concentrations according to the tissues,
however, cluster analysis identified two PAHs retention profiles, one pyrogenic and one
petrogenic. For trace elements, 10 minerals were identified in the different tissues analyzed
from the animals from Group 1 and 2. For the two groups, the most abundant elements were
Zn, Al, Cu and Ni, however, for Group 2, in addition to elements cited, Pb concentrations as
also high in relation to the others. The concentrations of elements in Group 1 were bigger than
Group 2. Biometric measures having no significant differences between the amount of
substances.

Studies on the distribution and use of different coastal habitats by fish species are of great
importance for the conservation and/or sustainable use of these environments and their
resources. The fish community presents changes in its structural and ecological indices such
as diversity and richness in different habitats. Thus, the present study aims to analyze the
structure of the fish assemblage in a marine-estuarine gradient of the northern coast of
Pernambuco, in order to evaluate possible temporal and spatial differences in its structure,
abundance and ecological indices. The work was carried out at Itamaracá Island, near the
mouth of Jaguaribe River, through monthly collections during one year, at low tide during the
new moon. Drags were performed using a mangote net with 20 m long, 1.5 m high and 5 mm
mesh opening. The drags with replicas were carried out at two points: 1) in the bursting zone,
and 2) in the estuary of the Jaguaribe River. The individuals collected were euthanized and
immersed in Eugenol solution according to the CONCEA, then labeled and fixed in situ in
10% formalin, taken to the laboratory where they were preserved in 70% ethanol, and later
identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level. The number of individuals per species was
quantified in order to correlate the abundance with spatial-temporal variations. The
environmental variables water temperature and salinity were measured in situ at each
collection point using a thermometer and refractometer. The data obtained were analyzed
according to species richness, relative abundance (%), through the ecological indices:
Margalef's richness, Simpson's dominance, Shannon-Wiener's diversity, and Pielou's
equitability. The Chi-square test was performed in order to verify whether there is a
significant difference or not between the samples. The nMDS ordination and the ANOSIM
test were performed to assess whether there are differences between points and periods of the
year. A total of 11,032 individuals were identified, with the Engraulidae family being the
most representative. The bursting zone was the point of greatest abundance and richness, with 

7,795 individuals and 58 species, and the Engraulidae and Polynemidae families were the
most representative, while the estuary presented the Clupeidae and Tetraodontidae families as
the most abundant. Lile piquitinga was the species of greatest abundance, followed by
Polydactylus virginicus and Haemulopsis corvinaeformis. The rainy season was responsible
for the highest biomass. The site with the highest biomass was the bursting zone, during the
dry season. The points showed differences in their composition, abundance and ecological
indexes, being estuary the point of greatest dominance (D= 0.29), while the bursting zone
presented the greatest Shannon diversity (H= 2.61) and Margalef richness (D= 6.89).
Although the bursting presents the highest abundance and the best indexes of diversity,
richness, and evenness in relation to the estuary, both areas are very important for several
species of fish at different life stages, and are widely used as breeding and recruitment areas
for youngsters, showing the importance of conservation in these regions.

Microplastics are synthetic particles causing great concern in different marine ecosystems
worldwide. The role of seagrass meadows in the retention of microplastics in the sediment,
however, is still poorly understood, especially in the tropics. The objective of this study was to
evaluate the retention of microplastics (abundance and characteristics) in the sediment of a
tropical estuarine ecosystem in northeastern Brazil, taking into account the habitats vegetated
by multispecific grasslands formed by the small species Halophila baillonii, H. decipiens and
Halodule wrightii. Samples were collected in the rainy (August 2021) and dry (February 2022)
seasons and the particles were extracted by density, followed by chemical digestion (NaOH)
for visual characterization in the stereomicroscope. Microplastics were present in 80% of the
samples, totalling 223 particles (0.017 to 4.48 mm - 2.79 ± 2.76 particles g-1

dw). Fibers (73%),
blue colour (51%) and particles smaller than 0.1 mm (80%) were the most frequent in the study.
Althought differences in species architecture, there was no difference in the capacity to retain
microplastics. For this first survey, the trap effect of marine angiosperms showed no variation
for particle abundance between areas, between these smaller species and observed climatic
seasons. It was verified that, despite the observations having been carried out within the
Environmental Protection Area (APA Santa Cruz), the continuous anthropogenic impact
associated with the poor management of plastic waste might contribute to these results of the
concentrations and abundance of microplastics in the meadows of Neotropical species, in
addition to the species being smaller than usual to the bioregion.

Estuaries have great ecological importance, being one of the most productive ecosystems
in the world. Associated with these tropical environments, the mangroves are generally
characterized by a halotallerant vegetation, essential for the maintenance of the coastal
ecosystem. For these reasons, they are environments where there is extensive socioeconomic
activity and, therefore, today there are no more mangroves that have not been impacted by
anthropogenic factors. Cyanobacteria make up the microbiota of these environments in the most
diverse spaces, being free on water column (phytoplankton) and sessile over submerged
substrates (periphyton). In all these environments, cyanobacteria contribute to primary
production and are essential in carbon and nitrogen fixation, the latter element being naturally
scarce in organic form in many environments colonized by cyanobacteria. Despite their great
contribution to ecosystem maintenance in mangroves and estuaries, cyanobacteria are
commonly left out of taxonomic research involving these habitats and little is known about
these prokaryotes in these environments in Brazil. Therefore, the objective of this research is to
identify and describe planktonic and periphytic cyanobacteria in mangrove habitats in the state
of Pernambuco. The samples were collected at three points (river mouth, middle and amount)
in four estuaries (Barra das Jangadas, Rio Una, Rio Formoso and Santa Cruz): 1) for
phytoplankton samples (subsurface water at low tide and high tide) and 2) for periphyton
(pneumatophore) samples, where freely collected along the mangrove areas in each region
equivalent to the phytoplankton collection points. A total of 66 samples were collected (48
phytoplankton and 18 periphyton). All samples collected were analyzed under optical
microscopy, observing a minimum of 30 individuals per species, whose morphological
identification were made based on specific and updated literature. 69 cyanobacterial taxa were
identified (51 spp., 13 sp., 3 cf., 2 aff.) distributed in 32 genera and 19 families, with the most
representative family Oscillatoriaceae with 27 infrageneric taxa identified. Among the
identified species and considering only records for mangrove areas, 15 are new occurrences for
mangroves and estuaries in Brazil, 22 for the northeast region and 11 for the state of
Pernambuco. The number of cyanobacterial species identified in this work, as the new
occurrences, demonstrate the large gap in taxonomic studies about cyanobacteria in mangrove
areas in tropical regions. In addition, several populations could not be identified at a specific
level, which both demonstrates the lack of specific literature for the identification of these taxa,
as the possibility of new species, highlighting the importance of producing new taxonomic
studies about cyanobacteria in mangrove areas.

The present research aimed to analyze the trophic interaction between phytoplankton,
zooplankton and fish in the presence and absence of floating and submerged macrophytes in
two tropical reservoirs, located in the Northeast of Brazil, Cursaí and Cajueiro reservoirs.
Quarterly samplings were carried out between November/2018 and November/2019 to collect
and analyze phytoplankton, zooplankton, fish, floating and submerged macrophytes, nutrients
and other abiotic variables. Collections were carried out at nine sampling points in each
reservoir: three without macrophytes, three in floating macrophyte banks and three in
submerged macrophyte banks. The effect of macrophytes on the taxonomic and functional
diversity of phytoplankton was evaluated through taxonomic diversity indices (richness,
evenness and Shannon index) and functional diversity (richness - FRic, equitability - FEve
and divergence - FDiv). In addition to field monitoring, an in situ experiment was carried out
in Cursaí reservoir to evaluate the top-down and bottom-up control promoted by the fish
Astyanax lacustris and to analyze the effects of the morphology of floating and submerged
macrophytes on trophic interaction. The experiment lasted ten days and consisted of four
treatments (n = 3): a control (C) without fish, and treatments with the addition of fish (+F),
fish + floating macrophyte (+FFM) and fish + submerged macrophyte (+FSM). In the
treatments with macrophytes, artificial plants were added as a refuge for zooplankton and
Chaoborus (invertebrate predator). Macrophytes exerted positive effects on taxonomic
richness, Shannon index and FDiv in Cajueiro, and negative effects on taxonomic evenness
and EFve of phytoplankton in Cursaí. The functional diversity of phytoplankton was
negatively influenced by water transparency and positively by total dissolved solids, pH and
nitrate in sites with macrophytes. Phytoplankton were classified into functional groups based
on size and life form and zooplankton based on type of feeding strategies. Macrophytes
favored the increase of bottom-up effects on phytoplankton and zooplankton. In open water,
unicellular and flagellated phytoplankton were positively influenced by nitrate and inorganic
phosphate, while colonial, filamentous, small, medium and large phytoplankton were
positively influenced by total phosphorus and nitrite. Colonial phytoplankton, mainly
filamentous cyanobacteria, was positively associated with zooplankton in areas with
macrophytes, and flagellated phytoplankton was negatively related in open water areas. The

experiment showed that A. lacustris exerted a top-down effect on zooplankton and a bottom-
up effect on phytoplankton, and Chaoborus interfered with the functioning of trophic

networks. The submerged macrophytes were efficient as a refuge for copepods and
Chaoborus, while the floating macrophytes favored the increase in the biomass of
cyanobacteria, desmids and diatoms. Floating and submerged macrophytes played different
roles in interactions between aquatic communities and Astyanax lacustris was a trophic
network modifier in the studied reservoirs, as well as Chaoborus which increased trophic
levels in Cursaí reservoir to four. Our study contributed to the understanding of the role of
macrophytes on trophic interactions and could become an important tool for biomanipulation
actions in tropical reservoirs.

The objective of this research was to study the influence of rip currents on solid waste
dynamics at Boa Viagem beach (PE). The research was divided into two parts: (i) the
first one aimed at defining the best collection method to evaluate the influence of rip
currents on the contamination of Boa Viagem beach-PE; and (ii) the second part, with
the methodology defined, aimed at determining the influence of rip currents on the
contamination of Boa Viagem beach by solid waste was determined. For the first part,
three different methodologies were tested. The first experiment took place during the
high tide peak in three different areas, two with the presence of rip currents and a third
(without currents), as a control area. The colonization (waste placement) took place on
the sand strip in three 10m2

plots with 30m intervals between them. In the second
experiment one more area was added with the presence of the currents; and the waste
was dumped directly into the water. The third experiment was carried out through the
quali-quantification of the waste deposited in the cue line in the four areas chosen
previously. Initially, the central part of the chain was identified and flagged with a flag.
Subsequently, twenty points on the cue line in front of the chain were demarcated using
flags in a different color than the one used in the central part. The results showed that
236 wastes (75.6%) were carried by the sea in the first experiment and 220 wastes
(57.9%) during the second. Stranded waste also showed large quantities, with 76 waste
(24.4%) in the first and 160 waste (42.1%) during the second. Twenty-three residues
were retrieved after 24h of the colonization experiment, with eight residues (2.6%)
coming from the first experiment, and fifteen residues (6.8%) from the second
experiment. The residues were rescued through the daily walks of the researchers and
the collaboration of beach users who, upon finding the residues, reported them by
sending sms or whatsapp messages. Most of these residues in the first (62.5%) and
second experiment (53.3%) were rescued within their settlement site, or in the south
direction of their release in the first (37.5%) and second experiment (46.3%). During the
third experiment the four areas show a very similar dispersion of residues along the
areas adjacent to the rip current in the north and south directions. While areas 1, 3 and 4
presented higher values north of the current, only area 2 presented higher values
southward. The third experiment proved to be the most adequate, because it was able to
isolate the environmental variables that could interfere with the research. Thus, the
methodology of the third experiment can be used as a model for future research. For the
second part, four areas were chosen along the beach according to the presence or
absence of rip currents. Initially the central part of the current was identified, followed
by the marking and demarcation of ten transects to the north and ten to the south. The

interval used between transects was twenty meters, totaling 400 meters. For quali-
quantification, the criterion of identification of residues larger than 3 cm, regardless of

their composition, was adopted. The collections occurred once a month during one year,
thus covering four seasonal periods: beginning of the dry season, end of the dry season,
beginning of the rainy season, and end of the rainy season. The four areas presented a
very similar deposition of solid waste at the cue line in the sand strip in front of the
point that marks the action of the rip current. Areas 1 and 3 showed greater amounts of 

debris deposited on the transects in the northern direction of the current. Area 2, had the
highest amounts of solid waste in the transects located south of the return flow. The
control area, showed a greater aftermath of residues to the north. The pattern of solid
waste distribution along the study area was strongly influenced by the nearshore
circulation mechanism at Boa Viagem beach. It was possible to observe a pattern of
accumulation of higher amount of debris north of the central reference point of
occurrence of the rip current. As this pattern was also observed in the control area, we
conclude that the pattern of solid waste deposition at Boa Viagem beach is strongly
influenced by longitudinal currents and wind forcing.