Revista de Biología Tropical
type: channel
description: Revista de Biología Tropical / International Journal of Tropical Biology and Conservation, es una revista de acceso abierto completo de la Universidad de Costa Rica centrada en la biología tropical y la conservación. Todos los números, desde 1953 hasta la actualidad, están disponibles para su descarga gratuita. aquí. NUESTRO ENFOQUE (Objetivo) Nuestra revista publica artículos científicos que aumentan nuestra comprensión de la biología, la conservación y las ciencias biomédicas de la vida en los trópicos. Los criterios de selección son la cantidad y calidad de la nueva información y su interés potencial tanto para el público en general como para los especialistas. Los ecosistemas estudiados, o al menos los organismos, deben ser tropicales. COBERTURA TEMÁTICA Números regulares Damos preferencia a artículos de fondo que incluyen preguntas de estudio comprobables, por ejemplo, estudios con un diseño experimental que evalúe factores que influyen en variables biológicas, o estudios que explican los mecanismos subyacentes a fenómenos biológicos o biomédicos como, por ejemplo, el comportamiento o la fisiología. Los estudios de campo deben presentar patrones temporales o espaciales. También damos la bienvenida a estudios sistemáticos o filogenéticos por encima del nivel de especies, metanálisis y estudios bibliométricos que examinan críticamente lo que se conoce y lo que queda por hacer en cualquier campo de la biología tropical. Los artículos de revisión se publican en su mayoría por invitación del Consejo Editorial a autoridades reconocidas. Otros especialistas interesados en enviar una revisión primero deben enviar un esquema de manuscrito titulado al correo biologia.tropical@ucr.ac.cr. Las propuestas aceptadas reciben la misma evaluación que los manuscritos regulares. Todas las revisiones y metanálisis deben identificar y llenar los vacíos en el conocimiento, presentar avances metodológicos y proponer futuras direcciones de investigación. Nota sobre datos antiguos: Si s…
publisher: Universidad de Costa Rica
language: en
publication name: Revista de Biología Tropical
issn: 0034-7744
copyright: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License (CC BY 4.0) Attribution (BY) • (BY) You must attribute the work in the manner specified by the author or licensor (but not in any way that suggests that they endorse you or your use of the work).
items: Environmental DNA exploration of fish diversity in the Balantak River, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia
items: Temporal variation of macroinvertebrate diversity in a high Andean microbasin in the south American tropics
items: Plants that allocate more resources to flower production yield more fruit at local and global scales
items: Urbanization as a driver of change: Differential ecological patterns of native and non-native parrots (Psittaciformes: Psittacidae) in an urban tropical city
items: First assessment of the physiological performance of nursery corals in the Galápagos Islands: seasonal impacts on Pocillopora (Scleractinia: Pocilloporidae) growth
items: Beyond the crest: quantifying coastal protection and risk mitigation services of submerged reefs in the Mexican Caribbean
items: First Pages - Foreword
items: Early-life history traits of Thalassoma bifasciatum in Culebra, Puerto Rico
items: https://revistas.ucr.ac.cr/index.php/rrbt/article/view/10074
items: Diversity analysis of Chironomidae from the Andean-Amazonian transition (Caquetá, Colombia): a regional perspective
items: Bryophytes of Quindío: community composition, diversity, and structure across altitudinal gradients and heterogeneous habitats
items: Histological development of fish larvae Piaractus orinoquensis (Characiformes: Characidae) with emphasis on mouthparts
items: Multi-temporal coral reef structure and health of Tayrona National Natural Park, Colombian Caribbean
items: Molecular determination of Helicobacter pylori and detection of beta-lactamases in clinical isolates from patients in Antioquia-Colombia
items: Epiphytic macrolichen as indicators of environmental changes in a montane forest of Panama
items: Status of the coral formations of Bajo Nuevo Reef Complex, Western Caribbean, Colombia
items: Diversity and cultural value of the mastofauna associated with coffee plantations in Oaxaca, Mexico
items: Diversity and vertical distribution of epiphytic orchids and bromeliads in two contrasting forests from Northeast Andes of Colombia
items: Density, size and composition of howler monkeys, Alouatta palliata (Atelidae) and white-faced monkeys, Cebus imitator (Cebidae) in dry forest and reduced canopy areas, Costa Rica
items: Flora of high mountain tropical peatlands: threats and management measures, Talamanca Range, Costa Rica
items: Effects of human disturbance on medium and large mammals in primary and secondary tropical forests in Southern Mexico
items: Growth, recruitment and life history parameters of fish in Andean reservoirs
items: Composition, structure and regeneration strategy of Campnosperma panamense (Anacardiaceae) swamp forests in Darien, Panama
items: Examining functional diversity in two plant communities under ecological restoration in Farallones de Cali, Colombia
items: The effect of macrophytes on the presence and population structure of the red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii (Decapoda: Cambaridae) in neotropical ecosystems
items: The performance of mass testing strategies for COVID-19: a case study for Costa Rica
items: Demographic variations of the spotted snapper Lutjanus guttatus (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica suggest the existence of two population units
items: Motile macroinvertebrates and fishes sheltering in burrows with and without the Indo-Pacific Rock-boring Urchin Echinometra mathaei (Camarodonta: Echinometridae), at Mana Island, Fiji
items: Structure of fish communities in relation to habitat in Matusagaratí Lagoon, Darién, Panama
items: Protozoos and metazoos present in two wastewater treatment systems and their relationship with the Sludge Biotic Index

Environmental DNA exploration of fish diversity in the Balantak River, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia
type: item
description: Introduction: Freshwater ecosystems play a crucial role in supporting human life, providing many ecosystem services. Species diversity is a valuable indicator for evaluating ecosystem health, gaining a broader perspective on ecological richness and ecosystem functions, but data are lacking for many rivers. Objectives: To obtain baseline data on the upstream and downstream ichthyofauna of the Balantak River, Banggai Regency, using environmental DNA (eDNA) with a focus on diadromous species. Methods: We collected, filtered and preserved water samples from upstream and downstream sites on the Balantak River followed by eDNA analysis (DNA extraction, PCR with MiFish 12S rRNA primers, Illumina sequencing, MitoFish bioinformatic analysis at 97 and 99 % identity thresholds) to produce taxonomically assigned Actinopteri amplicon sequence variants (ASVs). Results: Our data are consonant with the expected dominance of diadromous and euryhaline taxa (75 %), high Gobiiformes biodiversity, and differences between upstream and downstream ichthyofaunal communities. Reads were assigned to Actinopteri ASVs from 12 orders, predominantly Gobiiformes, Anguilliformes, and Centrarchiformes. The 15 assigned families included Anguillidae, Eleotridae, Gobiidae, Rhyacichthydae, Kuhliidae, and Terapontidae. Of the assigned genera (17 at 97 % and 25 at 99 %), Anguilla had the most reads (39.9 %), and Sicyopterus had the most ASVs (8). Conclusions: These baseline data demonstrate the usefulness of eDNA metabarcoding for exploring ichthyofaunal biodiversity in small tropical watersheds while highlighting gaps in 12S rRNA sequence databases, reinforcing the need for integrative taxonomic research in Sulawesi watersheds and reliable reference databases. Most assigned taxa are vulnerable to exploitation for food and/or the ornamental fish trade. Four non-native taxa from Cichlidae, Cyprinidae and Clariidae are considered invasive. Implications for conservation include the need to address the unregu…
subject: AQUATIC ECOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: Amphidromy
  topic: keywords
subject: Gobiiformes
  topic: keywords
subject: metabarcoding
  topic: keywords
subject: riverine biodiversity
  topic: keywords
subject: Wallacea
  topic: keywords
creator: Magdalena Litaay
creator: Asmi Citra Malina Tassakka
creator: Nadiarti Nurdin Kadir
creator: Widyastuti Umar
creator: Samliok Ndobe
creator: Abdul Gani
creator: Arfiani Rizki Paramata
creator: Nur Afifah Zhafirah
creator: Abigail Mary Moore
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-07-02
publication date: 2026-07-02
starting page: e20263754
ending page: e20263754
doi: 10.15517/hp29s516

Temporal variation of macroinvertebrate diversity in a high Andean microbasin in the south American tropics
type: item
description: Introduction: The study examines the aquatic biodiversity of macroinvertebrates in the Alambi River, in Ecuador and analyzes how human intervention has influenced the physico-chemical composition of the water and macroinvertebrate communities among 2000 and 2021. Methods: Physical and chemical data were collected, and pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, dissolved solids, and temperature were measured. The macroinvertebrates were obtained by means of "Surber", "D" and "kick" type nets. Three indices were used: BMWP, (Biological Monitoring Working Party), ABI (Andean Biotic Index) and (EPT) (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera). Cluster analysis, principal components and canonical analyses were also performed. Results: Taxonomic diversity increased significantly between 2000 and 2021, with an increase in the entire group of taxa. Diversity indices varied similarly between years, Simpson from 0.82 to 0.89 in 2000 versus 0.74 to 0.85 in 2021. Shannon in 2000 (2.20 to 2.45) and in 2021 (1.93-2.47). The completeness of the sampling was similar in both years, 81 vs 77 %, respectively. The structure of the macroinvertebrate community was more heterogeneous overall in 2021. There is a change in the sequential pattern in the turnover of communities in the direction of flow, which varies in 2021. The width of the river decreased in 2021. The average speed of the river also decreased from 1.12 m/s in 2000 to 0.52 m/s in 2021. The pH of the water increased slightly (7.8 to 8.1). Dissolved oxygen increased significantly from 66 % to 80 %. Conductivity and dissolved solids increased at all stations in 2021. The physico-chemical variables varied in their importance over the years, the most relevant being dissolved oxygen, total solids, and altitude, associated with good quality indicator families. The quality indicators in general demonstrated good watershed quality maintained over time, despite changes in both land use and human population growth. Conclusion: The Alambi basi…
subject: AQUATIC ECOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: bioindication
  topic: keywords
subject: macrobenthos biodiversity
  topic: keywords
subject: temporal variation
  topic: keywords
subject: basin analysis
  topic: keywords
creator: Carlos Enrique Carrera Reyes
creator: Alisson Morales
creator: Alexis Morales-Umaquiza
creator: Hilary Vásquez
creator: María Lorena Zambrano-Navarrete
creator: Juan F. Rivadeneira
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-07-02
publication date: 2026-07-02
starting page: e2026119
ending page: e2026119
doi: 10.15517/z404jw80

Plants that allocate more resources to flower production yield more fruit at local and global scales
type: item
description: Introduction: The internal mechanisms of plants and their interactions with the environment determine flower and fruit production. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain these processes, emphasizing resource limitations, interactions with pollinators, selective abortion, the characteristics and positions of hermaphroditic flowers, and the influence of environmental variables on plant function. Objectives: This research aims to evaluate whether a high allocation to flowers positively affects the fruit production of hermaphroditic plants, as predicted by the pollinator attraction hypothesis, or whether it negatively correlates, as suggested by the selective abortion hypothesis. Methods: Both a local (Medina, Colombia) and a global database, based on the biomass of flowers and fruits collected using fruit traps were used to determine the possible relationship between the variables. The Medina database included data from 5-10 individuals for each of the seven plant species studied, with entire flowering and fruiting periods monitored. The global dataset encompassed 92 locations across 10 counties in Latin America, 2 in Europe, 2 in Africa, 2 in Asia and 1 in Oceania. This database compiled information on the total biomass of flowers and fruits of different plant species produced over at least one annual cycle. Results: The plant species studied and the global analysis revealed a positive relationship between flower and fruit production, supporting the pollinator attraction hypothesis. Although we did not quantify the biomass of aborted fruits, we found no evidence to suggest that high flower production results in an excess of ovules that cannot develop, as predicted by the selective abortion hypothesis. Conclusions: These findings suggest that plants have evolved allocation mechanisms for flower production that align with the potential for fruit development.
subject: BOTANY AND MICOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: flowers;
  topic: keywords
subject: fruits;
  topic: keywords
subject: Colombia;
  topic: keywords
subject: selective abortion;
  topic: keywords
subject: pollinator attraction
  topic: keywords
creator: Valentina Barrero-Flores
creator: Jorge Andrés Bello-Rodríguez
creator: Eduardo José Pinel-Ramos
creator: Manuel Lequerica Tamara
creator: Pablo R. Stevenson
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-07-02
publication date: 2026-07-02
starting page: e2026559
ending page: e2026559
doi: 10.15517/3gksvn66

Urbanization as a driver of change: Differential ecological patterns of native and non-native parrots (Psittaciformes: Psittacidae) in an urban tropical city
type: item
description: Introduction: Parrots and related birds (i.e., Psittacidae, hereafter “parrots”) include species that often establish non-native populations in cities. However, little is known about their species-specific ecological patterns to urbanization in tropical cities. Objectives: To analyze changes in species richness, abundance, and composition across different urbanization levels and to compare abundance trends of most abundant species regarding built-up, grass and tree cover at different spatial scales (i.e., 200, 500, 1 000 m) for parrots in Medellín, Colombia. Methods: Parrot surveys were conducted from September 2021 to February 2022 (using transects, n = 10) and July 2023 to August 2023 (using point counts n = 220). Parrot abundance patterns were analyzed with Generalized Linear Models (GLMs), selecting the significant variable and best models based on Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Quasi-Akaike Information Criterion corrected (QAICc), respectively. Results: We recorded ten parrot species; six of them were non-native (i.e., outside their natural range of distribution): Eupsittula pertinax, Ara spp. and Amazona spp. The remaining four were native species: Brotogeris jugularis, Forpus conspicillatus, Pionus chalcopterus, and Psittacara wagleri. B. jugularis, F. conspicillatus and E. pertinax were the most abundant species, B. jugularis increased its abundance in areas with higher urbanization levels and F. conspicillatus in areas with lower levels. E. pertinax showed higher abundances in areas with medium to high urbanization levels (51-75 %), but it showed relationships with lower statistical power. Conclusions: Our finding suggest that the parrot assemblage in Medellín is mainly represented by non-native species in richness and composition, but native species are more abundant. Acknowledging these differences in ecological patterns in species can help improve urban wildlife management in tropical cities.
subject: TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: avian ecology
  topic: keywords
subject: biodiversity conservation
  topic: keywords
subject: synurbanization
  topic: keywords
subject: tropical Andes
  topic: keywords
subject: urban ecology
  topic: keywords
creator: María José Figueroa-Zuluaga
creator: Jaime Andrés Garizábal-Carmona
creator: Néstor Javier Mancera-Rodríguez
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-07-02
publication date: 2026-07-02
starting page: e2026268
ending page: e2026268
doi: 10.15517/qy33nj18

First assessment of the physiological performance of nursery corals in the Galápagos Islands: seasonal impacts on Pocillopora (Scleractinia: Pocilloporidae) growth
type: item
description: Introduction: Coral communities in the Galápagos Islands persist under highly variable oceanographic conditions driven by seasonal upwelling and ENSO-related thermal anomalies, which have historically constrained reef development and recovery. Following the 1982–83 El Niño event (~97 % coral mortality), recovery has been slow and fragmented. Despite this, Pocillopora remains the dominant reef-building genus in the central-southern archipelago and a key target for restoration. However, it remains unclear how seasonal thermal variability influences coral performance in nursery settings. Objective: To evaluate how seasonal thermal variability affects the growth, survival, and condition of Pocillopora corals in nursery settings in the Galápagos, in order to inform restoration strategies. Methods: Coral communities were assessed in Puerto Villamil Bay (Isabela Island), and 12 Pocillopora morphotypes were propagated in rope nurseries. Fragments were monitored using photographic records, and surface area was measured with ImageJ. Absolute, relative, and specific growth rates were calculated, along with mortality and tissue condition (% dead, bleached, and algal cover). In situ temperature data and El Niño 1+2 anomalies were incorporated to characterize thermal variability. Results: The coral community was dominated by Pocillopora (73.6 %, n = 3 569 colonies). Temperatures ranged from 18.7 to 30.1 °C under La Niña conditions. Fragment size increased more than fourfold (from 6.40 ± 2.51 to 27.75 ± 15.85 cm²), with an overall survival rate of 80 %. Growth exhibited strong seasonal patterns: relative and specific growth rates were higher during the warm season, while absolute growth was greater in the cold season. However, the cold upwelling period was associated with reduced overall performance, including higher mortality, tissue loss, and algal overgrowth. Significant differences among morphotypes were observed. Conclusions: Coral gardening is viable in the Galápagos, althou…
subject: ARTICLE
  topic: section
subject: coral gardening; thermal stress; La Niña, intraspecific variation; Eastern Tropical Pacific; coral physiological condition.
  topic: keywords
creator: Nicolás Dávalos
creator: Daniel Velasco-Cedeño
creator: Margarita Brandt
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-07-01
publication date: 2026-07-01
starting page: e202610168
ending page: e202610168
doi: 10.15517/0xznfj40

Beyond the crest: quantifying coastal protection and risk mitigation services of submerged reefs in the Mexican Caribbean
type: item
description: Introduction: Coral reefs function as natural coastal defenses by dissipating wave energy and reducing flooding and erosion. While the protective role of emergent reef crests is well documented, the contribution of submerged reefs remains poorly quantified. This study evaluates the coastal-protection function of two submerged reefs (Manchoncitos I and II) offshore Playa Paraíso, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Objectives: (1) quantify wave height reductions associated with submerged reefs; (2) compare wave propagation under reef and no-reef scenarios; and (3) assess the sensitivity of wave attenuation to changes in reef roughness. Methods: Numerical modeling (WAPO/REFDIF) was used to simulate wave transformation across the reef platform. A high-resolution bathymetric grid (4 × 3 km; 5 m) was developed using multibeam surveys, satellite-derived bathymetry, and in situ measurements. Simulations compared reef and no-reef scenarios and evaluated two Nikuradse roughness values (ks = 0.5 and 1.5 m). Results: The reefs generated local reductions in significant wave height ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 m. Manchoncitos I produced the greatest attenuation, whereas Manchoncitos II exhibited a more heterogeneous response, including localized wave-focusing effects. Increasing reef roughness enhanced wave-height reductions and expanded the spatial extent of wave dissipation. Wave attenuation varied according to reef geometry, roughness, and incident wave direction. Conclusions: Submerged reefs provide measurable coastal-protection services by reducing wave energy reaching the shoreline. Reef morphology and roughness strongly influence attenuation patterns. These findings support reef conservation and restoration to reduce coastal risk.
subject: ARTICLE
  topic: section
subject: Coral reefs; wave attenuation; numerical modeling; reef roughness; Nikuradse (ks).
  topic: keywords
creator: Azul Uribe
creator: Johanna Calle-Triviño
creator: Ismael Mariño-Tapia
creator: Rodolfo Silva Casarín
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-07-01
publication date: 2026-07-01
starting page: e202610165
ending page: e202610165
doi: 10.15517/4yf4vy69

First Pages - Foreword
type: item
description: Coral reefs cover only about 3% of the ocean’s surface yet support approximately 33% of marine biodiversity. They also generate substantial economic benefits, with an estimated spillover value of $350,000 per hectare per year (Costanza et al., 2014). Despite their ecological and economic importance, nearly 90% of coral reefs are currently under threat, primarily due to anthropogenic pressures (Souter et al., 2020). This alarming situation has created an urgent need to implement effective policies for their protection and restoration, prompting global initiatives such as the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (UN, 2021).
subject: FIRST PAGES
  topic: section
subject: NR
  topic: keywords
creator: Juan José Alvarado
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-07-01
publication date: 2026-07-01
doi: 10.15517/avh1n061

Early-life history traits of Thalassoma bifasciatum in Culebra, Puerto Rico
type: item
description: Introduction: The study of labrid otoliths has contributed significantly to our understanding of life histories of tropical reef fish. Life history theory is based on the effect on lifetime reproductive success (i.e., fitness), growth, mortality rates, age at maturity, reproductive output, and particularly for reef fish age and size at settlement of pelagic larvae to benthic juveniles. Objective: Quantify age and larval growth at settlement, subsequent length, and body condition of Thalassoma bifasciatum. Methods: Two hundred T. bifasciatum individuals were collected from Punta Maguey, in Culebra, Puerto Rico. One hundred individuals were euthanized for otolith dissection. Results: Otolith analyses revealed settlement ages ranging from 10 to 37 days and estimated standard length of 9–20 mm at settlement. Growth analyses demonstrated a significant positive relationship between age and length, while length – weight regression revealed a negative allometric growth, where length increases at a faster rate than body mass (b < 3). Additionally, Fulton’s condition factor declined with the increasing length. Conclusions: This study highlights early life history and growth patterns in T. bifasciatum in Culebra, PR and underscores the need for further exploration of life history traits to better understand population dynamics of tropical reef fishes. The rapid settlement observed in our study may be attributed to elevated water temperatures, suggesting that environmental drivers play a critical role in shaping recruitment and growth. This emphasizes the importance of incorporating environmental drivers when evaluating recruitment and population structure.
subject: ARTICLE
  topic: section
subject: coral reef; otolith; aging; condition factor.
  topic: keywords
creator: Ileana P. Calderón Martell
creator: Gregory M. Andraso
creator: Alex E. Mercado Molina
creator: Alberto M. Sabat
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-07-01
publication date: 2026-07-01
doi: 10.15517/a6w5bd45

https://revistas.ucr.ac.cr/index.php/rrbt/article/view/10074
type: item
title: Nature-based solutions for nutrient removal in tourism wastewater: pilot bio-gardens with red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) and water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) at Iberostar Bávaro, Dominican Republic
description: Introduction: Wastewater from coastal tourism operations often retains residual nitrogen and phosphorus after conventional secondary treatment, contributing to nutrient enrichment in adjacent marine ecosystems. Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) have been proposed as low-cost polishing strategies that integrate ecological processes into wastewater management. Objective: To evaluate the short-term nutrient attenuation potential of Rhizophora mangle and Eichhornia crassipes in constructed bio-gardens installed downstream of hotel wastewater treatment systems under operational conditions. Methods: Four concrete bio-gardens (3.0 × 1.2 × 0.6 m) were installed downstream of an on-site wastewater-treatment facility in the Dominican Republic. Three units were planted (replicated treatments units) and one was left unplanted (control). Phase 1 evaluated R. mangle under continuous flow using treated effluent. Phase 2 evaluated E. crassipes under similar hydraulic conditions using enriched influent to simulate elevated nutrient loads. Water samples were analyzed for phosphate, total phosphorus, nitrate–nitrogen, and total nitrogen over a 48-hour hydraulic retention period. Results: During Phase 1, R. mangle exhibited limited short-term nutrient attenuation consistent with early-stage system stabilization. In Phase 2, E. crassipes demonstrated substantial short-term phosphorus removal and moderate nitrogen attenuation under enriched conditions, whereas the unplanted control showed minimal change. Conclusions: Plant-based bio-gardens can be physically integrated into hotel wastewater systems and may contribute to nutrient-load reduction when appropriately designed and managed. The contrasting short-term dynamics observed between species highlight functional complementarity under different loading scenarios rather than direct species superiority. These findings support further investigation of NbS as tertiary polishing modules within sustainable tourism infrastructure.
subject: ARTICLE
  topic: section
subject: Nature-based solutions; Rhizophora mangle; Eichhornia crassipes; nutrient removal; wastewater treatment; tourism; Caribbean.
  topic: keywords
creator: Johanna Calle-Triviño
creator: Luz Valentina Lantigua
creator: Ricardo Navarro
creator: Macarena Blanco-Pimentel
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-30
publication date: 2026-06-30
starting page: e202610074
ending page: e202610074
doi: 10.15517/d13esm54

Diversity analysis of Chironomidae from the Andean-Amazonian transition (Caquetá, Colombia): a regional perspective
type: item
description: Introduction: The family Chironomidae is one of the most diverse and abundant groups of aquatic macroinvertebrates in aquatic ecosystems. Objective: To analyze Chironomidae's composition and diversity in the Caquetá department's Andean-Amazonian corridor, Colombia. Methods: Three study zones (Andean, Transition, and Amazonian), each with ten sampling stations, were selected. We conducted four field campaigns to collect biological material and record riverscape characteristics. We assessed alpha diversity using Hill numbers, a set of diversity measures providing a unified framework for diversity analysis. We also analyzed beta diversity by considering species richness differences and turnover. Using multivariate RDA analysis, physical and chemical variables of the riverscape contrast with taxonomic composition and beta diversity. Results: 36 chironomid taxa were identified, with the subfamily Chironominae and the genera Cricotopus, Chironomus, Larsia, and Polypedilum standing out. Hill numbers showed differentiation in Shannon-Wiener diversity (q1) and inverse Simpson diversity (q2), but richness (q0) showed less variation across study zones. The most significant component of beta diversity was species richness differences. Current velocity, total dissolved solids (TDS), vegetation cover, and substrates of sandy and vegetative origin (roots, aquatic macrophytes), as well as other components of the riverscape, significantly influenced species composition and beta diversity. Conclusions: Significant genus level information is provided for the Chironomidae family in the Andean-Amazonian region of the department of Caquetá, revealing dissimilarity among the study areas driven by differences in richness, as a measure of taxonomic beta diversity. Moreover, these findings indicate that the transition region functions as an ecotone for Chironomidae, serving as an intermediate zone between the Andes and the Amazon.
subject: AQUATIC ECOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: beta diversity;
  topic: keywords
subject: riverscape;
  topic: keywords
subject: non-biting midges;
  topic: keywords
subject: Hill numbers
  topic: keywords
creator: Jhonatan Gutiérrez-Garaviz
creator: Odete Rocha
creator: Marlon Peláez-Rodríguez
creator: Susana Trivinho-Strixino
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-30
publication date: 2026-06-30
starting page: e2026222
ending page: e2026222
doi: 10.15517/y4kf5z72

Bryophytes of Quindío: community composition, diversity, and structure across altitudinal gradients and heterogeneous habitats
type: item
description: Introduction: Bryophyte diversity in the Northern Andes is high compared with the Central Andes and other tropical regions, yet regional documentation remains uneven; therefore, department-level inventories are essential for biogeography and conservation. Objectives: To update the bryophyte inventory of the Quindío Department (Central Andes of Colombia) and describe species richness, taxonomic composition, substrate preferences, and altitudinal distribution. Methods: We integrated published and herbarium records with field surveys across six municipalities and nine localities. Sampling encompassed four elevational belts (premontane 970–1 600, montane 1 600–2 400, upper Andean 2 400–3 200, and paramo 3 200–4 200 m.a.s.l.) and five substrates (epiphytic, terricolous, lignicolous, rupicolous, and epiphyllous). Microclimatic variables were recorded in situ during sampling using a thermo-hygrometer (air temperature and relative humidity) and a lux meter (illuminance). Taxonomy and nomenclature were standardized using specialized literature and international databases. Results: We recorded 474 species (82 families, 198 genera): 276 liverworts, 195 mosses, and three hornworts, plus eight subspecies and 15 varieties. Richness was highest on epiphytic substrates (303 spp.), followed by terricolous (242), lignicolous (225), rupicolous (113), and epiphyllous (50) substrates. Lejeuneaceae was the most diverse family (76 spp.); among mosses, Fissidentaceae (17 spp.) and the genera Fissidens (13 spp.) and Campylopus (10 spp.) were prominent. Richness was concentrated in montane and upper Andean forests, with pronounced turnover among substrates and elevational belts. Conclusions: The bryophyte inventory of Quindío was updated to 474 species (82 families, 198 genera). Community composition showed high turnover, driven primarily by microhabitat/substrate filters (with peak richness in epiphytes) and, at the regional scale, by the elevational gradient, providing a baseline to guide …
subject: TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: Andean bryoflora
  topic: keywords
subject: inventory
  topic: keywords
subject: elevational gradient
  topic: keywords
subject: substrates
  topic: keywords
subject: Colombia
  topic: keywords
creator: José David Quiñones Gomez
creator: María Eugenia Morales-Puentes
creator: Larri Álvarez Rodas
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-29
publication date: 2026-06-29
starting page: e20264616
ending page: e20264616
doi: 10.15517/63epsd71

Histological development of fish larvae Piaractus orinoquensis (Characiformes: Characidae) with emphasis on mouthparts
type: item
description: Introducción: El proceso de desarrollo larval es una etapa crítica en los sistemas de producción acuícola por la mortalidad que se presenta, debida a la temperatura, patógenos y la alimentación, entre otros. El suministro adecuado de alimento en cada etapa es uno de los inconvenientes más frecuentes dado el desconocimiento del desarrollo bucal en la transición de larva a juvenil que permita la toma de decisiones sobre manejo alimenticio, eficiencia del alimento y disminución de riesgos de pérdida durante esta fase del cultivo. Objetivo: Describir el desarrollo histológico de larvas de cachama blanca Piaractus orinoquensis con énfasis en el aparato bucal, durante la transición de larvas a alevinos. Métodos: Se tomaron muestras en diferentes estadios desde las 0 hasta las 763 hpe (horas post eclosión), registrando los diferentes cambios morfológicos por medio de histología convencional, microscopía óptica de alta resolución y microscopía electrónica de barrido, para un posterior análisis de imágenes con el software ImageJ®. Resultados: Las cachamas muestran ontogenia indirecta y son especies altriciales, debido a que muestran escasas reservas vitelinas cuando inician la alimentación exógena, como se evidenció a las 187 hpe con cambios significativos en el aparato bucal, pero sin contenido estomacal, posiblemente por inmadurez del sistema digestivo y la falta de suministro de alimento en esta etapa, factores asociados al manejo del cultivo, lo que incrementa el riesgo de mortalidad y escaso crecimiento de las larvas en relación directa con la alimentación. Conclusión: Los productores deben mejorar el proceso de larvicultura, al sincronizar los tiempos de traslado de la incubadora y de preparación del estanque, como estrategias de alimentación temprana para equilibrar la eficiencia económica con el desarrollo y la demanda metabólica de las larvas, mejorando así los índices de supervivencia y el rendimiento en los sistemas de producción piscícola.
subject: VERTEBRATE BIOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: larviculture; high-resolution optical microscopy; feeding; jaw.
  topic: keywords
creator: Nathaly Delgado-Castillo
creator: Sandra Liliana Parada-Guevara
creator: Juan Antonio Ramírez-Merlano
creator: Edwin Gómez-Ramírez
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-07-30
publication date: 2025-07-30
starting page: e58090
ending page: e58090
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.58090

Multi-temporal coral reef structure and health of Tayrona National Natural Park, Colombian Caribbean
type: item
description: Introduction: Coral reefs are biodiversity-rich ecosystems increasingly threatened by disease and, in particular, mass bleaching events driven by elevated sea-surface temperatures. Objectives: To assess spatio-temporal variation in reef structure and coral health across three reef zones within Tayrona National Natural Park (TNNP) from 1998 to 2023. Methods: Coral cover (CC), algal cover (AC), and coral health (CH: bleaching and diseases) were quantified following the protocols of the Colombian Coral Reef Monitoring System. Results: In Gayraca, mean CC was 37.05 %, dominated by massive corals with a declining trend. Mean AC was 43 %, and turf algae increased significantly through time. Black band disease and white plague were recorded with < 2 % incidence. In Chengue, mean CC was 30 % (massive corals), with disease incidence around 2 %, and the mean AC was 44 %. In Granate, mean CC was 28.2 %, largely massive corals with a downward trend, while mean AC was 47 %, dominated by turf algae with an increasing trend. Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) was not detected. Conclusions: Bleaching increased sharply in 2023, reaching unprecedented levels. Across bays, we observed a tendency toward lower CC and higher AC in areas closer to human populations. Although disease prevalence across years was high, annual disease incidence remained low and did not track thermal stress, suggesting comparatively high biological robustness of local coral populations.
subject: AQUATIC ECOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: coral cover
  topic: keywords
subject: coral health
  topic: keywords
subject: Santa Marta
  topic: keywords
subject: Colombian Caribbean
  topic: keywords
creator: Andrés Acosta-Chaparro
creator: Raúl Navas-Camacho
creator: Laura Sánchez-Valencia
creator: Shanly Coneo-Gómez
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Revista de Biología Tropical https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-06-29
publication date: 2026-06-29
starting page: e2026269
ending page: e2026269
doi: 10.15517/6f0vgr90

Molecular determination of Helicobacter pylori and detection of beta-lactamases in clinical isolates from patients in Antioquia-Colombia
type: item
description: Introduction: Helicobacter pylori exhibit variations in antibiotic resistance in America and Colombia. Despite the use of various treatment regimens containing amoxicillin in the department of Antioquia, Colombia, as well as in several countries across the continent, the pattern of genotypic and phenotypic susceptibility to this antibiotic remains unknown. Objective: To determine the frequency of H. pylori infection by detecting the ureA gene and amoxicillin susceptibility through beta-lactamases in H. pylori isolates from patients with gastroduodenal diseases in Antioquia-Colombia. Methods: Cross-sectional analytical study with 179 patients attending endoscopy units of seven healthcare institutions. Sociodemographic and risk factor data were collected. Moreover, biopsies from the antrum and body were taken for microbiological isolation and molecular detection of H. pylori. The sociodemographic data were assessed through frequency analysis and bivariate statistics. DNA obtained from the biopsies was amplified by PCR for the ureA gene, and beta-lactamase production was evaluated using the nitrocefin test as well as the amplification of the TEM and SHV genes. Results: It was found that 61 % (109 / 179) of patients tested positive for H. pylori; out of 84 isolates obtained by culture, none tested positive for the nitrocefin test. Significant differences were found in socioeconomic status, healthcare system, and geographical location in patients positive for the ureA gene. Two patients tested positive for molecular detection of beta-lactamases from biopsies; however, SHV and TEM genes were not found in any isolate. Conclusions: The frequency of H. pylori for ureA-gene detection is higher than previous studies and similar to other reports in other Colombian regions; consequently, this will become a good diagnostic test in the country. Finally, none of the H. pylori isolates tested positive for beta-lactamases TEM and SHV.
subject: Biomedicine
  topic: section
subject: Helicobacter pylori
  topic: keywords
subject: drug resistance, microbial
  topic: keywords
subject: stomach diseases
  topic: keywords
subject: beta-lactamases
  topic: keywords
subject: amoxicillin
  topic: keywords
subject: Colombia
  topic: keywords
creator: Yesenia Arango Poletty
creator: Laura Mesa Muñoz
creator: José Danilo Atehortúa
creator: Rene Marcelo Escobar
creator: Sergio Hernández
creator: Andrés Castro
creator: Henry Bautista Amorocho
creator: Diego Enrique Vélez-Gómez
creator: Alonso Martínez
creator: Beatriz Salazar
creator: Tania Pérez
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-06-02
publication date: 2025-06-02
starting page: e58890
ending page: e58890
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.58890

Epiphytic macrolichen as indicators of environmental changes in a montane forest of Panama
type: item
description: Introduction: Corticolous lichens are organisms that respond to habitat modifications, which is why they are considered model organisms to evaluate environmental changes in different ecosystems. Objectives: To determine the species richness and community composition of corticolous macro lichens in montane forests and forest remnants. In addition, the effect of microclimatic factors in three areas with different degrees of light intensity and density of arboreous vegetation on the species distribution of recorded diversity was evaluated. Methods: The study was conducted in the Volcan Baru National Park, Panama. Three areas with different forest densities and host tree species, Comarostaphylis arbutoides and Quercus spp., were chosen, considering a total of 60 trees, 10 of each species in each area. The canopy's opening close to the host trees and its diameter at breast height were recorded. Linear models and multivariate analysis was used to determine changes in species richness and composition of epiphytic macro lichens. Results: The characteristics of the host trees (e.g. host species and area) conditioned the species richness, while the communities were limited by microclimatic changes (e.g. light) in different areas. Conclusion: The macro lichens communities analyzed responded to changes related to the host tree species and the microclimate, so they can be considered indicators of ecological continuity in tropical montane forests.
subject: BOTANY AND MICOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: communities; corticolous; lichens; light, Lobariaceae; Parmeliaceae; phorophyte; zone
  topic: keywords
creator: Ana Vissuetti
creator: Ángel Benítez
creator: Rosa Villarreal
creator: Eyvar Rodríguez-Quiel
creator: Tina Antje Hofmann
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-01-22
publication date: 2025-01-22
starting page: e55305
ending page: e55305
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.55305

Status of the coral formations of Bajo Nuevo Reef Complex, Western Caribbean, Colombia
type: item
description: Introduction: Although many reefs have been disturbed by the combined effects of climatic and non-climatic stressors, there still are regions largely free from direct human pressures such as runoff, pollution, and maritime traffic due to their geographic remoteness. This suggests that they are replicas of “pristine reefs”, that allow the investigation of relationships between reef communities and their environment. Objective: To evaluate the status of the coral formations of Bajo Nuevo, Seaflower Biosphere Reserve. Methods: The coral health and the relative cover of reef-building organisms and of their main competitors were evaluated. In every station (11), ten photo quadrants of 0.25 m2 were evaluated along a 10 m tape measure combined, along with ~3 min videos. Results: 32 coral species were recorded, 30 of them Scleractinia and two of hydrocorals, with the highest richness in the reef lagoon. In 2021, the reefs in Bajo Nuevo were dominated by non-reef-building organisms (61.7 ± 0.10 %), the building species represented only 23.9 ± 0.10 %; 3.2 ± 0.03 % was coral skeleton with recent and transitional death less than 15 days old. Signs of diseases affected three genera, 13 species and 23.5 % of the colonies evaluated, of which 84.9 % showed one of the four signs related to the stony coral tissue loss disease. Conclusions: With previous expeditions (2010-2011) as a reference, this reef complex registered in 2021 a drop in the cover of hard corals and calcareous algae, and coral richness; an increase in the cover of non-reef-building organisms, with a high prevalence of signs of unhealthiness associated with different coral diseases. This confirms that these reefs are in danger (EN), as suggested by the red list of marine and coastal ecosystems of Colombia.
subject: Aquatic ecology
  topic: section
subject: Stony corals
  topic: keywords
subject: diversity
  topic: keywords
subject: epizooties
  topic: keywords
subject: coral mortality
  topic: keywords
subject: atoll
  topic: keywords
creator: Martha Catalina Gómez Cubillos
creator: Carlos Andrés Daza Guerra
creator: Nelson Alejandro Lozano Mendoza
creator: Sven Zea
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-04-28
publication date: 2025-04-28
starting page: e57590
ending page: e57590
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.57590

Diversity and cultural value of the mastofauna associated with coffee plantations in Oaxaca, Mexico
type: item
description: Introduction: The expansion of conventional agriculture has caused the loss of natural habitats for the fauna, but the coffee agroecosystems of Oaxaca can provide an alternative habitat for mammals, which is associated with the cultural value that human communities assign to them. Objective: To assess the diversity and cultural value of medium and large mammals associated with the coffee plantation, and what they represent for the inhabitants of San Gabriel Mixtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico. Method: A mixed method was used. For the diversity analysis, the mammal species were identified through camera traps. To determine the Cultural Importance Index (IIC), semi-structured interviews and participatory workshops were carried out with the residents, who also helped to identify the different uses of the medium and large mammals. Results: A total of 26 species grouped into seven orders, 14 families, and 23 genera were recorded. Alpha diversity was greater in the dry season than in the wet season. Some species were detected in only one of the two seasons. Six hundred and thirty-nine records of cultural uses of mammals were obtained; use as food was the most mentioned. Twelve types of uses were identified. The species with the greatest cultural importance were Odocoileus virginianus (IIC = 0.92), with 11 uses, followed by Dasypus novemcinctus (IIC = 0.61), with 10 uses, Conepatus leuconotus (IIC = 0.60), with eight uses and Didelphis virginiana (IIC = 0.52), with 11 uses. Conclusion: The results show the importance that human residents assign to mammals associated with coffee agroecosystems, both for their use for subsistence and to complement the family economy. Furthermore, the residents themselves emphasize the importance of their traditional knowledge and the need to adopt sustainable management practices for the mastofauna, because they recognize the importance it has in the community and the benefits it can have on the environment.
subject: Vertebrate biology
  topic: section
subject: mammals; Cultural Importance Index (IIC); coffee; agroecology; biocultural
  topic: keywords
creator: Karina Madrid-Espinosa
creator: Remigio Anastacio Guzmán-Plazola
creator: Carlos García Estrada
creator: Dulce María Ávila-Nájera
creator: José Luis Pimentel Equihua
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-05-20
publication date: 2025-05-20
starting page: e57668
ending page: e57668
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.57668

Diversity and vertical distribution of epiphytic orchids and bromeliads in two contrasting forests from Northeast Andes of Colombia
type: item
description: Introduction: Functional traits analysis allows an understanding of the mechanisms that structure plant communities epiphytes. The distribution of taxonomic and functional epiphyte diversity along vertical gradients is a key tool to track epiphytes’ response to environmental changes, especially in biodiversity hotspots, where a high number of endemic species are threatened. Objective: To relate the taxonomic and functional epiphyte diversity and their vertical distribution with forest structural variables of the Montane and Dry Forest ecosystems in the Colombian Andes. Methods: Epiphyte diversity in each study site was recorded in 35 random phorophytes. Alpha and functional diversity were compared for five vertical strata of the canopy (Z1-Z5) and related to forest structural and floristics variables such as tree richness, tree density, diameter at breast height (DBH), canopy height, crown area, and canopy openness. Results: The Montane Forest presented a greater diversity of epiphytes, mainly orchids, with Stelis angustifolia as the dominant species. In contrast, the Dry Forest presented a greater Bromeliad abundance, and Tillandsia recurvata was dominant. Montane forest epiphytes were represented by three functional groups: tank-bromeliads, shallow tank-bromeliads, and ramicauls-orchids, while in the Dry Forest shallow tank-bromeliads and nebulophyte-bromeliads. Positive correlations were found between epiphyte richness, abundance, and diversity with variables related to phorophyte size (DBH and crown area) in montane forest. There was also a different tendency on the preference for some strata between Orchids (Z2-Z3) and Bromeliads (Z3-Z4). Conclusion: Differences were found in the taxonomic and functional diversity of epiphytes between the two forests, where orchids and bromeliads often coexist in similar environments but are distributed in different habitats, resulting from adaptation to specific environmental conditions, which allows them to coexist in differe…
subject: BOTANY AND MICOLOGY
  topic: section
subject: Andean forests; ecosystem functions; oak forest; phorophyte; Quercus humboldtii
  topic: keywords
creator: Diana P Joya
creator: Diego Suescún
creator: Sandra Y Espinosa
creator: Paula A Morales-Morales
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-04-25
publication date: 2025-04-25
starting page: e57994
ending page: e57994
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.57994

Density, size and composition of howler monkeys, Alouatta palliata (Atelidae) and white-faced monkeys, Cebus imitator (Cebidae) in dry forest and reduced canopy areas, Costa Rica
type: item
description: Introduction: The size, density, and composition of primate social groups are essential for understanding group dynamics and determining population management plans for primate conservation. Objective: To determine the size, density, and composition of howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata) and white-faced monkey (Cebus imitator) groups in dry forest environments and areas of reduced canopy in Palo Verde National Park, Costa Rica. Understanding how these species respond to different environments has important implications for conservation and reforestation efforts. Methods: Field sampling was carried out during February 2023 during the peak hours of primate activity (6:00-12:00 and 14:00-18:00). The individuals of both primate species were counted, recognizing the groups found in both types of environments (dry forest and reduced canopy areas). Results: Howler monkey group sizes were significantly larger in dry forests and at a higher percent of canopy cover. As for white-faced monkeys, a higher density was recorded in dry forests compared to the last census in 1987. Conclusion: Greater availability of resources (abundance of food and shelter sites) in closed environments favors the presence of a greater number of howler monkeys. Our analyses show that group size in this primate species depends on the type of environment. This study highlights the importance of long-term monitoring and studies of these parameters in wild primate groups.
subject: Terrestrial ecology
  topic: section
subject: conservation; management; primates, survey; Platyrrhini
  topic: keywords
creator: VICTORIA ANTONELLA MARTINEZ DE ZORZI
creator: Sebastián Tobar
creator: Francisco Albergoli
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-01-28
publication date: 2025-01-28
starting page: e58401
ending page: e58401
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.58401

Flora of high mountain tropical peatlands: threats and management measures, Talamanca Range, Costa Rica
type: item
description: Introduction: Tropical peatlands are highly fragile vegetal formations, especially vulnerable to anthropogenic impacts and changes in climatic conditions. Objective: To characterize the flora of the Talamanca peatlands, as well as identify their dynamics, threats, and impacts. Methods: The flora was analyzed in five peat bogs located in the Buenavista Massif, along the Inter-American Highway, at altitudes of 2 400 - 3 100 m, through field sampling. Subsequently, a Floristic Value Index (IVF) was designed to assess the state of conservation. Results: The floristic richness was determined in the peat bogs studied. A lower biological diversity was found in the three peatlands outside the state-protected natural spaces, suggesting the influence of the edge effect and agro-productive activities or their proximity to the Highway. In contrast, the Salsipuedes and Cerro Paramillo peatlands exhibited greater diversity, highlighting genera such as Blechnum, Puya, Chusquea, Myrsine and Vaccinium, in association with the bryophyte genus Sphagnum. A different floral composition was observed along the strip near the Inter-American Highway, characterized by species with lower water demand, especially genera such as Rubus and Pteridium, among others. Conclusion: From the identified floristic composition, the importance of peatlands as part of the mesoamerican hotspot ecosystems was determined, not only as repositories of biodiversity but also as sensitive indicators of human influence and environmental threats in the region associated with anthropic impact and climate change.
subject: Conservation
  topic: section
subject: high-altitude peatlands; biodiversity; anthropogenic impact; tropical paramo; Mesoamerican hotspot
  topic: keywords
creator: Frank González
creator: Yazmín León-Alfaro
creator: Nieves López-Estébanez
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-02-06
publication date: 2025-02-06
starting page: e58505
ending page: e58505
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.58505

Effects of human disturbance on medium and large mammals in primary and secondary tropical forests in Southern Mexico
type: item
description: Introduction: In tropical forests, populations of medium and large mammals are being impacted by human activities. Understanding how species respond to land use conversion, fragmentation, and the encroachment of roads density and settlements is of conservation interest in highly biodiverse regions. Objetive: To assess the effect of human disturbance and environmental variables on trophic guilds of medium and large mammals in the tropical forests of the Sierra Negra-Mazateca in Southern Mexico. Methods: We characterized the landscape (land use and vegetation, number of fragments, and edge density) through supervised classification of Landsat 8 images. We recorded species using camera-trap stations and evaluated the relationship between the presence and relative abundance of species with human disturbance variables using zero-inflated regression models. Results: The landscape of the Sierra Negra-Mazateca is dominated by fragments of secondary forests (48.6 %) with a small proportion of primary forests (9.6 %). We found no differences in the overall relative abundance of species between primary and secondary forests, but differences were observed for omnivore and carnivore guilds. Human disturbances had a disparate effect among guilds, negatively affecting carnivores and positively herbivores. Conclusions: Secondary forests are refuges for tolerant species. Nevertheless, we emphasize the need to conserve primary forests to safeguard medium and large mammals, especially the carnivore guild. Extensive management in secondary forests is recommended to conserve remaining primary forests, alongside community awareness and empowerment for coexistence with wildlife.
subject: Conservation
  topic: section
subject: carnivores; defaunation; human disturbance; landscape analyses; landsat; montane cloud forest; zero-inflated models
  topic: keywords
creator: Rosa Elena Galindo-Aguilar
creator: Mario C. Lavariega
creator: María Jesús Pérez Hernández
creator: Carlos A. López González
creator: Octavio Cesar Rosas-Rosas
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-04-29
publication date: 2025-04-29
starting page: e58524
ending page: e58524
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.58524

Growth, recruitment and life history parameters of fish in Andean reservoirs
type: item
description: Introduction: The formation of new anthromes such as reservoirs and dams to generate energy for human consumption, provides new environmental scenarios that condition the survival of the pre-existing fish species in the modified system. Objective: To estimate some of the main population attributes in relation to growth and recruitment discussed in the context of the life histories of the species analyzed for a high-Andean river system. Methods: Based on the historical sequence (2005-2017) for the seven species with the highest numerical record and frequency distributions, a typical population parameter estimation analysis was employed following the Growth Model proposed by von Bertalanffy (MCvB) and empirical equations to the respective complementary parameters. Results: A total of 28 651 frequency lengths were analyzed, finding that those species with rapid growth and lower longevity prefer artificial lacustrine environments, species with opportunistic life history strategies (Astyanax microlepis and Roeboides dayi) and with a bimodal recruitment pattern, while species with intermediate growth were seasonal (Brycon henni y Hemibrycon caucanus), registered in tributaries to the reservoir, and in equilibrium (Andinoacara latifrons, Chaetostoma thomsoni and Coptodon rendalli) mainly associated with rivers, reservoirs, and streams or transitional environments to reservoirs. Conclusion: The analysis of information on the population dynamics and live history of fish coexisting in a reservoir and its surrounding environments suggests a spatial segregation of fish species in response to a possible selection of their biological traits and other bioecological characteristics that sustain their local populations.
subject: Aquatic ecology
  topic: section
subject: life history; von Bertalanffy; Porce river; recruitment; ecological filter.
  topic: keywords
creator: Jorge Luis Escobar Cardona
creator: Luz Fernanda Jiménez Segura
creator: Andres Felipe Galeano Moreno
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-01-28
publication date: 2025-01-28
starting page: e57525
ending page: e57525
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.57525

Composition, structure and regeneration strategy of Campnosperma panamense (Anacardiaceae) swamp forests in Darien, Panama
type: item
description: Introduction: Orey swamp forests (Campnosperma panamense) are found on the Caribbean coast of Central America, from Nicaragua to Panama, and in the Pacific of Colombia to Northern Ecuador. In Panama, orey grows in monospecific stands or is the dominant species in inundated mixed forests, mainly along the coasts of Bocas del Toro province and Comarca Ngäbe-Buglé. The species was known to occur in Darien province, in the Pacific, although almost no information on its distribution and forest extension in the region existed. Objective: To describe the structure and floristics of orey forests in Darien, map their extension, and propose a model for their regeneration strategy. Methods: This work is part of a vegetation mapping project of the Matusagaratí complex of wetlands. It includes the use of drones, ground truthing, vegetation sampling through temporary plots, and general plant collecting. A supervised classification of a Landsat satellite image was performed to delimit the orey forest extension. To study the orey forest regeneration strategy, a digitalization of forest gaps in high resolution WorldView-2 and Planet Scope images over years was performed. Gap frequency and turnover time for forest stands were calculated. Results: Several monospecific orey mature forest patches were found in remote areas of the Matusagaratí complex of wetlands, for a total of 1 267 hectares. A description of the floristics and structure of orey forests in Darien is presented. A conceptual model of orey mature forest development and gap regeneration is proposed. Conclusions: Our knowledge of the floristic composition, structure and distribution of orey forests in the Republic of Panama has increased. For the first time, a model about their regeneration strategy is proposed. These forests seem to be evolving to different formations. Finally, some hypotheses are proposed about how they might respond to changing environmental conditions.
subject: Terrestrial ecology
  topic: section
subject: Matusagaratí; complex of wetlands; swamp forests; orey; Darien; regeneration strategy
  topic: keywords
creator: Alicia Ibáñez
creator: Alexis Baules
creator: María Alejandra Venegas
creator: Celibeth Sanchez
creator: Rodolfo Flores
creator: Indra Candanedo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-04-28
publication date: 2025-04-28
starting page: e58860
ending page: e58860
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.58860

Examining functional diversity in two plant communities under ecological restoration in Farallones de Cali, Colombia
type: item
description: Introduction: Functional diversity is crucial in understanding species performance and monitoring ecological restoration processes. In Valle del Cauca, Colombia, where only a small percentage of tropical dry forest remains, ongoing ecological restoration efforts are vital. However, monitoring of restoration efforts is typically not conducted. Objective: To compare the functional diversity of two plant communities, restored two and eight years ago, in the Loma Larga reserve, Colombia. Methods: We assessed nine functional traits in the five most significant species of each community. The analysis included contrast tests for functional trait differences, as well as functional diversity indices. Results: The 8-year community displayed greater values for maximum height, diameter at breast height, and specific leaf area. Conversely, the 2-year community exhibited higher leaf thickness. Moreover, the 8-year community presented the highest values in the functional indices: richness, evenness, divergence, dispersion, and specialization. Conclusions: Ecological restoration had a positive impact on plant communities, as evidenced by increased functional diversity and structural complexity in the 8-year community compared to the 2-year community. This suggests that ecological succession processes advance significantly over time, leading to more resilient and functionally diverse communities. The analysis of functional traits stands out as an effective tool for monitoring the success of restoration and guiding future efforts in critically threatened ecosystems such as tropical dry forests.
subject: Terrestrial ecology
  topic: section
subject: ecological succession
  topic: keywords
subject: functional ecology
  topic: keywords
subject: functional traits
  topic: keywords
subject: plant communities
  topic: keywords
subject: tropical dry forest
  topic: keywords
creator: Cristhian Ricardo Cardona Vaca
creator: Alba Marina Torres González
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-05-26
publication date: 2025-05-26
starting page: e59149
ending page: e59149
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.59149

The effect of macrophytes on the presence and population structure of the red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii (Decapoda: Cambaridae) in neotropical ecosystems
type: item
description: Introduction: The red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, is a crustacean species native to Mexico and the United States. It has been introduced around the world, often becoming established as an invasive exotic species. Since its introduction in 1985 in Colombia, no studies have been carried out to determine factors that influence the presence of the species in high mountain ecosystems. Objective: To evaluate the relationship over time between macrophytes and the different stages of development of P. clarkii in a tropical high Andean aquatic ecosystem. Methods: A new collection method called "macrophyte sweep" was standardized. This method ensured the collection of crayfish of all possible sizes, especially juveniles. Sampling was carried out bimonthly for seven months. The morphometry of P. clarkii was evaluated in three macrophytes: Juncus effusus, Ludwigia peruviana, and Polygonum punctatum. Results: A total of 778 individuals were collected, of which 365 were females, 344 males, and 69 sexually indeterminate. The total population density was 6.48 ind/m2. Most organisms were found on P. punctatum (71.9 %), followed by L. peruviana (17.7 %) and J. effusus (10.28 %). The largest and heaviest organisms were recorded in September in all three macrophytes, while the smallest were collected in July and May. P. clarkii exhibited a greater affinity for the macrophyte P. punctatum in its different developmental stages, possibly because it offers greater structural complexity in the submerged zone, providing shelter for juveniles and a food source for adults. Conclusions: Our results highlight that much of the colonization success of P. clarkii is due to the relationship between macrophytes and the development of different life stages in neotropical ecosystems.
subject: Aquatic ecology
  topic: section
subject: exotic species
  topic: keywords
subject: invasive
  topic: keywords
subject: aquatic plants
  topic: keywords
subject: juvenile
  topic: keywords
subject: size
  topic: keywords
subject: high Andean
  topic: keywords
creator: Isabella Gonzalez Gamboa
creator: Yimy Herrera Martinez
creator: Yesid de los Ángeles González-Ruiz
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-04-29
publication date: 2025-04-29
starting page: e59298
ending page: e59298
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.59298

The performance of mass testing strategies for COVID-19: a case study for Costa Rica
type: item
description: Introduction: In this article, we derive the behavior of four different mass testing strategies, grounded in guidelines and public health policies issued by the Costa Rican public healthcare system. Objective: To formally develop the changes of each studied mass testing strategy under different contexts related to people’s risk, costs of testing, and accessibility to alternative testing technologies. Methods: We take over a pre-classifier applied to individuals capable of partitioning suspected individuals into low-risk and high-risk groups. We consider the impact of three testing technologies: RT-qPCR, antigen-based testing, and saliva-based testing (RT-LAMP). When available, we introduced a category of essential workers. Results: Numerical simulation results confirm that strategies using only RT-qPCR tests cannot achieve sufficient stock capacity to provide efficient detection regardless of prevalence, sensitivity, or specificity. Strategies that harness the power of pooling and RT-LAMP either maximize stock capacity, detection efficiency, or both. Conclusions: Investing in data quality and classification accuracy can improve the odds of achieving pandemic control and mitigation. Future work will be focused on, based on our findings, constructing representative synthetic data through agent-based modeling and studying the properties of specific pre-classifiers under various scenarios.
subject: Biomedicine
  topic: section
subject: mass testing; COVID-19 Costa Rica; RT-qPCR; antigen test; RT-LAMP; pooling; detection strategies
  topic: keywords
creator: Maikol Solís
creator: Carlos Pasquier-Jaramillo
creator: Santiago Núñez-Corrales
creator: Germán Madrigal-Redondo
creator: Andrés Gatica-Arias
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-03-20
publication date: 2025-03-20
starting page: e57971
ending page: e57971
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.57971

Demographic variations of the spotted snapper Lutjanus guttatus (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica suggest the existence of two population units
type: item
description: Introduction: The spotted rose snapper Lutjanus guttatus is one of the commercially most important fish species in tropical and subtropical areas of the Eastern Tropical Pacific. In Costa Rica, L. guttatus is one of the main target species of the artisanal fishery; traditionally, its management has considered a single population that extends along the entire coastal zone. However, there is no evidence that there is only one population unit, which could affect the effective management of this valuable resource. Objective: Determine the population structure of L. guttatus caught on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica through demographic parameters. Methods: A total of 428 specimens, collected in different zones along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica were analyzed, including 190 males and 238 females. The size structure, total length-weight relationship, maturity stages, mean size at sexual maturity, age and growth were estimated, differentiating between the Northern, central, and Southern Pacific of Costa Rica. Results: Demographic variations were observed in size structure, total length-weight relationship, the average size of sexual maturity, and growth rates among the organisms caught in the three sampling regions. Conclusion: The demographic variations of L. guttatus in the different capture areas suggest the probable existence of two separate population units; the first corresponds to the Northern Pacific, and the second includes the central and Southern Pacific areas. The above has important implications for the management of the resource.
subject: Aquatic ecology
  topic: section
subject: Lutjanidae
  topic: keywords
subject: demographic parameters
  topic: keywords
subject: fish stock
  topic: keywords
subject: Eastern Tropical Pacific
  topic: keywords
subject: Central América
  topic: keywords
creator: Beatriz Farías-Tafolla
creator: Alfonsina E. Romo-Curiel
creator: Mario Espinoza
creator: Ingo S. Wehrtmann
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-02-12
publication date: 2025-02-12
starting page: e59497
ending page: e59497
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.59497

Motile macroinvertebrates and fishes sheltering in burrows with and without the Indo-Pacific Rock-boring Urchin Echinometra mathaei (Camarodonta: Echinometridae), at Mana Island, Fiji
type: item
description: Introduction: Sea urchins of the genus Echinometra are ecosystem engineers that burrow into lower intertidal and subtidal rocks, creating shelter for themselves and a variety of marine animals. Objective: To test the hypothesis that motile macroinvertebrates and fishes shelter proportionately more frequently in burrows with Echinometra mathaei, whose spines potentially offer additional protection, than in burrows without E. mathaei. Methods: We studied the motile macroinvertebrates and fishes sheltering in the burrows of the Indo-Pacific Rock-boring Urchin E. mathaei (Type C) at Mana Island, Fiji. Results: Burrows with E. mathaei averaged shorter in length than burrows without E. mathaei. We observed 42 motile macroinvertebrates of at least eight species and 49 fishes of at least eight species in burrows with E. mathaei (n = 1 127), and four motile macroinvertebrates of three species and one fish of one species in burrows lacking E. mathaei (n = 243). Motile macroinvertebrates occurred with statistically equal frequencies in burrows with E. mathaei (3.6 %) and in burrows without E. mathaei (2.5 %). Fishes occurred significantly more frequently in burrows with E. mathaei (4.3 %) than in burrows without E. mathaei (0.4 %). Conclusion: Fishes, but not motile macroinvertebrates, gain more protection from predators by sheltering in burrows with sea urchins, whose spines offer additional protection, than in burrows without sea urchins.
subject: Aquatic ecology
  topic: section
subject: coastal ecosystems
  topic: keywords
subject: community ecology
  topic: keywords
subject: defensive behavior
  topic: keywords
subject: ecosystem engineers
  topic: keywords
subject: Pacific Ocean
  topic: keywords
creator: Floyd Hayes
creator: Antonio I. Robles
creator: John C. Duncan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-02-13
publication date: 2025-02-13
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.59627

Structure of fish communities in relation to habitat in Matusagaratí Lagoon, Darién, Panama
type: item
description: Introduction: Matusagaratí lagoon is an ecosystem with diverse habitats and environmental conditions that determine the diversity and distribution of aquatic life. Despite hydraulic connectivity, aquatic habitats generated by this diversity of environmental conditions could determine the composition and structure of fish assemblages. Objective: To understand the structure of fish community in three of these habitats. Methods: Multi-habitat sampling was conducted between March 2022 and September 2023, covering periods of drought and flooding, at 29 sites using different fishing techniques. Results: 1 913 fish from 50 species and 27 families were collected in approximately 320 km2. Three fish assemblages were identified, each associated with a specific habitat. The river corridor of the Tuira River had the greatest diversity, followed by the tidal streams and lagoons. Conclusions: The analysis revealed notable differences between these habitats, with the river corridor dominated by peripheral species, while lagoons showed low diversity with generalized or hypoxia-adapted species. The presence of species such as Hoplosternum punctatum, Ageneiosus pardalis and Pimelodus punctatus in the wetland evidences the influence of the Choco region on Panama´s ichthyofauna. These findings could have important implications for the formulation of wetland conservation strategies.
subject: Aquatic ecology
  topic: section
subject: freshwater fishes; peripheral fishes; Tuira river; Darien province
  topic: keywords
creator: Samuel Valdés-Díaz
creator: Humberto Arturo Garcés Botacio
creator: Francisco Barahona
creator: Indra Candanedo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-01-21
publication date: 2025-01-21
starting page: e59629
ending page: e59629
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.59629

Protozoos and metazoos present in two wastewater treatment systems and their relationship with the Sludge Biotic Index
type: item
description: Introduction: Sludge Biotic Index (SBI) is one of the most used indices for the characterization of the community of microorganisms present in the activated sludge of wastewater treatment systems. However, this index takes into consideration only the density of the predominant functional groups of protozoa that inhabit this sludge. Objective: To evaluate whether the SBI value can be directly related to the number of protozoos and metazoos species found in the activated sludge of two wastewater treatment systems. Methods: This study was carried out on the wastewater generated by the San Vicente de Paul Hospital in Heredia Province, Costa Rica, during the months of February, March, and April 2022. Physicochemical, environmental, operational, and biological parameters were analyzed in a total of 36 samples from a Conventional activated sludge wastewater treatment system and from a Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) (n = 18 for each treatment system). Results: All the parameters evaluated are related to the abundance of microorganisms in the samples analyzed. The SBI value had an important effect on the number of organisms and can be related to the performance of the treatment system in terms of the percentage of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) removal, especially for the MBR system. Conclusions: The SBI can be improved so its calculation not only considers functional groups but also includes genus and species of protozoos and metazoos present in the activated sludge. Which in turn would refine its bioindication potential by being more specific in terms of abundance, behavior and specific requirements of each species.
subject: Aquatic ecology
  topic: section
subject: flocs; activated sludge; ciliates; amoebas; rotifers; nematodes
  topic: keywords
creator: Margarita Loría-Naranjo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Revista de Biología Tropical http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-02-04
publication date: 2025-02-04
doi: 10.15517/rev.biol.trop..v73i1.59675