Inga Laurina Research Articles

The genome sequence of Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd.

We present a genome assembly from an individual of Inga laurina (Streptophyta; Magnoliopsida; Fabales; Fabaceae). The genome sequence has a total length of 899.60 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 13 chromosomal pseudomolecules, supporting the individual being an autotetraploid with 2 n=4 x=52. The mitochondrial and plastid genome assemblies have lengths of 1,261.88 kilobases and 176.27 kilobases, respectively. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 33,101 protein-coding genes.

CuO nanoparticles' effect on the photosynthetic performance in seed tissues of Inga laurina (Fabaceae).

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) have been produced on a large scale because they can be applied across various fields, especially in nano-enabled healthcare and agricultural products. However, the increasing use of CuONPs leads to their release and accumulation into the environment. The CuONPs uptaken by seeds and their implications on germination behavior have been reported, but little is known or understood about their impact on photosynthesis in seed tissues. To fill knowledge gaps, this study evaluated the effects of CuONP concentrations (0-300mg L-1) on the photosynthetic activity of Inga laurina seeds. The microscopy data showed that CuONPs had an average size distribution of 57.5 ± 0.7nm. Copper ion release and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by CuONPs were also evaluated by dialysis and spectroscopy experiments, respectively. CuONPs were not able to intrinsically generate ROS and released a low content of Cu2⁺ ions (4.5%, w/w). Time evolution of chlorophyll fluorescence imaging and laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy were used to monitor the seeds subjected to nanoparticles during 168h. The data demonstrate that CuONPs affected the steady-state maximum chlorophyll fluorescence ( ), the photochemical efficiency of photosystem II ( ), and non-photochemical quenching ( ) of Inga laurina seeds over time. Besides, the significantly increased at the seed development stage, near the root protrusion stage, probably due to energy dissipation at this germination step. Additionally, the results indicated that CuONPs can change the oscillatory rhythms of energy dissipation of the seeds, disturbing the circadian clock. In conclusion, the results indicate that CuONPs can affect the photosynthetic behavior of I. laurina seeds. These findings open opportunities for using chlorophyll fluorescence as a non-destructive tool to evaluate nanoparticle impact on photosynthetic activity in seed tissues.

Facilitation and allelopathy mediate phylogenetic and functional diversity under Atlantic Rainforest trees

Plant phylogeny, diversity, and production of germination inhibiting chemicals can be used as patterns for inferring key drivers of plant community construction and assembly. We conducted the study in a restoration area of Atlantic Rainforest from Southeast Brazil. In this context, we aimed to investigate community assembly rules by simultaneously evaluating the relationships of species with a phylogenetic, functional, and ecophysiological (allelopathy) approach and multifaceted β diversity (taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional). We measured the plant canopy height and diameter at soil height for all individuals and determined successional group and dispersal syndrome for all species regenerating in open areas and below 18 adult individuals of each tree species Bixa atlantica Antar & Sano, Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd., Joannesia princeps Vell. and Senna multijuga subsp. multijuga var. verrucosa (Vogel) H.S.Irwin & Barneby. Phylogenetic and functional indexes of community structure were calculated with the net relatedness index and the nearest taxon index. Taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversities (respectively, TD, PD, and FD) for the regenerating community in each area were calculated and pairwise comparisons were made for TD, FD, and PD components of β diversity. Tests of tree species allelopathy derived from leaf extract were performed with seeds of Lactuca sativa L. (Asteraceae). The effects of diversity and extracts on seed germination were analyzed using generalized linear models. The phylogenetic and functional structure of the regenerating communities under the four tree species did not differ from random for the four studied tree species. The PD was significantly higher for the communities that regenerated under Joannesia, while the FD was higher under both Joannesia and Senna, compared to communities from open sites, evidencing a facilitation mechanism for these two species. Only Senna and Inga differed from random in relation to β TD and β FD, suggesting possible environmental changes in these areas. Seeds irrigated with the extracts of Inga, Joannesia, and Senna inhibited germination in an intermediate way, whereas seeds irrigated with Bixa extract had only 1 % germination, indicating allelopathic effects. In this way, the planted species directly influence the organization of communities that regenerate below their canopies. It is therefore important to choose species that can contribute to improving diversity, and thus favor the success of restoration projects.

A potent candicidal peptide designed based on an encrypted peptide from a proteinase inhibitor

Antimicrobial peptides (AMP) represent an alternative in the treatment of fungal infections associated with countless deaths. Here, we report a new AMP, named KWI-19, which was designed based on a peptide encrypted in the sequence of an Inga laurina Kunitz-type inhibitor (ILTI). KWI-19 inhibited the growth of Candida species and acted as a fungicidal agent from 2.5 to 20 μmol L−1, also showing synergistic activity with amphotericin B. Kinetic assays showed that KWI-19 killed Candida tropicalis cells within 60 min. We also report the membrane-associated mechanisms of action of KWI-19 and its interaction with ergosterol. KWI-19 was also characterized as a potent antibiofilm peptide, with activity against C. tropicalis. Finally, non-toxicity was reported against Galleria mellonella larvae, thus strengthening the interest in all the bioactivities mentioned above. This study extends our knowledge on how AMPs can be engineered from peptides encrypted in larger proteins and their potential as candicidal agents.

Nutritional, chemical and functional potential of Inga laurina (Fabaceae): A barely used edible species

Inga laurina is a plant species which produces edible fruits, and until now there is little information available concerning its nutritional, chemical and bioactive composition. In this study, we evaluated for the first time the proximate composition and mineral contents in its fruit (peel, pulp and seed), that is the traditionally consumed part. The seeds obtained the highest protein (19.52 g/100 g), carbohydrate (22.5 g/100 g) and mineral contents, mainly Cu, Cr, P, Mn, Se and Zn. The peel and pulp were excellent sources of fiber (4.5 and 11.05 g/100 g) as well as mineral content, with Cr and Cu standing out in the pulp. This study is notably the first to provide a detailed assessment of the nutritional compositions of traditionally consumed and not consumed parts of this fruit. Sensory analysis of the pulp was also performed, which indicated good acceptance. The antioxidant properties were characterized in the fruit, peels and leaves. The ABTS test showed that leaf supernatant hydroethanolic crude extract (EC50 = 2.70 μg/mL) and its corresponding ethyl acetate (EC50 = 1.68 µg/mL) and butanol (EC50 = 2.48 µg/mL) partitions presented higher antioxidant potential compared to the control Ginkgo biloba (EC50 = 12.17 µg/mL). The most active precipitate extract regarding DPPH was from the peel (EC50 = 13.30 μg /mL) and the most active partition was the ethyl acetate (EC50 = 13.37 μg/mL), both with better activity compared to the control Ginkgo biloba (EC50 = 46.97 μg/mL). The ethyl acetate partition (EC50 = 13.45 μg/mL) and butanol partition (EC50 = 7.97 μg/mL) from the leaves showed the highest antioxidant capacity. Thus, extracts and partitions from the peels and leaves were studied from a phytochemical point of view due to presenting the best results for antioxidant capacity. The presence of phenolic compounds such as myricetin-3-O-rhamnopyranoside, myricetin-3-O-(2″-O-galloyl)-rhamnopyranoside and myricetin-3-O-(2″,4″-di-O-galloyl)-arabinopentoside-methyl ether were observed in the leaf crude extract and polar partitions, being reported for the first time in the Inga genus and Fabaceae family. Moreover, quercetin, quercetin-3-O-galatoctoside, quercetin-3-O-rhamnopyranoside, quercetin-3-O-(2″-O-galloyl)-rhamnoside, and quercetin tri-hexose were identified in the peel crude extract and ethyl acetate partition, in which the galloyl derivative of quercetin was identified for the first time in I. laurina fruit peels. GC–MS enabled separating and identifying substances such as palmitic and stearic acids, and ethyl oleate. It is possible to conclude that I. laurina pulp can be a supplementary food as a source of phenolic compounds, and the other organs of the plant (leaves and peel) are rich in flavonoids with great antioxidant capacity, making this species a promising source of antioxidants.

ENSAMBLE ARBÓREO ASOCIADO A UN SISTEMA AGROFORESTAL DE Coffea arabica L. EN SILTEPEC, CHIAPAS, MÉXICO

<p><strong>Background: </strong>The production of <em>Coffea arabica</em> L. in most of the world is carried out under agroforestry systems, whose associated tree assembly provides microclimatic conditions and other benefits such as product diversification, biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, increased soil fertility, and pest and disease control. Objective: to characterize the tree component and its classification by use and value in a shade-grown coffee agroforestry system in Siltepec, Chiapas. <strong>Methodology:</strong> Five clusters were established, each with three randomly distributed sampling units, with a total of 15 sampling units with an area of 400 m<sup>2</sup>. An inventory of the trees was carried out, classifying the associated species. Structural parameters (height, normal diameter, densities, basal area) and importance value index were estimated. <strong>Results:</strong> 30 tree species representing 19 botanical families were found; the Fabaceae <em>Inga flexuosa</em>, <em>Inga laurina, Inga paterno, Dyphisa americana</em> were the most important. The height of the tree component reached 27 m, with a more significant number of trees for class 2 at 7 m (1743 ind. ha<sup>-1</sup> [78.73%]). The diameter class from 2.5 to 10 cm (532 trees) had the highest number of individuals. The average density corresponds to 1155 ind. ha<sup>-1</sup>, <em>Inga flexuosa </em>(chalum) the tree species with the most significant presence (510 ind. ha<sup>-1</sup>) with an importance value of 60.13%. The basal area obtained corresponds to 119.5 m<sup>2</sup> ha<sup>-1</sup>, <em>Inga laurina</em> (caspirol) has the most significant spatial distribution (54.02 m<sup>2</sup> ha<sup>-1</sup>). Implications: The study allows dimensioning of the importance of tree associations that occur within an agroforestry system of <em>Coffea arabica</em> L. in soh a way that those parameters and the composition of species can be determinants of the productive capacity of each plot. The study considers the benefits of the tree component in coffee production and contributing goods and services that give greater sustainability to the agroecosystem. Conclusions: There was a high tree density, with the Fabaceae family and particularly the Inga genus being the most important in the studied area, which allows excellent benefits such as the contribution of Nitrogen, nutrient recycling, soil fertility and decreased erosion in the coffee plantations</p>

Seedling growth declines in warmed tropical forest soils

AbstractThe response of plants to a warming climate could have a large feedback on further climatic change. This feedback is especially important for tropical forests, where the global peak in plant productivity and biodiversity occurs. Here we test the response of tropical forest tree seedling growth, photosynthesis and herbivory to 3 years of in situ full‐soil profile warming. We studied six species, three of which are known nitrogen‐fixers and we hypothesized that the warming response of growth will be mediated by nutrient availability to plants. Across species, growth was significantly lower in warmed soil compared to soil at ambient temperature, and the same pattern was observed for light‐saturated photosynthesis, pointing toward a growth decline associated with decreased C fixation. Within species, the relative growth decline was significant for two species,Inga laurinaandTachigali versicolor, both of which are N‐fixers. Together our results suggest a growth decline may have resulted from a negative effect of warming on N‐fixation, rather than via changes in nutrient mineralization from soil organic matter, which was unchanged for N and increased for P during the dry‐to‐wet season transition. Overall, our study demonstrates that belowground warming causes species‐specific declines in the growth and photosynthesis of seedlings, with a suggestion—requiring further investigation—that this growth decline is larger in N‐fixing species.Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.

Antifungal Activity of Crude Extract from the Seeds of Inga laurina (Fabaceae)

Antifungal Activity of Crude Extract from the Seeds of Inga laurina (Fabaceae)

Soil flooding and its outcome on cadmium and nutrient uptake affect photosynthetic activity in Inga laurina plants.

Urban areas next to mangroves are subject to progressive heavy metal contamination. Treelets of Inga laurina were collected in this ecosystem and cultivated for 30 days in waterlogged conditions and closed pots (WC) and at field capacity (FC), while exposed to different Cd concentrations (0, 50 and 100 mg·kg-1). Soil water conditions did not affect total Cd in plants, with Cd accumulating in roots and WC inducing less leaf chlorophyll while increasing carotenoids and chlorophyll ratio. Higher net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, and Ci/Ca ratio were observed under the highest Cd concentration and WC, while being conservative in water consumption as shown by the reduction in both water use efficiencies. Nutritional uptake behaved differently for each element, with N, Mg and Ca not being affected by Cd under WC but K increasing with Cd. At FC, plants showed higher values than WC, with the highest Cd concentration at FC showing the highest values overall. Nutrient allocation in organs was affected by WC in N, Mg, K, P and Ca but only P by Cd, with WC reducing nutrients overall and N, Mg and Ca behaving the same in both soil conditions while K was lowered in leaves and increased in roots under WC. P allocation under WC was not hindered by Cd even showing higher values in it than FC in some treatments. Altogether, results indicate that I. laurina can be considered a Cd-tolerant species, especially in WC and it presents a potential to be used as a phytoremediator plant.

Effect of ants on herbivory levels ofInga laurina: the interplay between space and time in an urban area

AbstractExtrafloral nectary plants not only occur in natural areas but also in urban parks. These areas are prone to edge effects, and plants face different microenvironmental conditions. We investigated the spatial variation of ant–plant interactions in an urban park, and we examined if plants with ants would show lower herbivory levels and if it depended on habitat type (interior or edges). Seedlings ofInga laurinawere set in 200-m long transects (which covered both the west and east edges, and the interior) in an urban park and then experimentally assigned to be either ant-present or ant-excluded plants. Leaf herbivory was investigated throughout the wet season and was influenced by the interaction effect between ants and habitat type. Ants decreased the herbivory on the west edge, but on the east edge results were the opposite. The east edge had higher temperature and sunlight exposure in comparison to the other sites and was assumed to disrupt the stability of ant–plant interactions. In the interior of the fragment, herbivory depended on ant presence/absence and on the location of plants along the transect. Our study highlights how the outcomes of ant–plant interactions are spatially conditioned and affected by different types of habitats.

Photosynthesis and Leaf Traits of Tree Species Influenced by Green Manure Associated with Soil Treatments

ABSTRACT The use of green manure (GM) associated with soil decompaction treatments has shown to be an alternative to improve soil attributes. This study associated the use of GM with tree species nitrogen-fixing and non-nitrogen-fixing (N-fixing and non-N-fixing, respectively), hypothesizing that non-N-fixing species are more beneficial by GM. The experiment was carried out in a disabled clay extraction deposit. Previously, chemical analysis and mechanical resistance to soil penetration was registered in order to characterize the initial soil properties of the experimental site. The soil treatments were scarification (SCA), scarification + harrowing (SCAH), and subsoiling + harrowing (SUBH) with presence/absence of GM (+GM and -GM, respectively) and four native tree species, N-fixing (Dalbergia ecastophyllum (L.) Taub., Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd., and non-N-fixing (Psidium cattleianum Sabine and Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi), were planted. Growth and leaf traits were measured after 6 and 12 months. The response patterns of leaf attributes were well defined in the non-N-fixing species. Over time, GM increases the level of chlorophyll (Chl) in N-fixing species and, consequently, improves the maximum quantum yield for photosystem II (PSII) primary photochemistry (φPo), quantum yield for PSII electron transport (φEo), the number of active reaction centers (RC/CSo), and the performance index (PI/abs). GM increased these same photochemical parameters in non-N-fixing species after 12 months. The samples cultivated in the SCA and SUBH treatments showed a better performance. The species responded in different ways to GM, which improved the leaf traits in non-N-fixing species. GM improved the leaf traits of N-fixing species. The positive effect of GM over time give us a good alternative for fertilization in revegetation areas. Furthermore, our findings shown that the subsoiling promotes the highest soil decompaction, which associated with GM, can be efficiently used in projects of revegetation of degraded areas.

Water and Nutritional Management on the Growthand Chlorophyll a Fluorescence of Plants Used in the Revegetation of Remaining Sand and Clay Extraction Areas

The processes of using the environment and natural resources are increasingly necessary and present in human society. These processes can result in environmental degradation. A recovery strategy for an area that has undergone environmental degradation is revegetation. For the successful establishment of a plant species, the environment must have adequate water and nutritional conditions. The objective of this work was to study the effect of water and nutritional management on the survival, growth, and morphophysiological conditions of plants used in the revegetation of remaining sand and clay extraction areas. The experiment was carried out in a sand loan extraction loan area and a clay loan extraction loan area, both in the coastal region of the municipality of São Mateus, Espírito Santo, Brazil. The experimental design was a randomized block with three replications in a split-plot scheme, using methods of water management in the plots and doses of fertilization (0.000 kg, 0.072 kg, 0.144 kg, 0.288 kg and 0.576 kg) in the pits in the subplots. In both areas, five different species of native plants were used: Aroeira (Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi), Cajá Mirim (Spondias mombin L.), Goiaba do Ipiranga (Psidium cattleianum Sabine), Ingá Mirim (Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd.) and Murta de Restinga (Mouriri guianensis Aubl.). The plants used in the experiment were evaluated for growth, survival, leaf attributes, and chlorophyll a fluorescence. The water management method and the fertilization of the pit had a significant effect on the development of the species evaluated in both areas, acting on the survival rate, growth, morphology and physiology of the plants.

Evaluation of the cell cycle behavior of Allium cepa L. using the cytotoxic, genotoxic and antiproliferative potential of infusions of the dried leaves of four species of the genus Inga Mill (Fabaceae) / Avaliação do comportamento do ciclo celular de Allium cepa L. mediante o potencial citotóxico, genotóxico e antiproliferativo de infusões das folhas secas de quatro espécies do gênero

The genus Inga presents a great diversity of species in the Amazon Rainforest. The present study aimed to evaluate the cell cycle behavior of Allium cepa L. through the cytotoxic, genotoxic and antiproliferative potential of infusions of the leaves of Inga edulis, Inga pilosula, Inga laurina and Inga macrophylla. For laboratory analysis, four species of the genus Inga were used. The test organism used was A. cepa. The infusions were obtained from the dried leaves of I. edulis, I. pilosula, I. laurina and I. macrophylla collected in the annual period of drought and rain. According to the analysis of the cells of A. cepa, using the direct method for the two periods, exposed under the infusions (1 g, 1.5 g, 2 g) of the dried leaves of Inga edulis, Inga pilosula, Inga laurina and Inga macrophylla, considerable statistical differences were observed. The species I. edulis, I. laurina and I. macrophylla showed the highest rates of cell division. For the percentage of interphase, the direct method was able to show the highest percentages of interphase cells. These data, when compared with negative and positive controls, indicated a statistical difference between treatments. This study showed that the four species showed genotoxic and cytotoxic effects on the roots of A. cepa.

Evaluation of the cell cycle behavior of Allium cepa L. using the cytotoxic, genotoxic and antiproliferative potential of infusions of the dried leaves of four species of the genus Inga Mill (Fabaceae) / Avaliação do comportamento do ciclo celular de Allium cepa L. usando o potencial citotóxico, genotóxico e antiproliferativo das infusões das folhas secas de quatro espécies do género

The genus Inga presents a great diversity of species in the Amazon Rainforest. The present study aimed to evaluate the cell cycle behavior of Allium cepa L. through the cytotoxic, genotoxic and antiproliferative potential of infusions of the leaves of Inga edulis, Inga pilosula, Inga laurina and Inga macrophylla. For laboratory analysis, four species of the genus Inga were used. The test organism used was A. cepa. The infusions were obtained from the dried leaves of I. edulis, I. pilosula, I. laurina and I. macrophylla collected in the annual period of drought and rain. According to the analysis of the cells of A. cepa, using the direct method for the two periods, exposed under the infusions (1 g, 1.5 g, 2 g) of the dried leaves of Inga edulis, Inga pilosula, Inga laurina and Inga macrophylla, considerable statistical differences were observed. The species I. edulis, I. laurina and I. macrophylla showed the highest rates of cell division. For the percentage of interphase, the direct method was able to show the highest percentages of interphase cells. These data, when compared with negative and positive controls, indicated a statistical difference between treatments. This study showed that the four species showed genotoxic and cytotoxic effects on the roots of A. cepa.

Tritrophic relations and spatial distribution of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) in the Cerrado and Caatinga regions in Piauí, Brazil

Knowledge about the spatial distribution of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) and tritrophic interactions (fruit-fruit fly parasitoid) contributes to the monitoring and maintenance of the numerical density at a level lower than economic damage. The purpose of this study was to identify the spatial distribution and associations of fruit flies with their parasitoids and host plants in the municipality of Bom Jesus-PI. The flies were obtained from fruit collection from July 2018 to May 2019. A total of 1,711 individuals were obtained, represented by six species: Anastrepha obliqua (Macquart, 1835), An. fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830), An. alveata Stone, 1942, An. sororcula Zucchi, 1979, An. zenildae Zucchi, 1979 and Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824). Anastrepha obliqua was the species with the widest distribution throughout the ecotone area. Ceratitis capitata is distributed only in the urban perimeter. A tritrophic relationship occurred between four species of parasitoids, Asobara anastrephae (Muesebeck, 1958) or Opius sp. associated with An. obliqua in Spondias mombin or S. tuberosa fruits. Opius sp. has also been associated with An. alveata in Ximenia americana. Pachycrepoideus vindemiae was obtained from C. capitata in Malpighia emarginata, in addition to An. obliqua in Averrhoa carambola. Therefore, fruit flies are associated with native fruit trees (S. tuberosa, S. mombin, S. purpurea, P. acutangulum, Inga laurina, X. americana) and exotic fruits (M. emarginata, A. carambola, P. guajava). Ceratitis capitata was recorded for the first time in the state of Piauí infesting I. laurina (Sw.) Willd. This is the first record of the parasitoid genus Spalangia. in An. obliqua in Piauí and in the semiarid region of Brazil.

Auchmerina (Hemiptera: Psylloidea), a psyllid genus in Brazil, associated with Inga spp. (Fabaceae)

Distributional records in Brazil are provided for two psyllid species, Auchmerina limbatipennis Enderlein, documented for the states of Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, Santa Catarina and São Paulo, and A. tuthilli Klimaszewski, for Paraná and Santa Catarina. Host plants for these species are reported for the first time. A. limbatipennis develops on Inga laurina and I. marginata (Fabaceae), and it displays a dimorphism (presence or absence of a distal dark band on the forewing), that is not sexual nor seasonal. A.tuthilli probably develops on Inga spp. As well. For the first time, the immatures of Auchmerina are described.

Survival, seedlings growth and natural regeneration in areas under ecological restoration in a sandy coastal plain (restinga) of southeastern Brazil

AbstractRestinga is an ecosystem associated mainly with the Atlantic Forest that can be defined as vegetation of the coastal plain established on sandy soil. This study was carried out in degraded areas of restinga in a Conservation Unit in São João da Barra, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In 2012, a restoration project was initiated in the area, with implementation of plantings in hexagonal rings and artificial perches. Seedlings were planted in two contrasting situations: sandbanks (dry areas) and depression zones (areas prone to seasonal flooding). The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of seedlings planted in both areas and accompany natural regeneration. We hypothesised that species planted and recruited in depressions should have better survival rates and increments in height (H) and diameter at the ground level (DGL) than the ones planted in sandbanks. Monitoring of planted seedlings was carried out in November 2016. Both communities had similar mortality (c. 50%). Greater increments in H were found for Inga laurina and Schinus terebinthifolia in depressions. Higher increments in DGL were observed especially for I. laurina, Inga vera and S. terebinthifolia with good performance in both areas. In general, seedlings planted in depressions showed greater performances, which can be related to higher water and nutrient availability. The most abundant natural regenerant species were Scoparia dulcis in sandbanks and S. terebinthifolia in depressions. A high number of regenerants was found associated with artificial perches, especially Cynophalla flexuosa, which demonstrates that the technique facilitated regeneration in the area.

Nutrient enrichment does not affect diet selection by a tropical shredder species in a mesocosm experiment

The decomposition of plant litter is a fundamental ecological process in small forest streams. Litter decomposition is mostly controlled by litter characteristics and environmental conditions, with shredders playing a critical role. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of leaf species (Maprounea guianensis and Inga laurina, which have contrasting physical and chemical characteristics) and water nutrient enrichment (three levels) on leaf litter chemical characteristics and fungal biomass, and subsequent litter preference and consumption by Phylloicus sp. (a typical shredder in tropical streams). Maprounea guianensis leaves had lower lignin and nitrogen (N) concentrations, higher polyphenols concentration and lower lignin:N ratio than I. laurina leaves. Phosphorus concentrations were higher for both leaf species incubated at the highest water nutrient level. Fungal biomass was higher on M. guianensis than on I. laurina leaves, but it did not differ among nutrient levels. Relative consumption rates were higher when shredders fed on M. guianensis than on I. laurina leaves, due to the lower lignin:N ratio and higher fungal biomass of M. guianensis. Consumption rates on M. guianensis leaves were higher for those exposed to low water nutrient levels than for those exposed to moderate water nutrient levels. Feeding preferences by shredders were not affected by leaf species or nutrient level. The low carbon quality on I. laurina leaves makes it a less attractive substrate for microbial decomposers and a less palatable resource for shredders. Changes in litter input characteristics may be more important than short-term nutrient enrichment of stream water on shredder performance and ecosystem functioning.

Hydro-conditioning and seed partitioning for Inga laurina (SW.) Willd Propagation

The Inga laurina (Sw.) Willd species comes from tropical and subtropical regions, in several phytogeographic areas of distribution, including Brazil. It belongs to the leguminous family, present in riparian forests and used in urban afforestation, it provides shading and a pleasant microclimate, ornamental value, in addition to the fruit being consumed by man and birds. Species of this genus have compounds that are used in popular medicine. The propagation method is still by seeds, making it difficult to obtain the seedling, as they present recalcitrance, impairing its storage viability. The objective of this work was to verify the possibility of I. laurina seeds partitioning for the species propagation, and the storage viability, if previously subjected to hydro-conditioning. A completely randomized design was adopted, in a 2 x 4 factorial (Lot x storage time), with four replications of 50 seeds per experimental unit. The treatments were formed by the lots of whole and partitioned seeds, plus the hydro-conditioning application in the stored period. After the treatment’s application, sowing was done in tubes, being kept in a 120-day evaluation period. After this period, emergence, emergence speed index, average emergence time, air length and roots (cm), the aerial part and roots dry biomass (g), number of roots, leaves and stems (g) were evaluated. Seed partitioning was not proved to be advantageous. The seed partitioning technique was not proved to be advantageous. The hydro-conditioning adoption during storage allowed the seeds to remain viable and with the desired vigor.

Adsorption and mass transfer studies of methylene blue onto comminuted seedpods from Luehea divaricata and Inga laurina.

In this work, comminuted seedpods of the forest species Luehea divaricata (LDPR) and Inga laurina (ILPR) were used as alternative and environmental-friendly adsorbents for the methylene blue (MB) removal from aqueous solutions. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out at the native pH of the solution (pH = 8.7), with curves of removal and adsorption capacity crossed at 0.75gL-1, having 125mgg-1 for LDPR and 115mgg-1 for ILPR. The kinetic models of pseudo-first-order (PFO) and HSDM-Crank were the most adequate to represent MB dye concentration decay data for both biosorbents. The equilibrium curves were better adjusted by the Langmuir model for both adsorbents, with maximum adsorption capacity increased from 279 to 325mgg-1 for LDPR, and 199 to 233mgg-1 for ILPR, as a function of an increase in temperature from 298 to 328K. The thermodynamic parameters showed that both systems are spontaneous with a dominance of physisorption. Mass transfer analysis indicates that the external mass transfer is the limiting step, with Bi < 0.5. Surface diffusion increased with the adsorption capacity, presenting linear and exponential behavior for the ILPR and PLPR adsorbents, respectively. Both materials proved to be efficient in treating a simulated effluent with similar industrial wastewater characteristics, reaching superior values at 70% of color removal.