Southeastern Brazilian Coast Research Articles

The microbiome of the main deep-water scleractinian reef-framework engineers from the Southwestern Atlantic

Deep waters (>150 m) shelter half of the extant diversity of scleractinian corals, including framework reef-forming species. However, to date, the relationship between microorganisms and corals has focused mainly on their zooxanthellate shallow-water counterparts. Here, using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, we explore the microbiome of all major Atlantic deep-water scleractinian reef framework engineers (Desmophyllum pertusum, Solenosmilia variabilis, Madrepora oculata, and Enallopsammia rostrata), and correlated them with environmental characteristics. Colony fragments of each coral species used in the present study were sampled from three sedimentary basins off the Southeastern coast of Brazil, including two water masses (Antarctic Intermediate Water and South Atlantic Coastal Water). Although representing distant scleractinian evolutionarily lineages, some evolving apart for more than 300Ma, our results suggest a taxonomic homogeneity in their microbial profile. The species-specific microbial core, as well as the core common to all examined species, were identified. Such cores are composed of bacterial genera that have already been observed in other coral species, including those from zooxanthellate species. Such a pattern suggests an active selection of the microbial community by their hosts, a phenomenon that seems to be fundamental for holobiont fitness, especially in long-lived species, such as corals. Besides the microbial core, for all examined species, part of the determined microbiome was flexible and responded to environmental drivers. This flexibility is most probably related to the host's ability to adapt in ecological time scales. Taken together, these holobiont abilities may be crucial to its success in both ecological and geological timescales.

Three new species of Amphipoda (Crustacea: Peracarida) from the remote oceanic island of Trindade, off the coast of south-eastern Brazil

ABSTRACT Trindade is a volcanic remote island isolated some 1200 km from the nearest continental landmass. While knowledge of the island’s diversity of crustacean decapod fauna has been notably broadened by extensive investigations, knowledge about its amphipod fauna is still poor. During a 12-year survey (2012–2024) a wealth of amphipod material was obtained in Trindade from various sublittoral habitats at water depths of less than 30 m. Here, we report on three new species of the genera Colomastix Grube, 1861, Pariphinotus Kunkel, 1910 and Eusiroides Stebbing, 1888. Additionally, identification keys to the world species of Eusiroides and Pariphinotus, and to the Brazilian species of Colomastix are provided. http://www.zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:B17266F0-B78E-4768-8FB2-D91BA5F748CA

First record and molecular diversity of haemosporidian parasites in Sula leucogaster (Boddaert, 1783) from the southeastern Brazilian coast.

Avian haemosporidian parasites are protozoans transmitted by vectors, belonging to the genera Plasmodium, Haemoproteus, and Leucocytozoon, capable of infecting various bird species. The prevalence of these parasites varies depending on factors such as the habitat and geographical location of the host and vector, as well as across different bird groups. Seabirds typically exhibit low infection rates due to the absence of vectors in marine environments. This study aimed to identify and characterize the molecular diversity of Haemosporida parasites in a population of Brown Boobies (Sula leucogaster) (n = 37) from the Santana Archipelago in Macaé, Rio de Janeiro state. We utilized PCR-based detection methods to confirm the presence of haemosporidian parasites and sequencing (ctyb gene) to delineate the lineages. The results uncovered a notable prevalence (48.6%) of haemosporidian parasites (Plasmodium and Haemoproteus), comprising 12 novel lineages and four previously documented lineages (establishing new host records). Our findings suggest that transmission and infection by these hemoparasites can occur both on and off the island. Overall, this study yields valuable insights into the genetic diversity of haemosporidian parasites in Brown Boobies, enriching our understanding of the ecology and epidemiology of these parasites in seabirds.

Filling a geographic gap: a new species of genus Lacronia Strand, 1942 (Opiliones, Gonyleptidae) from southern Brazil

Despite the significant amount of systematic research on Gonyleptidae since its original description almost 200 years ago by Sundevall in 1833, there are still unresolved phylogenetic relationships that require further investigation. Current knowledge of the unranked clade DRMN (Gonyleptidae), consisting of Discocyrtus Holmberg, 1878 sensu stricto, Roeweriinae Carvalho & Kury, 2018, Mitobatinae Simon, 1879 and Neopachylinae Carvalho & Kury, 2020, has been advancing at strides. Recently, the genus Lacronia Strand, 1942, with species occurring along the south and southeastern Brazilian coast, underwent revision, resulting in keys and diagnoses for its species. In this article we describe Lacronia utaru sp. nov., a new species from Paraná State, which fills the supposed gap between previously discontinuous known occurrences of the genus. This new species is morphologically closer to the ‘not areolated Lacronia’ internal clade, especially to the type species Lacronia serripes (Mello-Leitão, 1923). Differences between L. serripes and L. utaru sp. nov. about the pattern of light-colored tubercles on the dorsal scutum are pointed out. Additionally, we present new records for two other species of Lacronia.

Life-history of the spiny butterfly ray, Gymnura altavela (Chondrichthyes: Myliobatiformes), kept under human care in a marine aquarium.

The Rio de Janeiro Marine Aquarium (AquaRio) is the first to successfully maintain and reproduce the spiny butterfly ray (Gymnura altavela), providing unique information about the species' biology. Seven rays were kept in captivity between 2018 and 2023, two captured on the southeastern coast of Brazil and five born in the aquarium. The applied abiotic conditions and nutrition allowed for the survival, growth, and reproduction of these individuals. Growth parameters (asymptotic disk width-DW∞ and growth coefficient-k) were estimated based on the von Bertalanffy model using the Fabens method for males and females separately. The best models estimated DW∞ = 106.47 cm and k = 0.396 for males and DW∞ = 172.2 cm and k = 0.190 for females. Sexual dimorphism was corroborated, with females reaching larger sizes and presenting slower growth rates than males. The estimated k values were higher than those estimated for rays of similar size to G. altavela in the natural environment, probably due to the constant water temperature (around 25.5°C), food abundance, low population density, reduced predation rates, and high water quality in the captive environment. A comparison of the captivity findings with other studies on G. altavela age and growth in the Atlantic and Mediterranean indicates a broad phenotypic plasticity regarding growth. Three G. altavela reproductions were recorded, with size at birth appearing to be a key factor for pup's survival. Behavioral pattern observations associated with reproduction are also described, encompassing chasing and copulation, whereas the species' internal morphology is described through coelomic cavity ultrasound scanning.

Bacterial septicemia and herpesvirus infection in Antarctic fur seals (Arctocephalus gazella) stranded in the São Paulo coast, Brazil

In August 2021, two juvenile male Antarctic fur seals (Arctocephalus gazella) stranded in the southeastern Brazilian coast and were referred to rehabilitation centers. The animals presented increased body temperature, prostration, respiratory distress and despite treatment died. A necropsy following a standardized protocol was performed, and formalin-fixed tissues were processed for microscopic examination. Samples were screened for morbillivirus, herpesvirus, and Brucella spp. by molecular analyses (PCR, RT-PCR). Bacteriological culture was performed in samples collected from the lungs, trachea, and lymph nodes of both cases. The main histopathologic findings were of infectious nature, including multifocal necrotizing and fibrinous mixed interstitial pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and bronchitis, with intralesional myriad bacteria associated with vascular fibrinoid necrosis. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was isolated from tracheal and lung swabs of Case 1, and Klebsiella oxytoca was found in nostril swabs, tracheobronchial lymph nodes, and lung of Case 2. Gammaherpesvirus infection was detected in both cases, and the sequences retrieved were classified into the genus Percavirus. All tested samples were PCR-negative for Brucella spp. and morbillivirus. We hypothesize that the deficient immunological status in association with starvation predisposed the reactivation of herpesvirus and secondary bacterial co-infections. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first molecular detection of herpesvirus in an Antarctic pinniped. These findings reinforce that Otariid gammaherpesvirus circulating in the Southern Hemisphere are likely endemic in the Arctocephalus genus. This report contributes to the current knowledge of health aspects affecting wild pinnipeds, especially in the poorly studied Antarctic species.

Performance study of a photovoltaic system operating on the southeastern coast of Brazil

Performance study of a photovoltaic system operating on the southeastern coast of Brazil

Evaluation of a High Resolution WRF Model for Southeast Brazilian Coast: The Importance of Physical Parameterization to Wind Representation

This study assesses the performance of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model using a high-resolution spatial grid (1 km) with various combinations of physical parameterization packages to simulate a severe event in August 2021 in the southeastern Brazilian coast. After determining the optimal set of physical parameterizations for representing wind patterns during this event, a year-long evaluation was conducted, covering forecast horizons of 24, 48, and 72 h. The simulation results were compared with observational wind data from four weather stations. The findings highlight variations in the efficacy of different physical parameterization sets, with certain sets encountering challenges in accurately depicting the peak of the severe event. The most favorable results were achieved using a combination of Tiedtke (cumulus), Thompson (microphysics), TKE (boundary layer), Monin-Obukhov (surface layer), Unified-NOAH (land surface), and RRTMG (shortwave and longwave radiation). Over the one-year forecasting period, the WRF model effectively represented the overall wind pattern, including forecasts up to three days in advance (72-h forecast horizon). Generally, the statistical metrics indicate robust model performance, even for the 72-h forecast horizon, with correlation coefficients consistently exceeding 0.60 at all analyzed points. While the model proficiently captured wind distribution, it tended to overestimate northeast wind speed and gust intensities. Notably, forecast accuracy decreased as stations approached the ocean, exemplified by the ATPM station.

Saturated Iso-Type Fatty Acids from the Marine Bacterium Mesoflavibacter zeaxanthinifaciens with Anti-Trypanosomal Potential.

Chagas disease is a Neglected Tropical Disease with limited and ineffective therapy. In a search for new anti-trypanosomal compounds, we investigated the potential of the metabolites from the bacteria living in the corals and sediments of the southeastern Brazilian coast. Three corals, Tubastraea coccinea, Mussismilia hispida, Madracis decactis, and sediments yielded 11 bacterial strains that were fully identified by MALDI-ToF/MS or gene sequencing, resulting in six genera-Vibrio, Shewanella, Mesoflavibacter, Halomonas, Bacillus, and Alteromonas. To conduct this study, EtOAc extracts were prepared and tested against Trypanosoma cruzi. The crude extracts showed IC50 values ranging from 15 to 51 μg/mL against the trypomastigotes. The bacterium Mesoflavibacter zeaxanthinifaciens was selected for fractionation, resulting in an active fraction (FII) with IC50 values of 17.7 μg/mL and 23.8 μg/mL against the trypomastigotes and amastigotes, respectively, with neither mammalian cytotoxicity nor hemolytic activity. Using an NMR and ESI-HRMS analysis, the FII revealed the presence of unsaturated iso-type fatty acids. Its lethal action was investigated, leading to a protein spectral profile of the parasite altered after treatment. The FII also induced a rapid permeabilization of the plasma membrane of the parasite, leading to cell death. These findings demonstrate that these unsaturated iso-type fatty acids are possible new hits against T. cruzi.

Fatal interactions of albatrosses with weather radiosondes/balloons on the Southern and Southeastern coasts of Brazil

Weather radiosondes play a crucial role in gathering atmospheric data for weather modeling and forecasting. However, their impact on marine wildlife, particularly seabirds, has raised concerns regarding the potential threats posed by these instruments. This study aims to assess the adverse effects of weather balloons on albatrosses, with a focus on the Southwest Atlantic region. The research reveals seven cases of entanglement of radiosonde equipment, leading to severe injuries and mortality along the Southern and Southeastern coasts of Brazil. Recommendations for mitigating the environmental impact of weather balloons include the adoption of biodegradable materials in their design and the implementation of improved retrieval protocols. Furthermore, the study stresses the importance of continued monitoring and research to address the interaction of weather radiosondes with marine animals. This approach is vital for ensuring the sustainable collection of scientific data while minimizing harm to marine life and ecosystems.

Back on top: Resuspended by dredging and other environmental disturbances, organochlorine compounds may affect the health of a dolphin population in a tropical estuary, Sepetiba Bay

Organochlorine compounds (OCs) are persistent organic pollutants linked to damaging the immune and endocrine systems, leading to a greater susceptibility to infectious diseases at high concentrations. Sepetiba Bay, in the Southeastern Brazilian coast, historically presents anthropogenic activities and environmental contamination that could negatively impact resident populations. In this context, this study aimed to investigate the temporal trends in the accumulation of organochlorine compounds over a 12-year database in the Guiana dolphins’ (Sotalia guianensis) resident population from Sepetiba Bay, including individuals collected before, during, and after an unusual mortality event triggered by morbillivirus (n = 85). The influence of biological parameters was also evaluated. The OCs concentrations in the blubber ranged from 0.98 to 739 μg/g of ΣPCB; 0.08–130 μg/g of ΣDDT; <0.002–4.56 μg/g of mirex; <0.002–1.84 μg/g of ΣHCH and <0.001–0.16 μg/g of HCB in lipid weight. Increased temporal trends were found for OCs in Guiana dolphins coinciding with periods of large events of dredging in the region. In this way, our findings suggest that the constant high OCs concentrations throughout the years in this Guiana dolphin population are a result of the constant environmental disturbance in the area, such as dredging. These elevated OCs levels, e.g., ΣPCB concentrations found above the known thresholds, may impair the response of the immune system during outbreak periods, which could lead the population to a progressive decline.

Advancing into the morphology of female differentiation in the seabob shrimps Xiphopenaeus dincao and X. kroyeri: Insights into the taxonomy

Xiphopenaeus shrimps species are among the main marine organisms exploited in commercial fishing in the Americas. Recent investigations have unveiled a species complex formerly identified as X. kroyeri. Within it, two species coexist along the Brazilian southeastern coast: X. dincao and X. kroyeri. However, their identification currently relies on the morphology of adult males, with no available morphological information enabling the identification of females. We employed an integrative approach to explore morphological traits aiding species discrimination using female morphology. Molecular assessments were conducted for these species’ identification. Morphology, morphometry and computerized tomography were employed to examine the usefulness of thelycum morphology in their identification. Conspicuous differences were observed between X. dincao and X. kroyeri. The analyses showed that thelycum is an informative character for their identification, with the main differences being related to the width and shape of the anterior median protuberance. These results fill the information gap concerning the identification of both species and provide greater precision in future research that requires the correct identification of these shrimps.

Elucidating the ecological patterns of sympatric sea-bob shrimp species Xiphopenaeus dincao and X. kroyeri: A temporal and spatial approach

We evaluated the abundance and spatio-temporal distribution of adult individuals of sympatric shrimp species, X. kroyeri and X. dincao, under the influence of environmental variables. The study period took place from July 2021 to June 2022 in Ubatuba Bay, southeastern coast of Brazil. Monthly sampling of specimen and environmental variables occurred using a shrimp fishing boat along four transects of different depths. The abundance peak was differential: X. dincao occurring in the autumn and X. kroyeri in the winter. There was spatial segregation between the species, with X. dincao predominating in more restricted and shallower habitats, while X. kroyeri showed higher abundance in deeper depths. Temporal differentiation of the highest abundance and the habitat partitioning between the species demonstrate different strategies in resource use, following a scenario that reduces competitive pressures and maintains coexistence stability. The closed fishing season appears to offer more protection for X. dincao. Although both periods do not cover the peak of X. kroyeri abundance, its abundance increased in the following months. Our findings describe the population and ecological characteristics of two sea-bob shrimp species, previously regarded as monotypic, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the actual status of these populations.

Evaluating decadal space-temporal mangrove dynamics using geographic object-based image analysis (GEOBIA) on the Doce River delta-ES, southeastern Brazilian coast

Mangroves are ecosystems present in a large part of the Brazilian coastal zone that are home to a wide diversity of organisms, providing direct and indirect resources, as well as nursery and foraging habitats. Using images in 5-year intervals (2010, 2015, and 2020), the present study carried out a decadal mapping of the remaining mangroves of the Doce River delta along the tidal flats of the Mariricu River, in the coastal region of the city of São Mateus-ES. In this context, object-oriented classification methodology (GEOBIA) was used, which allowed the generation of high-resolution data. This methodology achieved excellent results, as evidenced by the global accuracy numbers and Kappa index, which gave an average of 96.78% and 93.5% respectively; and by low values of disagreement, with an average of 3.22%. The change detection analysis showed alterations in the landscape over time, with 9% of the mangrove areas becoming extinct, 12% of the areas expanding, and 79% of the areas remaining preserved. Therefore, our mapping data are consistent with the data published by the State Institute for the Environment and Water Resources of the State of Espírito Santo (IEMA), as well as with scientific works that recorded areas of reduction and expansion for mangroves, but mostly with large preserved areas. With that, our results demonstrate the highly effective application of geotechnologies for coastal environmental analyses with low cost and high speed.

A novel report on the emerging and zoonotic neurotropic fungus Trichosporon japonicum in the brain tissue of the endangered Brazilian guitarfish (Pseudobatos horkelii) off the southeastern coast of Brazil.

Yeast infections have gained significant attention in the field of marine biology in recent years. Among the broad diversity of marine organisms affected by these infections, elasmobranchs (sharks and rays) have emerged as highly susceptible, due to climate change effects, such as increasing water temperatures and pollution, which can alter the composition and abundance of fungal communities. Additionally, injuries, or compromised immune systems resulting from pollution or disease may increase the likelihood of fungal infections in elasmobranchs. Studies are, however, still lacking for this taxonomic group. In this context, this study aimed to screen yeast species in cell cultures obtained from the brain of artisanally captured Pseudobatos horkelii, a cartilaginous fish that, although endangered, is highly captured and consumed worldwide. Fungi were isolated during an attempt to establish primary cultures of elasmobranch neural cells. Culture flasks were swabbed and investigated using morphological, phenotypic, and molecular techniques. Two isolates of the emerging opportunistic pathogen Trichosporon japonicum were identified, with high scores (1.80 and 1.85, respectively) by the MALDI-ToF technique. This is the first report of the basidiomycetous yeast T. japonicum in Pseudobatos horkelii in Brazil. This finding highlights the need for further research to determine the potential impact on elasmobranch health, ecology, as well as on commercial fisheries.

Extreme rain event highlights the lack of governance to face climate change in the Southeastern coast of Brazil

New rainfall records were registered in the southeastern region of Brazil during February 2023. The amount of rain in the north coast region of the State of São Paulo was more than 650 mm in less than two days. Landslides and tragedies with a socioeconomically vulnerable population marked this climatic extreme. The country has a regulatory system that suggests the elaboration and implementation of municipal public policies aimed at territorial organization, environmental conservation, and the prevention of disasters induced by natural hazards. In addition, both federal and state funds earmarked for such hazard's prevention have been underutilized over the last decade. In addition to this current devastating climate episode, other events were registered in this decade, reinforcing that financial governance is a key challenge to face the climate crisis in Brazil. The predicted future extreme events in different regions of Brazil will require a different governance system to minimize social inequality, seek sustainable alternatives for urban environments and manage to adapt cities for the challenges posed by climate change.

Geochemical and sedimentary features of the unusual association between hybrid carbonates and beachrocks in the Southeastern Brazilian Coast

Rocks formed in beach environments during the Holocene constitute strong evidences of relative sea level variations (RSL) and supply important data for paleoenvironmental reconstruction. At the southeastern Brazilian coast, an unusual association of lithofacies composed of hybrid carbonates and beachrocks was identified on the Parati beach in the Espírito Santo state. In this study, radiocarbon dating and sedimentary and geochemical characterization of five lithofacies were conducted, with the aim of reconstructing the paleoenvironmental conditions of deposition and cementation of this facies association. The lithofacies were classified as quartzarenites, bioclastic quartzarenites, hybrid carbonate and hybrid boundstones, with ages ranging from 2600 to 700 cal yr BP. Sedimentary and geochemical changes observed in these five lithofacies of the shallow shelf off southeastern Brazil reinforce evidence relative sea level variations during the Holocene.

Taxonomía del género Arachis (Leguminosae)

Taxonomía del género Arachis (Leguminosae)

Trypauchen vagina (Bloch &amp; Schneider, 1801) a new established species in the Southwestern Atlantic

AbstractTrypauchen vagina (Bloch &amp; Schneider, 1801) is a goby that lives burrowed into the substrata feeding on small invertebrates. It is native to the Indo‐pacific region, ranging from Kuwait to China. Recently, this fish has been reported outside the original range of distribution, being found in the Mediterranean Sea, and more recently in the northeastern Brazilian coast. The Mediterranean reports are usually associated with Lessepsian migration, while the reports from Brazil are possibly related to ballast water transportation. In the present work, we provide eight new records from southeastern Brazilian coast, all made in São Paulo state, far from the first record. These additional records raised concern since the presence of an alien species could implicate in environmental and economic losses. Thus, we decide to model the environmental suitability for this goby in the Brazilian coast, specially focusing on major ports, usually places with high ballast water propagule pressure. In addition, an analysis of the suitability in the Red Sea was also made, to verify the hypothesis of Lessepsian migration. The results revealed that temperature and primary productivity are among the most important parameters for the presence of T. vagina, also indicating a high environmental suitability for this species in the Red Sea and Brazilian coast, especially in southeastern region, where the new records were made. Due to the number of collected individuals, it is hard to affirm that this taxon presents a self‐sustaining population in Brazilian waters, but the several registers, in different locations and different life stages point to an establishment of the species in this new region. This population status allied with a high environmental suitability is alarming and should motivate new studies concerning T. vagina in Brazilian waters.

Assessment of Groundwater Contamination in the Southeastern Coast of Brazil: A Potential Threat to Human Health in Marica Municipality

Groundwater pollution is a current issue that may result in considerable negative effects on human health and the ecological balance. In the present study, the authors evaluated pollutants in groundwater in Maricá Municipality, located on the east side of Rio de Janeiro state in Brazil. The evaluated parameters were temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, Eh, dissolved oxygen, chlorides, nitrates, dissolved organic carbon, total inorganic carbon, phosphates, and total and thermotolerant coliforms. Due to the large number of evaluated points, they were divided into zones according to the respective hydrographic basin. The local accelerated urbanization accompanying income from oil production has led to uncontrolled population growth and associated groundwater pollution. The results of the present study suggest that sewage pollution of Maricá groundwater is already a significant issue. The lack of investment in basic sanitation has led to an imbalance in the local groundwater reservoir. In certain locations of the municipality, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), nutrient, and bacteria concentrations increase and spread in the aquifers because of domestic waste disposal. As aquifers are the main source of freshwater for the residents, contamination of them represents a potential threat to local public health.