Publications
A new species of Characidium (Characiformes: Crenuchidae) from the Iguaçu National Park, Rio Iguaçu basin, Paraná, Brazil
Researchers have identified a new species of Characidium fish within the Iguaçu National Park, Brazil. This discovery was supported by both morphological and molecular analyses, including multiple species delimitation methods, which confirmed its distinctiveness from known congeners. The new species is characterized by the absence of vertical bars or spots along its body, a scaled isthmus and adipose fin, scales below the lateral line, and a thin dark midlateral stripe. While it shares a reticulated color pattern with C. xanthopterum, genetic distance analysis revealed only 4.2% divergence, indicating it is a distinct species. Phylogenetic studies further showed that this new species is closely related to C. itarare from the Paranapanema river basin. Despite being found within a protected area, its limited distribution to just two creeks raises significant concerns for its long-term conservation.
Amphibians of the largest inland Atlantic Forest fragment, Iguaçu National Park, Paraná State, southern Brazil
Iguaçu National Park, the largest inland fragment of the Atlantic Forest and a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site, harbors 31 amphibian species, including two first records for Paraná State. The study reveals that while the park's anuran assemblage shares strong similarity with Argentina's Iguazú National Park—sharing 24 species—the distinct vegetation types (Semideciduous Seasonal Forest and Mixed Ombrophilous Forest) shape unique local distributions, with some species exclusive to each type. This highlights the importance of both parks in conserving regional biodiversity despite their proximity. The research combined field sampling of adults and tadpoles from 21 water bodies with historical records, uncovering a reproductive diversity comparable to other Atlantic Forest regions.
Economic risks of environmental setbacks in Brazil’s Iguaçu National Park
A proposed road through Brazil’s Iguaçu National Park would fragment the park and undermine its ecological and economic value. Contrary to local claims, research shows that closing the Caminho-do-Colono road in 2017 did not harm the regional economy, while reopening it would offer no environmental or economic benefits—favoring small interest groups over collective well-being. The study evaluates scenarios where the park’s native vegetation and payments for environmental services support certain municipalities, demonstrating that maintaining its integrity is crucial for sustainable development. Using pre- and post-closure economic data, the analysis reveals that legislative attempts to downgrade protection are legally infeasible and counterproductive.
Floristic inventory of Melastomataceae of the Iguaçu National Park, Paraná, Brazil
A floristic inventory of the Melastomataceae family within Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, reveals 17 species across four genera, with nine new records for the park. The study highlights significant diversity, including six endemic species to Brazil, four restricted to the southern and southeastern regions. Notably, Miconia leaeichleri was documented for the first time in western Paraná, suggesting under-explored biodiversity in this region. The research sampled three areas over ten months, distinguishing between Seasonal Semideciduous Forest (SSF) and Mixed Ombrophilous Forest (MOF), uncovering distinct species distributions: seven species were common to both forest types, while six and four were exclusive to MOF and SSF, respectively. This inventory underscores the ecological importance of Melastomataceae, particularly as pioneers and zoochoric species vital for Atlantic Forest regeneration.
Orchidaceae in Iguaçu National Park, Paraná, Brazil
Iguaçu National Park, a significant remnant of the Atlantic Forest in Paraná, Brazil, harbors 65 orchid species across 41 genera, with Gomesa and Acianthera being the most prevalent. This study highlights that Epidendroideae subfamily dominates the park's orchid flora, accounting for 78% of the total richness. Notably, 31 new records were documented, including five species endemic to Brazil and one to Paraná. The research also reveals distinct species distributions between Mixed Ombrophilous Forest (29 exclusive species) and Semideciduous Seasonal Forest (20 exclusive species), with 16 species shared across both phytophysiognomies. Among the orchids, epiphytic habits are most common (39 species), followed by terricolous (15 species). This comprehensive inventory underscores Iguaçu National Park's ecological significance and the importance of floristic studies in cataloging its diverse flora.
Taxonomic synopsis of Plantaginaceae and Scrophulariaceae (Lamiales) in Iguazú and Iguaçu National Parks (Argentina and Brazil)
A taxonomic synopsis of Plantaginaceae and Scrophulariaceae (Lamiales) in Iguazú and Iguaçu National Parks reveals 13 species across seven genera, significantly advancing the understanding of herbaceous and shrubby flora in this Atlantic Forest hotspot. The study documents Stemodia with three species, while Bacopa, Buddleja, Mecardonia, and Scoparia each contribute two, alongside single-species representations from Plantago and Veronica. This research addresses a critical gap in botanical knowledge for the Southern Cone, providing identification keys, illustrations, and ecological insights that are essential for biodiversity management and conservation planning.
Assessing the pollution and ecotoxicological status of the Iguaçu River, southern Brazil: A review
A review of pollution and ecotoxicological status in the Iguaçu River basin, home to UNESCO World Heritage Site Iguaçu National Park, reveals significant contamination by emerging contaminants, persistent organic pollutants, toxic metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The upper basin shows the highest levels due to untreated industrial and urban effluents, while agricultural practices contribute downstream pollution, particularly pesticides. Ecotoxicological data links micropollutants to fish pathologies, posing risks to endemic biodiversity and human health. This study highlights the need for improved water management to mitigate ecological and public health threats in this critical watershed.
Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) of Iguaçu National Park and surrounding areas in southern Brazil: a long-term survey, with six new records for the Brazilian fauna
A comprehensive survey of butterflies (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) in Iguaçu National Park, the second-largest protected area in Brazil's Atlantic Forest domain, reveals 795 subspecies and 787 species, including six new records for the Brazilian fauna. This long-term study, spanning 15 years and ten months, utilized diverse non-standardized sampling methods along with data from literature, entomological collections, and citizen science platforms. Among the findings, six butterfly taxa are documented for the first time in Brazil: Emesis orichalceus, Theope p. pakitza, Elbella v. viriditas, Apaustus gracilis ssp. n., Deltaya sp. n., and Symbiopsis sp. n. Additionally, six species are listed as endangered, with some records significantly expanding their known distributions. This study underscores the rich biodiversity of Iguaçu National Park while highlighting the importance of long-term surveys in documenting new species and conservation priorities.
Co-infection by multiple vector-borne agents in wild ring-tailed coatis (Nasua nasua) from Iguaçu National Park, southern Brazil
A high prevalence of co-infections by multiple vector-borne agents (VBAs) was detected in wild ring-tailed coatis (Nasua nasua) from Iguaçu National Park, southern Brazil. The study found that 85.7% of the coatis were positive for hemotropic Mycoplasma sp., with notable co-infections involving Bartonella machadoae (24.5%), Anaplasma sp. closely related to 'Candidatus Anaplasma brasiliensis' (14.3%), and Hepatozoon procyonis (6%). The most common co-infections were between hemotropic Mycoplasma sp. and Bartonella sp. (18.3%) or Anaplasma sp. (12.2%), while 4% of the animals presented co-infections by three VBAs. This study expands the host specificity range of B. machadoae, previously isolated only from rodents, highlighting the need for further surveillance due to the unknown zoonotic potential and transmission routes of these agents.
Brazil's Iguaçu National Park threatened by illegal activities: Predicting consequences of proposed downgrading and road construction
A proposed road through Brazil's Iguaçu National Park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, threatens its biodiversity by increasing susceptibility to illegal activities such as fishing, palm-heart extraction, and poaching. A niche-based model predicts significant increases in these activities if the road is built, with median rises from 0.009 to 0.101 for fishing, 0.087 to 0.260 for palm-heart extraction, and 0.324 to 0.334 for poaching. The proposal also includes downgrading the protected status of a portion of the park, reflecting a global trend of downsizing and degazetting protected areas. This study highlights the potential severe consequences of such developments on one of South America's largest remaining inland fragments of the Atlantic Forest.
Environmental analysis of land use and occupation in nine watersheds contributing to the Iguaçu River, Brazil
A high-accuracy analysis of land use and occupation in nine watersheds of the Lower Iguaçu River reveals significant variations in environmental preservation. The Floriano River sub-basin stands out for its highest degree of conservation, followed by Silva Jardim and Gonçalves Dias, both partially or fully within Iguaçu National Park. Conversely, Monteiro and Sarandi sub-basins exhibit minimal vegetation cover, while Capanema, Cotejipe, Andrada, and Santo Antônio sub-basins show intermediate conditions. This study utilized satellite imagery with a Kappa coefficient ranging from 99.4 to 99.9%, providing a baseline for environmental planning, monitoring, and conservation efforts in this region.
Filarids (Spirurida: Onchocercidae) in wild carnivores and domestic dogs from the Brazilian Atlantic forest
A study on the Iguaçu National Park, a critical remnant of Brazil's Atlantic rainforest, reveals five filarial nematode species in ring-tailed coatis, including Dirofilaria immitis, potentially indicating spillover from domestic dogs. The research also identified Acanthocheilonema reconditum in domestic dogs, marking a new locality record for this species. Using modified Knott's test and molecular screening of myoHC and hsp70 genes, the study detected microfilariae in 162 samples from seven wild carnivore species and 225 domestic dog samples. Phylogenetic analysis suggested high genetic similarity among undetermined Onchocercidae species and other filarial species like Mansonella, Brugia, and Wuchereria bancrofti. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into filarial parasites in Neotropical wildlife amid increasing anthropogenic pressures.
Floristic Inventory of the Iguaçu and Iguazú National Parks (Brazil and Argentina): Bignoniaceae
A comprehensive floristic inventory of the Iguaçu and Iguazú National Parks (Brazil and Argentina) reveals 29 species of Bignoniaceae, a significant yet understudied plant family in the Southern Cone. This study identifies key genera such as Dolichandra and Fridericia, each with five species, while also documenting scientific novelties including the first record of Fridericia triplinervia in PARNA Iguaçu and the expansion of Tynanthus micranthus's distribution to Argentina. Additionally, it corrects the endemism status of two Jacaranda species and provides a preliminary conservation assessment for most documented species. The research employs identification keys, photographs, illustrations, and detailed analysis of geographic distribution, habitat, and phenology, contributing critical data for biodiversity management and conservation efforts in this ecologically significant region.
Katydids (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) from the Iguaçu National Park, Brazil
A comprehensive survey of katydids (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) in Iguaçu National Park, Brazil—the largest preserve of the Interior Atlantic Forest—revealed a remarkable diversity of 89 species across five subfamilies. Phaneropterinae emerged as the most speciose group with 57 species, followed by Conocephalinae (22), Meconematinae and Pseudophyllinae (four each), and Pterochrozinae (two). Notably, several species were recorded for the first time in Paraná State, southern Brazil, or even the country. The study also documented calling songs for 34 species, including 29 previously unknown to science, providing new insights into the acoustic behavior of these insects. These findings underscore Iguaçu National Park's critical role in maintaining biodiversity but also highlight the potential catastrophic impacts of ongoing threats on its unique ecosystems.
Reputation of the Natural Heritage: the Iguaçu National Park (Brazil) on the Tripadvisor Website
A study analyzing 957 user reviews on TripAdvisor for Iguaçu National Park found overwhelmingly positive feedback (90.18%), with 3,422 comments highlighting scenic beauty, landscape landmarks, infrastructure, and activities as key strengths. Negative reviews, though fewer (9.82%), were noted for their complexity in management. Surprisingly, the park's UNESCO status was not a focal point in user evaluations. This research provides managers with actionable insights to enhance public use services and activities, leveraging online reputation data for improved conservation unit management.
Seroprevalence of arboviruses in Nasua nasua (Mammalia, Carnivora, Procyonidae) of synanthropic habitats in the Iguaçu National Park, Brazilian Atlantic Forest
A serological investigation of free-living coatis (Nasua nasua) in Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, revealed a 23.6% seroprevalence of antibodies against multiple arboviruses, including Alphavirus, Flavivirus, Orthobunyavirus, and Phlebovirus. The study used the Hemagglutination Inhibition test to detect total antibodies in serum samples from 72 coatis, identifying potential silent circulation of these viruses in the park's synanthropic habitats. Coatis may serve as amplifying hosts for arboviruses, posing a risk of establishing transmission cycles involving vector arthropods and other wild animals, including humans. The findings highlight the need for further research into the role of wildlife in arbovirus ecology and public health.
‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma haematonasua’ and tick‐borne pathogens in ring‐tailed coatis ( Nasua nasua Linnaeus, 1976) from the Iguaçu National Park, Paraná State, southern Brazil
Researchers have identified a novel haemotropic Mycoplasma species, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematonasua,' in ring-tailed coatis (Nasua nasua) from the Iguaçu National Park, Brazil. This discovery builds on previous findings of a potentially novel Mycoplasma in coatis from central-western and southern Brazil. The study, involving 18 wild coatis, used conventional PCR assays to detect haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., Theileria/Babesia spp., and Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp. While only one coati tested positive for Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp., phylogenetic analysis confirmed the presence of 'Ca. M. haematonasua' in 44.44% of the animals, marking a significant contribution to understanding tick-borne pathogens in this species and their potential implications for wildlife health.
Deep Pools: Ecological Sanctuaries for Steindachneridion melanodermatum, a Large Endemic and Endangered Pimelodid of the Iguaçu River
Research identifies deep pools as critical ecological sanctuaries for Steindachneridion melanodermatum, the largest and most endangered catfish species endemic to the Lower Iguaçu River basin. The study, conducted between 2010 and 2016, found that 180 specimens were concentrated in 24 deep pools, with a notable preference for Poço Preto (P23) near Iguaçu Falls within Iguaçu National Park. Hydroacoustic surveys and fishing campaigns revealed that these deep habitats, ranging from 5 to 25 meters, are essential for the survival of this species, which has been decimated by habitat loss due to hydroelectric dams. The findings underscore the urgent need for conservation measures, including designating deep pools as protected sanctuaries, enforcing anti-poaching regulations, and preserving dam-free tributaries to prevent the extinction of S. melanodermatum.
Eunotia (Bacillariophyceae) from a subtropical stream adjacent to Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, with the proposition of a new species
A new species of the diatom genus Eunotia, named Eunotia caniculoides sp. nov., was discovered in a subtropical stream adjacent to Iguaçu National Park, Brazil. This finding adds to the biodiversity of the region and expands the known diversity of Eunotia taxa. The study also documented eight new records for Paraná state, contributing to the understanding of diatom distribution in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Researchers analyzed periphytic material collected monthly from September 2012 to August 2013 using light and scanning electron microscopy. This systematic analysis highlights the importance of microalgal studies in conservation efforts and ecological assessments.
Flora of Acanthaceae of Iguaçu National Park, Paraná, Brazil
A comprehensive floristic survey of the Acanthaceae family within Iguaçu National Park, Paraná, Brazil, identified 13 native species across seven genera, with Justicia being the most diverse. Notably, 12 species were recorded for the first time in the park, including eight new to its Semideciduous Seasonal Forest ecosystem. The study also highlighted three threatened species—one vulnerable and two endangered—emphasizing the park's critical role in in-situ conservation. Conducted through monthly collections from August 2015 to July 2016 across key areas, this research integrated fieldwork with herbarium records (UNOP, EVB, HCF, MBM) and virtual databases (Reflora, SpeciesLink), providing botanical illustrations, identification keys, and species descriptions. This work underscores the park's biodiversity significance amid Atlantic Forest ecosystems.
Freshwater micro-gastropods from the Iguaçu National Park, Brazil: two new truncatelloid caenogastropods and anatomy of Chilina megastoma Hylton Scott, 1958
Research in Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, has uncovered three micro-gastropod species, including two new truncatelloid caenogastropods: Potamolithus mirim and Heleobia iguassu, alongside a detailed anatomical study of the poorly understood chilinid Chilina megastoma. These findings highlight the park's rich biodiversity and the need for protective measures due to their high endemism. The study employed morphological and taxonomic analyses, contributing significantly to our understanding of these species' phylogeny and taxonomy.
Ichthyofauna in the last free-flowing river of the Lower Iguaçu basin: the importance of tributaries for conservation of endemic species
A rich and diverse ichthyofauna, including numerous endemic species, thrives in the last free-flowing stretch of the Lower Iguaçu River and its tributaries upstream of the Iguaçu Falls. The study, conducted between 2010 and 2016, recorded 76 fish species across 87,702 specimens, with Characiformes and Siluriformes being the dominant orders. Notably, 42% of the species were endemic, including rare or endangered species like Steindachneridion melanodermatum and Gymnogeophagus taroba. The research also identified key indicator species for different habitats, such as Ancistrus mullerae and Rhamdia branneri in tributaries within Iguaçu National Park (INP), highlighting the park's critical role in conserving endemic fish fauna. These findings underscore the ecological significance of undammed river stretches and tributaries, providing crucial insights to mitigate potential impacts from planned hydroelectric developments like the Baixo Iguaçu Hydroelectric Power Plant.
Planning for Human-Wildlife Coexistence: Conceptual Framework, Workshop Process, and a Model for Transdisciplinary Collaboration
A structured, participatory approach to planning for human-wildlife coexistence has been developed, offering a framework that integrates evidence-based decision-making with transdisciplinary collaboration. This model addresses the complexities of human-dominated landscapes by combining conceptual tools, workshop processes, and collaborative research to foster positive interactions between communities and wildlife, such as jaguars in Iguaçu National Park, Brazil. The approach emphasizes equity, justice, and power dynamics while aiming for large-scale coexistence through structured planning, theory-of-change creation, and integration of stakeholders—including researchers, decision-makers, and residents.
Synopsis of Leguminosae from Iguaçu National Park, Paraná, Brazil
A comprehensive survey of the Leguminosae family in Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, identified 63 native species across 40 genera, with notable discoveries including 24 new records for the park and two endemic species to Paraná. The study, conducted through extensive field expeditions and herbarium surveys from April 2018 to May 2019, revealed distinct distributions between Semideciduous Forest (SF) and Araucaria Forest (AF) areas, with five species exclusive to AF and 51 unique to SF. Additionally, two threatened species were documented: Apuleia leiocarpa and Gleditsia amorphoides. The research provides a detailed identification key, illustrations, and geographical distribution insights, contributing significantly to the understanding of Leguminosae biodiversity in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Synopsis of Rubiaceae from the Iguaçu National Park, Paraná, Brazil
Iguaçu National Park, a significant fragment of Paraná's Inland Atlantic Rainforest, harbors 35 Rubiaceae species across 19 genera. Palicourea and Psychotria dominate with five species each, while Borreria orientalis stands out for its restricted distribution in Brazil, limited to Paraná. The study, conducted through monthly collections from August 2013 to July 2014 and supplemented by sporadic collections until April 2019, reveals distinct species distributions: Foz do Iguaçu and Céu Azul areas host 24 and 22 species respectively, with notable exclusives. Seven species are ubiquitous across both forest formations, while 20 are exclusive to the seasonal semideciduous forest. Manettia tweedieana is identified as endangered, highlighting conservation concerns.
Three new Anaulacomera species (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Phaneropterinae) from the Iguaçu National Park and nearby areas, southern Brazil
Researchers have identified three new species of Anaulacomera, a genus of bush-crickets (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae), within the UNESCO-listed Iguaçu National Park and adjacent Atlantic Forest fragments in southern Brazil. These include Anaulacomera (Anaulacomera) mariellae, Anaulacomera (Anallomes) arlindoi, and Anaulacomera angelinae, with the latter's placement as incertae sedis reflecting ongoing taxonomic uncertainty. The discovery was based on male morphology, contributing to the understanding of biodiversity in this protected region. Distribution maps for species within the Inermis and Lanceolata groups were also provided, offering insights into their geographic range.
Environmental Attitudes and Tourist Satisfaction in Overloaded Natural Protected Areas
Despite high visitation and extensive infrastructure, environmentalist tourists report higher satisfaction with their experience at Iguaçu National Park compared to non-environmentalists. This finding challenges the hypothesis that overcrowding and overdevelopment diminish the positive impact of pro-environmental attitudes on visitor satisfaction. The study analyzed data from 434 interviews with long-haul tourists, revealing that even in crowded natural protected areas, environmentalist visitors remain more satisfied, likely due to their deeper connection to nature. These insights have significant implications for park management and conservation strategies.
Free-living ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) in the Iguaçu National Park, Brazil: Temporal dynamics and questing behavior on vegetation
A comprehensive study of tick species, seasonal activity, and questing behavior in Iguaçu National Park revealed distinct patterns linked to host size and altitude. Nine tick species were identified, with Amblyomma brasiliense and A. coelebs being the most abundant. Tick activity showed strong seasonal trends, with each life stage prevailing in a specific season, suggesting one generation per year. Questing height varied significantly by species, developmental stage, and altitude, with adults preferring higher vegetation to target larger hosts, while larvae were also found at elevated heights. The research highlights A. incisum as more prevalent at higher altitudes compared to A. coelebs. This baseline data is crucial for understanding tick-borne disease epidemiology in anthropogenically impacted landscapes.
Molecular detection of a Borrelia sp. in nymphs of Amblyomma brasiliense ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) from Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, genetically related to Borrelia from Ethiopia and Côte d’Ivoire
Researchers detected a novel Borrelia species in nymphs of Amblyomma brasiliense ticks from Iguaçu National Park, Brazil. The Borrelia sequence showed 90.8% identity to strains from Côte d'Ivoire and 89.1% to those from Ethiopia, suggesting it may represent a previously undescribed species. Unlike known pathogenic Borrelia linked to Lyme borreliosis or relapsing fever, this strain appears distinct in its genetic and phylogenetic profile. The study analyzed 394 tick samples (pools of larvae/nymphs or individual adults) collected between 2015–2017, using PCR targeting the flagellin B gene (flaB). This is the first report of Borrelia in A. brasiliense ticks, raising questions about its potential ecological role and zoonotic implications.
Seasonal records of benthic macroinvertebrates in a stream on the eastern edge of the Iguaçu National Park, Brazil
A study on the eastern edge of Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, reveals that seasonal climatic conditions significantly influence the abundance and composition of benthic macroinvertebrates. Researchers identified 88 taxa, with Diptera being the most abundant and diverse order. The findings indicate higher occurrences and diversity during intermediate and lower precipitation/temperature periods, suggesting a varied response to environmental factors. This research enhances our understanding of stream ecosystems in biodiversity hotspots like the Atlantic Forest, providing critical data for biomonitoring efforts amid ongoing anthropogenic threats.
Effect of Environmental Variables in the Distribution of Tree Species in the Iguaçu National Park
A study on the Iguaçu National Park reveals that tree species distribution is significantly influenced by environmental variables such as altitude, humidity, soil fertility, aluminum saturation, and clay content. Using Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA), researchers identified specific patterns in how these factors shape vegetation across the park's diverse landscapes, ranging from riverbanks to plateau regions at altitudes between 150 and 750 meters. Notably, some species demonstrated tolerance to environmental variations, a trait common among widely distributed species. This finding underscores the importance of considering multiple environmental variables for efficient forest management and conservation efforts in degraded areas.
Forests of the Iguaçu National Park: Structure, Composition, and Richness
A phytosociological survey of Iguaçu National Park's arboreal vegetation reveals a rich biodiversity with 218 species across 54 families and 135 genera, highlighting the park's advanced ecological succession. Euterpe edulis Mart. emerged as the most frequent species, alongside Aspidosperma polyneuron Müll. Arg., defining seasonal forests in central and southern regions. In contrast, the northern region, at 700 meters above sea level, showcased a transitional environment with Araucaria angustifolia (Bertol.) Kuntze and Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil., blending seasonal and ombrophillous forest characteristics. This study addresses a significant gap in scientific knowledge by characterizing the park's forest ecology after seven and a half decades, providing critical insights for conservation efforts.
New species of Endecous (Grylloidea, Phalangopsidae, Luzarinae) from the Iguaçu National Park (Brazil), including bioacoustics, cytogenetic and distribution data
Researchers have identified two new species of cavicolous-straminicolous crickets, Endecous chape and E. naipi, inhabiting the Atlantic Semideciduous Forest within Iguaçu National Park, Brazil. These sympatric species were distinguished through morphological analysis, focusing on male genitalia and tegmina. Additionally, the study provides bioacoustics data for E. chape, including its calling song, and cytogenetic insights, contributing to the understanding of the genus Endecous. A distribution map for the species is also presented, enhancing knowledge of their geographic range. The findings are deposited in collections at the Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo (MZSP) and Universidade Estadual Paulista—UNESP.
White-lipped peccaries are recorded at Iguaçu National Park after 20 years
After two decades of absence, white-lipped peccaries (WLP), the most endangered ungulate in the Neotropics, have been recorded again within Iguaçu National Park (INP). This rediscovery, following confirmed reports of local extinction in the mid-1990s and subsequent surveys throughout the 2000s, suggests a potential population recovery, likely due to emigration from surrounding areas. The study highlights the critical need for urgent conservation measures to re-establish WLP populations and restore their ecological role within the park's ecosystem.
Diet and ecomorphological relationships of an endemic, species-poor fish assemblage in a stream in the Iguaçu National Park
A study of the fish assemblage in Iguaçu National Park reveals that low species richness does not lead to broader trophic niches or the absence of key ecomorphotypes. Researchers analyzed the diet and morphology of seven endemic fish species, finding low diet overlap and distinct ecomorphological traits, suggesting niche partitioning even in species-poor environments. The study used quarterly electrofishing sampling from 2011 to 2012, analyzing stomach contents and body morphology through PCA, with a partial Mantel test confirming the independence of diet and morphology from phylogeny.
Population Structure of Araucaria angustifolia in the Iguaçu National Park
Iguaçu National Park serves as a critical conservation remnant for Araucaria angustifolia, with its population structure exhibiting a standard inverted-J pattern, indicative of healthy regeneration. The study found that regenerating individuals predominantly display an aggregated distribution, while juveniles, males, and females show a uniform pattern. Regeneration is more effective in shaded environments, as higher frequencies were observed at greater canopy densities. Researchers analyzed 479 individuals across 200 plots, revealing the park's importance for the species' survival amid agricultural encroachment.
Biomass and Carbon in Non-Woody Vegetation, Dead Wood and Litter in Iguaçu National Park
Iguazu National Park (INP) stores significant carbon in its non-woody vegetation, dead wood, and litter. A 2004 study found that the Seasonal Semideciduous Forest (FES) contributes 8.29 tC/ha (30.41 tCO₂e/ha), while the Araucaria Forest (AF) holds 4.94 tC/ha (18.12 tCO₂e/ha). Carbon stocks varied by material type, with litter and large-diameter dead wood (WD4) accounting for the highest carbon fractions (36.2–42.1%). While no significant differences in carbon content were found between forest types, statistically significant variations existed among different carbon pools (p < 0.05). These findings underscore the importance of including non-woody biomass and dead wood in forest carbon assessments to accurately estimate total ecosystem carbon stocks.
Diatoms (Bacillariophyceae) of Iguaçu National Park, Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
A comprehensive inventory of diatom species (Bacillariophyceae) in Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, revealed 120 taxa, including 36 new records for the region. This study significantly expands the known diversity of freshwater diatoms in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the ecological richness of its aquatic ecosystems. Researchers employed a combination of light and scanning electron microscopy to analyze samples collected from various water bodies within the park. The findings underscore the importance of Iguaçu National Park as a biodiversity hotspot and provide crucial baseline data for future conservation efforts.
Seasonal variation of the phytoplankton community structure in the São João River, Iguaçu National Park, Brazil
A study of the São João River, a tributary of the Iguaçu River within Iguaçu National Park, Brazil, revealed significant seasonal and spatial variations in phytoplankton community structure. Over an annual cycle (August 2008 to July 2009), 221 taxa were identified, with Bacillariophyceae dominating both in density and biovolume. Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) highlighted distinct differences between seasons and sampling sites, driven primarily by limnological factors such as temperature, transparency, and nutrient availability. While temporal heterogeneity was observed in diversity indexes and evenness, spatial similarity persisted due to the proximity of study stations and unidirectional flow characteristics typical of lotic environments.
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