Authors:Rigoberto González Gutiérrez Abstract: Introduction: Despite having a rich and diverse native freshwater fish fauna, exotic species have been introduced to Panama since the 20th century. Objective: To report its presence in the fresh waters of Panama of a newly recorded exotic fish. Methods: Specimens were caught with gillnet in Gatun lake, on September 30, 2017. Results: Three specimens with average standard length and weight of 233mm and 307g, respectively, were identified as Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus x pardalis. This armored catfish, native to the Amazon basin, is breeding in Gatun and may threaten local species. Conclusion: The exotic fish Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus x pardalis has a reproductive population in Gatun Lake, Panama. PubDate: 2022-11-04 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4352 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Werner Salazar-Salazar, José Eladio Monge-Pérez, Michelle Loría-Coto Abstract: Introduction: Seaweed extracts have biostimulant activities that improve growth and yield in many crops, and can improve mineral absorption. Objective: to evaluate the effects of foliar spray of seaweed extract and fertilizers (treatments: seaweed extract (SE); fertilizers (FF); seaweed extract+fertilizers (SE+FF); and control-C) on the yield and quality of sweet pepper grown under greenhouse conditions. Methods: The crop was managed in a coconut fiber substrate and with fertigation. Evaluated variables were: number of fruits per plant, fruit weight (g), yield (ton/ha), percentage of total soluble solids (°Brix), chlorophyll content (atLEAF), leaf area (cm2), leaf dry weight (g), specific leaf weight (mg/cm2), plant height (cm), and stem diameter (mm). Treatments were applied from 14 days after transplant (ddt), and were carried out weekly until the end of the trial (154 ddt). Results: Treatments SE and SE+FF produced a higher number of commercial and total fruits per plant, as well as higher commercial and total yields when compared to treatments FF and C. The SE+FF treatment produced a greater fruit weight, compared to treatment C, both at a commercial and total level. No significant differences between treatments were observed for the following variables: leaf area, leaf dry weight, leaf specific weight, plant height and stem diameter. Conclusion: The use of the seaweed extract (SE) produced the highest total and commercial yield at the lowest cost, and thus its utilization is recommended under the trial conditions; on the other hand, the application of foliar fertilizers (FF) under the same conditions did not improve neither the yield of sweet peppers nor their quality. PubDate: 2022-11-04 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4299 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Valeria Brenes Rodríguez, Alejandro Chacón-Villalobos, Yorleny Araya-Quesada Abstract: ABSTRACT. Introduction: The reformulation of processed meat products is an important strategy in international plans to reduce sodium consumption. Objective: To compare the preserving action of sodium lactate with that of Proteria™ CV, based on sugarcane. Methods: We tested the preservtives during the refrigerated storage of pressed ham, in four combinations: sodium lactate, Proteria™ CV, a 50% - 50% mix of both, and no preservative as control. We evaluated total aerobic mesophilic microorganisms count, lactic acid bacteria count, pH, syneresis, texture, color and oxidative rancidity; as well as a discriminative sensory evaluation and a liking test with 100 consumers. Results: There were no differences in physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters. Consumers, however, reported a sensory difference. 67% of panelists liked all samples but prefered Proteria™ CV; 21% showed no preference but disliked the mixture; and 12% preferred the mixture. Conclusion: Proteria™ CV achieves a 30% reduction in sodium, and is accepted by consumers without generating significant quality changes. PubDate: 2022-11-02 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4200 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:José Enrique Barraza, Verónica Esperanza Melara Pérez Abstract: Introduction: Cephalochordates are benthic organisms that represent an important link in the evolution of chordates. Coastal human communities use them as food in some Asian countries. Objective: To register the presence of B. californiense in El Salvador. Methods: We collected specimens during different benthic surveys at Jiquilisco and La Union Bays in April 2018 and November 2019, with a Petite Ponar grab and core in subtidal as well as intertidal sediments, respectively. Results: Ten specimens were collected from sandy-muddy sediments at Jiquilisco and La Union bays. Conclusion: B. californiense inhabits estuarine areas in El Salvador. PubDate: 2022-10-24 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4302 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Lizbeth Ynofuente Quispe, Magali Flores Condori, Juan Eduardo Vigo Rivera Abstract: Introduction: Aluminum sulfate, or iron salts, are used as coagulantsto eliminate suspended particles that produce turbidity in water for human consumption, but the process can be improved with other componets. Objective: To evaluate the use of potato peels as an aid to aluminum sulfate in water clarification. Methodology: We worked with a simulated sample of 40 UNT at 16°C with a pH of 7,16, and the CEPIS method to determine the optimal dose (7 treatments x 9 dosages factorial arrangement). Results: Aluminum sulfate + red potato peel, at 30mg/L produced the lowest turbidity (0,85 UNT at a pH of 6,99, with a removal efficiency of 98%. Aluminum sulfate + black imilla husk (35mg/L) produced a turbidity of 0,90 UNT, pH 6,96, 98% efficiency. Conclusion: Imilla and red potato are useful as a coagulation aid for aluminum sulfate. PubDate: 2022-10-24 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4282 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Carlos Iván Orellana Abstract: “Paranormal beliefs in young Salvadoran adults: sociodemographic links, socialization agents and perception of anomie” Introduction: Paranormal beliefs are beliefs that are not scientifically accepted. These beliefs, that may constitute tools for personal control and uncertainty reduction, do not seem to have been studied in Central America. Objective: To explore paranormal beliefs in a sample of Salvadoran adults. Methods: 510 participants filled out a survey that included different measurement scales: Paranormal Beliefs, Perception of Anomie, Fear of Crime and Socialization Agents. The Paranormal Belief Scale is made up of three factors: witchcraft, psi-superstition and strange life forms. Results: The most accepted belief was witchcraft. Women, evangelical Christians, and individuals from low-income families, were more accepting of paranormal beliefs, and these correlate with the perception of anomie and fear of crime. Conclusion: Paranormal beliefs in this sample vary individually, reflect social conditions, and are linked to perceptions of threat and uncertainty. PubDate: 2022-10-11 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4245 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Pablo Marín Pacheco , Alison Vega Cambronero, Lucía I. López, José Manuel Mora Abstract: ABSTRACT. “Richness, relative abundance and activity of medium and large mammals of a reserve under restoration in Costa Rica”. Introduction: Private protected areas are a valuable complement to national systems of protected areas. The Sierra Zapote Reserve in Abangares, Costa Rica, established in 2000, protects 70 ha of advanced secondary forest, regenerating secondary forest and primary riparian forest. It is expected to favor faunal communities, like medium and large mammals, which are among the species most threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation; nevertheless; there is a lack of recent faunal assessments at Sierra Zapote. Objective: To assess the richness, relative abundance and activity patterns of these mammals in the reserve. Methods: From May 2020 to July 2021, we kept five camera-traps at strategic sites and programmed them to be active 24 hours a day (0,3 seconds between shots). We checked the cameras every one or two months and also extracted temperature and moon phase data. Results: We obtained 758 independent records of mammals with a 2 135-day photo-trapping effort. The most abundant species were Nasua narica (relative abundance index RAI = 14,6, N= 312) and Didelphis marsupialis (RAI = 6,1, N= 130). The least abundant were Herpailurus yagouaroundi and Procyon lotor (RAI = 0,05, N= 1). Most species are nocturnal and only the peccary (Pecari tajacu), the coati (Nasua narica) and the agouti (Dasyprocta punctata) have mostly diurnal activity. The puma (Puma concolor) occurs at the reserve. Conclusion: The activity patterns were as expected; for the reserve size, a richness of 19 species is comparatively high. The presence of the puma, an indicator of good ecosystem health, hints at the importance of the reserve’s restoration process. PubDate: 2022-10-07 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4210 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Carlos Chaverri, Feliza Ramón-Farías, José F. Cicció Abstract: ABSTRACT: Introduction: Lippia is a Verbenaceous genus of flowering plants, which has about 200 species, distributed throughout the southern USA, Mexico, and Central America to South America. Objective: To study and compare the chemical compositions of the essential oils of L. alba growing in Mexico and Costa Rica. Methods: The essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus. The chemical composition of the oils was analyzed by capillary GC-FID and GC-MS using the retention indices on a DB-5 type capillary column in addition to mass spectral fragmentation patterns. Results: A total of 65 compounds were identified in the essential oil samples from both countries, accounting for 96,5-98,1% of the total amount of the oils. The main constituents of the Mexican sample were 1,8-cineole (22,3%), myrcenone (11,2%), myrcene (10,9%), (E)-ocimenone (10,7%), (Z)-ocimenone (7,5%), and sabinene (6,8%), while for essential oil from Costa Rica the major compounds were myrcenone (30,4%), 1,8-cineole (21,4%), myrcene (11,0%), hedycaryol (4,4%), and sabinene (4,3%). Samples from both countries can be classified as belonging to chemotype “tagetenone”. Lippia alba (strong form) from Costa Rica produces essential oil that differs from all other essential oils of L. alba studied to date because it contained the sesquiterpenoids hedycaryol and the isomeric alcohols α-eudesmol, β-eudesmol, and γ-eudesmol. Conclusion: L. alba (strong form) from Costa Rica can be classified as a new subtype of the chemotype “tagetenone” (chemotype II). PubDate: 2022-10-07 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4005 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Carlos Chaverri, Carlos O. Morales, José F. Cicció Abstract: ABSTRACT. “Essential oils, phenology and biotic interactions of the invasive plant Crassocephalum crepidioides (Asteraceae) in Costa Rica”. Introduction: Crassocephalum crepidioides (Asteraceae) is an herbaceous species with outstanding ethnobotanical uses in Africa and elsewhere, that has extended invasively in several tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Objective: To identify the chemical composition of the essential oils of C. crepidioides, to observe and measure phenological parameters (growth and development), and to record signs of the interaction of plants with other biotic agents throughout the life cycle in the Central Valley of Costa Rica. Methods: The essential oils were obtained via hydrodistillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus. The chemical composition of the oils was done by capillary gas chromatography (GC/FID and GC/MS). The biological field study was a descriptive account of phenological patterns observed during a year in 45 plants from three places, including vegetative and reproductive phases. Results: The essential oils consisted mainly of terpenoids (91,0 to 98,6%). A total of 231 different compounds were identified in the analyzed samples, corresponding to 94,9-99,3% of the total amount of the oils. The major compounds from the leaf oil were myrcene (67,5%) and β-phellandrene (11,6%), while the stem oil mainly contained myrcene (42,2%) and α-copaene (16,5%). The major constituents of flower oil were myrcene (71,8%) and β-phellandrene (17,2%). In the root oil, (E)-β-farnesene (29,5-46,0%), (Z)-β-farnesene (13,0-15,7%) and (E)-caryophyllene (6,0-6,1%) predominated. The mean height of plants was considerably superior in open and sunny places compared to values in partially shaded habitats. In one of the places, 36% of plants died before completing the life cycle for the most part, due to herbivory that was present in more than 80% of all plants and damaged 100% of their shoot organs (stems, leaves, lateral buds, flower buds, and flowers). November and December were the months with maximal flower anthesis and fruit ripening. Conclusions: This species is recognized as annual, but 2/3 of plants completed their life cycle in 4 to 6 months, and due to herbivory and other environmental factors its propagation shows a considerable reduction. PubDate: 2022-10-06 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4079 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Francisco Samuel Álvarez Calderón, Vladlen Henríquez, Xochilt Pocasangre-Orellana, José Guadalupe Argueta Rivera, Erwin Arquímides Chica Argueta Abstract: Introduction: Glass frogs occur from Mexico to South America, and, their taxonomy and distribution are currently debated. In El Salvador, the only species is thought to be Hyalinobatrachium fleischmanni, but it may instead be Hyalinobatrachium viridissimum. In any case, the species is scarcely recorded and understudied. Objective: To estimate the species distribution in the Río Lempa basin, and to compare its call with available records. Methods: We used local volunteers to sample 53 sites in Cabañas and Morazán, El Salvador, during the rainy season (September to November); these were visited once in 2019 and once in 2020. Volunteers counted individuals along transects from 6 to 8 pm and recorded some calls with cell phones. Results: We counted 361 individuals, added 53 new localities (mainly deciduous broad-leaved forest and agricultural systems). Abundance was more related with elevation and forest cover, than with river characteristics. Our evaluation of 32 calls found differences in the peak frequency between these glass frog populations and those of H. fleischmanni and H. viridissimum comb. nov. Conclusion: Salvadorian glass frogs are more widespread than previously recorded, their distribution is more related with elevation and forest than with rivers types, and their taxonomic status remains unsolved. PubDate: 2022-09-06 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4008 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Esmeralda Arévalo Huezo, Silvio Boyat, Hilary Calderón Marín, Valeria Castillo Gamboa , Dayana Pérez Zúñiga, Steve Stephens Cárdenas Abstract: Introduction: Fragmentation due to the change in land use because of anthropogenic pressures has caused loss of habitats for many bird species, causing from population mobilizations to local extinctions. Níspero in Cañas, is a coastal community in Costa Rica, which presents a mixed landscape, made up of mangrove patches and tropical dry forest, highly vulnerable due to aquaculture, industrialization, and the increase in the cattle frontier. One of the proposed strategies for the conservation of these ecosystems is the sustainable use of natural resources. However, there is still profound lack of knowledge about the bird communities present in these heterogeneous ecological matrices Objective: to characterize the diversity of birdlife in a fragmented landscape. Methods: From July 2018 to January 2019, bird counts were carried out. The sampling sites were classified into four categories: mangrove, pasture, shrimp farms and deciduous forest. General alpha richness, abundance, and diversity were determined for each site. Results: A total 1109 individuals distributed in 42 families, 97 genera and 125 species were registered. The most representative families were Ardeidae and Tyrannidae. Shrimp farms had the highest richness indexes, followed by mangrove and pasture areas. In terms of diversity, no significant differences were found. Conclusion: This first approach demonstrates the importance of efforts to integrate disturbed landscapes into conservation programs, given that they present new ecological configurations that can be exploited by various bird species. PubDate: 2022-09-06 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.3968 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Arturo Angulo, Jorge San Gil-León Abstract: Introduction: Cichlids (Cichlidae, Cichliformes) constitute one of the most diverse families of freshwater fishes on the planet. In Costa Rica about 10% of the total known species belong to this group. Objective: Provide, to those interested (i.e., students, academics, researchers, hobbysts and others), updated information (in a friendly language) that updates the composition, classification and nomenclature, as well as allowing the correct identification, of all species of the Cichlidae occurring in the continental waters of Costa Rica. Methods: A list of species was made considering bibliographic records and information obtained through field work. From this list, an dichotomous key was elaborated, including complementary information on distribution, based mainly on external anatomical characters and coloration patterns. The information used for the elaboration of the key came from three main sources: scientific literature, review of museum specimens and fieldwork. Results: A total of 14 genera and 28 species were listed and analyzed. The resulting key is composed of 27 steps allowing the identification of all species of Cichlidae of Costa Rica. This paper also includes a photographic catalog and updated data on the nomenclature of the species listed. Conclusion: With this contribution, the state of knowledge about the taxonomy, nomenclature, regional and local distribution of the Cichlidae of Costa Rica is updated. The key allows the correct identification of all species of the family and will serve as the basis for future local and regional studies. PubDate: 2022-09-06 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4029 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Salvador Santamaria-Damián, Cristian Tovilla-Hernández, Emilio I. RomeroBerny, Wilfredo A. Matamoros Abstract: Introduction: The specialized root systems of mangroves provide protection and food resources for young and small fish, and it is known that they are reflected on some health condition and growth characteristics of the fish, but much remains to be learned about this subject in the tropics. Objective: To estimate length-weight relationships for ten bony fish species in two tropical mangroves and to compare the allometry and health condition for three species shared among those mangroves. Methods: Between May and November 2019, we collected 1 500 fish specimens from the roots of two mangroves in Chiapas, Mexico (1 322 fishes in stilt-roots and 188 in pneumatophores). We estimated Length-Weight relations with W=aSLb, and the regression parameters (a and b) were calculated by least-squares; as well as univariate analyses to compare standard length, regression slopes, and relative condition among individuals of Poecilia nelsoni, Poeciliopsis fasciata and Dormitator latifrons. Results: The standard length for all species ranged between 0,7 and 21,5 cm and weight between 0,01 and 209,34 g; the regression b-values varied from 2,844 for P. fasciata and 3,847 for Poeciliopsis pleurospilus. TDetermination coefficients were >0,9 for eight species in stilt-roots and for three species in pneumatophores. Specimens of three species collected in both microhabitats were smaller in pneumatophores than in stilt-roots and also differed in b-values; however, the relative health condition was higher only in P. fasciata. Conclusion: The intrinsic conditions of stilt-roots and pneumatophores influence the average size and allometry of fishes at this site. The relative condition does not vary between microhabitats for most species, but may reflect development strategies associated with the environment. PubDate: 2022-09-06 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.3960 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Diego Aguilar Sandí, Elmer G. García Abstract: Introduction: Myroxylon balsamum is a tree species native to the Neotropics; and its populations may be declining due to logging and habitat loss. Objective: To evaluate the germinative response of seeds under three temperature conditions, and in fruits selected by seed-chamber thickness. Methods: The fruits were collected in the Central Valley of Costa Rica between November 2019 and June 2020. The germinative response was evaluated at 20ºC, 20/30ºC and 30ºC. The thickness of the seed-chambers was measured and dissected. The fruits were classified as filled (thickness ≥ 0,7cm) and as vain (thickness < 0,7cm). Seed germination within fruits was evaluated at 20ºC, 20/30ºC and 30ºC. Results: As the temperature increased, the time for 50% of the seeds to germinate decreased, and the number of seeds germinated per day, increased. However, there was contamination by pathogens, which caused seed death. Filled fruits germinated well at the three temperatures (92% at 20/30ºC; 86% at 30ºC), while in the vain fruits there was germination only at 20/30ºC (4%) and pathogen contamination could be controlled. Conclusion: The germination for this tree is favored at 20/30ºC and at 30ºC, as long as seeds remain inside fruits with subglobose seed-chambers (thickness ≥ 07cm). PubDate: 2022-09-06 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4091 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Authors:Eric Morales Mora, Kenia Barrantes Jiménez, Wilson Beita Sandí, Luz Chacón Jiménez Abstract: Introduction: Arsenic, an element that can be harmful to human health, is abundant in the environment. It was among the first substances recognized as carcinogenic, and its presence in water is common in Latin America. Its levels in water sources are relevant for decision-making and sanitary control. This study is the first in Latin America with a mathematical model of the risk and burden of disease. Objective: To evaluate the exposure to low levels of arsenic in agricultural workers in a Costa Rican basin with this new technique. Methods: We sampled arsenic in three points along the Purires River, Cartago, between September 2011 and August 2012. We used “censored value” estimates; risk assessment with quadratic exponential models and Monte Carlo simulations to determine the risk of cancer, for agricultural workers, by type and route of exposure during irrigation. Results: Concentrations did not differ by site, but were higher in the dry season. The risk level and burden of disease were not acceptable. Disease burden is a more rigorous indicator than the individual calculation of probability of occurrence. Our estimated risk level is low compared to other studies outside the region, but not comparable to previous work in Latin America, which used a different method. Conclusion: A decade ago, in the Purires basin, arsenic concentrations were higher in the dry season and the risk level and burden of disease were not acceptable. PubDate: 2022-09-06 DOI: 10.22458/urj.v14i2.4070 Issue No:Vol. 14, No. 2 (2022)
Open Access journal
