Facultad de Ciencias de la Tierra y el Mar

URI permanente para esta comunidadhttp://10.0.96.45:4000/handle/11056/14052

La Facultad de Ciencias de la Tierra y Mar (FCTM) de la Universidad Nacional (UNA), se crea en el año 1973 y desde sus inicios se ha caracterizado por su compromiso con los principios y valores que sustentan la Universidad Necesaria; la cual en lo fundamental se caracteriza por la búsqueda de nuevos espacios que le permitan seguir aportando a la sociedad profesionales y productos de la investigación, extensión y servicios que contribuyan a la mejora en la calidad de vida de la población costarricense y sus relaciones con la naturaleza.

Decana: Grace Wong Reyes, Ph.D, correo electrónico: grace.wong.reyes@una.cr

Contacto:

Página web: www.tierraymar.una.ac.cr

Correo: fctm@una.cr

Teléfono: (506) 2277-3226 / (506) 2277-3280

Biblioteca Especializada Facultad de Ciencias de la Tierra y el Mar:

Página web: www.bctm.una.ac.cr

Correo: bctm@una.cr

Teléfono: 2562-6490 / 2562-6491

Facebook: @BibliotecaTierrayMar

Instagram: @biblioteca.tierraymar

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Mostrando 1 - 14 de 14

A case study on pharmaceutical residues and antimicrobial resistance genes in Costa Rican rivers : a possible route of contamination for feline and other species
(Elsevier, 2023-11-12) Vargas-Villalobos, Seiling; Hernández, Felix; Fabregat-Safont, David; Salas-González, Denis; Quesada-Alvarado, Francisco; Botero-Coy, Ana Maria; Esperón, Fernando; Martín-Maldonado, Bárbara; Monrós-González, Juan; Ruepert, Clemens; Estrada-König, Sandra; Rivera-Castillo, Josué; Chaverri-Fonseca, Fabio; Blanco-Peña, Kinndle
In this investigation, the presence of antibiotics and pharmaceuticals in Costa Rican surface waters, specifically in regions near feline habitats, was examined. The study revealed that 47% of the water samples contained detectable traces of at least one antibiotic. Ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin were the most frequently detected compounds, each with a detection rate of 27%. Other antibiotics, such as erythromycin, roxithromycin, and trimethoprim, were also found but at lower frequencies, around 14%. Notably, all antibiotic concentrations remained below 10 ng/L, with ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, and erythromycin showing the highest concentrations. Furthermore, the investigation revealed the presence of non-antibiotic pharmaceutical residues in the water samples, typically at concentrations below 64 ng/L. Tramadol was the most frequently detected compound, present in 18% of the samples. The highest concentrations were observed for acetaminophen and tramadol, measuring 64 and 10 ng/L, respectively. Comparing these findings with studies conducted in treated wastewater and urban rivers, it became evident that the concentrations of antibiotics and pharmaceuticals were notably lower in this study. While previous research reported higher values, the limited number of studies conducted in protected areas raises concerns about the potential environmental impact on biodiversity. In summary, these results emphasize the importance of monitoring pharmaceutical residues and antimicrobial resistance genes ARGs in vulnerable ecosystems, especially those in close proximity to feline habitats in Costa Rica. Additionally, the study delved into the detection of (ARGs). All tested water samples were positive for at least one ARG, with the blaTEM gene being the most prevalent at 82%, followed by tetS at 64% and qnrB at 23%. Moreover, this research shed light on the complexity of evaluating ARGs in environmental samples, as their presence does not necessarily indicate their expression. It also highlighted the potential for co-selection and coregulation of ARGs, showcasing the intricate behaviors of these genes in aquatic environments.
A comparison of the reproductive ability of Varroa destructor (Mesostigmata:Varroidae) in worker and drone brood of Africanized honey bees (Apis mellifera)
(Springer Science, 2007-09-08) Calderón, Rafael A.; Zamora, Luis G.; Van Veen, Johan W.; Quesada, Mariela V.
Colony infestation by the parasitic mite, Varroa destructor is one of the most serious problems for beekeeping worldwide. In order to reproduce varroa females, enter worker or drone brood shortly before the cell is sealed. To test the hypothesis that, due to the preference of mites to invade drone brood to reproduce, a high proportion of the mite reproduction should occur in drone cells, a comparative study of mite reproductive rate in worker and drone brood of Africanized honey bees (AHB) was done for 370 mites. After determining the number, developmental stage and sex of the offspring in worker cells, the foundress female mite was immediately transferred into an uninfested drone cell. Mite fertility in single infested worker and drone brood cells was 76.5 and 79.3%, respectively. There was no difference between the groups (X 2 = 0.78, P = 0.37). However, one of the most significant differences in mite reproduction was the higher percentage of mites producing viable offspring (cells that contain one live adult male and at least one adult female mite) in drone cells (38.1%) compared to worker cells (13.8%) (X 2 = 55.4, P < 0.01). Furthermore, a high level of immature offspring occurred in worker cells and not in drone cells (X 2 = 69, P < 0.01). Although no differences were found in the percentage of non-reproducing mites, more than 74% (n = 85) of the mites that did not reproduce in worker brood, produced offspring when they were transferred to drone brood.
Anthropogenic imprint on riverine plasmidome diversity and proliferation of antibiotic resistance genes following pollution and urbanization
(Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, 2025-03-24) Arias-Andrés, María; Barrantes-Jiménez, Kenia
Plasmids are key determinants in microbial ecology and evolution, facilitating the dissemination of adaptive traits and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Although the molecular mechanisms governing plasmid replication, maintenance, and transfer have been extensively studied, the specific impacts of urbanization-induced pollution on plasmid ecology, diversity, and associated ARGs in tropical regions remain underexplored. This study investigates these dynamics in a tropical aquatic ecosystem, providing novel insights into how pollution shapes plasmid composition and function. In contrast to the observed decrease in chromosomal diversity, we demonstrate that pollution associated with urbanization increases the diversity and taxonomic composition of plasmids within a bacterial community (plasmidome). We analyzed eighteen water and sediment metagenomes, capturing a gradient of pollution and ARG contamination along a tropical urban river. Plasmid and chromosomal diversity profiles were found to be anti-correlated. Plasmid species enrichment along the pollution gradient led to significant compositional differences in water samples, where differentially abundant species suggest plasmid maintenance within specific taxonomic classes. Additionally, the diversity and abundance of ARGs related to the plasmidome increased concomitantly with the intensity of fecal and chemical pollution. These findings highlight the critical need for targeted plasmidome studies to better understand plasmids' environmental spread, as their dynamics are independent of chromosomal patterns. This research is crucial for understanding the consequences of bacterial evolution, particularly in the context of environmental and public health.
Changes in food behavior during the first lockdown of COVID-19 pandemic: a multi-country study about changes in eating habits, motivations, and food-related behaviors
(ELSEVIER, 2022-02-10) Lamy, Elsa; Villalobos, Keylor; Viegas, Claudia; Rocha, Ada; Lucas, María Raquel; Tavares, Sofía; Capela e Silva, Fernando; Guedes, David; Laureati, Mónica; Zian, Zeineb; Salles Machado, Alessandra; Ellssel, Pierre; Freyer, Bernhard; González Rodrigo, Elena; Calzadilla, Jesús; Majewski, Edward; Prazeres, Ibrahim; Silva, Vlademir; Juračak, Josip; Platilová Vorlíčková, Lenka; Kamutali, Antonino; Tschá, Elizabeth Regina; Želvytė, Rasa; Monkeviciene, Ingrida; Elati, Jalila; De Souza Pinto, Ana María; Midori Castelo, Paula; Anzman-Frasca, Stephanie
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in severe, unprecedented changes affecting the world population. Restrictions in mobility, social distancing measures, and the persistent social alarm, during the first period of pandemic, resulted in dramatic lifestyle changes and affected physical and psychological wellbeing on a global scale. An international research team was constituted to develop a study involving different countries about eating motivations, dietary habits and behaviors related with food intake, acquisition, and preparation. This study presents results of an online survey, carried out during the first lockdown, in 2020, assessing food-related behavior and how people perceived them to change, comparatively to the period preceding the COVID-19 outbreak. A total of 3332 responses, collected from 16 countries, were considered for analysis [72.8% in Europe, 12.8% in Africa, 2.2% in North America (USA) and 12.2% in South America]. Results suggest that the main motivations perceived to drive food intake were familiarity and liking. Two clusters were identified, based on food intake frequency, which were classified as “healthier” and “unhealthier”. The former was constituted by individuals with higher scholarity level, to whom intake was more motivated by health, natural concerns, and weight control, and less by liking, pleasure or affect regulation. The second cluster was constituted by individuals with a higher proportion of male and intake more influenced by affect-related motivations. During this period, a generalized lower concern with the convenience attributes of foods was noted (namely, choice of processed products and fast-food meals), alongside an increase in time and efforts dedicated to home cooking. Understanding the main changes and their underlying motivations in a time of unprecedented crisis is of major importance, as it provides the scientific support that allows one to anticipate the implications for the future of the global food and nutrition system and, consequently, to take the appropriate action.
Current status of the small hive beetle Aethina tumida in Latin America
(Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, 2023) Calderón, Rafael; Aldea- Sánchez, P.; Branchiccela, Belén; Bulacio Cagnolo, N.; Medina-Medina, L.A.; Palacio, M.A.; Velarde, R.; Weinstein Teixeira, E.; Antúnez, Karina
The small hive beetle (SHB), Aethina tumida, is a parasitic pest and scavenger of social bees native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is a generalist species which can also reproduce in association with nests of stingless bees, fruits, and even rotten meat. Although in its native range, it usually does not cause severe damage to strong colonies and nests; it has invaded new areas worldwide, causing significant economic losses to social bees in some locations. Here, we present an overview of the current situation of SHB invasion into Latin America by describing its distribution, its impact on beekeeping and the commercialization of bee products, and its potential risk to native bees. In addition, we discuss the strategies carried out in different countries to manage or prevent its entrance and spread. Our findings highlight the need for further research efforts aimed at filling gaps in our understanding of the dynamics of SHB invasions in Latin America, their sources, and trajectories. By contrasting the experiences in countries in which preemptive and preventive measures were taken with countries in which they were not, we conclude that taking such measures has a positive impact on managing SHB invasions. Late notifications of SHB presence in some countries made it difficult to identify SHB dispersal routes and enabling factors. Interactions of SHB with different honey bee and native bee populations remain under-studied, and research on these interactions will determine the severity of SHB as a pest in the region. Latin America offers a dynamic and diverse environment for studying SHB and its interaction with bees.
Ecological and Public Health Effects of Microplastics Pollution
(Emerging Contaminants and Associated Treatment Technologies, 2022) Rojas Jimenez, Keilor; Arias Andres, Maria
Humans and ecosystems are constantly exposed to microplastics (MP). The magnitude of contamination, their ubiquity, and high persistence over time raise serious concerns about their effects on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. MP represent a diverse class of contaminants occurring on a continuum of sizes and in various shapes and presenting a complex composition that includes several types of polymers and several associated pollutants. In short, MP are perhaps one of the most challenging contaminants created by humankind. The effects of exposure to these pollutants are of growing concern even though the type and level of exposure and the specific risks for humans and ecosystem health have not yet been entirely determined. In this chapter, we identify critical qualitative and quantitative aspects of MP sources and exposure routes and toxicity profiles and confront them with research on MP effects and estimations of risks to human and environmental health. Finally, we highlight that some novel sources of MP contamination pose a serious risk of exposure to humans and ecosystems, such as nanoplastics and the recycled plastics incorporated into road pavements and construction.
Effects of the insecticide β-endosulfan on tadpoles of Isthmohyla pseudopuma (Anura: Hylidae)
(Elsevier, 2022) Méndez Rivera, Michael.; Mena, Freylan; Pinnock Branford, Margaret; Ruepert, Clemens; Barquero, Marco D.; Jiménez, Randall R.; Alvarado, Gilbert
Conventional agriculture uses pesticides intensively. Once pesticides are released into the environment, they can be toxic to non-target organisms. Exposure of amphibians to pesticides can be lethal and affect their growth, development and behavior. β-endosulfan is a persistent organochlorine that has been detected in environmental samples within protected sites in Costa Rica, far from agricultural areas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the lethal and sublethal effects, as well as changes in three biomarkers (Cholinesterase activity [ChE], glutathione S- transferase activity [GST] and lipid peroxidation [LPO]) in tadpoles of Isthmohyla pseudopuma exposed to β-endosulfan. A 96-h acute test (20, 40, 60, 80, 100 and 200 µg/L) was performed in order to calculate the median lethal concentration (LC 50 ), while effects on growth and development were assessed during a 4-weeks chronic test (10, 20, 30 and 50 µg/L). In addition, we measured the aforementioned biomarkers in tadpoles exposed to concentrations below the LC 50 . The 96-h LC 50 for this species was 123.6 µg/L. We found no evidence of β-endosulfan influencing any of the three biomarkers evaluated. At 50 µg/L, both length and total weight of tadpoles decreased with respect to the control. Also, at 30 and 50 µg/L we observed that individuals showed a slower development. Therefore, we demonstrated that at sublethal concentrations, β-endosulfan negatively affects I. pseudopuma at early stages causing tadpoles to develop slower and smaller than normal.
Estimación del área y el número máximo de turistas para observar la anidación de tortugas marinas protegidas
(Universidad Nacional, 2021) Espinoza Mora, Nelson; Orrego, Carlos M; Alfaro Alvarado, Luis D
Las áreas protegidas tienden a resguardar ecosistemas poco intervenidos y constituyen un foco de alta atracción para el turismo. Por ambas razones resulta clave regular su visitación a través de herramientas de gestión de visitas. En el presente trabajo se desarrolló una metodología para estimar el área de observación responsable de las tortugas marinas durante su proceso de anidación por parte de turistas en áreas protegidas marino-costeras, tomando como sitio de aplicación el Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Camaronal. Esta metodología utiliza variables relacionadas con el comportamiento anidatorio de la tortuga lora (Lepidochelys olivacea) a fin de determinar el área y la cantidad de observadores recomendable bajo ciertas limitaciones de espacio y considerando los arribos de tortugas registrados durante el período 2013-2015. En esos tres años se registraron 15515 arribos de tortuga lora relacionados con las fases lunares; la mayor cantidad de arribos sucedió estando la luna en cuarto menguante. El área propuesta para observar a las tortugas marinas en el sitio Camaronal fue 51.4 m2 y el área de observación de una tortuga marina corresponde a un círculo de ~500 m2 en grupos turísticos de 10 personas como máximo. El comportamiento de anidación no se vería alterado significativamente mientras se respete el tamaño de grupo sugerido. El refugio tiene como uno de sus objetivos de conservación a L. olivacea, por lo cual la preservación de esta especie debe ser prioridad.
In Vitro Culture of the Anxiolytic Plant, Souroubea Sympetala
(Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, 2020) Rojas Vargas, Alejandra; Hine, Ana; Lui, Rui; Otárola Rojas, Marco Antonio; Sánchez Vindas, Pablo; Durst, Tony; Arnason, John
A protocol for the in vitro culture of the anxiolytic medicinal plant Souroubea sympetala (Marcgraviaceae) was developed, representing one of the first in vitro cultures for the family. This species was previously very difficult to cultivate from seed or cuttings. Methods included (1) the improvement of seed germination by axenic culture (2) development of regenerative cultures in vitro, then cultivation under greenhouse and finally field conditions and (3) creation of cell suspensions. Phytochemical analysis was undertaken by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). The percentage of seed germination was improved from 2% to 59% in axenic culture and the full development of the seedling with its apical shoot and root took twenty-four days. The best seedling development was obtained in Gamborg B5 culture medium. Most friable callus formation, (66.7%) was obtained in the Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with naphthalene acetic acid (1 mg · L–1) and kinetin (0.5 mg · L–1) from which viable cell cultures were developed. Analysis identified 4 main triterpenes with both in vitro plants and greenhouse grown plants derived from them. The triterpenes were betulinic acid, ursolic acid, alpha-amyrin and beta-amyrin. The betulinic acid found in greenhouse plants was comparable to wild plants. The cell suspension cultures had much lower levels of betulinic acid than plants and are not at present a viable source of this anxiolytic triterpene. In conclusion the method provides healthy plants for cultivation of this new medicinal plant and consequently harvesting of wild plants is not required.
Relationship between vegetation cover and feeding areas of jaguars (Panthera onca) on sea turtles in Santa Rosa National Park, Costa Rica
(ELSEVIER, 2019-10-15) Morera Chacón, Brayan H.; Posadas García, Ana C.; Mora Benavides, José Manuel; Carrillo, Eduardo
Several factors determine the distribution of areas in which jaguars feed on sea turtles. Different studies have evaluated the relationship of feeding sites with the distribution of human activity on the beach, distribution of nesting female turtles, interactions and territorial behaviors among jaguars and scavenger's presence. However, no study has evaluated the relationship of jaguar feeding areas with vegetation cover. We calculate de density of sea turtle's carcasses in plots demarked in Nancite beach at Santa Rosa National Park, Costa Rica. The average of carcasses density was 33.79/ha (CI 95% = 19.12–48.46) and the average percentage of vegetation cover was 55.62% (CI 95% = 41.84–69.41). We found a positive relationship between density of carcasses and percentage of vegetation cover. The variation in the density of carcasses was explained in a 21.4% by the vegetation cover. The vegetation cover contributes to the complex nature of food webs, and describing the relationships of this with food webs can provide relevant information for the design of future studies, wildlife management and conservation.
Short-term exposure to benzalkonium chloride in bacteria from activated sludge alters the community diversity and the antibiotic resistance profile
(IWA PUBLISHING, 2021) Chacón, Luz.; Arias-Andrés, Maria; Mena, Freylan; Rivera, Luis.; Hernández, Lorena; Achi, Rosario; Garcia, Fernando.; Rojas-Jiménez, Keilor.
La introducción continua de productos de limpieza que contienen cloruro de benzalconio (BAC) procedente de vertidos domésticos puede moldear las comunidades microbianas de las plantas de tratamiento de aguas residuales (EDAR) de una forma aún poco conocida. En este estudio, realizamos una exposición in vitro de lodos activados de una EDAR de Costa Rica a BAC, cuantificamos los cambios en los perfiles génicos intI1, sul2 y qacE/qacEΔ1, y determinamos alteraciones en la composición de la comunidad bacteriana. El análisis de los datos de qPCR reveló elevadas cargas de genes de resistencia a antibióticos en la comunidad microbiana; tras la exposición a BAC se observó un aumento significativo del gen qacE/qacEΔ1, relacionado con la resistencia al cuaternario de amonio. El análisis de las secuencias del gen 16S rRNA mostró variaciones pronunciadas en la estructura de las comunidades bacterianas, incluyendo una reducción de los valores de diversidad alfa y un aumento de la abundancia relativa de Alphaproteobacteria, particularmente de Rhodospseudomonas y Rhodobacter. Confirmamos que las comunidades microbianas presentaban una alta resiliencia al BAC en la concentración de mg/mL, probablemente debido a la exposición constante a este contaminante. También presentaron genes relacionados con la resistencia a antibióticos con mecanismos similares para tolerar esta sustancia. Estos mecanismos deberían explorarse más a fondo, especialmente en el contexto de un elevado uso de desinfectante.
Surplus killing of olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivace) by jaguar (Panthera onca) in Santa Rosa National Park, Costa Rica
(ELSEVIER, 2022-08-30) Chopin Rodríguez, José M.; Montalvo, Víctor H; Lloyd, Kevin J.; Saénz Bolaños, Carolina; Cruz Díaz, Juan C.; Carrillo, Eduardo
Surplus killing is a rare behavior in large predators and its documentation has been scarce. This phenomenon has been observed mostly in carnivores and comprises on the predation of several prey in a short period that eventually would not be consumed, this behavior presents a challenge to ecological theory because it appears to be a waste of energy. Although there are several records of surplus killing behavior for the Panthera genus, this behavior has not been reported on free roaming jaguar (Panthera onca) populations. Hence, this report describes in-situ evidence of surplus killing by jaguars during the arribada massive nesting on olive ridleys (Lepidochelys olivacea) in Nancite beach, Santa Rosa National Park, Costa Rica. This new report has interesting implications for food web theory, as it shows that under certain circumstances some predators are capable of killing more prey than they can consume, showing how strong the hunting instinct can be for certain species.
The fungicide chlorothalonil changes the amphibian skin microbiome: a potential factor disrupting a host disease-protective trait
(MDPI, 2021-04-08) Jiménez, Randall R.; Alvarado, Gilbert; Ruepert, Clemens; Ballestero, Erick.; Sommer, Simone
The skin microbiome is an important part of amphibian immune defenses and protects against pathogens such as the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), which causes the skin disease chytridiomycosis. Alteration of the microbiome by anthropogenic factors, like pesticides, can impact this protective trait, disrupting its functionality. Chlorothalonil is a widely used fungicide that has been recognized as having an impact on amphibians, but so far, no studies have investigated its effects on amphibian microbial communities. In the present study, we used the amphibian Lithobates vibicarius from the montane forest of Costa Rica, which now appears to persist despite ongoing Bd-exposure, as an experimental model organism. We used 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to investigate the effect of chlorothalonil on tadpoles’ skin microbiome. We found that exposure to chlorothalonil changes bacterial community composition, with more significant changes at a higher concentration. We also found that a larger number of bacteria were reduced on tadpoles’ skin when exposed to the higher concentration of chlorothalonil. We detected four presumed Bd-inhibitory bacteria being suppressed on tadpoles exposed to the fungicide. Our results suggest that exposure to a widely used fungicide could be impacting host-associated bacterial communities, potentially disrupting an amphibian protective trait against pathogens.
The Impact of Urban Pollution on Plasmid-Mediated Resistance Acquisition in Enterobacteria from a Tropical River
(Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, 2024-11-14) Mendoza Guido, Bradd; Arias Andres, Maria; Barrantes, Kenia; Rodrıguez, Cesar; Rojas-Jimenez, Keilor
The exposure of environmental bacteria to contaminants in aquatic ecosystems accelerates the dissemination of antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs) through horizontal gene transfer (HGT). In this study, we sampled three locations along a contamination gradient of a polluted river, focusing on isolating Enterobacteria from the surface waters to investigate the relationship between urban pollution and antibiotic resistance. The genomes of 15 isolates (5 per site) were sequenced to identify plasmid-borne ARGs and their association with resistance phenotypes. Results: Isolates from the site with the highest contamination (Site 3) showeda larger number of ARGs, plasmids, and resistance phenotypes. Notably, one of the isolates analyzed, E. coli A231-12, exhibited phenotypic resistance to seven antibiotics, presumably conferred by a single plasmid carrying 12 ARGs. Comparative analysis of this plasmid revealed its close evolutionary relationship with another IncH plasmid hosted by Salmonella enterica, underscoring its high ARG burden in the aquatic environment. Other plasmids identified in our isolates carried sul and dfrA genes, conferring resistance to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, a commonly prescribed antibiotic combination in clinical settings. These results highlight the critical need to expand research on the link between pollution and plasmid-mediated antimicrobial resistance in aquatic ecosystems, which can act as reservoirs of ARGs.

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