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.

Decano: M.Sc. Andrés Alpízar Naranjo, correo electrónico: /a>

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Página web: www.tierraymar.una.ac.cr

Correo: fctm@una.cr

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Mostrando 1 - 20 de 34

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) Barrantes-Jiménez, Kenia ; Lejzerowicz, Franck; Tran, Tam; Calderón-Osorno, Melany; Rivera-Montero, Luis; Rodríguez-Sánchez, César; Wikmark, Odd-Gunnar; Eiler, Alexander; Grossart, Hans-Peter; Arias-Andrés, María; Rojas-Jiménez, Keilor
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.
Associations between pesticide mixtures applied near home during pregnancy and early childhood with adolescent behavioral and emotional problems in the CHAMACOS study
(ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY, 2021) Hyland, Carly; Bradshaw, Patrick T.; Gunier, Robert; Mora, Ana M.; Kogut, Katherine; Deardorff, Julianna; Sagiv, Sharon; Bradman, Asa; Eskenazi, Brenda
Evidence from longitudinal cohort studies indicates that biomarkers of pesticide exposure and residential proximity to agricultural pesticide applications during pregnancy and early childhood may be associated with adverse child neurodevelopment, including poorer cognition1–6 and increased hyperactivity/ inattention7–9 and traits related to autism spectrum disorders.10–13 Despite relatively consistent findings for outcomes assessed during early and middle childhood, previous studies have only followed children up to the age of 12 years, and data gaps exist regarding the persistence of pesticide–neurodevelopment associations into adolescence and young adulthood.
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.
Changing tectonic regimes in the central Costa Rica forearc between the Paleogene and the present: Insights from structural analysis and focal mechanisms
(Elsevier, 2021-01-04) Porras, Hernán; Mescua, José; Durán, Patrick; Cascante, Monserrat; Giambiagi, Laura; Muller, Cyril
We discuss the Cenozoic history of the Central Costa Rica forearc, between 10° and 9°30′N, based on geological mapping, fault slip data and seismological records.The temporal variability in the regional stress-field suggests a variable and complex deformation pattern. The first stage of deformation, from the Paleogene to early Miocene, was controlled by an extensional regime in the forearc. Afterwards, a change to orthogonal convergence triggered a contractional deformation and subsequent inversion of the sedimentary extensional basins in the middle-upper Miocene. Finally, a transpressive regime has been developed since the Pliocene.
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.
Environmental hazards associated with pesticide import into Costa Rica, 1977-2009
(Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, 2014-09-05) De la Cruz, Elba; Bravo Durán, Viria; Ramírez, Fernando; Castillo, Luisa E.
Raw pesticide import data from 1977 to 2009 obtained from the Ministry of Agriculture in Costa Rica were processed and analyzed. The quantity of specific active ingredients (a.i.), and chemical groups were calculated by year and presented in ten-year periods. Three sets of environmental hazard indicators were constructed: one for general pesticides exposure to monitor tendencies in time, including total quantities imported divided by significant denominators, such as hectares of protected and wetland areas. The second indicator calculates pesticide use on the Pacific or Caribbean slope. The third one is an assessment of environmental hazards intended to estimate fate and toxicity to aquatic biota. A review of Costa Rican aquatic ecosystems' contamination with pesticides is presented. The annual average import as well as the quantity of pesticides capable of reaching water bodies increased during the analyzed period. The same was observed for harmful a.i., 98% of the pesticides imported were classified as acutely toxic for fish and crustaceans and 73% for amphibians. Approximately 8.4 kg of a.i. were imported per hectare of protected areas and 24.3 kg of a.i. per hectare of wetlands. The contamination of aquatic systems over time by specific pesticides matches quite well the list of imported ones. We recommend using data of pesticide imports as a source of information to evaluate environmental risk exposure and promote changes to reduce impacts on aquatic systems.
Establecimientos de un programa de producción de esquejes de Aglaonema Commutatum bajo invernadero en la empresa Orocosta Agroindustrial S.A., Horquetas de Sarapiquí, Heredia Costa Rica.
(Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, 2026-01-28) Jiménez Araya, Pablo Antonio; Arboleda Julio , Esteban
This study aimed to establish a production program for Aglaonema commutatum cuttings under greenhouse conditions as an alternative to diversify the income sources of Orocosta Agroindustrial S.A. The research was conducted in Horquetas de Sarapiquí, Heredia, Costa Rica, from January to May 2024. Included the development of an initial inventory of mother plants, nutritional and substrate analyses, determination of average cutting production per variety, and evaluation of plant recovery time after harvest. Technical management practices were also implemented to ensure quality, plant health, and production efficiency. The results allowed the establishment of key production parameters and the estimation of the number of mother plants required to meet market demand. It is concluded that the production of aglaonema cuttings is technically and economically viable, representing a growth opportunity in the ornamental plant market.
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.
Evaluation of the viability of microencapsulated Trichoderma longibrachiatum conidia as a strategy to prolong the shelf life of the fungus as a biological control agent
(PubMed Central (PMC), 2025-01-15) Arias-Chavarría, Luis Diego; Batista-Menezes, Diego; Orozco-Cayasso, Steffany; Vargas-Martínez, Alejandro; Vega-Baudrit, José Roberto; Montes de Oca-Vásquez, Gabriela
Trichoderma is an antagonistic fungus used commercially; however, the viability of these formulations is affected by biotic and abiotic factors. In this research, microcapsules of sodium alginate reinforced with nanocellulose and/or chitosan were developed to encapsulate T. longibrachiatum conidia and characterized by SEM, FTIR, and TGA. The viability of the microencapsulated conidia was evaluated through different temperatures (room temperature, 5°C and 37°C), as well as their in vitro antagonistic potential against Fusarium oxysporum. The formulations evaluated had encapsulation efficiencies above 92% and the microcapsules with alginate, chitosan, and nanocellulose maintained 100% viability at 37°C for 2 months. In addition, all formulations evaluated retained antagonistic ability against F. oxysporum. These findings support the use of alginate, nanocellulose and chitosan for the formulation of microcapsules to maintain the viability of T. longibrachiatum conidia over time and at different temperature conditions.
Fruit Characterization of Cocos Nucifera L. (ARECACEAE) Cultivars From the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica and the Philippines
(Kluwer Academic Publishers, 2000-10-01) Vargas, Alfonso; Blanco, Fabio A.
Tall coconut cultivars from the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and the Philippines (San Ramón, Tagnanán, and Laguna), were evaluated for fruit characteristics. Most of the introduced cultivars showed extremely large heterogeneity. A cluster analysis, based on the Ward method, classified the palms into four groups with high internal homogeneity. Some of the evaluated coconut palms from the Costa Rican Pacific area had nut characteristics similar to the San Ramon and Tagnanan palm groups but not to the Laguna group. At the association level used (semipartial R2 = 0.10), another group which included the remaining palms sampled from the Costa Rican Pacific coast was constituted.
GPS measurements of crustal deformation associated with the 22 April 1991, Valle de la Estrella, Costa Rica Earthquake
(Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, 1993-03-05) Lundgren, Paul R.; Kornreich Wolf, Susan; Protti, Marino; Hurst, Kenneth J.
We present analysis results for Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements made at sites in Costa Rica during two campaigns in February and July 1991. GPS solutions for 5 sites (Limon, Liberia, Bratsi, ETCG, and Vueltas) reveal significant horizontal and vertical displacements relative to their February positions. Horizontal displacements relative to Liberia, measured 244.7 ± 0.8, 89.2 ± 0.9, 12.4 ± 1.3, and 1.9 ± 0.9 cm at Limon, Bratsi, Vueltas, and ETCG respectively. Vertical displacements relative to Liberia measured 163 ± 2.1, 15.3 ± 3.0, −10.5 ± 4.4, and −0.6 ±2.1 cm at Limon, Bratsi, Vueltas, and ETCG respectively. We find differences in the GPS derived vertical and horizontal displacements compared to other types of geodetic measurements of uplift in the coastal region and their associated models. To address these differences we compute a dislocation model which fits the GPS measured displacements. A simple uniform planar slip model can not reconcile the differences between the coastal uplift data or the seismic moment, suggesting considerable complexity of the earthquake source.
Habitat preferences and simulation of physical habitat availability of Perlidae (Plecoptera) and Corydalidae (Megaloptera) in a neotropical river
(Editorial UCR, 2025-11-03) Quesada Alvarado, Francisco; Echeverría Sáenz, Silvia; Chaves Quirós, Anny
Habitat preferences represent the distribution and abundance of species among different habitat types. These preferences are highly relevant ecological information because they relate to the feeding strategies, offspring care and predator avoidance refuges of the organisms, therefore potentially influencing their fitness. To define the habitat preference of the nymphs of Anacroneuria spp. (Plecoptera) and larvae of Corydalus spp. (Megaloptera) with respect to current velocity and depth. Methods: We evaluated the abundance of Anacroneuria and Corydalus with information gathered through 15 field campaigns in three sites of the Savegre River, Costa Rica. Also, we used habitat preferences to create simulations of the physical habitat availability for these species through hydraulic models to determine habitat gain or loss due to variations in flow. Anacroneuria (Plecoptera) nymphs preferred velocities of 0.9 m/s and depths between 23-36 cm, while Corydalus (Megaloptera) larvae preferred velocities between 0.6-0.8 m/s, and depths between 17-29 cm. As a case study, these preferences were modeled to determine optimal, regular or inadequate habitat availability for Anacroneuria and Corydalus given hypothetical flow variations in the Savegre River (Costa Rica). A discharge of < 8 m3/s resulted in a decrease in optimal habitat, mainly because it decreased water velocity below the preferred ranges. Also, a discharge of > 18 m3/s resulted in a decrease in optimal habitat because of the depth increase. This type of information is scarce or even absent for neotropical rivers, though necessary for a description of a healthy habitat. Furthermore, this habitat preference vs. modeled habitat availability approach is highly useful, -both in tropical and temperate rivers- for understanding the potential effects of any water derivation or exploitation.
How to slow the global spread of small hive beetles, Aethina tumida
(Springer International Publishing, 2019-05-15) Cilia, Giovannni; Formato, Giovanni; Schäfer, Marc; Cardaio, Ilaria; Cornelissen, Bram; Crailsheim, Karl; Lawrence, Akinwande Kayode; Le Conte, Yves; Mutinelli, Franco; Nanetti, Antonio; Rivera Gomis, Jorge; Teepe, Anneke; Neumann, Peter
Small hive beetles (SHBs) are parasites of social bee colonies endemic to sub-Saharan Africa and have become a widespread invasive species. In the new ranges, SHBs can cause damage to apiculture and wild bees. Although the further spread seems inevitable, eradication of new introductions and containment of established ones are nevertheless urgently required to slow down the invasion speed until better mitigation options are available. However, at present there is no adequate action plan at and. Here, we propose to take advantage of SHB invasion history and biology to enrol a feasible plan involving all stakeholders. Raising awareness, education and motivation of stakeholders (incl. adequate and timely compensation of beekeepers) is essential for success. Moreover, sentinel apiaries are recommended in areas at risk, because early detection is crucial for the success of eradication efforts. Given that introductions are detected early, SHB eradication is recommended, incl. destruction of all fested apiaries, installation of sentinel colonies to lure escaped SHBs and a ban on migratory beekeeping. If wild perennial social bee colonies are infested, eradication rograms are condemned to fail and a strategic switch to a containment strategy is recommended. Containment includes adequate integrated pest management and a strict ban on migratory beekeeping. Despite considerable gaps in our knowledge of SHBs, the proposed action plan will help stakeholders to slow down the global spread of SHBs.
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.
Influence of Seasonality and Pollution on the Presence of Antibiotic Resistance Genes and Potentially Pathogenic Bacteria in a Tropical Urban River
(Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica, 2025-08-05) Barrantes-Jiménez, Kenia; Mendoza-Guido, Bradd; Morales-Mora, Eric; Rivera-Montero, Luis; Montiel-Mora, Jose; Chacón-Jiménez, Luz; Rojas-Jiménez, Keilor; Arias-Andrés, Maria
Background/Objectives: This study examines how seasonality, pollution, and sample type (water and sediment) influence the presence and distribution of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), with a focus on antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) located on plasmids (the complete set of plasmid-derived sequences, including ARGs) in a tropical urban river. Methods: Samples were collected from three sites along a pollution gradient in the Virilla River, Costa Rica, during three seasonal campaigns (wet 2021, dry 2022, and wet 2022). ARGs in water and sediment were quantified by qPCR, and metagenomic sequencing was applied to analyze chromosomal and plasmid-associated resistance profiles in sediments. Tobit and linear regression models, along with multivariate ordination, were used to assess spatial and seasonal trends. Results: During the wet season of 2021, the abundance of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) such as sul-1, intI-1, and tetA in water samples decreased significantly, likely due to dilution, while intI-1 and tetQ increased in sediments, suggesting particle-bound accumulation. In the wet season 2022, intI-1 remained low in water, qnrS increased, and sediments showed significant increases in tetQ, tetA, and qnrS, along with decreases in sul-1 and sul-2. Metagenomic analysis revealed spatial differences in plasmid-associated ARGs, with the highest abundance at the most polluted site (Site 3). Bacterial taxa also showed spatial differences, with greater plasmidome diversity and a higher representation of potential pathogens in the most contaminated site. Conclusions: Seasonality and pollution gradients jointly shape ARG dynamics in this tropical river. Plasmid-mediated resistance responds rapidly to environmental change and is enriched at polluted sites, while sediments serve as long-term reservoirs. These findings support the use of plasmid-based monitoring for antimicrobial resistance surveillance in aquatic systems.
Insights into the Consumption of Edible Flowers in Costa Rica
(Nova Science Publishers, Inc., 2021) Guiné, Raquel; Correia, Paula; Florença, Sofía; Moya, Keylor; Anjos, Ofélia
Edible flowers (EF) have been used since ancient times in some parts of the world, either for culinary purposes or as a traditional medicine. Their use in modern times is supported by high reputed chefs, who use and promote them in their gourmet preparations as highly valuable assets, having a great potential for decoration, flavour and aroma, besides their nutritional value. Moreover, they are very rich in some phenolic compounds, such as anthocyanins, responsible for the colours and which have a proven antioxidant capacity, so exerting a beneficial effect on the human body against oxidation and cellular stress. This study describes how the people in Costa Rica perceive edible flowers, if and how they consume them, how they buy them and how much they are acquainted with possible health risks associated with their consumption. It comprised a questionnaire survey undertaken on a sample of 130 participants from Costa Rica, carried out through the internet. The results obtained indicated that the great majority of the participants know what EF are, but they recognize that there is not enough information about this topic. Only about 30% of the participants are aware that consuming EF can bear some risks, which are associated with toxicity and possible presence of pesticides. About half of the participants have already consumed EF, particularly in salads, and for decoration and confection of dishes. The most consumed flowers are rose, camomile and pumpkin flower. The most relevant motivations to consume EF are their taste and aroma, aswell as being a novelty and useful for decoration. These results allow us to understand some eating habits, knowledge and consciousness of people from Costa Rica towards EF.

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