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Cabassous tatouay occurs in moist forests, savannas, and grasslands of south, central, and northeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, and Uruguay. Despite its wide distribution range, C. tatouay is scarcely recorded in some regions. This study aimed to: present new records of C. tatouay; compile the localities where the species was recorded according to published scientific accounts; and model its distribution range along South America. We present five new records of C. tatouay from Goiás and Minas Gerais states, Brazil. The review of published accounts resulted in 99 studies, which provided 279 occurrences of C. tatouay to Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The great majority of records are from Brazil, mainly from the Atlantic Forest (119), Cerrado (52), and Pampas (49) biomes. Most records from the Cerrado are placed close to or in transition zones with the Atlantic Forest. Five records are within the Caatinga, but restricted to humid montane forest enclaves. The species distribution models indicate that C. tatouay is probably absent to Amazonia and Pantanal. The higher suitability for the species occurs in eastern Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, and south central Brazil, specifically in the Pampas, Atlantic Forest, and the southern part of the Cerrado. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing frequency and severity of human‐caused fires likely have deleterious effects on species distribution and persistence. In 2020, megafires in the Brazilian Pantanal burned 43% of the biome's unburned area and resulted in mass mortality of wildlife. We investigated changes in habitat use or occupancy for an assemblage of eight mammal species in Serra do Amolar, Brazil, following the 2020 fires using a pre‐ and post‐fire camera trap dataset. Additionally, we estimated the density for two naturally marked species, jaguars Panthera onca and ocelots Leopardus pardalis. Of the eight species, six (ocelots, collared peccaries Dicotyles tajacu, giant armadillos Priodontes maximus, Azara's agouti Dasyprocta azarae, red brocket deer Mazama americana, and tapirs Tapirus terrestris) had declining occupancy following fires, and one had stable habitat use (pumas Puma concolor). Giant armadillo experienced the most precipitous decline in occupancy from 0.431 ± 0.171 to 0.077 ± 0.044 after the fires. Jaguars were the only species with increasing habitat use, from 0.393 ± 0.127 to 0.753 ± 0.085. Jaguar density remained stable across years (2.8 ± 1.3, 3.7 ± 1.3, 2.6 ± 0.85/100 km2), while ocelot density increased from 13.9 ± 3.2 to 16.1 ± 5.2/100 km2. However, the low number of both jaguars and ocelots recaptured after the fire period suggests that immigration may have sustained the population. Our results indicate that the megafires will have significant consequences for species occupancy and fitness in fire‐affected areas. The scale of megafires may inhibit successful recolonization, thus wider studies are needed to investigate population trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chlamyphorus truncatus is the smallest known armadillo, weighing about 100 grams and measuring less than 15 cm from head to tail. It is endemic to central Argentina and the species is named after its unique carapace. This armadillo has almost completely subterranean habits and, unlike all other subterranean mammals, C. truncatus has a carapace composed of osteoderms and cornified scales. Furthermore, the skin and carapace show unique characteristics compared even with other armadillos. Owing to the reduced development of its eyes, it is important to analyse the skin morphology of this species, as well as specialized sensory organs like vibrissae. The aim of this contribution is to describe the histomorphology of the integumentary system of C. truncatus. For this, histological sections of the skin with and without osteoderms were made, and routine histological and immunohistochemical techniques were performed. Furthermore, microCTs were performed on osteoderms to describe their micromorphology. Our results show that the integumentary system presents unique characteristics compared to other armadillos, such as the peculiar skin under the dorsal shield and the flexibility of almost all of its carapace. Furthermore, the modification of the arrangement of hairs in the first pelvic buckler osteoderms may suggest biomechanical adaptations, such as an improvement in the displacement through the tunnels of sandy soils. The skin without osteoderms presents convergent characteristics with that of other subterranean mammals. Furthermore, the vibrissae conserve the structure of the armadillos (the cavernous sinuses extend throughout the follicle‐sinus complex) with a thinning and shortening of the hairs, which are probably linked to passive monitoring of the surrounding environment. Evidently, the adaptations of subterranean mammals to their environment imply structural and functional changes, which are both regressive and progressive in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The southern three-banded armadillo, Tolypeutes matacus , is one of the most representative species of the South American Chaco region. The susceptibility of this species to climatic changes and its good number of paleontological records has led to the study of their range dynamics for untangling the effects of Quaternary oscillations. These studies yielded contradictory results, suggesting expansion processes under opposite conditions: some during glacial periods and others during interglacial periods. Here, we assess the population structure of T. matacus in Argentina based on mitochondrial genes, and estimate demographic and spatial dynamics that contribute to unveiling the evolutionary process that moulded its biogeography. We found no clear phylogeographical breaks, although there were differences in the composition and frequency of haplotypes between the northern and southern localities studied. Demographic inferences indicate that the species has undergone population and range expansion processes. The higher diversity found in the north and the spatial diffusion analysis allow us to infer a north–south direction of this expansive process. Our results yield essential evidence for disentangling the evolution of this Chacoan species linked with Quaternary climates and provide genetic information about its populations that should be taken into account for the conservation of this threatened mammal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allometry, i.e. morphological variation correlated with size, is a major pattern in organismal evolution. Since size varies both within and among species, allometry occurs at different variational levels. However, the variability of allometric patterns across levels is poorly known since its evaluation requires extensive comparative studies. Here, we implemented a 3D geometric morphometric approach to investigate cranial allometry at three main variational levels—static, ontogenetic, and evolutionary—and two anatomical scales—entire cranium and cranial subunits—based on a dense intra- and interspecific sampling of extant armadillo diversity. While allometric trajectories differ among distantly related species, they hardly do so among sister families. This suggests that phylogenetic distance plays an important role in explaining allometric divergences. Beyond trajectories, our analyses revealed pervasive allometric shape changes shared across variational levels and anatomical scales. At the entire cranial scale, craniofacial allometry (relative snout elongation and braincase reduction) is accompanied notably by variations of nuchal crests and postorbital constriction. Among cranial subunits, the distribution of allometry was highly heterogeneous, with the frontal and petrosal bones showing the most pervasive shape changes, some of which were undetected at a more global scale. Evidence of widespread and superimposed allometric variations raises questions on their determinants and anatomical correlates and demonstrates the critical role of allometry in morphological evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present an unusual case of primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) in a 72-year-old African American man. The patient was found to harbor massively enlarged bilateral adrenal glands on imaging along with mild autonomous cortisol secretion. His workup for PBMAH included leukocyte analysis for the armadillo repeat-containing protein 5 (ARMC5) gene. The test revealed a novel heterozygous somatic ARMC5 mutation. The patient was initially managed conservatively. He subsequently presented with unprovoked bilateral pulmonary emboli. This was followed by the discovery of a nonsecreting pituitary macroadenoma, a hitherto unreported but putative association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pichi is an endemic xenarthran from central and southern of Argentina and Chile. The aim of the present work was to describe the intestinal parasites of a pichis population from Malargüe (Mendoza, Argentina), and to assess which factors (intrinsic or extrinsic) have a major influence on them. Feces from 120 pichis were collected between 2015 and 2016, studied by coproparasitological analysis and the total prevalence was estimated. By means of generalized linear models (GLM), the influence of intrinsic factors of the host (sex, age and physical condition) and extrinsic (seasonality and year) on the dynamics of the parasite structure was evaluated. Virtually all the samples were parasitized (95 %). Four different types of coccidian oocysts, eggs of Cestoda and Nematoda (Aspidodera and two morphotypes of Trichostrongylina) were found. Coccidia sp. 2, Aspidodera spp. and Trichostrongylina morphotype 2 (Tricho 2) were the most prevalent. GLM indicated that in winter the parasitism in adults of Z. pichiy by Trichostrongylina morphotype 1 (Tricho 1) was inffuenced by the physical condition of the host. On the other hand, prevalence of Coccidia sp. 2 and Tricho 2 was influenced by the year. Regarding hosts analyzed in 2016, prevalence with Tricho 1 is also affected by physical condition, and that of Coccidia sp. 4 and Tricho 2 by seasonality. Prevalence of Tricho 2 in 2016 was higher in juveniles than in adults, and the prevalence for both ages decreased during the summer. This study allowed us to know the parasitic fauna and the synergy of different factors in the prevalence between parasites in the studied population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The white‐eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris) is a Neotropical marsupial that occurs in the Brazilian territory. The larynx is an important organ of vocalization in mammals, although, other laryngeal functions are more fundamental for survival of mammals than phonation. The anatomical knowledge of respiratory structures is pivotal for a better understanding of the species. Thus, this study aimed to examine the larynx of the white‐eared opossum by gross anatomy, computed tomography and histological description. For this, 10 adult (six females and four males) white‐eared opossums (D. albiventris) were used. The white‐eared opossum larynx was formed by epiglottis, thyroid, cricoids and arytenoid cartilages and a corniculate process. There is a similarity between the larynx of this marsupial and those reported in other wild mammals, regarding the number of cartilages and their location. Histologically, the epiglottis consisted of elastic cartilage and thyroid, cricoid and arytenoid cartilages were composed of hyaline cartilage. The epiglottis protruded rostrally into the nasal part of the pharynx, above the soft palate, and this is probably a marsupial characteristic as the fact that the thyroid and cricoid cartilages were ventrally fused. The hyoid apparatus was similar to that of other animals, with the same bony constitution, but with a greatly reduced stylohyoid bone. Histologically, the larynx was similar to those of other species such as koala, armadillo, crab‐eating foxes and giant anteaters. The knowledge of the larynx morphology is important for the anatomical features of the species and clinical and surgical procedures, such as endotracheal intubation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xenarthra mammals can be found from southern North America to southern South America, including all Brazilian biomes. Although it has been shown that Xenarthra mammals can play a role as reservoirs for several zoonotic agents, few studies investigate the diversity of piroplasmids (Apicomplexa: Piroplasmida) in this group of mammals. Taking into account that piroplasmids can cause disease in animals and humans, understanding the prevalence and diversity of piroplasmids in Xenarthra mammals would contribute to conservation efforts for this group of animals as well as to infer risk areas for transmission of emergent zoonosis. The present study aimed to investigate the occurrence and molecular identity of piroplasmids in free-living mammals of the Superorder Xenarthra from four Brazilian states (Mato Grosso do Sul, São Paulo, Rondônia, and Pará). For this, DNA was extracted from blood or spleen samples from 455 animals. A nested PCR based on the 18S rRNA gene was used as screening for piroplasmids. Of the 455 samples analyzed, 25 (5.5%) were positive. Additionally, PCR assays based on 18S rRNA near-complete, cox-1, cox-3, hsp70, cytB, β-tubulin genes and the ITS-1 intergenic region were performed. Five out of 25 positive samples also tested positive for ITS-1-based PCR. The phylogenetic analysis positioned three 18S rRNA sequences detected in Priodontes maximus into the same clade of Babesia sp. detected in marsupials (Didelphis albiventris, Didelphis marsupialis, and Monodelphis domestica) and Amblyomma dubitatum collected from opossums and coatis in Brazil. On the other hand, the 18S rRNA sequence obtained from Dasypus novemcinctus was closely related to a Theileria sp. sequence previously detected in armadillos from Mato Grosso State, grouping in a subclade within the Theileria sensu stricto clade. In the phylogenetic analysis based on the ITS-1 region, the sequences obtained from Myrmecophaga tridactyla and Tamandua tetradactyla were placed into a single clade, apart from the other piroplasmid clades. The present study demonstrated the molecular occurrence of Piroplasmida in anteaters and Babesia sp. and Theileria sp. in armadillos from Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propalaehoplophorus is an Early Miocene genus of glyptodonts, a group of extinct armored mammals closely related to armadillos and endemic to South America. Here, we present the first digital reconstruction of the endocranial cavity of the glyptodont Propalaehoplophorus australis and compare it to endocasts of Late Miocene and Pleistocene glyptodonts, pampatheres, and extant armadillos. Propalaehoplophorus australis shares exclusively with other glyptodonts the neocortical sulcation pattern and cranial nerve (CN) V3 pathway. It also shares with both other glyptodonts and pampatheres the rhinal fissure trajectory, small piriform lobe, marked dorsal expansion of neocortical fronto-parietal region, conspicuous thickness of superior longitudinal sinus, and presence of a well-marked lateral sulcus and medial shape of petrosal bone; this last trait is also observable in Chlamyphorus. The olfactory bulbs of Pr. australis, Holmesina, and Pampatherium are anteriorly elongated and partially laterally divergent as in the glyptodont Pseudoplohophorus absolutus. Other features, like the globular proximal shape of olfactory peduncles, topological arrangement of CNs IX-XII, differentiated petrosal lobule of paraflocculus, and orientation of spinal cord are shared among Pr. australis, Ps. absolutus, pampatheres, and extant armadillos. The similarities between Pr. australis, remaining glyptodonts, and pampatheres could be synapomorphies of pampatheres + glyptodonts. By contrast, Pr. australis, pampatheres, and all the analyzed armadillos share the same configuration of the pathway of CNs IX-XII, a feature that could support the basal position of Pr. australis among glyptodonts for which cranial remains are known. In this context, the brain cavity seems to be a promising source of information for revealing the evolutionary history of this mammalian clade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new bio-inspired metaheuristic algorithm called Giant Armadillo Optimization (GAO) is introduced, which imitates the natural behavior of giant armadillo in the wild. The fundamental inspiration in the design of GAO is derived from the hunting strategy of giant armadillos in moving towards prey positions and digging termite mounds. The theory of GAO is expressed and mathematically modeled in two phases: (i) exploration based on simulating the movement of giant armadillos towards termite mounds, and (ii) exploitation based on simulating giant armadillos' digging skills in order to prey on and rip open termite mounds. The performance of GAO in handling optimization tasks is evaluated in order to solve the CEC 2017 test suite for problem dimensions equal to 10, 30, 50, and 100. The optimization results show that GAO is able to achieve effective solutions for optimization problems by benefiting from its high abilities in exploration, exploitation, and balancing them during the search process. The quality of the results obtained from GAO is compared with the performance of twelve well-known metaheuristic algorithms. The simulation results show that GAO presents superior performance compared to competitor algorithms by providing better results for most of the benchmark functions. The statistical analysis of the Wilcoxon rank sum test confirms that GAO has a significant statistical superiority over competitor algorithms. The implementation of GAO on the CEC 2011 test suite and four engineering design problems show that the proposed approach has effective performance in dealing with real-world applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medium to large rainforest mammals are key conservation flagship groups that offer non‐redundant ecosystem functions, but anthropic pressures, such as illegal hunting, may strongly affect their occupancy in Amazonia. We combined camera traps and occupancy models to assess the influence of distance from human settlements, the number of families per settlement and the synergetic effect of the average weight of 27 species on the occupancy probability of mammals. Specifically, we classified mammal species according to the game preferences of hunters (i.e. a group of species depleted for bushmeat, a group of species hunted for retaliation and a group of non‐hunted species). We also accounted for the influence on the detection probability of each group of both the number of days each camera operated and the body weight of mammals. The occupancy probability of the bushmeat group (i.e. deer, peccaries, agoutis, pacas and armadillos) was lower at locations closer to human settlements. Still, the number of families correlated positively with occupancy, with the occupancy probability of the group being slightly higher at sites with more families. This difference was probably due to larger and more abundant crops and fruiting trees attracting wildlife at such sites. Conversely, the occupancy probability of the retaliation group (i.e. carnivores) and the non‐hunted group (i.e. opossums, spiny rats, squirrels and anteaters) were indifferent to anthropogenic stressors. The detection probability of the non‐hunted and particularly the most depleted species correlated negatively with body weight. This may suggest that larger species, especially those from the bushmeat group, are rarer or less abundant in the system, possibly because they are the preferable target of hunters. In the long term, locals will likely need to travel long distances to find harvest meat. Poaching also threatens food security since game bushmeat is an essential source of protein for isolated rural Amazonians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burrowing organisms augment the availability of important resources for other species. The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is a keystone excavator in open canopy pine-forest ecosystems in the southeastern United States because its burrows are utilized by over 360 species. Across its range, the gopher tortoise is declining, which is thought to negatively affect burrow-associated species and ecosystem functionality. The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is another burrower of similar size that has become syntopically distributed with the gopher tortoise as a result of range expansion. Recent studies have documented vertebrates utilizing armadillo burrows, linking armadillo burrowing to support of local biodiversity similar to the gopher tortoise. We sought to determine the potential for ecological redundancy between gopher tortoises and armadillos and test quantitatively for differences in associate events at their burrows in a mixed-pine–hardwood forest where they co-occur. Using motion activated game cameras to monitor burrows, we compared metrics of vertebrate occurrence between armadillo and tortoise burrows and examined the effects of environmental variables using a series of regression models. A total of 40 vertebrate taxa were observed visiting burrows between October 2019 and December 2020. Richness, diversity, and community composition were not significantly different between the two burrow types. However, associate event counts were significantly greater at tortoise burrows. Burrow and microhabitat variables had varying effects on associate event counts, with consistently positive effects for tortoise burrows, active burrows, and increased richness of tree species, while negative effects were detected for increased canopy cover as well as increased proportions of hardwood trees. Our study provides a framework for testing redundancy of function between syntopic ecosystem engineers, adds to the growing body of work on the ecological significance of armadillo range expansion, and identifies aspects of the habitat that cause fluctuations in the importance of burrows for associate species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Site occupancy and daily activity remain mostly unknown for many species of armadillo. Seeking to address this issue for four cooccurring species (Cabassous tatouay, Dasypus novemcinctus, D. septemcinctus, and Euphractus sexcinctus) we deployed camera traps for 60 days in 162 sites across northern Uruguay and southern Brazil. This area encompasses two phytogeographic domains: the Uruguayan Savanna and the southern Atlantic Forest. Most records belonged to D. novemcinctus. We modelled the site occupancy probability of this species as a function of environmental covariates (i.e., distance to water, distance to urban areas and site occupancy of exotic species). Models revealed that site occupancy probability increased with the distance to urban areas. However, when analyzing either domain separately, no covariates influenced site occupancy. To understand the daily activity patterns of armadillos, we measured the nocturnality of each species. All showed highly nocturnal activity, averaging between 22:00 and 00:00. This was unexpected for D. septemcinctus and E. sexcinctus, regarded as mostly diurnal in scientific literature. Then, we estimated the temporal overlap between D. novemcinctus records in either domain and between D. novemcinctus, other armadillos and the exotic species Canis familiaris and Sus scrofa. Dasypus novemcinctus activity did not vary between domains, showed high overlap with that of other armadillos, intermediate overlap with S. scrofa and low overlap with C. familiaris. These results add to our understanding of armadillo ecology, especially that of D. novemcinctus, while also providing valuable insights into threats to this species' conservation, particularly the urbanization of its natural habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cingulata (Mammalia, Xenarthra) is one of the most conspicuous clades in the Cenozoic fossil record of South America, largely due to the high abundance of disarticulated osteoderms in most fossiliferous sites of the continent. Nevertheless, the fragmentary nature of this material hinders the identification of extinct taxa, particularly in groups that do not exhibit great shape diversity in the ornamentation of the osteoderms, as occurs in armadillos of the clade Dasypodini (long-nosed armadillos). Methodologies that quantify shape variability could offer an alternative strategy for identifying these fragmentary fossil remains. In the present study, we apply geometric morphometric analysis to assess shape variation of Dasypodini osteoderms. First, we evaluate previous referrals of two isolated late Miocene osteoderms to Dasypus, one identified as Dasypus sp. from the Guanaco Formation (Jujuy province, Argentina) and the other identified as D. neogaeus from the Ituzaingó Formation (Entre Ríos province, Argentina). Second, we evaluate the identification of a disarticulated osteoderm from the middle Miocene of Brazil to Anadasypus sp. nov.?. Our results distinguish two main generic clusters, Plesiodasypus + Anadasypus and Dasypus + Propraopus, supporting previous referral of disarticulated osteoderms from Jujuy and Entre Ríos to the genus Dasypus. This confirms the extension of the biochron of Dasypus by at least 3 million years, from the early Pliocene to the late Miocene. The present contribution offers a new application for geometric morphometrics to evaluate taxonomic assignments of fossil Dasypodini osteoderms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geographic range of the nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) has rapidly been expanding within the United States for the last 150 years. One of the factors contributing to this astounding range expansion is the species' ability to survive in and colonize human-dominated areas. Despite the fact that armadillos live alongside humans in numerous towns and cities across the Southeastern, Southcentral, and now Midwestern United States, we know relatively little about the behavior and ecology of armadillos in human-developed areas. Here, we used motion-triggered game cameras in over 115 residential yards in the rapidly developing Northwest corner of Arkansas to survey armadillos in a largely suburban environment. Our objectives were to explore trends in armadillo occupancy and daily activity patterns in a suburban setting. We documented armadillos in approximately 84% of the yards surveyed indicating that the species was widespread throughout the environment. We found that the species was more likely to occupy yards surrounded by a high proportion of forest cover. We found no relationship between armadillo occupancy and other land cover or development covariates. Only 2% of nearly 2000 armadillo detections occurred during the day indicating that the species is almost exclusively nocturnal during the summer months when living near humans in the suburban environment, which we suggest is likely an adaptation to avoid contact with humans and their dogs. As the armadillo continues to expand its geographic range to areas where it has not previously occurred, understanding how human development supports and facilitates the spread of this species can elucidate areas where conflict between humans and armadillos might occur allowing for preemptive management or education to mitigate conflict. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of armadillo repeat-containing 5 (ARMC5) genetic defects in our cohort of bilateral adrenal incidentaloma (BAI) patients and to evaluate the possible existence of genotype-phenotype correlations. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Tertiary care center. Participants: 72 BAI patients. Main Outcome Measure(s): The following data have been collected: morning adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) concentrations; cortisol levels after 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test (F-1mgDST); urinary free cortisol (UFC) levels; diameter of the adrenal masses; and the association with overweight/obesity, arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular events, unrelated neoplasia, osteoporosis, thyroid nodular disease, and primary hyperparathyroidism. A search for ARMC5 germline and somatic pathogenic variants was performed in all patients and in the adrenal tissue of patients operated on, respectively. Results: The prevalence of germline ARMC5 pathogenic variants among patients with mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS+, defined as F- 1mgDST > 1.8 µg/dL) was 18.8%. No germline pathogenic variants were detected in patients without MACS. Moreover, somatic ARMC5 pathogenic variants were also found in the adrenal tissue of six patients without germline ARMC5 variants. The F-1mgDST levels >5 µg/dL predicted with a poor sensitivity but a 90.5% specificity in identifying the presence of ARMC5 germline pathogenic variants. We did not find any clinical parameter predictive of the ARMC5 mutation presence. Conclusions: In MACS+ BAI patients, germline ARMC5 gene pathogenic variants are frequent. Further studies are needed to elucidate the pathophysiological role of somatic ARMC5 pathogenic variants on adrenal tumor development in otherwise wild-type (WT) patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Armadillos are considered important reservoir hosts for Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. The first report of T. cruzi infection in pichis (Zaedyus pichiy), a small armadillo species endemic to central Argentina and Chile, dates back to 1935. However, more recent reports on T. cruzi in this species are scarce. The objective of this study was to assess T. cruzi infection and parasite load in Z. pichiy from Mendoza Province, an area endemic to human Chagas disease. Blood samples were obtained in 2014–2016 from pichis from Lavalle (low Monte), Malargüe (Patagonian steppe), and San Carlos (ecotone) departments, Mendoza Province, Argentina. The detection and quantification of T. cruzi was performed through qPCR amplification using satellite primers. Of the 265 analyzed samples, 201 (76%) were positive for T. cruzi. Parasite loads varied between < 0.1–55.8 parasite-equivalents/mL (par-eq/mL), with a median of 1.1 par-eq/mL in quantifiable samples. The prevalence was similar in Malargüe and Lavalle (85–94%), but significantly lower in pichis from San Carlos (50%). Animals from Lavalle captured after hibernation had significantly higher parasite loads (median 2.0 par-eq/mL). In Malargüe, T. cruzi infection and parasite loads were significantly lower before than after hibernation in 2016. The high prevalence and low median parasite load suggest a chronic and persistent infection of T. cruzi in pichis. Regional differences and a marked increase in precipitation during 2015–2016 could have influenced annual and seasonal infection rates of this vector-borne disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: To understand how zoo animals perceive their environment, managers evaluate their stress response through behavioral and glucocorticoid analyses. Here, we measured how seven, zoo-housed (Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL, USA) southern three-banded armadillos (Tolypeutes matacus) perceived their habitats using non-invasive sampling of both physiological (via fecal glucocorticoid metabolites, FGMs) and psychological (via foraging behavior) indicators. We offered them depletable food patches with various patch and environmental modifications. Food remaining in a patch represents the animal's giving-up density (GUD). High GUDs are a response to increased risk; the animal does not feel comfortable and safe to forage. Before, during, and after foraging experiments, feces was collected to examine FGMs. We found that there was no relationship between GUDs and FGMs. However, results varied greatly among individuals, and each individual's results remained consistent across experiments. Armadillos did not respond to patch modifications but did forage more when the cover substrate was increased. When species do not have dynamic and variable behaviors, as is the case with this species, the evaluation of their perception of the environment can be difficult. For this reason, GUDs and FGMs are practical to offer zoo-housed animals, provide valuable information for zoo managers on husbandry modifications and serve as enrichment for the animal. To monitor adrenocortical activity in zoo-housed species, we propose using physiological and behavioral indicators that are non-invasive and practical to implement. We explore this model in the southern three-banded armadillo (Tolypeutes matacus; armadillo), which is a near-threatened species commonly found in zoos. We aimed to (1) deploy food patches to quantify foraging behavior (via giving-up densities, GUDs); (2) determine the effects of food patch and environmental modifications on individuals' GUDs and adrenocortical activity (via fecal glucocorticoid metabolites, FGMs); and (3) examine the relationship between GUDs and FGMs. Three males and four females received food patches under varying experimental conditions at the Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago, IL, USA). Fecal samples were collected before, during, and after foraging experiments to examine FGMs. Armadillos did not respond to patch modifications but did forage more when given increased cover. Individual mean FGMs and GUDs were highly variable, and individuals had consistent FGM and GUD ranks across experiments. FGMs and GUDs did not vary across the experiments nor did they relate to each other. Armadillos and species with a limited behavioral repertoire (i.e., constant movement) can benefit from this multi-trait model to determine the effect of environmental modifications on individuals and provide meaningful information about adrenocortical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Just over 30 years ago, a new species of Leishmania of the subgenus Leishmania (Viannia) was described infecting the armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus; then, a report of human infection followed. From the Brazilian Amazon and apparently restricted to this region and its close borders, Leishmania (Viannia) naiffi has been characterized as a species that grows easily in axenic culture medium and causes few to no lesions after inoculation in experimental animal models. Results in the last decade indicate the occurrence of L. naiffi in vectors and human infections, including a report of therapeutic failure possibly associated with Leishmania RNA virus 1. Overall, such accounts suggest that the parasite is more dispersed and the disease less self-healing than previously expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates Classic Maya understandings of two particular animal species: the (gray) fox and the armadillo. We use these species as a point of entry into Classic Maya categorizations of the non-human animal world, examining the salient biological and physical characteristics of those animals that Classic-period artists and scribes chose to highlight. Rather than accepting the creatures depicted on painted pottery or referenced in hieroglyphic texts as generalized examples of particular kinds (i.e., simply "a fox" or "an armadillo"), however, we show how the evidence from ancient art, historical accounts, and contemporary ethnography points to an emphasis on specific beings, often named individuals, who engage in particular behaviors and relate to other entities (both human and non-human) in distinctive ways. Although this article focuses exclusively on the fox and the armadillo, those species serve as examples through which we consider the limitations of applying Western taxonomic categories to other systems of knowledge, as well as the possibilities for how we might catch glimpses of radically different ways of organizing the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Armadillos are bitten by several species of flea. Females of the genus Tunga penetrate the epidermis and when in place are fertilised by males, after which the abdomen swells enormously to form a 'neosome'. Within the penetrans group, T. perforans, makes lesions that perforate the osteoderms within the integument to form ~3 mm diameter cavities occupied by a discoid neosome. We examined these lesions in carapace material from animals which had died in the wild to see whether we could recruit evidence as to how they may be generated, either by the insect or by the host. We studied one species without such lesions, the nine‐banded armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus, and two species with, the greater hairy armadillo Chaetophractus villosus and the southern three‐banded armadillo Tolypeutes matacus, both showing the characteristic 'flea bite' holes in the external surfaces of the osteoderms. Samples were studied by three‐dimensional backscattered electron mode scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray microtomography. Both methods showed resorption pit complexes in the external surfaces of the osteoderms characteristic of those made by osteoclasts in active bone resorption. Lesions involved both the syndesmoses (sutures) between adjacent bones and the central regions of the osteoderms. Many lesions showed extensive repair by infilling with new bone. We conclude that the T. perforans neosome creates a local host response which causes bone resorption, creating the space in which it can grow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the nineteenth century, an animal from the Americas known as the armadillo offered an extraordinary subject for zoologists engaged in the study of the outer covering of four-limbed vertebrates and its components, The armadillo, a cuirassed living mammal, had excited the curiosity of European naturalists since the early sixteenth century, and their shells had thus become a common sight in collections. The armadillo's carapace provided a structure that could be scrutinized in order to understand animal materials, one that afforded the use of microscopes and chemistry in the emerging life sciences that tried to understand the relationship between form and function and the chemical composition of animated matter. The carapace of the armadillo moved from the culture of curiosity in which it was first collected into the new field of animal chemistry, a key move that is crucial for historians to understand the emergence of the study of animal materials. Armadillos accompanied the expansion of chemistry, microscopy, and physics as they were used to study the materials that constituted the mammals' dermal coverings. This paper mines nineteenth-century publications for episodes connected to the long story of the study of this shell's anatomical and chemical contrivances, and the crucial role it played both in the emergence of new scientific knowledge and in the discovery of new bio-inspired materials still derived from this animal today. This paper is part of a special issue entitled "Making Animal Materials in Time," edited by Laurence Douny and Lisa Onaga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerdocyonina is a clade composed by the South‐American canids in which the bush dog (Speothos venaticus) is one of the most elusive species. Known for its unique morphology within the group, this small, bear‐like faced canid is the only member of the clade adapted to hypercarnivory, an almost exclusively meat‐based diet currently present only in usually large, pack‐hunting canids such as the grey wolf (Canis lupus). However, much of the biology of the bush dog is poorly understood, and inferences about its ecology, hunting strategies and diet are usually based on observation of captive individuals and anecdotal records, with reduced quantitative data to offer support. Here, we investigated the craniomandibular functional morphology of the bush dog through finite element analysis (FEA). FEA was employed to model the biting behaviour and to create extrinsic and intrinsic functional scenarios with different loads, corresponding to different bites used to subdue and process the prey. For comparison, the same modelling was applied to the skull of a grey wolf and a grey fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus). Our analysis showed that the bush dog's responses to loading are more similar to the wolf's than to the fox's in most scenarios, suggesting a convergent craniomandibular functional morphology between these two hypercarnivorous species, despite their distinct phylogenetic positions and body sizes. Differences between the three taxa are noteworthy and suggested to be related to the size of the usual prey. The modelled bite force for the bush dog is relatively strong, about half of that estimated for the wolf and about 40% stronger than the fox's bite. The results strengthen with quantitative data the inferences of the bush dog as a pack‐hunting predator with prey size similar to its own, such as large rodents and armadillos, being specialised in subduing and killing its prey using multiple bites. Its similarity to the wolf also confirms anecdotal accounts of predation on mammals that are much larger than itself, such as peccaries and tapirs. These data highlight the ecological specialisation of this small canid in a continent where large, pack‐hunting canids are absent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Amazon Forest comprises one of the richest biodiversities area on the planet, but is highly threatened from habitat fragmentation and loss. Among its inhabitants is the magna-order Xenarthra, which includes the armadillos, sloths and anteaters. Five protected areas within the Amazon forest of Brazil were surveyed with camera traps following the TEAM protocol between the years 2015 and 2019. A total of 4044 independent records were examined to identify the richness, detection rate and activity patterns of xenarthrans in Brazilian rainforest. A total of seven Xenarthra species were obtained during 57,805 camera-trap days. Two threatened xenarthrans, Myrmecophaga tridactyla and Priodontes maximus, were present in all surveyed sites. Activity patterns were similar to those found in other biomes, with most species being mainly nocturnal; however, M. tridactyla and Cabassous unicinctus exhibited marked diurnal activity. Data were obtained from species at risk of extinction, such as P. maximus, and species rarely seen in the region, such as C. unicinctus. This study provides one of the most important datasets for the magna-order Xenarthra in areas of predominantly primary vegetation and the first activity pattern and richness of xenarthras in different areas of the Amazon biome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses research which monitored the occurrence of ticks on monitored free-ranging giant anteaters and on road-killed anteaters and armadillos in the state of Mato Grosso du Sul in Brazil. Topics include the number of ticks according to tick species on anteaters and armadillos sampled, the major role of giant anteaters as hosts for A. sculptum adult ticks, and the importance of both the monitoring studies of free-ranging animals and the monitoring of carcasses on highways.

The control of infections by the vertebrate adaptive immune system requires careful modulation to optimize defense and minimize harm to the host. The Fc receptor-like (FCRL) genes encode immunoregulatory molecules homologous to the receptors for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin (FCR). To date, nine different genes (FCRL1–6, FCRLA, FCRLB and FCRLS) have been identified in mammalian organisms. FCRL6 is located at a separate chromosomal position from the FCRL1-5 locus, has conserved synteny in mammals and is situated between the SLAMF8 and DUSP23 genes. Here, we show that this three gene block underwent repeated duplication in Dasypus novemcinctus (nine-banded armadillo) resulting in six FCRL6 copies, of which five appear functional. Among 21 mammalian genomes analyzed, this expansion was unique to D. novemcinctus. Ig-like domains that derive from the five clustered FCRL6 functional gene copies show high structural conservation and sequence identity. However, the presence of multiple non-synonymous amino acid changes that would diversify individual receptor function has led to the hypothesis that FCRL6 endured subfunctionalization during evolution in D. novemcinctus. Interestingly, D. novemcinctus is noteworthy for its natural resistance to the Mycobacterium leprae pathogen that causes leprosy. Because FCRL6 is chiefly expressed by cytotoxic T and NK cells, which are important in cellular defense responses against M. leprae, we speculate that FCRL6 subfunctionalization could be relevant for the adaptation of D. novemcinctus to leprosy. These findings highlight the species-specific diversification of FCRL family members and the genetic complexity underlying evolving multigene families critical for modulating adaptive immune protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined armadillos from museum collections in the United States using molecular assays to detect leprosycausing bacilli. We found Mycobacterium leprae bacilli in samples from the United States, Bolivia, and Paraguay; prevalence was 14.8% in nine-banded armadillos. US isolates belonged to subtype 3I-2, suggesting long-term circulation of this genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jaguars and pumas are top-predator species in the Neotropics that are threatened by habitat destruction, illegal poaching of their body parts and their favored prey, and by the human–wildlife conflicts that arise when predators attack livestock. Much of the remaining felid habitat in the Americas is in protected nature reserves that are too small and isolated to support local populations. Surrounding forests therefore play a vital role in felid conservation. Successful long-term conservation of these two felids requires evidence-based knowledge of their biological and ecological requirements. We studied population distributions of jaguars and pumas and their prey in and between two small, private reserves of the Northern Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, with areas of 25 and 43 km2. During 2 years of camera trapping (2015 and 2016), we detected 21 jaguars, from which we estimated an average space requirement of 28–45 km2/individual. Dietary niche overlap exceeded random expectation. The most frequently occurring prey items in jaguar and puma diets were collared peccary and deer. Jaguar also favored nine-banded armadillos and white-nosed coati, while puma favored canids. Both felids avoided ocellated turkey. Overall, diet of jaguars was less species-rich, but similar in niche breadth, to that of pumas. A fluid use of space by both species, in 2015 tending toward mutual attraction and in 2016 toward partial exclusion of pumas by jaguars, combined with the high dietary overlap, is consistent with a dominance hierarchy facilitating coexistence. Jaguars and pumas favor the same prey as the people in local communities who hunt, which likely will intensify human–wildlife impacts when prey become scarce. We conclude that even small reserves play an important role in increasing the continuity of habitat for prey and large felids, whose generalist habits suppress interspecific competition for increasingly limiting prey that are largely shared between them and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fossil remains herein described are referred to different species of Dasypodidae Gray, 1821 (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Cingulata) and come from the upper levels of the lower member (Late Miocene-Early Pliocene) of the Toro Negro Formation at Quebrada de Las Torrecillas, La Rioja Province, Argentina, where previous vertebrate records only include those of Pyramiodontherium scillatoyanei De Iuliis, Ré & Vizcaíno, 2004 (Mammalia, Xenarthra) and Opisthodactylus cf. kirchneri Noriega, Jordan, Vezzosi & Areta, 2017 (Aves, Rheidae). The remains of Dasypodidae herein presented include Vetelia ghandii Esteban & Nasif, 1996, Chasicotatus peiranoi Esteban & Nasif, 1996, Macrochorobates scalabrinii (Moreno & Mercerat, 1891), Prozaedyus sp., and Paleuphractus argentinus (Moreno & Mercerat, 1891), and constitute the first records of these species for the Toro Negro Formation, increasing the mammal diversity for this unit. The association of dasypodids here described shows strong affinities with those described for Late Miocene localities of Northwestern Argentina. Under these evidences, the Dasypodidae here reported for Quebrada de Las Torrecillas site show a characteristic association of taxa from Northwestern Argentina, suggesting a Messinian age (Late Miocene) for the bearing levels of the Toro Negro Formation. In this way, these records support the accurate ages recently proposed for the lower Member of the Toro Negro Formation (i.e., Late Miocene-Early Pliocene). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological data are a fundamental source of evidence to reconstruct the Tree of Life, and Bayesian phylogenetic methods are increasingly being used for this task. Bayesian phylogenetic analyses require the use of evolutionary models, which have been intensively studied in the past few years, with significant improvements to our knowledge. Notwithstanding, a systematic evaluation of the performance of partitioned models for morphological data has never been performed. Here we evaluate the influence of partitioned models, defined by anatomical criteria, on the precision and accuracy of summary tree topologies considering the effects of model misspecification. We simulated datasets using partitioning schemes, trees, and other properties obtained from two empirical datasets, and conducted Bayesian phylogenetic analyses. Additionally, we reanalyzed 32 empirical datasets for different groups of vertebrates, applying unpartitioned and partitioned models, and, as a focused study case, we reanalyzed a dataset including living and fossil armadillos, testing alternative partitioning hypotheses based on functional and ontogenetic modules. We found that, in general, partitioning by anatomy has little influence on summary topologies analyzed under alternative partitioning schemes with a varying number of partitions. Nevertheless, models with unlinked branch lengths, which account for heterotachy across partitions, improve topological precision at the cost of reducing accuracy. In some instances, more complex partitioning schemes led to topological changes, as tested for armadillos, mostly associated with models with unlinked branch lengths. We compare our results with other empirical evaluations of morphological data and those from empirical and simulation studies of the partitioning of molecular data, considering the adequacy of anatomical partitioning relative to alternative methods of partitioning morphological datasets. [Evolutionary rates; heterogeneity; morphology; Mk model; partition; topology.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding of resource requirements of vulnerable species is key for conservation planning. Here, we used stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen isotopes (δ15N) of hair from giant armadillos (Priodontes maximus) to understand individual resource use. We collected hair from 19 giant armadillos analyzing 34 samples from the Brazilian Pantanal and compared the resource use between sexes and age classes. We also assessed the relationship of isotopic values with individuals' body mass and the habitat type used. We observed a wide variation in resource use by giant armadillos, showing that individuals consume prey that feeds on distinct resources and occupies different habitat types, indicating that there is individual variation in foraging behavior. Most giant armadillos presented a mixed diet (C3/C4 resources, forests/open areas), but a quarter of individuals had strictly C4 diets (open areas). Males are more prone to forage on C4 resources, presenting an isotopic niche 2.6‐times larger than that of females. Subadults presented diets more associated with habitats with high arboreal cover (C3 resources, forests), while adults foraged more in open areas (C4 resources). This result is mirrored by the positive relationship between δ13C values and body mass, suggesting that larger giant armadillos tend to feed more in open areas. We observed that δ13C values decreased as individuals increased the use of habitats with high arboreal cover. We stress the importance of conserving the natural mosaic in the Pantanal landscape for the species persistence, given that giant armadillos require all habitat types to fulfill their dietary, spatial, and developmental needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents research on conflicts between wildlife and agroecosystems in Argentina. It highlights that 40% of ice-free land is used for agriculture and livestock. Examples of conflicts with mammals are mentioned, such as damage to agricultural production and disease transmission. A case study is presented on the damage caused by armadillos to silo bags in Argentina, and management recommendations are offered. It also discusses changes in the vision of conservation biology and the need to diagnose the causes that hinder more sustainable practices in agroecosystems. [Extracted from the article]

Human-animal relations have been object of deep debates which show that they exceed the economic dimension, implying dialogues, agreements and disagreements. The study of animal representations, embodied on different objects according to specific contexts, is a starting point from where to explore these meanings. In this study, we will centre our research around one kind of zoomorphic representation that has never been systematically studied before: the 'armadillo'. Analysis done on a sample of Belén's ceramic pottery recorded by the Proyecto Arqueológico Chaschuil-Abaucán in Fiambalá (Catamarca), had the aim to: (i) identify the distinct anatomical characteristics of armadillo's representations; (ii) estimate the propensity of its representation; and (iii) define the artistic and compositional resources used in their creation. The approach we proposed unveils that, even if it is not in a central position in the analyzed pieces, the armadillo is the animal most intensely represented in the studied repertoire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation of poorly known species is challenging as lack of knowledge on their specific requirements may hamper effective strategies. Here, by integrating biogeographical and landscape analyses, we show that informed actions can be delineated for species with limited presence-only data available. We combine species distribution and connectivity models with temporal land cover changes to define priority areas for conservation of the endemic Brazilian three-banded armadillo, one of the most threatened xenarthrans that was once considered extinct in the wild. Werevealed that areas of savanna and grassland are the most suitable habitats for the species and that uplands in the Caatinga ecoregion have a greater likelihood for dispersal. The few remnant armadillo populations are spatially associated with core areas of natural vegetation remnants. Worrisomely, 76% of natural core areas were lost in the past 30 years, mirroring the species' severe population decline. Preserving the remnant core natural areas should be a high priority to ensure the species' survival. We highlight key areas for proactive and reactive conservation actions for the three-banded armadillo that will benefit other threatened sympatric species. Our integrative framework provides a set of valuable information for guided conservation management that can be replicated for other poorly known species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basic data on the biology and ecology of the giant armadillo (Priodontes maximus) from the Atlantic Forest are practically non-existent. Information on population density and habitat use is vital to assess the long-term population viability and to design effective management and conservation strategies for the Atlantic Forest's last population of the species. In this study, we estimated density and abundance, evaluated the influence of habitat features and human-altered habitats on the occupancy and detection probabilities of giant armadillos and investigated their activity patterns. Our study was conducted in a forested protected area, the Rio Doce State Park (RDSP) that represents one of the largest continuous remnants of Atlantic Forest in Brazil. We used a random survey design with a blocking arrangement of sampling units and found an estimate of 60.7 individuals (95% CI 26.8–94.6) with a density of 10.67 individuals/100 km2 (95% CI 5.28–18.65). From the model-averaged estimates, occupancy probability ( Ψ ^ ) = 0.68 (95% CI 0.18–0.95), and detection probability ( p ^ ) = 0.07 (95% CI 0.00–0.14). The occupancy probability was strongly associated with greater distances from lakes (w+ = 0.58), while the detection probability was strongly associated with a greater number of days in which the camera traps remained operating (w+ = 0.63), higher terrain slope (w+ = 0.61), and greater distances from the cities (w+ = 0.56). Giant armadillos across sexes were more active during the night (93.5% of the records), with activity peaks before midnight and before sunrise. Giant armadillos presented moderate activity overlap with jaguars ( Δ 1 ^ < 0.54) and low with pumas ( Δ 1 ^ < 0.36). Our work is the first attempt to study the ecology of giant armadillos in the Atlantic Forest. Our findings of a well-established population of giant armadillos in RDSP are extremely important to guide future studies and conservation actions for the species in this biome. We also highlight the potential conservation value of a protected area such as the RDSP in a human-dominated landscape as one of the last strongholds for giant armadillos in the Atlantic Forest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climatic oscillations acted as an essential factor in molding the distribution and composition of Neotropical biota. However, their effects on the South American Chaco are still poorly known. In this work, we present an updated collection of records of one of its flagship species, Tolypeutes matacus. We analyze the species' range dynamics in current and past scenarios to unveil the effects of past changes over the Chacoan biota. We construct three niches, one with current data (current niche), the other using Pleistocenic occurrence data and predictors from the Last Glacial Maximum (glacial niche), and the last one combining current and Pleistocene data to generate a multitemporal niche. Niches were projected to Current, Mid-Holocene, Last Glacial Maximum, and Last Interglacial scenarios. We obtain 398 records for the species, corresponding to current, historical, Holocene, and Pleistocene records. Current distribution occurs mainly in the currently Chaco region. For current niche reconstructions, suitable areas were smaller than those found nowadays, mainly during the Last Interglacial and Last Glacial Maximum. Holocene reconstruction recovers a distribution of suitable areas pretty similar to the present times. In contrast, glacial niche projection shows higher suitability values in the Pampean Region in all periods analyzed. Multitemporal niche projections showed similar results to those obtained from the current niche projections. Climatic oscillations seem to have significantly impacted the distribution of the species, generating retractions during past times and a period of range stability since the Holocene. Differences between niche projections suggest that Pampean populations may have evolved in different conditions than those from the Chacoan region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Limited funds for conservation and research require the development of prioritization schemes. Traditionally, biodiversity metrics were used to delineate priority areas; however, a growing realization emphasizes that logistic factors should be also considered. Here, we combine species richness, past collection efforts, degree of habitat loss and accessibility to define priority areas and spatially orient fieldwork in a cost‐effective manner for xenarthrans. Location: Neotropics. Methods: We assessed spatial patterns of species richness in Xenarthra and identified diversity hotspots based on species distribution models. Spatial patterns and biases in the Xenarthra past collection efforts were analysed using a comprehensive database including 33,464 individual records for 34 species of Xenarthra. Finally, we produced priority area indices relating species richness and collection efforts with levels of habitat loss and accessibility (roads and rivers network) to highlight important but neglected areas. Results: Collection efforts were concentrated to a small portion of the Neotropics (central‐western Brazil, eastern Bolivia and north‐western Argentina) and were biased towards access routes. Only 4% of the Neotropics can be considered well sampled. Major xenarthran diversity hotspots include the Amazonian lowlands of Bolivia and the dry Chaco of Paraguay and Argentina. Priority areas for research varied depending on the metric analysed. Amazon holds a high diversity that remains poorly explored. Central Argentina and eastern Brazil are priority areas for research and conservation given the low sampling efforts, high diversity and endemic species, high levels of habitat loss and a dense road network. Main conclusions: Most areas of the Neotropics lack a proper assessment of the xenarthran assemblage, reflecting extensive knowledge shortfalls. Sites close to roads tend to be better sampled, but many areas with a dense road network are undersampled, being good candidates for low‐cost studies. Xenarthra diversity hotspots facing the highest levels of habitat alteration are the least protected and are priority for both research and conservation. Simultaneous efforts of data collection and conservation actions across most of the xenarthran range should be stimulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stuttering is a common neurodevelopment speech disorder that negatively affects the socio-psychological dimensions of people with disability. It displays many attributes of a complex genetic trait, and a few genetic loci have been identified through linkage studies. Stuttering is highly variable regarding its phenotypes and molecular etiology. However, all stutters have some common features, including blocks in speech, prolongation, and repetition of sounds, syllables, and words. The involuntary actions associated with stuttering often involve increased eye blinking, tremors of the lips or jaws, head jerks, clenched fists, perspiration, and cardiovascular changes. In the present study, we recruited a consanguineous Pakistani family showing an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. The exome sequencing identified a homozygous splice site variant in ARMC3 (Armadillo Repeat Containing 3) in a consanguineous Pashtun family of Pakistani origin as the underlying genetic cause of non-syndromic stuttering. The homozygous splice site variant (NM_173081.5:c.916 + 1G > A) segregated with the stuttering phenotype in this family. The splice change leading to the skipping of exon-8 is a loss of function (LoF) variant, which is predicted to undergo NMD (Nonsense mediated decay). Here, we report ARMC3 as a novel candidate gene causing the stuttering phenotype. ARMC3 may lead to neurodevelopmental disorders, including stuttering in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have suggested species- and individual-specific morphologies of cephalic shields of three-banded armadillos (Tolypeutes spp.). Central cephalic scutes would form discrete lines; the first two posterior lines being composed of one scute (1-1) in Tolypeutes matacus and one followed by two scutes (1-2) in Tolypeutes tricinctus. However, conclusions were limited to a few specimens and the T. tricinctus pattern was later observed in T. matacus. Here, we assessed the potential use of the morphology of the cephalic shield as a species diagnostic trait and individual natural mark in three-banded armadillos by quantifying their patterns in museum (n = 71) and field (n = 82) specimens. In total, 93% of T. matacus and 88% of T. tricinctus specimens presented the respective species' character states. All specimens could be individualized based on a visual comparison of their cephalic shields. Our findings show that the morphology of cephalic shields is a species diagnostic trait and an individual natural mark in three-banded armadillos. Therefore, we add an accessible character for species diagnosis in Tolypeutes and provide an alternative to artificial marks that presents virtually no associated cost and damage to animal welfare and can be reliably applied in ecological and participatory science projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prey remains found in carnivore scats provide generalised dietary profiles of sampled populations. The profile may be biased if individual diets differ and some individuals are over- or under-represented in the sample. Quantifying individual contributions allows us to recognise these potential biases and better interpret generalised profiles. Knowing the dietary differences or similarity between individuals can help us to understand selection pressures and identify drivers of distribution and abundance. Using the results of individual faecal genotyping, we re-interpreted our previously-published generalised dietary profile of an elusive, neotropical felid, the jaguar (Panthera onca; Foster et al. (2010)). We quantified individual sample sizes, assessed whether the generalised profile was influenced by the inclusion of scats originating from the same individual and prey carcass (pseudo-replication), and quantified the distribution of prey species among individuals. From an original sample of 322 jaguar scats from a high-density jaguar population in Belize, we identified 206 prey items (individual prey animals) in 176 independent scats representing 32 jaguars (26 males, 3 females, 3 unknown sex). The influence of pseudo-replication in the original dietary profile was minimal. The majority of scats (94%) came from male jaguars. Eight males accounted for two-thirds of the prey items, while 24 jaguars each contributed <5% of the prey items. With few exceptions, the jaguars followed the same broad diet, a 2:1:1 ratio of nine-banded armadillos (Dasypus noveminctus), other vertebrates ≤10kg, and ungulates, primarily peccaries (Tayassu pecari and Pecari tajacu). We noted prey switching between wild and domestic ungulates for individuals spanning protected forests and farmland. This first scat-based study exploring individual variation in jaguar diet highlights the importance of armadillos and peccaries for male jaguars in Belize, the need for research on their roles in supporting high-density jaguar populations, and the need for more data on female diet from across the jaguar range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormal pain has recently been estimated to affect ∼50 million adults each year within the United States. With many treatment options for abnormal pain, such as opioid analgesics, carrying numerous deleterious side effects, research into safer and more effective treatment options is crucial. To help elucidate the mechanisms controlling nociceptive sensitivity, the Drosophila melanogaster larval nociception model has been used to characterize well-conserved pathways through the use of genetic modification and/or injury to alter the sensitivity of experimental animals. Mammalian models have provided evidence of β-catenin signaling involvement in neuropathic pain development. By capitalizing on the conserved nature of β-catenin functions in the fruit fly, here we describe a role for Armadillo, the fly homolog to mammalian β-catenin, in regulating baseline sensitivity in the primary nociceptor of the fly, in the absence of injury, using under- and over-expression of Armadillo in a cell-specific manner. Underexpression of Armadillo resulted in hyposensitivity, while overexpression of wild-type Armadillo or expression of a degradation-resistant Armadillo resulted in hypersensitivity. Neither underexpression nor overexpression of Armadillo resulted in observed dendritic morphological changes that could contribute to behavioral phenotypes observed. These results showed that focused manipulation of Armadillo expression within the nociceptors is sufficient to modulate baseline response in the nociceptors to a noxious stimulus and that these changes are not shown to be associated with a morphogenetic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although mammals of the superorder Xenarthra are considered hosts of a wide range of zoonotic agents, works aiming at investigating the role of these animals as hosts for bacteria with zoonotic potential are rare. The present study aimed to investigate the occurrence and molecularly characterize Coxiella burnetii and haemoplasma (haemotropic mycoplasmas) DNA in blood and spleen samples from 397 free‐living Xenarthra mammals (233 sloths, 107 anteaters and 57 armadillos) in five Brazilian states (Mato Grosso do Sul, São Paulo, Pará, Rondônia and Rio Grande do Sul). All biological samples from Xenarthra were negative in the qPCR for Coxiella burnetii based on the IS1111 gene. The absence of C. burnetii DNA in blood and spleen samples from Xenarthra suggests that these mammals may not act as possible hosts for this agent in the locations studied. When performed conventional PCR assays for the endogenous (gapdh) mammalian gene, 386 samples were positive. When screened by molecular assays based on the 16S rRNA gene of haemoplasmas, 81 samples were positive, of which 15.54% (60/386) were positive by conventional PCR and 5.44% (21/386) were positive by real‐time PCR; three samples were positive in both assays. Of these, 39.74% (31/78) were also positive for the 23S rRNA gene and 7.69% (6/78) for the haemoplasma RNAse P gene. Among the samples positive for haemoplasmas, 25.64% (20/78) were obtained from anteaters (Tamandua tetradactyla and Myrmecophaga tridactyla), 39.74% (31/78) from sloths (Bradypus tridactylus, Bradypus sp. and Choloepus sp.) 34.61% (27/78) from armadillos (Priodontes maximus, Euphractus sexcinctus and Dasypus novemcinctus). A haemoplasma 16S rRNA sequence closely related and showing high identity (99.7%) to Mycoplasma wenyonii was detected, for the first time, in B. tridactylus. Based on the low identity and phylogenetic positioning of 16S rRNA and 23S rRNA sequences of haemoplasmas detected in anteaters and armadillos, the present study showed, for the first time, the occurrence of putative new Candidatus haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. ("Candidatus Mycoplasma haematotetradactyla" and "Candidatus Mycoplasma haematomaximus") in Xenarthra mammals from Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distress vocalizations are emitted by animals experiencing extreme physical distress, such as when caught by a predator. These signals are emitted by numerous and phylogenetically distant vertebrate species and are composed of sequences of broadband and high-amplitude notes. In this study, we provide the first acoustic characterization of distress vocalizations in four armadillo species: pink fairy armadillo (Chlamyphorus truncatus), greater fairy armadillo (Calyptophractus retusus), Southern three-banded armadillo (Tolypeutes matacus), and Chacoan naked-tailed armadillo (Cabassous chacoensis). We also recharacterized the weeping call of the screaming hairy armadillo (Chaetophractus vellerosus) to compare vocalizations, discuss potential homologies, and examine possible causes of structural and acoustic similarities among these species. In three species the vocalizations were sequences of exhaled notes that differed in their fine spectral structure (exhaled harmonic notes in C. retusus, and exhaled harsh notes in C. truncatus and T. matacus). The vocalization of C. chacoensis was composed of exhaled harsh and inhaled harsh notes that occurred alternately and continuously in a quick sequence. Based on the mode of production and acoustic similarity, we propose that the notes of C. retusus and C. truncatus would be homologous to the conspicuous crying notes of C. vellerosus. The exhaled harsh notes of T. matacus and C. chacoensis may also be homologous to the crying notes of C. vellerosus, but the notes of T. matacus are quite different in various acoustic parameters. Furthermore, the inhaled and exhaled harsh notes of C. chacoensis are similar to the inhaled and exhaled sobbing notes of C. vellerosus, making assessments of homologies uncertain in these species. Because a common motivational state (physical distress) underlies these vocalizations, we propose that the notable differences in body size and habitat preferences of the armadillos could represent potential drivers of the acoustic divergence among their vocalizations. Las vocalizaciones de pánico son emitidas por individuos cuando experimentan estrés físico, como ser capturados por un depredador. Estas señales están compuestas por secuencias de notas de banda ancha y alta amplitud, y son producidas por numerosas especies de vertebrados filogenéticamente distantes. En este estudio, caracterizamos las vocalizaciones de pánico de cuatro especies de armadillo: pichiciego menor (Chlamyphorus truncatus), pichiciego chaqueño (Calyptophractus retusus), armadillo de tres bandas (Tolypeutes matacus) y cabasú chaqueño (Cabassous chacoensis). Para comparar vocalizaciones, discutir homologías y examinar posibles causas de las similitudes acústicas entre armadillos, re-caracterizamos la vocalización de pánico del piche llorón (Chaetophractus vellerosus). En tres especies, la vocalización estuvo compuesta por secuencias de notas exhaladas que difirieron en su estructura espectral (notas armónicas exhaladas en C. retusus y notas ásperas exhaladas en C. truncatus y T. matacus). La vocalización de C. chacoensis estuvo compuesta por notas ásperas exhaladas y ásperas inhaladas emitidas de forma alterna y continua en una secuencia rápida. Considerando el modo de producción y la similitud acústica, proponemos que las notas de C. retusus y C. truncatus serían homólogas a las notas lloradas de C. vellerosus. Las notas ásperas exhaladas de T. matacus y C. chacoensis también podrían ser homólogas a las notas lloradas, sin embargo, las notas de T. matacus difieren en su estructura acústica. Además, las notas ásperas inhaladas y exhaladas de C. chacoensis son similares a las notas sollozas inhaladas y exhaladas de C. vellerosus, lo que hace inciertas las homologías entre estas especies. Debido a que el estado motivacional (angustía física) subyacente a la emisión de estas vocalizaciones es equivalente entre las especies, proponemos que las diferencias en el tamaño corporal y las preferencias de hábitat de las especies podrían representar los impulsores potenciales de la divergencia acústica entre sus vocalizaciones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distress vocalizations are emitted by animals experiencing extreme physical distress, such as when caught by a predator. These signals are emitted by numerous and phylogenetically distant vertebrate species and are composed of sequences of broadband and high-amplitude notes. In this study, we provide the first acoustic characterization of distress vocalizations in four armadillo species: pink fairy armadillo (Chlamyphorus truncatus), greater fairy armadillo (Calyptophractus retusus), Southern three-banded armadillo (Tolypeutes matacus), and Chacoan naked-tailed armadillo (Cabassous chacoensis). We also recharacterized the weeping call of the screaming hairy armadillo (Chaetophractus vellerosus) to compare vocalizations, discuss potential homologies, and examine possible causes of structural and acoustic similarities among these species. In three species the vocalizations were sequences of exhaled notes that differed in their fine spectral structure (exhaled harmonic notes in C. retusus , and exhaled harsh notes in C. truncatus and T. matacus). The vocalization of C. chacoensis was composed of exhaled harsh and inhaled harsh notes that occurred alternately and continuously in a quick sequence. Based on the mode of production and acoustic similarity, we propose that the notes of C. retusus and C. truncatus would be homologous to the conspicuous crying notes of C. vellerosus. The exhaled harsh notes of T. matacus and C. chacoensis may also be homologous to the crying notes of C. vellerosus , but the notes of T. matacus are quite different in various acoustic parameters. Furthermore, the inhaled and exhaled harsh notes of C. chacoensis are similar to the inhaled and exhaled sobbing notes of C. vellerosus , making assessments of homologies uncertain in these species. Because a common motivational state (physical distress) underlies these vocalizations, we propose that the notable differences in body size and habitat preferences of the armadillos could represent potential drivers of the acoustic divergence among their vocalizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Located in the Northeast of Brazil, the city of Paripiranga, State of Bahia, is situated in a karst region called Supergrupo Canudos. The locality boasts a high number of natural cavities, some of which contain Pleistocene mammal fossils and remains of contemporary vertebrates. The cave locally known as Furna do Cazuza is a deep natural cavity in Proterozoic limestone, with a vertical entrance of 16 m in depth, resembling an abyss, serving as natural traps for many animals, especially mammals. The cave has a large area at its entrance, with a significant influx of sediment and a considerable quantity of bones, some of which have already been collected. The collected bone material (appendicular and part of a skull) belongs to three individuals: an armadillo and two giant ground sloths. The osteoderms were attributed to the Pampatheriidae Holmesina sp., and the most abundant bone material to the Megatheriidae Eremotherium laurillardi and the Scelidotheriidae Catonyx cuvieri. This study presents the largest number of bones of C. cuvieri attributed to a single individual in a cave. As paleontological research advances, the understanding of the diversity of the past fauna during the Pleistocene in the municipality of Paripiranga and the surrounding region continues to expand. The caves are still under study, and their fossiliferous richness has not been fully measured and identified. • Solid description of fossils in Furna do Cazuza Cave. • The addition of three new taxa - E. laurillardi , Holmesina sp. and the confirmation of C. cuvieri - to the paleobiodiversity. • The most complete Catonyx cuvieri skeleton found in the municipality of Paripiranga to date. • Amplification of the paleobiogeography of extincted taxons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of viral‐associated neoplasms reported in wildlife has increased over the last decades, likely because of growing research efforts and a potentially greater burden of carcinogenic pathogens. Herein, we describe a primary gastric T‐cell lymphoma in one free‐ranging giant armadillo (Priodontes maximus) from Brazilian Pantanal infected by a novel gammaherpesvirus, proposed as Cingulatid gammaherpesvirus 1 (CiHV‐1). By chromogenic in situ hybridisation against Epstein–Barr virus some neoplastic cells were labeled. Subsequently, a molecular screening was carried out to detect the occurrence of this pathogen in other giant armadillos in the same region. Overall, this novel virus was detected in 14.3% (3/21) of the tested giant armadillos. We suggest this herpesvirus, the first in Xenarthra, as a plausible aetiology of the neoplasm. The implications of CiHV‐1 for this species are uncertain; while no outbreaks of disease have been recorded, the present study raises concerns. Further research is warranted to assess the real significance of CiHV‐1 and its potential oncogenic role in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Euphractus sexcinctus is a wild mammal native to the Americas; they have great diversity and are not in danger of extinction like other armadillo species. Despite the diversity, the morphology of several biological systems of this species has not been fully described. This study details the gross and microscopic anatomy of the urinary system in Euphractus sexcinctus, a six‐banded armadillo, compared with other mammalian study models. Six animals were dissected in the study. In the anatomical analysis, the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and urethra were dissected and photographed; then, fragments were submitted to histological routine for staining with haematoxylin‐eosin, toluidine blue and Masson's trichrome for visualization under light microscopy. The six‐banded armadillo ureter is histologically composed of four concentric layers. The urinary bladder is presented with three tissue layers. The pattern of constitution and distribution of urinary system structures was compatible with that of most domestic like Canis familiaris and wild animals like Bradypus torquatus, with adaptations for the arid and semi‐arid habitat. The description of the morphology of Euphractus sexcinctus presents great relevance both for its conservation and for its use as a model for clinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Nine‐banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is a widespread burrowing species with an expanding geographic range across the southeastern and midwestern United States. Armadillos dig numerous, large burrows within their home ranges and these burrows are likely used by a diverse suite of wildlife species as has been reported for other burrowing ecosystem engineers such as Gopher Tortoises (Gopherus polyphemus), Desert Tortoises (Gopherus agassizi), and Black‐tailed Prairie Dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus). We used motion‐triggered game cameras at 35 armadillo burrows in 4 ecoregions of Arkansas and documented 19 species of mammals, 4 species of reptile, 1 species of amphibian, and 40 species of bird interacting with burrows. Bobcat (Lynx rufus), Coyote (Canis latrans), Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), Northern Raccoon (Procyon lotor), Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana), and unidentified rodents (mice and rats) were documented using burrows in all four ecoregions. We documented wildlife hunting, seeking shelter, rearing young in, and taking over and modifying armadillo burrows. The rate of use was highest in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley, a landscape dominated by agriculture, where natural refugia may be limited and rodents are abundant. Armadillo burrows are clearly visited and used by numerous wildlife species to fulfill various life stage requirements, and this list will likely expand if more attention is devoted to understanding the role of armadillos burrows. Armadillos are important ecosystem engineers, and their ecological role warrants more investigation and attention as opposed to only being viewed and managed as agricultural and garden pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]