Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract FioAntar, FIOCRUZ’s research project in Antarctica, is based on the One Health approach. FioAntar aims to generate relevant information that will help reduce the risk of future pandemics and improve the search for chemical compounds and new biological molecules. After four expeditions to Antarctica under the scope of PROANTAR, Fiocruz has identified Influenza H11N2 virus in environmental fecal samples, as well as Histoplasma capsulatum and Bacillus cereus in soil samples. In addition, in a prospective virome analysis from different lakes in the South Shetland Islands, six viral orders were described, supporting future research related to the biodiversity and viral ecology in this extreme ecosystem. Our findings of environmental pathogens of public health importance are a warning about the urgency of establishing a surveillance agenda on zoonoses in Antarctica due to the imminent risks that ongoing environmental and climate changes impose on human health across the planet. FioAntar strives to establish a comprehensive surveillance program across Antarctica, monitoring circulation of pathogens with the potential to transcend continent boundaries, thereby mitigating potential spread. For Fiocruz, Antarctica signifies a new frontier, teeming with opportunities to explore novel techniques, refine established methodologies, and cultivate invaluable knowledge.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This research was conducted for the purpose to evaluate the contribution Giant petrels and Brown skuas nestings in the formation of ornithogenic soils by the phosphatization process in Harmony Point, Maritime Antarctic. Ten nests were selected to collect topsoil samples (0-20 cm), from 0 m up to 20 m away, with regular spacing of 2 m. The analysis of the samples included the physical, chemical, mineralogical and geochemical analyzes. Phosphate minerals were identified. The presence of high content of some trace elements, such as Zn, Cu and Sr is associated with the bird’s excrements. Total-P and bioavailable-P recorded higher levels. This result demonstrates the importance of the time factor in the bird’s nesting, as well as in the development of the soil in these soil-forming environment. Phosphatization in these areas is not restricted to the specific location of the nest, since high values of P have been identified at distances between 8 and 12 m, from de nest’s top. This suggests the transport of P rich solutions and phosphatized material along fractures by the freeze-thaw cycles, contributing to increase the geographical expression of this phenomenon in this ice-free area, consequently the development of soils and the establishment of vegetation.