020941   Gangotri M S;Matkar L S (NO, , "Gangotri" Kapileshwar Nagar, Ahead Sarasnagar Camp. P.O. Ahmednagar-414 002) : The effect of sugar industrial effluents on the protein glycogen and lipid of the freshwater crab, Barytelphusa guerini (H. Milne Edwards) (Decapoda, Potamidea). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2004, 6(4), 557-62.

Environmental pollutants bring about disturbances in biochemical processes within the organisms. The freshwater crab, Barytelphusa guerini was exposed to acute and chronic exposures of sugar industrial effluents and it's effect on the biochemical constituents in various tissues were studied during the breeding and non breeding seasons. Protein levels decreased in the muscle, gill and hepatopancreas of both the sexes at all time intervals, but increased in gonads in both the breeding and nonbreeding seasons. The glycogen level decreased in gondas and gills at all exposure periods during the breeding and nonbreeding seasons, but an initial increase was seen in muscle and hepatopancreas upto 15 days of exposures, thereafter depletion of glycogen contentin both the reproductive periods, was observed. Simultaneous decrease in total lipids was also recorded in gonad and gills during the breeding and nonbreeding seasons at all exposure periods, whereas the muscle and hepatopancreas showed an increase in lipid content during the breeding season upto 15 days of exposure. Then there was small drop at 30 days of exposure. It was also observed that the acute exposures do not have any immediate effect, while chronic exposure recorded significant changes in the various tissues of this animal.

6 illus, 24 ref

020940   Dobriyal A;Negi K S;Joshi H K;Bisht K L (Zoology Dep, HNB, Garhwal University Campus, Pauri Garhwal-246 001) : Breeding capacity of Crossocheilus latius latius (Pisces: Cyprinidae) in the river Mandakini of Garhwal, Uttaranchal. Flora Fauna 2004, 10(2), 151-3.

Deals with the reproductive capacity of a hillstream carp, Crossocheilus latius latius (Hamilton), which forms an important constituent of fishery in the river Mandakini of GarhwalHimalaya, Uttranchal. The fish is herbivore, protracted spawner having a single frequency of spawning during late July to early September. Absolute fecundity ranged from 20,660 in a fish measuring 160 mm to 79630 in a fish measuring 263 mm. Relationship of fecundity with various body parts and its sex ration in nature is discussed.

3 tables, 19 ref

020939   Dobriyal A K;Thapliyal A;Joshi H K;Uniyal S P;Bahuguna P (Zool Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Pauri Garhwal-246 001) : Trunk vertebrate as an instrument for the determination of age and growth rate of Pseudecheneis sulcatus (Pisces : Sisoridae). J Nat Conserv 2004, 16(2), 439-6.

From section cuts of the trunk vertebrae, it is inferred that the life span of the catifish P. sulcatus (Mc Clelland) is four years. Probable cause for ring formation is explained. The fish grows to 20 mm length.

4 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

020938   Dinendra Raychaudhuri (Zoology Dep, Lady Brabourne College, Govt. of West Bengal, P 1/2, Suhrawardy Avenue, Kolkata-700 017, Email: sumu17@rediffmail.com) : A new species of spider of the genus Peucetia thorell (Oxyopidae: Araneae) from Digha, Midnapore, West Bengal, India. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2004, 101(2), 288-90.

One new species, Peucetia gauntleta recorded from Digha, Midnapore is described and illustrated.

1 table, 7 ref

020937   Choudhary S A (NO, Shyamlal and Ramesh Chand, Shop No.3,A/D Green Belt Part-1, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu-180 004) : Insecticidal properties and mode of action of fenvalerate on reproductive potential and aging of mutant vinegar fly, Drosopila melanogaster (Meigen). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2004, 6(4), 613-5.

Fenvalerate, a synthetic pyrethroid causes its effects in either sex of mutant Drosophila melanogaster when applied topically to newly emerged flies at a dose of 0.007 μl/100 ml food. However the recovery of fertility was recorded as the post-treatment days increased. In cross combinations, where either male or female or both were treated, egg laying was delayedby 4-16 days as Compared to control. Recovery of fertility was more delayed in set (ii) as compare to set (i) or set (iii) treated flies. Also the flies treated at emergence, remained effected for longer period than the flies treated at maturity. The net result was reduced number of eggs laid, decrease in hatchability and number of larvae due to either lack of vitellin for normal growth of possibly some deleterious effects of fenvalerate on embryogenesis (Choudhary, 2003). According to Clark and Rockstein (1964), changes occur in the structure and function of some systems of insect with age that may modify the enternal environment of the organism and its susceptibility to the reproductive potential.

23 ref

020936   Chaturvedi S K;Mishra K K (Zoology Dep, Center of Environmental studies, Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakoot, Satna-485 001) : 5-Nucleotidase activity in the haemocytes of Spodoptera litura (Noctuidae: lepidoptera). Flora Fauna 2004, 10(2), 167-9.

High level of 5'-nucleotidase activity is demonstrable in the prohaemocytes and granulocytes of the larva of Spodoptera litura in all stages of development. Spherulocytes and oenocytoids show moderate enzyme activity. Plasmatocytes of fourth and fifth instar larvae are extraodinarily rich in 5'-nase activity. The enzyme activity varies considerably during growing stages of plasmatocytes and its arms. In the following prepupal and pupal stages 5'-nase activity gets reduced appreciably. In senescent plasmatocytes the enzyme activity registers a fall depicting incapacitations of the effect cell to carry on breakdown of nucleotide residues. Significance and activity of ectonucleotidase in lepidopteran haemocytes has been discussed.

7 illus, 11 ref

020935   Borthakur M K;Mahanta R;Goswami U C (NO, Gauhati Univ, Guwahati-781 014) : Tissue lipid peroxides in sublethal malathion exposed Indian catfish heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch). J Nat Conserv 2004, 16(2), 315-20.

Effect of malathion, a widely used organophosphate pesticide on fish in laboratory condition was studied. The level of toxicity and stress was observed with lipid peroxides as a probe parameter. Fishes were exposed to two sublethal concentrations of the pesticide i.e., 0.1 and 0.2 ppm. Malathion was found to be toxic for the fishes even in very low doses. Liver, brain and kidney tissues were studied. Kidney was the most affected tissue and brain was found to be least affected tissue.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

020934   Bhattacharyya A;Solomon Raju A J;Gupta T K; Chatterjee N B;Barik B (Zool Dep, Vidyasagar Coll for Women, 39, Sankar Ghosh Lane, Kolkata-700 006) : Secondary metabolite and preference of host plant Eupatorium odoratum by Aphis spitraecola on Nilagiri hills of Orissa. J Ecobiol 2005, 17(1), 83-7.

Steroidal allelochemical has been identified from Eupatorium odoratum L. a wild weed plant located in Nilagiri hills of Orissa. The steroid allelochemical is a unique compound that act as attractant/repellent of Aphis spiraecola Patch. The possible cause of preference of host E. odoratum by A. spiraecola may be due to the activity of tissue specific enzymes present in the gut and fat body cells of the aforesaid aphid. The sterol compound which is released from the host plant of A. spiraecola stimulates the catalytic activity of cytochrome P⁴⁵⁰ in the gut and fat body of the aphids, sends signals for aggregation of this insect pest at the apical shoot system of the host plant.

1 illus, 12 ref

020933   Bhardwaj D K;Tyagi M P;Tyagi S K (NO, , V & P - Khai kheri, Distt - Muzaffarnagar-251 310) : The intrinsic rate of natural increase and the life expectancy of Spilosoma obliqua (WLK) on castor. J Nat Conserv 2004, 16(2), 395-400.

A life table was constructed for the S. obilqua at 15±1°C, 65±5°C relative humidity and 27±1°C, 80±5% relative humidity under laboratory condition corresponding to winter and summer months respectively. The study revealed that the values of intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm) and finite rate of increase λ were 0.55, 0.084 and 1.0565, 1.080876 female/female/day. The doubling time (DT) was hire in the case of S. obliqua during winter (12.6027) than summer (8.2518).

2 illus, 4 tables, 5 ref

020932   Bhardwaj D K;Tyagi M P;Tyagi S K (NO, , V & P Kai kheri, Distt. Muzaffarnagar-251 310) : Comparative biological studies of Spilosoma obliqua (WLK) on castor. J Nat Conserv 2004, 16(2), 309-13.

A female moth lay eggs round in shapes, and greenish color in batches, ranging from 600-1450 in winter and 449-1228 in summer months. The mean incubation period was 7.98±0.12 days for winter and 4.05±0.14 days for summer months while the viabililty was 98.25±0.65% and 99.25±0.38%, respectively. The color of eggs turned into pale yelllow and before hatching the chorion appeared greyish to blackish. For winter and summer months the larval period vary from 21.4 to 36.4 days with survival percentage 63.71 and 49.39% respectively. The pupa of S. obliqua were brownish in color and prepupal and pupal period were 3.84±0.19, 26.41±0.31 days for winter and 3.13±0.12, 14.05±0.12 for summer months and the pupal survival was 79.66±2.09 percent and 92.86±2.42 percent, respectively. The female were larger than male pupae. Adults were moderate in size along with dusky brown forewing and light brown hind wings with black spots on both. Adults male and female were 17.35±0.04 mm and 19.50±0.03 mm in body length and 5.94±0.01 and 6.74±0.03 mm in body width.

2 tables, 10 ref

020931   Bastawade D B (Zoology Survy of India, Western Regional Station, , Vidyanagar, Sector 29, Opp. Akurdi Railway Station, Rawat Road, Akurdi, Pune-411 044) : Revision of some species of family schizomidae (Arachnida: Schizomida) on the basis of types deposited by F.H. Gravely (1911-1925) in the national collection, ZSI, Kolkata. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2004, 101(2), 211-20.

The redescription of six species, namely Schizomus sijuensis, S.lunatus, S.perplexus, S.greeni,S.vittatus and S. cavernicola of schizomid arachnids described by F.H.Gravely (1911-1925), have been provided, with illustrations to facilitate their identification. S. sijuensis, S. perplexus and S. cavernicola have been redesignated as new combinations. The specimens studied were deposited in the National Collection of the Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata by F.H. Gravely, and are the lectotypes. These species are redesignated on the basis of revisionary studies by Harvey, Reddell and Cokendolpher.

56 illus, 7 tables, 23 ref

020930   Basil Rose M R;Mercy P D;Jayalakshmi M (Zool Dep, Holy Cross Coll, Nagrrcoil-629 004) : Effect of light on the pattern of excretion of urea in the freshwater field crab, Paratelphusa hydrodromous. J Ecobiol 2005, 17(1), 75-8.

The role of light on the rhythmic periodicity as evidenced by the excretion of urea over a period of 24 hours was studied in the field crab Paratelphusa hydrodromous. Maximum urea excretion was observed during the night hours especially at 10 p.m. (2.95 mg / individual) and at 1 a.m. (2.7 mg/individual). This reflected the noctumal nature where the individuals are active in the absence of light. Eyes being the organs of light perception, the influence of light in regulating the diurnal variation of urea excretion was verified by estimating the amount of urea excreted after blinding the animal. The irregularity observed in the pattern of urea excretion reflects the role of light in regulating the metabolic activities.

1 table, 24 ref1 table, 24 ref

020929   Baghel C L;Srivastav A K (NO, Off. of Asstt. Director, Malaria, Jhansi) : Intraspecific variations of Anopheles subpitus grassi, 1899 reported form different localities of Jhansi. Flora Fauna 2004, 10(2), 135-7.

Mosquitoes were collected during the entomological survey of different localities of urban areas viz Civil lines, Mehandi Bagh, Slum areas; Dadiapura. TaIpura, Khushi pura and Periurban areas; Avas Vikas Colony, Bardan Vihar Colony and Nandanpura of Jhansi District from Nov. 2001 to Oct. 2002. The species A. fluviatilis, A. culicifacies. A. subpictus, A. subpictus, A. stephensiand A. annulans were densely found in this area. The tolal 2835 specimens were collected, out of them 350 speciemens were of A. subpictus. In these 12 had different morphological characters in the banding of palpi and tarsal segment of the legs.

6 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

020928   Arif M;Mubashshera A (Zool Dep, Ahmednagar Coll, Ahmednagar-414 001) : Cannibalistic instincts in the red cotton bug Dysdercus cingulatus. J Ecobiol 2005, 17(1), 99-100.

Observations on development of cannibalistic tendency in the red cotton bugs were made during the maintenance of their culture. Dysdercus cingulatus exposed to prolonged warm climatic condition coupled with lack of fresh supply of food resulted 60% mortality. The adults and healthy individuals survived by feeding on the body fluid of their weak companions, in dry condition mainly due to loss of water that causes physiological dryness. In normal condition no cannibalistic instinct was seen.

^ssc7 ref

020927   Apte D (Bombay Natural History Society, , Hornbill House, S.B. Singh Road, Mumbai- 400 023, Email: bnhs@bom4.vsnl.net.in]) : Molluscan fauna of point calimere wildlife sanctuary part 1 : gastropoda. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2004, 101(2), 201-10.

The stduy was conducted in Point Calimere, located on the Coromandel coast in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. Point Calimere has diverse habitats, including sandy shores, mangroves, and salt pans. Large numbers of molluscs are dragged out by fishing nets, and killed in thousands. Volva sowerbyana, Tudicla spiralis, Strombus plicatus sibbaldi and Conus milne edwardsi were recorded for the first time from this area. C. milne-edwardsi was recorded after 80 years alongthe Indian coast, from which there is only one published record, in Mumbai in 1912.

18 ref

020926   Ansari K K;Prakash S;Pandey P N (Zoology Dep, M.L.K. (P.G.) College, Balrampur-271 201) : Effect of some plant products on oviposition period, fecundity and percentage of hatching of rice-moth, Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton). Flora Fauna 2004, 10(2), 159-60.

The oviposition period, fecundity and percentage of hatching were raised with the decrease of plant product concentration in both, powoer and extract forms but extract form was superior to powder form. The results showed that A. sativum was most effective in lowering the oviposition period, fecundity and percentage of hatching of C. cephalonica.

3 tables, 3 ref

019858   Sreenivasa Rao;Rao P J (AICRP on Pesticide Residues, 214 H-Block, College of Agriculture, ANGRAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030) : Insecticide induced changes in metamorphosis, development and reproduction of Spodoptera litura fabricius. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 131-4.

Median and sub-lethal doses of chlorpyriphos and cypermethrin were applied to early sixth instar Spodoptera litura and the larval, pupal, adult development and fecundity of the resultant adults were recorded. The pupae formed from the treated larvae had malformations, but did not change pupal duration. At LD₅₀, male pupae weighed less and in general, pupae formed from treated larvae weighed lesser compared to those of the control insects. Around 25% adults emerged from these pupae were malformed. Cypermethrin caused more reduction of adult weights and their longevity than chlorpyriphos. Such effects were more in males than females. The fecundity and egg hatchability were significantly reduced in treated insects and the dose dependant reduction was observed in cypermethrin treated insects.

2 tables, 13 ref

019857   Singh S C (Zoology Dep, A N S College, Barh-803 213) : Effect of neem oil as surface protectant of lentil seeds against the pulse beetle Callosobruchus chinensis (Linn) (coleptera: bruchidae). J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 226-8.

The effect of different concentrations of neem oil (No) as surface protectant against pulse beetle Callosobruchus chinensis (Linn) at 50, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0% u/w concentrations/ 100g of lentil seeds were studied. It provides good result in respect of toxic effect, safety and economy. Further, effect of neem oil in relation to synthetic insecticide for optimum efficacy and minimum side effects was also investigated.

1 table, 9 ref

019856   Shweta;Singh Y P;Sharma M (Zoology Dep, D S College, Aligarh-202 001) : Fuel value of the earthworm, Lampita mautitii as vermimeal. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 179-80.

Varmimeal contains essential aminoacids and other mineral elements in the from of the balanced nutrients required for growth, serves as an exellent food material for poultry, cattle, pig, and fish. The fuel values of the Lampito mauritii feed with different organic matters were found to be highest in the worms nourished with cowdung, leaf litter and oil cakes mix.

1 table, 10 ref

019855   Sharma M;Ahmed S I (Forest Protection Div, Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur) : Orientation of rohida defoliator, Patialus tecomella (coleoptera: curculionidae) to different light colours and verieties of Tecomella undulata (SM) seem. Indian For 2004, 130(12), 1416-21.

Tecomella undulata (Sm.) Seem, commonly known, as 'Marwar teak' is an important agroforestry tree species of arid and semi-arid region. The distribution pattern of T. undulata in desert area of India is quite obvious because of its sparking features of drought tolerant, high quality of timber, fuel wood and fodder etc. T. undulata is frequently severely attacked by a curculionid pest, patialus tecomella. An attempt has been made to study the orientation of adult weevils to different colour. Besides, the tactic response of the weevils towards two varieties of T. undulata is also studied as the knowledge of feeding preference may lead towards possible means of reducing damage level in the field. There was a significant difference in the attraction of weevils towards different colours when tested simultaneously. White colour attracted the maximum number of weevils (64.66 male and 51.32 female) that was highly significant over the three other colours tested. Yellow colour was the second to attract both the sexes as being 21.32% males and 29.32% females respectively. Minimum numbers of weevils were attracted towards blue and green colours when tested simultaneously (10 male; 14 female and 4 male; 5.32 female respectively). The attraction of P. tecomella towards white colour was proved to be highly useful in evolving the effective devices for mechanical control. Out of both the host varieties (T. undulata var., yellow flower and T. undulata var., orange flower) that were offered to the adult weevils at threee different temperatures viz., 15°, 25° and 35<60>C, yellow flower variety was the most preferred food source when compared to orange flower variety. Maximum feeding activity (37.80 mm²) has been recorded to occur at 35°C on orange flower variety of T. undulata.

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

019854   Senthilkumar N;Karthikeyan a;Sanjayan K P; Mahalingam V;Muralirangan M C (G S Gill Research Institute, Guru Nanak College, Chennai) : Biological observations of Himertula Vidhyavathiae sp nov (orhtoptera: tettigoniidae: phaneropterinae) under laboratory conditions. Indian For 2004, 130(12), 1459-68.

4 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

019853   Sarma A K;Khound J N (Entomology Dep, CAU, Imphal, Manipur-795 004) : Efficacy of some physical barriers, botanicals and chemicals against uzifly, Exorista sorbillans Wiedemann parasitizing eri silkworm, Samia cynthia ricini Boisduval. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 184-8.

A field investigation was carried out to evaluate the efficacy some physical barriers (viz., uzinet, bamboo-sieve), botanicals (mint and neem leaf extract) and chemicals (citran and bleaching powder solution) against uzifly, Exorista sorbillans Wiedemann parasitizing eri silkworm, Samia cynthia ricini Boisduval in Jorhat agro-ecological conditions. Efficacy studies based on percentage infestation and percentage recovery revealed that physical barriers were the best means to control uzifly. Lowest infestation was recorded under bamboo-sieve ; (6:67%) followed by uzinet (11:67%), bleaching powder 2% solution (14.34%), neem leaf extract (18,67%) and citran (29.01%) as topical spray with a record 38.34% in untreated control. Highest recovery was recorded in bamboo-sieve (71.15%) followed by uzinet (60.51%), bleaching powder 2% solution (35.41%) and neem leaf extract (33.83%) with 14.79% recorded on untreated control. No treatment as repellent was effective.

1 table, 15 ref

019852   Sarkar A;Arora M P (Zoology Dep, Agra College, Agra-282 005) : A systematic description of Cypris spp. of river Narmada. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 174-8.

For the first time different systematic description and population dynamics of three species of Cyrpis viz. C. subglobosa, c. decaryi, and C. protubera was studied from four study sites of the River Narmada during the years 1995-1997. All the species of genus Cypris found in abundance in months of April, May and June. Differences were reported in this valves, natatory setae, furca and body size. Males could not be obtained from various study stites selected. Breeding occured in the month of May and June.

3 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

019851   Saravanan R;Sangeetha U;Revathi K (Zoology Dep, D G Vaishnav College, Chennai-600 106) : Effect of lindane toxicity in carbohydrate content of haemolymph, hepatopancreas and muscles of Penaeus indicus. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 210-12.

The investigation was to study the impact of lindane on carbohydrate contents of haemolymph hepatopanceas and muscle tissues of male shrimps Penaeus indicus (inter-moult). The study was enable to compare the biochemical variation in carbohydrate content in the tissues of these animals and extent of toxicity of lindane in various biochemical processes involved in the metabolism and general physiological functions of the animal.

1 table, 10 ref

019850   Sakthivel M;Ramathilagam G;Pushparaj a (Zoological Research Laboratory, , Kamaraj College) : Field study on corals and coral living organisms in Van Tivu, in the gulf of Mannar. Fish Technol 2005, 42(1), 11-6.

Eighteen species of stony corals were recorded in the study area. Favia, Porites, Acropora, Tubipoira, and Montipara spp., were found to contribute about 80% of the total coral population in Van tivu. The northeast and southwest transects were found to have higher percentage of corals. The molluscs alone contributed about 30% of the total reef fauna. The northeast transect had a good numerical data of molluscs. The vulnerable molluscan species from this area was found to be Sepia spp. Different types of coral reef fishes were present in the Van tivu. The notable ones are Butterfly fishes (Chaetodontidae), Parrot fishes (Scaridae), Clown and Damsel fishes (Pomacentridae) and Lion and Scorpion fishes (Scorpaenidae). Coral reef destruction was found to be caused by bio-eroding organisms. The common bio-eroders observed during our field study were lion fish, butterflies, wrasses, Echinometra mathei (Echinoderm) and Lambis spp. (Gastropods) and Tridacna spp. (Bivalves).

7 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

019849   Saha N C;Dasgupta S K (Zoology Dep, Presidency College, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata-700 073) : Two new species of the genus Palpomyia meigen (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) from lower Damodar Valley of eastern India. Geobios 2005, 32(1), 61-4.

Two new species i.e. Palpomiya barbara and P.novita, from the lower Damodar valley area of Eastern India are described and illustrated. A key to identify them and their comparison with know species are also provided here.

9 illus, 5 ref

019848   Rao S;Rao P J (AICRP on Pesticide Residues, 214 H-Block, College of Agriculture, ANGR Agricultural Univ, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030) : Insecticid induced changes in principle haemolymph cations of final instar Spodoptera litura. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 213-16.

The LD₂₅ and LD₅₀ doses of cypermethrin and chlorpyriphos were applied to early final instar Spodoptera litura and haemolymph was collected at regular intervals from randomly collected larvae of each treatment separately. The major cations viz., Na⁺ and K⁺ were estimated from the samples. The insecticide treatments induced an increase in concentration of both cations at all intervals compared to control insects. The predominant increase in Na⁺ was noticed in chlorpyriphos LD₅₀ treated insects while higher K⁺ concentration was recorded in cypermethrin LD₂₅ treated insects.

2 tables, 21 ref

019847   Pathania P C;Rose H S (Zoology Dep, Punjab Univ, Patiala-147 002) : Studies on the external genitalia of two species of Monopis hubner (Lepidoptera: tineidae: tineinae) associated with birds. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 198-201.

Two species i.e.Monopis monachella (Hubner) and M. longella (Walker) associated with birds feather and nest have been treated taxonomically. The male and female genitalia of both the species have been described in detail.

1 illus 5 ref

019846   Mukhopadhyay a;Das S;Srker M (Entomology Research Unit, Zoology Dep, North Bengal Univ, Raja Rammohunpur-734 430) : Laboratory rearing of Sycanus croceovittatus (Dohrn) (Heteroptera: Reduviidae), a predator of red slug caterpillar of tea using termite as food. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 168-70.

Sycanus croceovittatus (Dohrn) (Reduviidae) is a natural predator of red slug caterpillar, Eterusia magnifica (Butl.), a pest of tea. Mean predation rate of the adult reduviid on fifth instar caterpillars of red slug was 3.5 ± 0.83 per day. The reduviid predator successfulay developed on termite based food in laboratory. The predator showed a mean nymphal development period of 75.6 ± 2.47 days. The adult longevity for ovipositing females was recorded 61.25 ± 5.9 days. Mean number of eggs laid per female was 134.3 ± 23.58. Maximum mortality rate was recorded in the 1st and 2nd instars, while it was low during the 3rd and 4th and nil in 5th instar. Termite based rearing technique opens up a future possibility of mass production of the reduviid predator for their application in pest control.

1 table, 9 ref

019845   Mohan C;Nair C P R;Rajan P;Bindhumol P N (CPCRI Regional Station, , Kayangulam P O Krishnapuram-690 533) : Influence of temperature on biological parameters of Goniozus nephantidis mues. and Elasmus nephantidis rohw, two promising parasitoids of the coconut black headed caterpillar, Opisina arenosella wlk. J Plantn Crop 2004, 32(Suppl), 306-8.

Laboratory studies on the influence of temperature on two major parasitoids, Gonioziis nephantidis Mues. and Elasmus nephantidis Rohw., of coconut leaf eating caterpillar Opisina arenosella Walker were undertaken. Goniozus nepahntidis exhibited optimum parasitization efficiency at 30<144><255> C with 37 days of longevity. The fecundity was 42 eggs/female. The para sitoid tolerated the temperature regimes of 20 <144><255> C to 40 <144><255> C. Elasmus nephantidis showed temperature specificity with higher parasitization efficiency at 25<144><255> C with 17 days longevity and fecundity of 116 eggs / female. C. nephantidis and E. nephantidis exhibited higher longevity of 63-70 days and 26-78 days respectively at lower temperatures regimes of 10-15 <144><255> C, with no egg laying.

2 tables, 8 ref

019844   Kiran B R;Puttaiah E T (Environmental Science Dep, Kuvempu Univ, Shankaraghatta-577 451) : Biochemical composition of Chela untrahi from Bhadra Reservoir, India. Geobios 2005, 32(1), 93-5.

1 table, 21 ref

019843   Kharatmol B R;Tripathi S D (Fisheries Biology Dep, College of Fisheries, Ratnagiri-415 629) : Effect of isocaloric diets with varying protein level on growth and survival of post-larvae of Macrobrachium rosenbergii. Fish Technol 2005, 42(1), 27-30.

Post-larvae of Macrobrachium rosenbergii (de man) were fed on an isocaloric diet (3100 K.cal DE/Kg) having different levels of protein (27.56, 34.12 and 41.12%) with protein: energy ratio of 88.16, 109.18 and 130.58 mg CP/K. cal respectively. The animals were reared for a period of six weeks under a temperature regime of 13-22°C. The highest weight gain, specific growth rate and the best feed conversion ratio recorded were 165.61 mg, 3.35 and 1.69 respectively. The survival rates in ranged between 77.8 and 84%.

3 tables, 15 ref

019842   Johri P K;Maurya R;singh D;Tiwari D;Johri R (Zoology Dep, D A V College, Kanpur-208 001) : Comparative toxicity of seven indigenous botanical extracts against the infestative stage of three insect pests of agricultural importance. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 202-4.

Petroleum ether extacts of Tephrosia vogelii Hook. F. (leaves & seeds- rotenoids), Annona squa-mosa Linn, (seed-oils), Tribulus terrestris Linn, (leaves -saponins). Pongamia glabra Vent. (leaves & seeds-oils) and ethyl alcohol extracts of Thevetia nerifolia Juss. (fresh fruit- Thevetin glycoside) and Duranta repens Linn, (fruit-alkaloids) while both the solvents were applied intwo steps for Caesalpinia crista Linn, (seed-glycoside and fatty oil) were screened for their toxicity against three phytophagous insect-pests viz., painted bug, Bagrada cruciferanim Kirk., cabbage white butterfly, Pieris brassicae Linn, and blister beetle. My/abris pustulata Thunb. on their respective preferred host plants viz., mustard ( Brassica campestris). cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. cabbage) and mung, (Phaseolus mungo) and urd (Phaseolus radiatus). The extract of T. nerifolia showed higher toxic against all the test insects followed by A. squamosa. T. vogelii and C. crista. The lowest toxicity was regis tered in the extract of T. terre stris, which exhibited 6.6273, 3.8562 and 3.6811 times less toxicity when compared with LC₅₀ values of T, nerifolia as 0.3078, 0.3269 and 0.3757 against adults of B. cruciferarum, larvae of P. brassicae and adults of M. pustulata, respectively. However, other two plant extracts viz., P. glabra and D. repens also exhibited promising insecticidel activities against all the test insects.

019841   James R;Sampath K;Rose Malar Karoline A (Zoology Dep, V.O. Chidambaram College, Tuticorin-628 008) : Effect of body weight on reproduction and mobilization of organic reserves in female sailfin molly Mollienesia latipinna (Le Sueur). Fish Technol 2005, 42(1), 21-6.

Reproduction and mobilization of nutrients and energy for reproduction were studied in female Mollienesia latipinna as a function of body weight. Total reproduction (TR), reproductive effort (RE) and somatic condition factor (SCF) increased with increase in body weight. Gonad was not developed in the smallest female tested (0.313 g) and gonad weight was highest before parturition (breeding) and it significantly declined after varied parturition. The proximate composition and energy in somatic and gonad tissues varied with increase in body weight of female M. latipinna and it suggests the deposition of nutrients with the advent of the reproductive period. Low level of lipid in soma and high level of lipid in female gonads indicate the mobilization of lipid from soma to gonad to provide nutrients for the development of eggs and fry. Nutrients and energy were more in soma and gonad before parturition and they significantly reduced after parturition. M. latipinna being an ovo-viviparous fish, utilized significant amount of nutrients and energy for the development of ova, egg and fry which led to the reduction of energy contents after parturition.

2 tables, 22 ref

019840   Hyalij M T (Zoology Research Laboratory Dep, K.A.N.M. Sonawane arts, science & commerce college, Satana-423 301) : Studies on larval trematodes from Melania tuberculata, a freshwater snail from Nasik district. Geobios 2005, 32(1), 25-32.

Three new species of Monostome larval trematode parasites: Cercaria posterocellata, C. intestinale and C. triglandulosa in freshwater snails of Nasik district are described and diagnostic features of new species compared with related species.

3 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

019839   Dhiman N;Battish S K (Zoology and Fisheries Dept, Punjab Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : On the cocoon parameters and life-stages of Eisenia fetida Savigny (1826) (oligochaeta: lumbricidae) with notes on monstrous form. Geobios 2005, 32(1), 21-4.

An account of different life-stages of Eisenia fetida varying from cocoon, juvenile, sub-adult and adult with detailed cocoon parameters. Notes on monstrous (two-tailed) forms are also added.

5 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

019838   Barai S R;Suryawanshi S A;Pandey A K (Zoology Dep, Udai Pratap Autonomous College, Varanasi-221 002) : Effect of sublethal heroin administration on thyroid gland of Rattus norvegicus. J appl Zool Res 2004, 15(2), 195-7.

Thyroid gland of the control rat was composed of closely packed follicles invested with a rich capillary network. The follicles were lined by the cuboidal cells and contained homogenous colloid in the lumina, however, peripheral vacuolization of colloidal material at places were also seen in the control rats. Sublethal (0.75 LD₅₀ dose: 16.4 mg/kg body weight) of heroin administration for 30 days inflicted degenerative changes in the cytoplasm and nuclei of the follicular epithelial cells. The were reduction in the size of follicle and follicular epithelial height suggesting hypoactivity in the gland.

2 illus, 4 ref

018784   Zaheer Khan M;Yasmeen G (Zoology Dep, Karachi Univ, Karachi-75270, Pakistan, Email: zaheerk2k@yahoo.com) : Pesticides dependent cholinesterase activity in the brain of Rana cyanophlyctis (Amphibia). J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 135-40.

Current data show significant declines of amphibians in the entire world including Pakistan. The cause of this decline includes human involvement in an effort to increase agricultural products and use of indiscriminate toxic material like pesticides. In the study, experiments were carried out to compare cholinesterase activity in the brain of Rana cyanophlyctis under the effect of Sandaphos (organophosphate) with β-cypermethrin (pyrethroid). Two different concentrations i.e. 5% and 10% of both pesticides were used and the cholinesterase activity was estimated. The cholinesterase activity was decreased upto 4.10 and 13.84% under the effect of Sandaphos and 5.16 and 23.28% under the effect of β - cypermethrin, respectively.

2 tables, 36 ref

018783   Yougesh Kumar;Malik M;Panwar A;Singh H S (Zoology Dep, D.A.V. College, Muzaffar Nagar-251 001, Email: kumar_y@email.com) : Efficacy of clove oil as an anaesthetic for freshwater fish, Clarias batrachus. J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 225-34.

Clarias batrachus exposed to 20,50, and 80 mg T^-1 of clove oil could be handled in 6-11 min, recovered within 12 min, and survived 20 min exposure trials. Fish tested at 110 mg I^-1 did not recover from 20 min exposure trials. Response plots developed for induction and recovery time considered the following predictors: clove oil concentration, fish length and weight Dependence was observed between induction time and fish length for 20, 50 and 80 mg I^-1 test concentrations; no dependence was observed between induction time and length and weight at 110 and 140 mg I^-1. Recovery time differed as a function of clove oil concentration but not fish size and weight A concentration of 50 mg I^-1 appear sufficient and is recommended for anaesthetizing Clarias batrachus for measurement, weighing and blood sampling etc. and a concentrations of 80 mg I^-1 may be needed to induce the deeper anaesthesia necessary for surgery and extended handling time, for fish ranging in length from 320-390 mm and weight 170-285 gm at water temperatures ranging 25-30°C.

6 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

018782   Verma R J (Zoology Dep, Univ of School of Sciences, Gujarat Univ, Ahmedabad-380 009, Email: ramtejverma2000@yahoo.com) : Aflatoxin cause DNA damage. Int J Hum Genet 2004, 4(4), 227-9.

Aflatoxin are food-borne secondary toxic fungal metabolites produced during the growth of Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus. Aflatoxins are well known hepatotoxic, hepatocarcinogenic and mutagenic agents. These effect are mainly due to adduct formation with DNA, RNA and protein. In addition, it also causes lipid peroxidation as well as oxidative damage to DNA, AFB1 possess genotoxic potential in a variety of test systems. Other aflatoxin has not been so extensively investigated, but in a variety of studies B2, G1, G2 and M1 have all shown evidence of genotoxicity.

62 ref

018781   Valsala S (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002) : Effect of Mimosa pudica Linn. root on fertility in male Rattus norvegicus. J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 93-9.

The plant Mimosa pudica root extract was used in the study to ascertain its efficacy as a male fertility regulating agent in Rattus norvegicus. Two dose levels (100 and 150 mg/kg body weight) of the powdered root extract were administered orally to adult male albino rats to determine their effects on fertility. The cohabitation tests showed a reduced fertility rate in the high dosage group. Histological studies also showed a reduction in spermatozoa in the testis.

3 tables, 18 ref

018780   Tripathi G;Bhardwaj P (Zoology Dep, J.N.V. Univ, Jodhpur-342 001) : Impact of phorate and carbaryl on the survival and macromolecular contents of an earthworm Lampito mauritt. J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 45-52.

Toxicological effects of phorate (10% CG) and carbaryl (50% WP) on the population build up and macromolecular constituents of different organs of earthworm Lampito mauritti were investigated. The median lethal concentrations (LC5Os) for 28 days of exposure of phorate and carbaryl were 190.57 and 148.41 ppm, respectively. Exposure to sublethal concentration of phorate (20 ppm) decreased the population build up of the earthworm by 35%, whereas carbaryl (15 ppm) showed 52% decrease in population growth. The differences in population build up may be assigned to the higher toxicity of carbaryl. Exposure to sublethal concentration of phorate and carbaryl separately for 28 days did not produce any effect on DNA content of body wall, gizzard, intestine and prostate of earthworm L. mauritii. In contrast to DNA, RNA and protein content reduction were 18-23% and 37-43%, respectively, in these organs exposed to phorate. Similarly, carbaryl decreased RNA and protein content by 23-27% and 46-51%, respectively in the same organs of L. mauritt. This again shows higher inhibitory effect of carbaryl on macromolecular constituents that of phorate. Both the insecticides separately produced minor but statistically insignificant changes in RNA/DNA ratio of body wall, gizzard and intestine of the earthworm species. It reflects that insecticide-induced protein degradation is dominant over inhibitory effect of insecticide on protein synthesizing capacity in these organs. In contrast, a substantial decrease in RNA/DNA ratio of prostrate indicates a remarkable inhibitory effect of insecticides on both macromolecular degradation and protein synthesizing capacity.

1 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

018779   Sukhdeep Kaur;Dhanju C K (Zoology and Fisheries Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-11 004, Email: ckdhanju@pau.chd.nic.in) : Enzymatic changes induced by some organophosphorus pesticides in female rats. Indian J expl Biol 2004, 42(10), 1017-9.

An evaluation of toxic effects of three organophosphorus pesticides viz. monocrotophos, methyl parathion and dimethoate given orally daily for 90 days was done in terms of enzymatic changes in plasma and liver of female albino rats. A significant decrease was observed in the level of esterases in plasma with all the three pesticides. The activity fo acid and alkaline phosphatases and aminotransferases increased significantly in plasma and significantly or marginally in liver with these pesticides. The results are thus indicative of the cellular toxicity of these organophosphates even after their subschronic administration in low doses for a long period.

2 table, 13 ref

018778   Singh S P;Singh R (Zoology Dep, J.N.V. Univ, Jodhpur-342 001) : Histoenzymological changes in the lysosomal activity of Glomerulus and juxtaglomerular apparatus of the kidney of mercuric chloridetreated gerbil Tatera indica. J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 101 4.

Various nephrotoxic effects of mereuric chloride (HgCl₂ on the relative distribution of acid phosphatase-rich lysosomal granules in different parts of the renal cortex of kidney with particular reference to glomerulus and juxtaglomerular apparatus of gerbil, Tatera indica were histochemically observed. It was seen that ACP-rich lysosomal activity in the renal cortex of untreated gerbil appears to be quite intense in the endothelial lining of blood capillaries network of glomeruli and main structural components of juxtaglomerular apparatus viz., macula densa and extraglomerular mesangium. However, in HgCl₂- treated gerbil, Tatera indica, characteristic changes were observed in the lysosomal activity found in the glomeruli and macula densa and mesangial cells of juxtaglomerular apparatus accompanied by structural disorganization of glomerular network of blood capillaries, deformation and progressive disintegration of components of juxtaglomerular apparatus. Furthermore, bounding membranes of Bowman's capsule tend to rupture followed by desquamation of tubular epithelial cells, pycnosis and cytoplasmic vacuolation. A possible correlationship between variable lysosomal activity in different parts of renal cortex of the gerbil in relation to HgCl₂- induced toxicity has been evaluated.

2 illus, 18 ref

018777   Singh R K;Nath P;Singh P K (Entomology & Agricultural Zoology Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005) : Effect of sowing time of bottle gourd on the population of serpentine leaf miner, Liriomyza trifolii Burgess. J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 145-9.

Serpentine leaf miner Liriomyza trifolii Burgess is a serious pest of cucurbit crops in East Uttar Pradesh. Its infestation during seedling stage is fatal to the plant. Because of being internal feeder the chemical control of this leaf miner is very difficult. Therefore a study was made to know the effect of sowing time of bottle gourd on the relative incidence of serpentine leaf miner. The bottle gourd sown on three different dates i.e., 1st February, 16th February and 3rd March in the years 2002 and 2003 showed significant difference in the population of leaf miner. The bottle gourd sown on 3rd March recorded maximum population of leaf miner which was followed by 16th February and 1st February sown crops during both the years of study. The population recorded at weekly interval also showed significant difference in respect to sowing dates however the pest density was maximum during 18th std. week in all the three date sown crop.

3 tables, 8 ref

018776   Singh N P;Vinod Kumari;Chauhan D (Zoology Dep, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004, Email: singhnps@yahoo.co.in) : Baculoviruses: their use and limitations. J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 1-16.

Baculoviruses are safe and selective bioinsecticides, restricted to invertebrates. They are being used world wide against many insect pests especially lepidopterans. However, their use in insect pest management is limited because of both intrinsic (i.e. low virulence, sensitivity to lower radiation, pH, temperature, moisture, slow killing speed) and extrinsic (i.e. host plants, application, formulation inadequacies and farmers attitude towards pest control, based on application of fast killing chemical insecticides) factors. These limitations can be overcome by the use of chemical or biological substances such as adjuvants and ultraviolet protectants, leading to enhancement of viral activity. Thus, they can be recommended as suitable and safe bioinsecticides.

^iia154 ref

018775   Singh H S;Yougesh Kumar;Arya P V;Malti;Anjum A (Zoology Dep, Ch. C.S. Univ, Meerut-250 004, Email: hirdaya_singh@rediffmail.com) : On pathomorphology of a new larval digenean, parasitic on gill filaments of freswater stinging cat fish, Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch). J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 199-204.

Morphology and pathology of a new species of larval digenean Centrocestus, parasitic on gill filaments of freshwater catfish, H.fossilis (Bloch) is discussed. During routine collection of gill parasites, several fish of this species were found infected with a new species of Centrocestus, which has been named after the host as Centrocestus fossilisi. A number of specimens of larva were collected. Different cyst forms such as Nonviable cyst, Viable cyst, Epitheliocyst, Empty cyst, encysted larval digeneans were studied. Camera lucida sketches and photographs giving details have been included. Measurements of various body parts in comparison with other known species are presented in a table.

5 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

018774   Siddiqui P A;Naqvi S N H;Saqib T A;Azmi M A; Khan M A (Zoology Dep, Karachi Univ, Karachi-75270, Pakistan) : Pesticide residues in the fat, muscle and liver of Egretta spp. of three major lakes of Sindh, Pakistan. J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 187-92.

Detection of pesticide residues in lake water, fat, muscle and liver of a bird, Egretta spp. has been carried out by using HPLC. Highest pesticide residues (DDT, DDE, dimethoate, cypermethrin and dieldrin) were found in the fat body of bird from Haleji lake followed by Hadero and Kalri lakes respectively. The later is used as water supply source for Karachi people and therefore, the work is important from health view point. Observations suggest that fat has highest amount of pesticide residue than the muscle and liver.

3 tables, 30 ref

018773   Sharma A K;Baruah K;Bhardwaj A C (National Institute of Communicable Diseases, , 22 Shamnath Marg, Delhi-110 054) : Mosquito larvicidal characteristics of certain phytoextracts. J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 109-12.

The leaves of Jatropha curcas, Ricinus communis, Lantana camara, Musa sapientum, Syzygium cumini, Citrus limon and Ficus benghalensis were extracted in hot water and tested against Anopheles stephensi, Aedes aegypti and Culex qulnquefasclatus larvae for their toxic effect. The mortality rate after 24 hours showed that A. stephensi larvae were most susceptible to both the treatment used as compared to the larvae of C. quinquefasciatus and A. aegypti. Among the seven plants leaf extracts used Citrus limon leaf extract resulted in hundred percent mortality of larvae of three mosquito species studied.

1 table, 14 ref

018772   Sathe T V;Bhoje P M (Zoology Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004) : Biocontrol potential of guppy Poecilia reticulata (peters) for mosquito. J expl Zool 2005, 8(1), 105-8.

Mosquito control is a chronic problem in epidemiology since mosquitoes transmit fatal diseases such as malaria, filariasis and dengue to human beings. Control of mosqutioes through pesticides is difficult task. Pesticides lead to pest resistance, resurgence, pollution, interruption in ecocycles etc. Biological control is a potential alternative for chemical control. Biocontrol potential of Guppy, Poecilia reticulata Peters for mosquito control have been studied under controlled condition i.e. 25±1°C, 65-70% R,H., 12 hr photoperiod.

2 tables, 14 ref