013679   Sontakke G K;Mokashe S S;Kulkarni G K (Zoology Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad) : Freshwater ostracods from Kagazipura lake of Aurangabad district, Maharashtra. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 99-102.

Ostracods form an important component of zooplankton community and play an important role in trophodynamics and aquaculture productivity. Presently it is aimed to study the status of freshwater Ostracods in the Kagzipura lake during October,2008 to September,2009. Samples were collected using plankton net of mesh size 64 μ. Sample analysis was carried out with standard keys of zooplankton. A total 8 species of Ostracods were identified belong to 8 genera : Cyclocypris globosa, Cyclocypria kinkaidia, Strandentia elongata, Physocypria furfurcae, Cypria mediana, Cyprinottus nuddus, Eucypris bisponsa and Hemicypris fossulata. The 9th genus Candona is yet to be identified up to species level. The result indicates that the lake is rich in Ostracod fauna.

9 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

013678   Solanki G S;Awadhesh Kumar;Sharma B K (Forestry Dep, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science & Technology, Nirjuli-791 109, Email: gssolanki02@yahoo.co.in) : Winter food selection and diet composition of capped langur (Trachypithecus pileatus) in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Trop Ecol 2008, 49(2), 157-66.

The food selection, preference, and diet composition of capped langur (Trachypithecus pileatus) were studied during two winter seasons. Capped langur spent 36.8% of their time in feeding during winter months. Young leaves (42%), flowers (22%), fruits (17%), mature leaves (15%), and seeds (3%) constituted the major food items. Leaves contributed 57% in the diet of langur. T. pileatus derived food from 43 plant species. Of these, 33 were sources of leaves, 15 were sources of fruits, 10 were sources of flowers and 6 were sources of seeds. The average number of plant species eaten each month during the study period was 19.6. Plants in the Moraceae family were widely consumed. Capped langur often ate young leaves of Ficus glomerata and Kydia calycina. Young leaves of Mikania micrantha also contributed to the diet of the langurs.

3 illus, 5 tables, 54 ref

013677   Sinha S;Dutta A;Chattopadhyay S (University Dep of Zoology, Ranchi University, Ranchi-834 008) : Effect of replacement of fish meal by de-oiled silkworm pupae of Antheraea mylitta (Drury) on the growth performance of broiler chickens. Bull Indian Acad Seric 2009, 13(2), 70-2.

2 tables, 6 ref

013676   Sinha S (Zoology Dep, Kalyan Post-Graduae College, Bhilai-Nagar, Chhatishgarh) : Morphometric characteristics of freshwater crab Barytelphusa cunicularis (Westwood, 1836). Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 59-62.

This study aims to investigate morphometric analysis of the freshwater crab Barytelphusa cunicularis. Measurements were taken only on body parts that showed no evidence of regeneration. Each sample was subjected to descriptive analysis that included computations of mean, standard error, median, mode, standard deviation, sample variance, kurtosis, skewness, range, minimum, maximum, sum and count. Regression and frequency was calculated for each group separately. The analysis was based on the biometric data, observing changes in relative growth of some body parts related to other. The analysis suggests that the relative growth follows the allometric function (y = mx + c).

4 illus, 1 tables, 11 ref

013675   Singh R K;Goswami N D (Zoology Dep, Ranchi College, Ranchi) : Changes in bimodal oxygen uptake due to furadan intoxication in a facultative air breathing fish, Clarias batrachus (Linn.). Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 127-8.

Studies on toxic effect of Furadan (a carbamate pesticide) on bimodal oxygen uptake in a facultative air breathing tcleost, Clarias batnichus (Linn.) have been made. The LC₅₀ values of furadan were calculated to be 1.12, 1.11, 0.99, 0.93 and 0.91 mg/1 respectively for 24h, 48h, 72h, 96h and 120h exposure at 29.0 : l.00C. Control group of fishes (45.0 ± 1.5g) secure about 61.0% oxygen from aquatic route through gills and about 39% oxygen from aerial route through accessory respiratory organs. Furadan intoxication (at sublcthal concentration of 0.80 mg/l) in Clarias batrachus caused significant decrease in aquatic and total but significant increase in aerial oxygen uptake as compared to control. The reason for such changes has been discussed.

8 ref

013674   Singh N;Paliwal A K;Singh S (Zoology Dep, Ganjdungwara College, Ganjdundwara-207 242) : Effect of thimet on agromyzid pest chromatomyia horticola (Gour.) on Lycopersicon esculentum (Linn.). Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 439-41.

Experimental work was done in Zoology Department Ganjdundwara College, Ganjdundwara, Etah (V.P.). Agromyzid popularly known as leafminers, are known to infest a wide range of cultivated plants like Lycopersicon esculentum (Linn.). The thimet 0.5% gave 17%, 1.0% gave 24%, 1.5% gave 41% and 2.0% gave 46% control in November-December 2006, while it was recorded 50% control during November- December 2007. The average relative humidity was 86%, while the temperature was recorded 19°C at the time of experimentations in both the years.

3 tables, 8 ref

013673   Singh N;Paliwal A K;Dubey R K (Entomology Dep, Ganjdundwara (PG) College, Ganjdundwara) : Survivability of Trichodectes canis (De geer) (Phthiraptera : Mallophage) on various food sources in laboratory conditins. Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 125-6.

The Trichodectes canis is a common biting dog louse which is found on the skin of dogs as a permanent apterous ectoparasite. The present study of dog body louse Trichodectes canis (De geer) reported the survival period of adults lice in laboratory conditions of various food sources. It was observed that lice survived for maximum 18 days on skin scurf of host at 36°C temperature and 17 days at 75% relative humidity. The hair fibres skin scurf etc. are used as food materials, the lice did not survived longer than 8 days at same temperature and 7 days at same relative humidity.

2 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

013672   Singh D K;Prashant Kumar (PG-Dep of Zoology, J P Univesity, Chapra-841 301, Email: prof-dhrub@rediff.mail) : Limnological investigation of a pond of Chapra district north Bihar, India with special reference to periphyton. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 389-92.

Present investigation is made on certain limnological parameter of a North Bihar pond with special reference to periphyton. Physico-chemical parameters were investigated for temperature, Dissolved Oxygen (DO₂), Free Carbon dioxide (FCO₂), Total hardness (TH), Calcium ess (CaH), Magnesium hardness (MgH), Calcium (Ca)⁺² and Magnesium (Mg)² ions. They within tolerable range. Periphyton were represented by algae and microfauna. Bacillariophyceae is dominant followed by chlorophyceae and myxophyceae. 5 species of Bacillariophyceae, 4 species of chlorophyceae and 3 species of myxophyceae were recorded. fauna were dominated by Protozoan (4) and Rotifers (3) species.

2 tables, 15 ref

013671   Singh A;Marmath M M (Zoology Dep, Govt. College, Kota) : Cross sectional study on effect of physical activity on bone mineral density of post-menopausal women in Kota. Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 75-9.

As we enter into the 21st century and reap stupendous advances in medical science, the life expectancy of human beings has increased. One of the major geriatric problems, especially in females is osteoporosis. According to WHO, 30% of post-menopausal women are osteoporotic. As the life expectancy of women is approaching 63 years, a woman leads almost one-third of her life in the post-menopausal period. This coupled with the increasing number of post-menopausal women makes post-menopausal osteoporosis a major health problem to be dealt with. As we all understand in present context daily physical activity i.e. exercise is a major determent of many modern age health problems such as cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis is also comes under this category. It noticed that in adults exercise is a major determinant of bone mass which increases on increased mechanical loading of a part and decreases with decreased loading. In fact bone density seems to be regulated by a classical negative feedback loop that controls the local balance between bone formation and bone resorption. The amount of bending that occurs on loading (termed strain) is somehow sensed by bone cells (osteocytes). Departure from some reference level of strain is communicated to nearby packets of remodeling cells, modulating their activity in ways not yet understood. The result is that more bone is deposited than removed when strains are excessive and vice-versa when strains are low.

2 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

013670   Siddiqui A A;Keishing M;Lhingeneilan J;Nabi T (P.G. Zoology Dep, Poona College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Camp Pune, Maharashtra) : Sub lethal effect of copper sulphate on protein content in some vital organs of the fresh water indian cat fish Clarias batrachus (Linn). Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 109-112.

Toxicity of copper effects on some metabolic processes, which causes disturbances and imbalances to various physiological activities such as respiration, reproduction, bone formation and metabolism of some nutrients. Copper sulphate is frequently used as a general biocide in the aquaculture industries. The present study reflects the effect of copper sulphate in some vital organs of Clarias batrachus such as liver, kidney muscle, brain and gonad. The acclimatized fish of equal size were treated with different concentrations of copper sulphate (4 to 6.5 ppm). After finding LC₅₀ the fish treated with a sub lethal concentration of copper sulphate (4.5 ppm) for 24, 48, 72 and 96 hrs exposures and the protein was estimated in different organs. The order of decline in protein was found to be muscle (52.4%)<60> kidney (48.1%) <60> female gonad (42.2%) <60> liver (39.5%) <60> brain (35.8%) at sub lethal concentration of copper sulphate for the exposure of 96 hrs. In contrast, there was an increase in protein in various organs of control fish viz muscle (0.177 mg/100 mg) <62> kidney (0.160 mg/100 mg) <62> female gonad (0.150 mg/100 mg) <62> liver (0.120 mg/100 gm) <62> brain (0.110 mg/100 mg). The significant role of copper sulphate in some vital organs of the experimental animal is discussed and the results are correlated and corroborated with the findings of the earlier researchers.

2 tables, 27 ref

013669   Shukla P;Khanna A;Jain S K (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, Govt. Science College, Jabalpur) : Evaluation of genotoxicity in bidi rollers occupationally exposed to tobacco dust. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 89-93.

Occupational exposure to tobacco dust in bidi-rollers (bidi: an Indian version of cigarettes) was shown to be associated with increased cotinine level, urine mutagenicity, increased micronucleated buccal epithelial cell frequency and elevated urinary thioether excretion, which showed the increased mutagenic burden in bidi rollers, hence, in the present study biomonitoring was conducted to detect the extent of xenobiotic exposure and genotoxicity among female bidi rollers of Jabalpur (M.P.) occupationally exposed to bidi tobacco dust. Urinary thioether estimation was done to detect the extent of exposure of bidi rollers to various xenobiotic compounds. The effect of the exposure on the genetic material of the exposed workers was assessed by chromosomal aberrations (CA) and binucle-ated cells with micronucleus (BNMN) in peripheral lymphocytes. Results showed a significant (p<60>0.05) increase in urinary thioether level in during-work urine samples as compared to pre-shift ones, which is an indication of exposure of bidi rollers to xenobiotic compounds in the course of their occupation. Occupational tobacco exposure led to a statistically significant (p<60>0.05) increase in CA and BNMN. A significant (p<60>0.05) increase in CA and BNMN was observed in the rollers working in confined environment as compared to those who worked in open or mixed kind of working conditions. A significant (p<60>0.05) positive correlation was observed between the duration of exposure and genotoxicity as evidenced by CA and BNMN. The average number of bidis rolled per day had no significant (p<62>0.05) effect on any of the parameters examined.

2 illus, 1 plate, 15 ref

013668   Shomorendra M;Ranibala TH;Jha A N (Research Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Thambal Marik College, Oinam-795 139, Email: smaibam@yahoo.com) : Acanthocephalan parasites of certain fishes from Manipur, India: one known species of genus Pallisentis and one new species of genus Acanthocephalus. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 399-404.

The present investigation deals with the description of one known species, Pallisentis iocephali (Thapar, 1930) Baylis, 1933 from fish host Channa striatus (Bl.) from a new locality description of one new species, Acanthocephalus loktakensis differs from fish host Channa gachua (HAM.). A. loktakensis differs from all species of the genus Acanthocephalus in the size proboscis and size of roots of hooks. The hooks increase in size from the apex towards the middle and thence gradually decrease towards the base.

2 illus, 10 ref

013667   Savitha S;Barve N;Davidar P (Ecology and Environmental Sciences Dep, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, Pondicherry-605 014, Email: savitha@atree.org) : Response of ants to disturbance gradients in and around Bangalore. Trop Ecol 2008, 49(2), 235-43.

The distribution and abundance of ant species across a disturbance gradient in and around Bangalore city was studied. Five sites were sampled and these represented a gradient of urban land use that ranged from highly disturbed to comparatively less disturbed areas. A total of 51 species of ants belonging to seven subfamilies were recorded. Ant species richness and abundance was higher in the disturbed site. Species richness is significantly correlated with litter and canopy cover. Common species increased with disturbance. Disturbed sites supported rare species, suggesting that these habitats located in urban settings also require protection. The management implications of the results are discussed.

4 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

013666   Sathe T V;Bhusnar A R (Zoology Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur) : Bio-diversity of dragonflies (Order : odonata) Romsawantwadi region of Western ghats, Maharashtra. Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 65-6.

Dragonflies (Order : Odonata) are good biocontrol agents of mosquitoes and several other pests in agro and forest ecosystems. Dragonflies help in protecting crops of agricultural importance by killing certain Lepidopterous and Dipterous pests. Hence, biodiversity of dragonflies have been studied from Sawantwadi region of Western ghats. In all, 35 species of dragonflies belongs to genera Crocothenus, Anax, Potamarcha, Pantala, Trithemis, Indothemis, Rhyothemis, Bradinopyga, etc. have been reported from various agro ecosystems of Sawantwadi region of Western Ghats, Maharashtra.

1 table, 8 ref

013665   Saini M;Bajpai P K (Zoology Dep, Career College, Bhopal) : Comparative study on responses of ovary of Heteropeneustes fossilis to zinc and copper. Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 137-9.

Matured and acclimatized specimens of Heteropneustes fossilis were exposed to 30 ppm of zinc sulphate and cupric chloride. The fishes were sacrificed on 15th day of ovaries were excised out. Histological preparation by the method of OFG staining were studied. The ovaries of zinc exposed specimens contain large inter-ova spaces and in most cases linear rows of ova protruded from ovarian epithelium into ovarian lumen. Most of ova were showed quite thick encapsulation. Vitellogenesis were much pronounced and delayed in liberation of ova was expected. On the other hand copper exposed specimens were observed, there yolk investment appeared cracked and broken due to the treatment with various reagent during paraffin impregnation. The young ova proliferated from stroma appear quite small and without a distinction of core.

3 illus, 8 ref

013664   Reddy P B;Baghel B S;Pal S;Kushwah A (Zoology Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Nagda, Ujjain) : Impact of industrial effluent on histopathological and biochemical parameters of liver and kidney of Mystus tengara. Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 143-7.

Nagda is an industrial town in the Malwa region of western Madhya Pradesh and is situated in the bank of Chambal river. The River receives large amounts of contaminated industrial effluent and drainage water from various industrial units and municipal sewage water. The study was conducted to investigate the histo-pathological and biochemical changes in the liver, and kidney of Mystus tengara. The liver showed vacuolar degeneration, focal areas of necrosis and fibrosis, aggregations of inflammatory cells between the hepatocytes. Dilation and congestion in blood sinusoids and thrombosis formation in the central veins were also observed. The kidney showed vacuolar degeneration in the epithelium of renal tubules, focal areas of necrosis and haemorrhage between the renal tubules and with atrophy in the glomeruli. Biochemical studies such as DNA, RNA, total protein, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Acid phosphatase (ACP) are performed on both liver and kidney. Results clearly indicate that total protein, DNA and RNA content were higher in control group than experimental groups.However, both ALP and ACP activity was maximum in treated groups. It was concluded that the industrial and environmental contamination of Chambal river Induced several histopathological and biochemical alterations in the liver and kidney of Mystus tengara.

6 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

013663   Ravanaiah G;Murthy C V N (Zoology Dep, Jawahar Bharati Degree and P.G. College, Kavali, Andhra Pradesh) : Impact of aquaculture and industrial pollutants of Nellore district on the histopathological changes in the liver and intestine tissues of fish, Tilapia mossambica. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 117-22.

Fishes are very sensitive to a wide variety of toxicants in water and the deleterious effects of metals on fishes can be easily established (Iyyappan,2000 and Revathi et al., 2003). As the brackish water fishes and prawn constitute an important source of animal protein in rural as well as in urban areas, an understanding about the deleterious effects of the metals in fishes and their safe permissible concentrations in the aquatic environment would be highly essential for fish conservation and fisheries development (Nammalwar,1985 and Reddy & Mohanthy,2003). In the present study an attempt is made to elucidate the impact of aqua and industrial pollution of Pennar estuary on the liver and intestine of Tilapia mossambica. The liver cord became disarrayed. Cirrhosis, karyolysis, degeneration, hyperplasia, bio nucleation, lysis were the common changes observed in the hepatic cells. Melanomacrophage centers were aggregated. Vacuolization, pycnotic nuclei, rupture of villi and serosa layer, necrosis of mucous epithelium, dead cells, congested blood capillaries and enlarged goblet cells were the major histopathological changes in the intestine. The liver cord became disarrayed. Cirrhosis, karyolysis, degeneration, hyperplasia, bio nucleation, lysis were the common changes observed in the hepatic cells. Pycnotic, nuclei were seen. The cytoplasm became granulated and vacuolated. The histopathological changes encountered in the liver and intestine exposed to polluted estuarine water appears to be a primary response to the toxic influence of the aqua and industrial pollutants in the Pennar estuarine water of Nellore district (Ravanaiah,2009).

2 illus, 25 ref

013662   Rauthan J V S;Dinesh Kumar;Rauthan G (Fisheries Research Lab, Zoology Dep, D A V (PG) College, Dehradun-248 001, ) : Phytoplankton in pilli reservoir, near rehar town (Bijnor), Uttar Pradesh. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 379-87.

Distribution of phytoplankton in Pilli Reservoir was studied during 2005-06 to assess the trophic status. The reservoir supported low phytoplankton population. The seasonal abundance of ton ranked in the following order - winter <62> summer <62> rainy season. Total population of Phytoplankton varied from 2565 ul^-1 and 5581 ul^-1 with lowest and highest population being during August and October respectively. A total of 25 species of phytoplankton were from all sectors of the reservoir including Chlorophyceae (10), Bacillariophyceae (2) and Myxophyceae (3).

2 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

013661   Rama Devi;Manjusha C;Suneetha Devi D; Jyothirmai G;Nagaraja Rao P (Zoology Dep, S.N. Vanitha Mahavidyalaya, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh) : Development of Gangesia bengalensis, south well, 1913 in the secondary intermediate host, Macrobrachium species. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 75-6.

The cat fish Wallago attu harbors the parasite Gangesia bengalensis, Southwell,1913 (Cestoda : Pro-teocephalidea). The life-cycle of this cestode in the secondary intermediate host, Macrobmchium idae and Macro-brachium rude, was difficult to trace and identify. The metacestode stage of G.bengalemis was found in the copepod i.e. Mesocyclops leuckarti and Cyclops species. Metacestode has been found to be the infective stage for the second intermediate host i.e. prawns Macrobrachium idae and Macrobrachium rude. The metacestode stage transformed into the plerocercoid stage within the prawn muscles. G.bengalensis has Wallago attu as the primary host, M.leuckarti as the primary intermediate host, M.rude or M.idae as the and secondary intermediate hosts.

1 talbe, 7 ref

013660   Radhakrishore R K;Singh T K;Sattar Shah M A (Zoology Dep, Manipur College, Imphal, Manipur) : Biology of brinjal shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis Guen (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae). Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 77-9.

The studies on the biology of brinjal shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis revealed that the male and female moth measured 18.69±1.45 mm and 19.37±1.45 mm respectively when the wing expanse. The average number of eggs laid by single female varied from 15 to 137 eggs in 2 to 5 days. The larvae passed through six instars. The incubation, larval and pupal periods were 5.22±0.07,16.86±0.02, 9.09±0.3 days respectively. The adult longevity of the pest was 5.38+0.2 days. The periods from egg to adult stage was 41.88+6.03 days.

1 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

013659   Puinyabati H;Shomorendra M;Kar D (Life Sciences Dep, Assam (Central) Univ, Silchar) : Infection of helminth parasites in relation to the length of fish host. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 49-50.

Different length groups of fish species, Channa striatus (Bl) and Heteropneustes fossilis (Bl) were examined regularly for helminthic infection. Two species of nematode, one species of trematode, one species of acanthocephala and one species of cestode were collected. The parasite species showed significant variation in their infection in different length groups of fish host. Such variations shown due to considerable changes in feeding habits of the fish host with increasing size.

3 tables, 7 ref

013658   Prem Chand;Srivastava U C (Zoology Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002) : Characteristics of he projection neurons in the corticoid complex of the strawberry finch, Estrilda amandava (Linnaeus). Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2009, 79(PtIII), 227-34.

The corticoid complex (CC) of strawberry finch Estrilda amandava L. is demarcated at the dorsolateral surface of the pallium. The CC consists of two regions: intermediate corticoid area (CI) and dorsolateral corticoid area (CDL). The projection neurons are classified into the three types (pyramidal, multipolar, and horizontal) on the basis of soma shape and size, dendritic pattern, axonal arborization and connectivity. Most dominant pyramidal neurons (53%) of the CI have spinous apical dendrites and several basal dendrites. Axon emerges from the soma and travels up to long adjacent areas. The spines present on dendrites are small tubercle, stunted, club shaped outgrowths from the dendritic surface. Multipolar neurons (31%) have medium sized soma which gives rise to five to eight dendrites in different directions. The dendrites are covered with stunted, club shaped spines and the axons arise from the soma and run up to distant locations. In the CDL, most dominant multipolar neurons (48%) have four to seven spinous dendrites. The spines have small stalk with a knob like structure. The axons emerge from soma and run towards the surroundings. Horizontal cells (14%) have small to medium sized somata which give off four to six moderate or sparsely spinous dendrites running parallel to the ventricular surface. The axons emerge from the soma and run below the ventricular surface. The neuronal types of the presently studied bird show a homology to the formerly reported neurous of the lateral cortex of reptiles, CC of birds and entorhinal cortex of mammals.

7 illus, 1 graph, 31 ref

013657   Pramod Kumar (Sainik School Nalanda, , Rajgir-803 116, Email: drpramodkumar@gmail.com) : Distribution in time and space of the periphyton of some perennial ponds of Nalanda (Bihar). Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 367-71.

On the basis of observation made on distribution of Periphyton of some perennial ponds of It is clear that periphytons are having considerable significance as feeding demand of fishes and other aquatic organisation. The latest definition usually referred to the assemblage of organisms attached to any substratum so being such type of organisms. These periphyton are significant for pisciculture and balancing Biotic community. The species diversity and evenness have also been estimated in this research work to gain the understanding of the structure of periphyton Community and an attempt has been made also to know the periodicity in periphytic abundance.

1 table, 13 ref

013656   Philip S A;Oommen M M;Baiju K V (Zoology and Statistics Dep, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581, Email: mathew_m_oommen@hotmail.com) : LDH isoenzyme feature of the muscles of two freshwater fishes in relation to fibre pattern and habitat. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 349-53.

LDH isoenzyme feature and fibre pattern of Pectoral, Dorsal and Caudal muscles of Anabas testudineus and Clarias batrachus were evaluated. Based on electrophoretic mobility, LDH of A. testudineus was found to be of LDH-I and LDH-2 and that of C. batrachus was found to be of LDH-4 and LDH-5 indicating different metabolic status. This difference in metabolic status is to the difference in their habits and habitat, and muscle fibre pattern of the two fishes.

2 illus, 19 ref

013655   Patole S S;Mahajan R T (Zoology Dep, VV M's SG Patil Arts, Science and Commerce College, Sakri-424 304, Email: vidyavikas2006@rediffmail.com) : Effecacy of some plant extracts against mosquito larvae. Pesticide Res J 2009, 21(1), 13-15.

Laboratory bioassay of acetone extract (AE) of some indigenous plants was carried against 3-4^th instar mosquito larvae. Among the plants tested, AE of Sapindus trifoliatus, Balanites roxburghii, Acacia concinna and Citrullus colocynthis were the most effective with LC₅₀ (24 h) values of 0.95, 0.98, 1.01 and 1.14 mg mL^-1, respectively. The extract of plants like Nerium oleander, Sphaeranthus indicus and Azadirachta indica were the next best treatments. Remaining plants provided moderate activity. It is, therefore, suggested that acetone extract of plants have the potential as larvicides against mosquito.

1 table, 14 ref

013654   Napit M K (Zoology Dep, S.V. Govt. College, Berasia, Bhopal) : Changes in freshwater fish fauna in Bundelkhand region, with special reference to Damoh district (M.P.). Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 119-20.

Bundelkhand is a region of high biological diversity and endemiciry of terrestrial fauna, but very little is known about its freshwater species distributions. Two rivers, Kpora and Sonar, of the Central ghats were studied for their fish diversity and composition. A total species richness of 66 species (and an endemiciry of 25%) was reported. A comparison of expected species richness (SR) estimates using different statistical estimates were made, these showed the expected SR to be in the range of 66-100 species. Many of the species were found to be shared with those belonging to the Damoh district, but the study also unearthed new findings in terms of description of a new species and extension of the known distribution range of some of the species. The study at varying spatial and temporal scales also showed that while the rivers are very similar to each other in terms of the SR values, they do vary with respect to the species composition, across upper (or lower) reaches in the same river. Temporal patterns, with regard to diurnal activity of fishes were studied. These showed that the 66 species collected from different sampling stations of selected fresh water bodies. Though much of the information of the feeding and habitat preference of the fishes in this region is lacking, it is speculated that the differences in their activity patterns could be related to feeding and predator avoidance.

2 tables, 9 ref

013653   Nandurkar H P;Zambare S P (Zoology Dep, Sant Gadge Baba Amravati Univ, Amravati, Maharashtra) : Tetracycline and chloramphenicol activity on the rate of oxygen consumption in (the experimental animal) freshwater bivalve Lamellidens corrianus (LEA). Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 45-8.

The freshwater bivalves, Lamellidens corrianus were exposed to tetracycline and chloramphenicol, which are broad spectrum antibiotics acting against Gram+ve and Gram -ve bacteria. The healthy bivalves, Lamellidens corrianus were exposed to acute treatment (LC₅₀₂) of tetracycline (369.10 ppm) and chloramphenicol (470.37 ppm) for 96 hrs and for chronic treatment they were exposed to tetracycline (73.82 ppm) and chloramphenicol (94.07 ppm) concentration. Acute and chronic exposure to tetracycline and chloramphenicol showed significant decrease in the rate of oxygen consumption in L.corrianm. After acute and chronic exposure, chloramphenicol proved strongest drug to reduce the oxygen consumption, than tetracycline. The reduction in oxygen consumption may be due to copious secretion of mucous on gill or body surface, metabolic stress or release of overburden of pathogen.

2 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

013652   Mukherjee S;Sarkar N K (Zoology and Molecular Biology and Genetics Dep, Presidency Univ, Kolkata) : Testicular structure and sperm profile of benzene-treated swiss mice. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 95-8.

Histological organisation of testis, sperm motility, sperm count and sperm morphology were studied in male Swiss mice that were intraperitoneally injected with an aqueous solution of benzene at a dose of 100 mg/kg body weight on every alternate day for a period of two months. Lack of stored sperms in several seminiferous tubules, dislodgement of cell-clusters from seminiferous epithelia into the lumens of a few seminiferous tubules and presence of pycnotic nuclei in several Leydig cells were observed in the testes of the treated mice. Sperm motility and sperm count were considerably reduced in the treated mice, as compared to those in the controls. Sperms with abnormally swollen heads or midpieces as well as dwarf sperms were occasionally found in the treated mice. The overall findings indicate the necessity of periodic monitoring of sperm motility, sperm count and sperm morphology in human subjects chronically being exposed to benzene for occupational reasons.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

013651   Mhakse D K;Suryawanshi S G;Shinde G B;Pawar S B (Zoology Dep, R.B.N.B. College, Shrirampur, Dist. Ahmednagar) : New cestode Cotugnia ahmednagarensis N.Sp. (Eucestoda : Davineidea) from Columba livia at Ahmednagar (M.S.). Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 140-2.

The present form, after going through the literature, in having testes number 125-130 (128), comes closer to Cotugnia digonopora (Pasquale, 1890), Diamare (1893); Cotugnia polycentha (Fuhrmann, 1909); Cotugnia noctua (Johri, 1934); C.rimondi Tubanguti et. (Masilungan, 1937); C. magna (Burt, 1940); Cotugnia aurangabadensis (Shinde, 1964); Cotugnia liviae (Patil et al., 2005), but differs from them in diameter of scolcx; size of rostellum; number of rostellar hooks and number of testes and length of cirrus pouch.

1 illus, 18 ref

013650   Mehta H S;Sharma I;Sidhu A K (High Altitude Field Station, Zoological Survey of India, , Saproon, Solanm-173 211, Email: avtarkaur2000@gmail.com) : Occurrence of himalayan marmot rich zone near Kyaghar Lake, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 409-11.

Rich spot of Mormota himalayana were observed in cold desert of Ladakh. It like near between Sumadha to Kyaghar. But due to various activities and to interest un spot of Himlayan mormot is under threat and need to be conserved.

6 illus, 1 table, 2 ref

013649   Maiti L C;Chowdhury J;Bose D;Bhattacharya M; Roy B B (Animal Resources Development (Microbiology), Regional Laboratory, , Jalpaiguri-735 101, Email: jam-jpg@rediff.mail.com) : Seroprevalence of brucellosis and IBR in cattle in Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 373-8.

`Brucellosis' also known as Bang's Disease or Contagious Abortion, is an acute or chronic infectious and contagious disease of domestic animals, that causes placentitis and abortion , Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR) which is also known as Infectious Pustular Vulvovaginitis(IPV) or Red Nose, is an acute contagious viral disease (Herpes virus) of cattle characterized by high rise of temperature, rhinitis, dyspnoea, meningoencephalitis, keratonjunctivitis, pustular vulvovaginitis and abortion. Studies on seroprevalence of Brucellosis and IBR in cattle in Jalpaiguri district (Doors region of West Bengal, India) revealed that IBR is more prevalent (15.4%) than Brucellosis(l.1%).

2 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

013648   Kumbhar V J;Gaikwad S M;Gaikwad Y B;Bhawane G P (Zoology Dep, Shivaji University, Kolhapur-416 004, Email: drgpbhawane@rediffmail.com) : Midgut trehalase in fifth instar larva of Antheraea proylei J. (Lepidoptera : saturniidae). Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 343-8.

Effect of pH, temperature optima, time, Michaelis constant, thermolability and rate curve for 1rehalase in fifth instar larvae of Antheraea proylei were studied. The optimum pH and optimum temperature for midgut trehalase was 6.0 and 40°C, respectively and the Km value obtained was 2.11 x 10^-3 M. The 50% inhibition at higher temperature 60°C was found to be 11 min. The specific activity was 0.9825 μg glucose/μg protein/h.

6 illus, 22 ref

013647   Khadap R M (Zoology Dep, Nutan Mahavidyalaya, Sailu-431 503, Email: hadapr@rediffmail.com) : Histopathology of the cestode parasites, gensus cotugnia (Diamae, 1893) from Gallus domesticus. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 423-6.

Cestode Cotugnia sillodensis (Jadhav et.al., 2003) has been found in large number in intestme of Gallus gallus dometicus. The worm is short with a penetrative type of scolex and rostellum is provided with hooks, it penetrates the mucuosa and submucosa adheres there very firmly and does not reach the muscles layers. Plug formation is been at the ruptured epithehal portion which may have formed from lymphocytes and eosinophiles cells.

5 illus, 8 ref

013646   Kardong D;Verma A K;Gogoi P;Singh S;Gogoi K; Bora G;Sood K (Life Sciences Dep, Dibrugarh Univ, Dibrugarh, Assam) : Endosulfan induced behavioral and biochemical changes in air breathing teleost Channa gachua (Bloch & Schneider) in tea garden localities of upper Assam. Bull Life Sci 2009, 15(Mar), 83-93.

Endosulfan, a neurotoxic organochloride insecticide is being widely used in the tea gardens in Assam. The effect of endosulfan on behavioral and biochemical parameters in different tissues of an air-breathing teleost Channa gachua collected from contaminated water bodies (EX) was studied and results were compared with the fish from noncontaminated water bodies as negative control (NC) and with the fish treated with endosulfan at the concentration LC25 1.14 <109>l/L (at the confidence level 90%) as positive control (PC). Total amount of protein, cholesterol in different tissues viz.muscle, liver, kidney and brain showed low level among the PC and EX groups as compared to NC group However the RNA content recorded significant increase in all the tissues studied in PC and EX group of fish as compared to the NC group. The behavioral parameters showed significant alterations in PC group of fishes within the first hour of exposure to the endosulfan treatment.

3 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

013645   Kambale N A;Nanaware S G (Zoology Dep, Shivaji University, Kolhapur-416 004, Email: drknitinkumar@yahoo.in) : Lead acetate induced changes in oxygen consumption of freshwater snail Bellamya bengalensis (Lamarck). Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 405-8.

Fresh water snails Bellamya bengalensis (Lamarck) were collected from Rajaram tank, near Shivaji University, Kolhapur. After acclimatization for a week, same sized healthy snails were subjected to mean LC₅₀ value of lead acetate solution for 24 hrs., 48 hrs., 72 hrs. and 96 hrs xication. The dissolved oxygen for each time interval was estimated. The rate of oxygen umptiol1 was measured in terms of mg/gm body weight/hrs/liter. With increase intoxication period the rate of oxygen consumption was decreased. The oxygen consumption after 4hrs. was decreased up to 26.25%. It was decreased up to 52.01% after 48 hrs., 73.08% after 72 hrs. and 81.76% after 96 hrs. The changes in oxygen consumption in the snails were discussed in reation to physiology of respiration under heavy metal stress environment.

1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

013644   Kamalaveni K;Santhosh B;Sithara K (Zoology Dep, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore-641 029) : Evaluation of Spirulina supplemented diet ad its influence on bioenergetics and biochemical parameters in the fish Cirrhinus mrigala. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(2), 351-4.

Food intake is an important factor governing growth and reproduction and it is depend upon the quality and chemical composition of the feed. A comparative study was conducted to test the effect of Spirulina incorporated diet over the commercially available feed on bioenergetics and biochemical parameters of fish Cirrhinus mrigala. Spirulina incorporated diets were formulated to contain Spirulina at the level of 0.25,0.50 and 1.0%. The results showed a better growth rate, feeding rate and absorption rate in the fish fed with Spirulina incorporated diet compared to commercial feed. The study also revealed that protein, carbohydrate and lipid contents were increased in fish with Spirulina incorporated diet.

1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

013643   Kale M D;Muley D V (Zoology Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur, Maharashtra) : Sodium fluoride induced protein alterations in fresh water fish, Labeo rohita. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 131-2.

Fishes are regarded as an important high grade protein containing staple food for Indian people. Ever increasing pollution level, especially sodium fluoride (NaF), in inland freshwater reservoir has made significant changes in the life cycle of fishes. In view of this, the investigations on effects of acute and chronic sodium fluoride toxicity to fish Labeo rohita have been carried out. The changes in protein content of selected tissues like muscle, liver, gill and kidney were examined. The study revealed a highest loss of protein for kidney as compared to liver, gill and muscle.

2 tables, 16 ref

013642   Jawale C S;Dama L B (Zoology Dep, H.P.T. Arts and R.Y.K. Science College, Nashik, Maharashtra) : Maematological changes in the fresh water fish, Cyprinus carpio exposed to sub-lethal concentration of piscicidal compounds form Cestrum species (Fam : solanaceae). Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 81-4.

The sub-lethal concentration of the active principal of two piscicidal plants viz. Cestrum nocturnum (2.8 mg^-1) and Cestrum diurnum (3.2 mg^-1) induced the haematological changes in a freshwater fish Cyprinus carpio. Behavioural activities such as erratic swimming, loss of reflex, hyperventilation increased surfacing and jerk movements were observed. The total number of erythrocytes, leukocytes, and haemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume declined while erythrocytes sedimentation rate and related parameters like MCH, MCHC, MCV altered with exposure. Since the plant toxins influence cell integrity and hemopoiesis, the oxygen carrying capacity of blood was decreased, consequently thermodynamic and metabolic activity in fish was disturbed, therefore Cestrum species seems to be Karyocytophilic and Cytokaryophilic toxins to the fish.

1 table, 30 ref

013641   Hyalij M T (Zoology Dep, K.A. Alias N.M. Sanawane Arts, Commerce and Science College, Satana) : Larval trematodes from Melania tuberculata, freshwater snail from Nashik. Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 158-62.

Three species of larval trematode parasites namely C. shirasmani n. sp., C. ovalae n.sp., C. indicae LI Sewell,1982 in freshwater snails of Nashik district have been described and diagnostic features of new species compared with related species.

3 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

013640   Haresh Kumar;Kamlesh Kumar;Singh K (Zoology Dep, R.B.S. College, Agra Uttar Pradesh) : Reproduction behaviour in armored scale, Abgrallaspis cynophylli (Signoret) (Homoptera : coccoidea : diaspididae). Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 131-3.

In this paper authors studied mating behaviour and number of eggs laid by per female per year in Abgrallaspis cyanophylli (Signoret). The small eggs are yellow or greenish-yellow in colour. We collect the female insect in different months of year and find out the number of eggs in Entomological Research Lab., Department of Zoology, R.B.S. College, Agra. During the present study, authors have found 55 to 56 eggs per year per female of Abgrallaspis cyanophylli (Signoret).

2 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

013639   Halder N D;Dwivedi V K;Singh R (Botany Dep, Uluberia College, Uluberia, Howrah, West Bengal) : Effect of dimecron 50% EC on growth and nitrogenase activity of the four fast grwing strains of Scytonemataceae. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 163-8.

Four fast growing strains Viz. Scytonema chiastum Geitler, Scytonema bewsii Fritsch et Rich, Tolypo-thrix distorta Kuetz. ex Bron. et Flah and Camptylonemopsis lahorensis (Ghose) Desikachary were studied for growth (Chlorophyll-a) and nitrogenase activity in different concentrations (0,2,5, 10, 20, 30,40,50 ppni) of pesticide Dime-cron (50% EC). Results indicated that Scytonema chiastum showed the stimulatory effect on growth in lower concentration i.e., 5ppm and lOppm on 20th day and 30th day respectively. Scytonema bewsii showed stimulatory effect up to Sppm concentration on 20th day and 30lh day. Where as Tolypothrix distorta and Camptylonemopsis lahorensis were stimulatory up to 10 ppm concentration on 20th day and 30th day respectively. However, Scytonema chiastum and Camptylonemopsis lahorensis showed tolerance up to 40 ppm while others were unable to grow in the same concentration. Results of nitrogenase activity of all the strains were increasing in low concentrations in Sppm and lOppm. But gradually decreasing trends were observed in increasing concentration i.e., 20ppm and 30ppm and up to 40ppm and 50ppm concentration, their growth and nitrogenase activity were totally absent on 10th, 20th and 30th day.

7 tables, 16 ref

013638   Gupta Y C;Singhal P (Zoology Dep, B.S.A. College, Mathura) : Role of vitamins in the growth and survival of maggots of Dacus diversus (COQ.). Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 67-72.

During the present study an attempt has been made to investigate the qualitative requirement of vitamins of B-complex on the growth and survival of maggots of Dacus diversus. Quantitative requirement of the essential vitamins were also investigated to know the minimum effective dose in the diet for maggots of Dacus diversus.

6 tables, 35 ref

013637   Guna P;Hegde S N (Studies in Zoology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore, Karnataka) : Effect of sertraline-an antidepressant drug on sexual behavior of Drosophila melanogaster. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(1), 51-4.

Depression is characterized by loss of hope, desire, aspiration and self esteem with lowering of energy. Depression happens due to dysfunction of neurotransmitters. Depressions are medicated by 4 different classes of antidepressants, each class has its own severity of side effects like increased risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure leading to stroke and sexual dysfunction. Sertraline is an antidepressant drug which is being prescribed against depression. Other than the preclinical tests, the effects of this drug has not been tested. Therefore the present study has been carried out to study the effects of this drug on the sexual behavior using Drosophila melanogaster as a model system. The LC50 has been estimated, which is 1.25% of the food media. The virgin females and bachelor males of Drosophila melanogaster were isolated after eclosion and aged for three days. Sub lethal concentration of 0.2%; 0.4%; 0.6% of sertraline were orally administered for two days and thus aged five days. Immediately after treatment one male and one female were introduced into the mating chamber and then their sexual behavior was studied. After observation of behavior and mating, the flies were allowed to produce the progeny. The sexual behavior of males and females obtained in the progeny was also studied. The result showed significant difference in the sexual behavior with control and treated flies. The progeny also was affected by the antidepressant drug. The effect was found to be dose independent.

3 tables, 17 ref

013636   Geetarani B;Shomorendra M;Kar D (Life Sciences Dep, Assam (Central) Univ, Silchar) : Studies on the intensity of helminth infections with special reference to nematodes in the fishes of Utra lake, Manipur. Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 103-4.

A total of 150 fishes of three different orders were examined for parasitic infection from June,2009 to Jan,2010. Out of 183 fishes 121 species were found to be heavily infected by the nematode parasites. Average intensity of infection during 8 months was recorded 66.1% of the fishes examined were found to be infected. The present study indicates that fishes of Utra lake are heavily infected with many nematode species. Maximum infection was observed in Anabas testudineus by Camallanus anabantis (90.6%), while infestation rate in Channa orientalis by Camallanus anabantis (38.5%) was the lowest.

1 table, 12 ref

013635   Divya S H;Aruna A S;Sathya Prasad K (Pest Management Lab, Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Mysore-570 008, Email: satya_1958@rediffmail.com) : Role of photoperiod on the progeny production of an ecto-pupal parasitoid, Nesolynx thymus girault (Hymenoptera : eulophidae). Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 305-9.

Photoperiod is known to influence the life cycle, sex-ratio and diapause of hymenopteran insects. Though studies on life cycle, parasitization potential and mass production of Nesolynx thymus have been well documented under laboratory conditions, there is dearth of information on the role of photoperiod on these parameters. In the present study an attempt has been made to understand the role of continuous exposure of N thymus to different periods of light and it has been observed to influence the parasitoid recovery. The results are discussed in relation to the duration of exposure to light.

1 table, 16 ref

013634   Das K;Dasgupta M (Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Regional Research Station, , Gayeshpur-741 234) : Fecundity of a cobitid fish Lepidocephalus Guntea (Hamil ton). Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 361-5.

Fecundity of Lepidocephalus guntea belonging to Nadia district of West Bengal was estimated. It ranged from 550 to 9615.714 in total body length measuring 8.2 to 9.5 cm and total weight ranging from 4150 to 8.100 g, respectively. The average fecundity was determined to be 4852.512. Number of eggs per gm body weight and number of eggs per cm body length was found to be average 816.508 eggs/gm and 557.183 egg/cm, respectively. The relationship between fecundity and total body length, total weight, ovary weight and also between ovary weight and tota length have been determined. The different results obtained were analyzed statistically.

1 table, 22 ref

013633   Dange M P;Rathore A (Zoology Dep, Govt. P.G. Arts and Science College, Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh) : Chromosome studies on four species of Scarabaeinae (Scarabaeidae: Coleoptera). Natn J Life Sci 2010, 7(2), 127-30.

Karyological investigations were carried out on adult male individuals of four species of Scarabaeinae beetles viz. Heliocopris bucephalus (Fabricius), Gymnopleurus dejeani Castelnau, G.gemmatus Harold and G.miliaris (Fabricius). Heliocopris bucephalus (Fabricius) possesses 2n = 20 : 9 + Xy and two species Gymnopleurus dejeani Castelnau and G.gemmatus Harold exhibited the 'modal' polyphagan karyotype 2n = 20 : 9 + Xyp and last fourth species G.miliaris (Fabricius) having the karyotype 2n = 18 : 8 + Xy_P, Mitosis and meiosis have been described and discussed.

16 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

013632   Dandwate R R;Jadhav B V (Zoology Dep, Art, Commerce & Sceice College, Sonai-414 105, Email: d.rajendra2006@rediff.com ) : New lecanicephalidean cestode endoparasite on Trygon sephen from Ratnagiri, India. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2009, 29(3), 419-21.

Present communication deals with a new species of the genus Polypoceplalus, Braun (1878) i.e. P. mirkarwarensis n. sp., it is differentiated from the earlier known species of the genus with the characters like spherical scolex, tentacles 10-12 in number, presence of neck, testes five in number, ovary elongated, uterus oval and vitellaria follicular.

1 illus, 12 ref

013631   Choudhary S A (Zoology Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Rajouri) : Effect of temperature on the life cycle and feeding activity of mutant Drosophila melanogaster. Life Sci Bull 2010, 7(1), 73-4.

Life cycle of mutant strain (yellow) nt Drosophila melanogaster was studied at different temperature i.e. 21°C-28°C under laboratory conditions. The temperature effect showed significant negative correlation with different developmental stages i.e., incybation period, larval period, pupal period and aduit duration, while hatching exhibited significant positive correlation with different temperature and duration of feeding on the prescribed food decreased due to short larval period.

1 table, 6 ref

013630   Chaudhuri P S;Sabyasachi Nath;Paliwal R (Zoology Dep, Maharaja Bir Bikram College, Agartala, Tripura-799 004, Email: priya_1956@rediffmail.com) : Earthworm population of rubber plantations (Hevea brasiliensis) in Tripura, India. Trop Ecol 2008, 49(2), 225-34.

Survey of earthworm species in rubber plantations of Tripura (India) with reference to their diversity, biomass, density, frequency and distribution revealed the presence of at least 20 species of earthworms belonging to 10 genera and 5 families: Octochaetidae (Eutyphoeus gigas, E. gammiei, E. comillahnus, E. assamensis, E. festivas, Eutyphoeus sp. 1, Dichogaster bolaui, D. affinis, Lenogaster chittagongensis, Octochaetona beatrix), Megas'colecidae (Metaphire houlleti, Perionyx sp.1, Kanchuria sumerianus, Kanchuria sp.1, Kanchuria sp.2), Moniligastridae (Drawida nepalensis, Drawida sp.1, Drawida sp.2), Glossoscolecidae (Pontoscolex corethrurus) and Ocnerodrilidae (Gordiodrilus elegans). Earthworms experienced mean soil temperature 25.9°C, moisture 24.8%, pH 4.85 and organic matter 1.8 %. Mean values for density and biomass were 108.6 m^-2 and 43.4 g m^-2. Pontoscolex corethmrus was the dominant species of rubber plantations, representing 61.5% biomass and 72% density of the total earthworm population. Hevea agroecosystem is largely dominated by endogeic species of earthworm.

4 tables, 34 ref