014955   Vishwanath W;Darshan A (Department of Life Sciences, Manipur University, Chanchipur, Manipur-795 003, Email: vnath54@yahoo.co.in) : Two new catfish species of the genus Pseudecheneis Blyth (teleostel:siluriformes) from Northeastern India. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(3), 2627-31.

Two new catfish species of the genus Pseudecheneis, viz., P. ukhrulensis sp. nov. and P. sirenica sp. nov. are described from northeastern India, from streams of Ukhrul district, Manipur (Chindwin basin) and Siren River, Upper Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh (Brahmaputra basin), respectively. The two species can be distinguished from their closest congener P. sulcata in having prominent bony spurs on the anterodorsal surface of the first dorsal-fin pterygiophore (vs. absent), from P. crassicauda in shallower caudal peduncle, from P. serracula in shorter adipose fin base and from P. stenura in deeper caudal peduncle. P. sirenica sp. nov. is distinguished from P. eddsi in its longer pelvic fin and anal fin and from P. ukhrulensis sp. nov. in having longer pectoral fin and caudal peduncle. A key to identification of Pseudocheneis of India and Nepal is given.

5 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

014954   Sahoo D K;Roy A;Chattopadhyay S;Chainy G B N (Department of Zoology, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar-751 004) : Effect of T₃ treatment on glutathione redox pool and its metabolizing enzymes in mitochondrial and post-mitochondrial fractions of adult rat testes. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(4), 338-46.

T₃ (3,3', 5-triiodo-L-thyronine; 20 μg/100g body weight/day in 0.01 N NaOH, i.p for 1, 3 and 5 days) treatment modulated reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione contents along with the activities of its metabolizing enzymes (such as glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione S-transferase) in the testis of Wistar rats. However, the magnitude and nature of changes in the above biochemical parameters in response to T₃ treatment were noticed to be different between mitochondrial and post-mitochondrial fractions. This was accompanied with elevated levels of lipid hydroperoxide and ascorbic acid in the crude homogenate of testis. The level of hydrogen peroxide in the post-mitochondrial fractions of testes did not change on first day, decreased on 3rd day and increased on 5th day of the hormone treatment when compared to respective controls. Nevertheless, its content in mitochondria was significantly elevated in response to all the three durations of the hormone treatment having the highest induction on 3rd day. The changes observed in the levels of GSH and GSSG and its metabolizing enzymes in response to T₃ treatment reflect an alteration in the redox state of testis, which may be a causative factor for the impairment of testicular physiology as a consequence of oxidative stress.

4 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

014953   Roozbehi A;Almasi-Tork A;Piryaee A;Sadeghi Y (Anatomical Sciences Department, University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran, Email: ysadeghi@yahoo.com) : Effect of cadimum on photoreceptors and ganglionic cells of retinal layer in mice embryo- an ultrastructural study. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(5), 469-74.

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the environmental contaminant and because of its non-decomposable character, it can damage nature. TEM was used in order to assess the ultrastructural effects of Cd on photorececptor and ganglionic cells of mouse retinal layer. Apoptotic nuclei, heterochromatic nuclei, deletion of nucleus membrane, invisible nucleolus, and apoptotic cells with mitochondrial changes were observed in mice embryo (days 15 of gestation) following CdCl₂ injection to mothers on day 9 of gestation. Cadmium exposure caused apoptotic changes both in photoreceptors and ganglionic cells.

6 illus, 26 ref

014952   Ramanujan M E;R Anbarasan (Pitchandikulam Bioresources Centre, , Auroville, Pondichery-605 101, Email: tdef@auroville.org.in) : A preliminary report on the vertebrate diversity of the Kaliveli watershed region. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(3), 2608-16.

Three-and-a-half years of (mainly passive) observations disclosed the fact that the Kaliveh watershed area is inhabited by at least 268 species of vertebrates. The greatest majority were birds (55.11%). They were followed by fish (18.28%), mammals (14.17%), reptiles (13.8%) amphibians (2.61%). The conservation value of only 105 species could be determined - 1 Endangered, 12 Vulnerable, 55 Near..Threatened and 37 of Least Concern. The only exotic was Oreochromis mossambica an alien invasive species.

1 illus, 1 table, 47 ref

014951   Prasad G;Anvar Ali P H (Department of Zoology, University of Kerala, Karivavattom Campus, Thiruvananthpuram, Kerala, Email: probios1@hotmail.com) : Length-weight relationship of a cyprind fish Puntius filamentosus from Chalakudy river, Kerala. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(3), 2637-8.

2 tables, 14 ref

014950   Ningomban B;Bordoloi S (Resource Management and Environment Div, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Vigyan Path, Pa, Guwahati-781 035, Email: sabitrybordoloi@rediffmail.com) : Amphibian fauna of Loktak lake, Manipur, India with ten new records for the state. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(5), 2688-90.

1 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

014949   Nebeshwar K;Bagra K;Das D N (Centre for diversity, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, Email: dndas321@rediffmail.com) : New species of the cyprinoid genus Psilorphynchoides Yazdani et al. (cypriniformes:psilorhynchidae) from Arunachal Pradesh. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(3), 2632-6.

Psilorhynchoides arunachalensis new species is described from the Brahmaputra basin in Arunachal Pradesh of Northeastern India. It belongs to the Psilorhynchus homaloptera and P. pseudecheneis group, for which genus Psilorhynchoides was erected by Yazdani et al. (199O) because of their morphological and osteological distinctiveness from Psilorhynchus. The new species is differentiated by the following characters: eight or nine simple pectoral fin rays; more number of vertebrae 43-45 and an intermediate number of lateral line scales 42-44 between the valid species P. homaloptera and P. pseudecheneis (38-41 and 48-5O respectively.

5 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

014948   Nashiruddullah N;Chakraborty A (NO, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati-781 002) : Causes of mortality and associated pathological conditions amongst captive wild carnivores of Assam state zoo. Indian J Anim Sci 2006, 76(9), 688-91.

The pathological conditions associated with mortality in captive carnivores were studied. Most common pathological conditions affecting the captive carnivores, were respiratory and alimentary diseases. In old age urinary affections with various degrees were common.

^ssc1 table, 8 ref

014947   Kamruzzaman M;Asmat G S M;Banu Q (Asiatic Society of Bangladesh, , 5 Old Secretariat Road, Nimtali, Ramna, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh, Email: mkzaman79@yahoo.com) : Observations on fruit handling techniques of frugivorous birds in Chittagong, Bangladesh. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(5), 2690-92.

2 tables, 11 ref

014946   Joseph S;Thomas A P;Satheesh R;Sugathan R (Forestry and Ecology Div, National Remote Sensing Agency, Space Department, Balanagar-500 037) : Foraging ecology and relative abundance of large carnivores in Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Southern India. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(5), 2667-70.

The food habits and relative abundance of large carnivores was studied through scat analysis technique in Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary from November 2O02 to April 2003. A total of 377 scats (103 of Tiger, 188 of Leopard and 86 of Dhole) were analysed. The niche breadth, niche overlap and diversity indices of the diet were calculated. The relative abundance of large carnivores in different habitats was assessed based on the number of scats encountered per kilometer. The result showed that the major part of the diet of all the three large carnivores were from Spotted Deer and Sambar. The Leopard showed a higher diversity and niche breadth in its diet compared to the Tiger. Niche overlap analysis showed that a strong overlap exists between large carnivores. All the large carnivores showed more preference to undisturbed habitat and less preference to evergreen habitat The result has shown high implication in understanding the predator-prey dynamics and preference of large carnivores to different habitats.

4 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

014945   Chandra K;Gupta S K;Shishodia M S (Central Regional Station, Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Email: kailash611@rediffmail.com) : Checklist of orthoptera of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(5), 2683-7.

A checklist of Orthoptera of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh has been provided. Presently 139 species of Orthoptera belonging to 12 families are reported from these two states. Of these, 94 species are reported from Madhya Pradesh and 84 species are from Chhattisgarh. Ten species i.e. Mecopoda elongata (Linnaeus), Xiphidiopsis Redtenbacher, Platygryllus lineaticeps (Walker), Xenogryllas sp., Pternoscirta cinctifemur (Walker), Ceracris sp., Ctonacris kirbyi (Finot), Hieroglyphus concelor (Walker), Tridactylus fasciatus Guerin and Xya opaca (Walker) are recorded for the first time from these states. The information on district-wise distribution and their occurrence in protected areas have also been provided.

34 ref

014944   Chandanshive N E;Kamble S M;Yadav B E (Zoology Dep, Fergusson College, Fergusson College Road, Shivajinagar, Pune-411 004) : Fish fauna of Pavana river of Pune, Maharastra. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(5), 2693-4.

15 ref

014943   Arunachalam M;Muralidharan M (Sri Paramkalyani Centre for Environmental Sciences, Manonmaniam Sundaranar Univ, Alwarkurichi-627 412, Email: arunacm@gmail.com) : New record of Batasio sharavatiensis Bhatt and Jayaram from Tunga river, Karnataka. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(5), 2680-2.

Batasio sharavatiensis Bhatt & Jayaram, 2OO4 was described from river Shravathi and its distribution was confined to Shravathi basin. The study reports the occurrence of this species in Thunga river basin, showing the extension in range of its distribution further south from type locality to another river basin.

1 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

014942   Arora Pandit M;Saxena R N (Zoology Dep, University of Delhi, Delhi-110 007) : Galanin stimulates hCG induced testicular steroidogenesis in adult but not in immature male rats. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(4), 333-7.

Present study was undertaken to understand the role of galanin on testosterone secretion. Leydig cells from adult (60-80 days old) and immature (21-30 days old) rat testis were incubated with galanin (100 nM), galantide (100 nM) and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG, 25 I.U.) alone or in combinations and testosterone release was measured. It was observed that in adults, galanin failed to alter the basal testosterone release from the dispersed Leydig cells but potentiated the hCG induced testosterone release significantly. While galantide, prevented this galanin potentiating effect, but it did not alter the hCG alone induced testosterone release. On the other hand, the Leydig cells obtained from immature male rats were sensitive to hCG alone but not to galanin or galantide, both of which failed to alter the hCG induced testosterone release from these cells. Based on these results it can be postulated that galanin's role at the level of the male gonad is age dependent since its potentiating effects on hCG induced testosterone release were visible only in the adult and not in the immature male rats.

2 illus, 32 ref

014019   Vyjayandi M C;Rajeesh R S (Zoology Dep, Providence Women's Coll, Calicut-673 009) : First report of an interesting species of mantis, Deiphobe infuscata from Wayanad, Kerala, India (Mantodea:Mantidae). J ent Res 2006, 30(4), 359-61.

The mantis Deiphobe infuscata (Saussure) (male) is described. The specimen was collected from Wayanad, Kerala. Five species of the genus Deiphobe has been reproted from various parts of India so far, no species were reported from Kerala yet. So it forms a new record of the species genus Deiphobe Stal from Kerala.

5 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

014018   Vrezec A L;Tomaz Jancar;Luka Bozic;Borut Rubinic (NO, National Inst of Biology, Vecna pot 111, SI-1001 Ljublijana, Solvenia, Email: al.vrezee@nib.si) : Mandarin ducks Aix galericulata (Linnaeus) on the Sat Tal lakes near Nainital, Uttaranchal. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 338-9.

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014017   Virkar M;Joshi S;Shinde S L (Zoology Group, Animal Sci Div, Agharkar Res Inst, G.G. Agarkar Road, Pune-411 004, Email: slslab@hotmail.com) : Captive-rearing Sphaerotheca breviceps from early embryonic stages to over three-year-old adult. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 274-9.

Sphaerotheca breviceps is a burrowing frog of Family Ranidae, widespread in peninsular India. 40 eggs of this species were collected from the wild, and reared successfully under laboratory conditions using five different set-ups, depending upon their developmental or seasonal needs. Rapid development, juvenile cannibalism, seasonal behaviour of aestivation, and possibility of breeding under laboratory conditions are the highlights of rearing this spececies. The development including metamorphosis was completed in 35 days. The adult males showed vocal sacs and nuptial pads, and gave mating calls during three successive breeding seasons. The adult survivors showed an average life span of three years, one of which survived for 1289 days. Their rapid development and overall health during the course of the study indicate that the species can successfully adapt to variations in temperature and humidity in the laboratory.

2 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

014016   Tiwari S K;Tripathi C P M (Zoology Dep, DDU Gorakhpur Univ, Gorakhpur-273 009) : Tetramethrin induced toxivity against the ontogeny of rice-moth Corcyra cephalonica Staint. (Lepidoptera: pyralidae). Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2006, 26(2), 227-9.

Larvicidal and pupicidal effects of tetramethrin was made on the third instar larvae of Corcyra cephalomca Staint. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Observation revealed that 0.014% (a.i), v/w of tetramethrin caused 100% larval mortality indicating absolute toxicity to the pest.

1 table, 7 ref

014015   Thangaraj M;Lipton A P;Victor A C C (Marine Biotechnology Laboratory, Vizhinjam Research Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institu, Vizhinjam-695 521, Email: liptova@yahoo.com) : Onset of sexual maturity in captivereared endangered Indian seahorse, Hippocampus kuda. Curr Sci 2006, 91(12), 1714-16.

Endangered Indian seahorse, Hippocampus kuda successfully reared in captive conditions for more than two years, repeatedly spawned and produced F₂ generations. In F₁ males, brood pouch started developing from 55 to 60 days of birth. The courtship behaviour was noted 30 days subsequently and males started receiving eggs in their pouch when their body length attained 101.0 ± 2.0 mm. Females started transferring eggs into the male brood pouch when their body length reached 110.0 ± 2.0 mm. The sexual maturity of male was earlier than that of female. Compared to the age (in days), the size was inferred as a reliable factor to predict the onset of maturity in this species.

2 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

014014   Thakur M S;Mattu V K;Mehta H S (Bio-sciences Dep, Himachal Pradesh Univ, Summer Hill, Shimla-171 005) : Butterflies of Sukhna and catchmen area in Chandigarh, India. J ent Res 2006, 30(2), 175-8.

Study on the butterflies was carried out in a subtropical deciduous forest (Sukhna and Catchment area) of union territory. Sixty seven species of butterflies belonging to 9 families were collected. Pieridae was the largest among the identified families, 10 species were found very common, 17 common, 19 uncommon and 21 rare. Sub-tropical deciduous forest habitat in the union territory supported the highest number of butterfly species (55), followed by agricultural and wastelands (47). Maximum number of endemic species was in undisturbed forest followed by agricultural and wasteland fields. Further, 13 species were exclusive to agricultural and wastelands, 8 restricted to forest. Members of the family Danaidae such as the blue tiger (Tirumala limniace) and the plain tiger (Dannaus chrysippus) were observed to congregate on Crotolaria plants during flowering season, for nectar feeding, which is a known alkaloid source.

1 table, 11 ref

014013   Susanth C (NO, , Prakriti, Indira Nagar, Peroorkada, P.O., Thiuvananthapuram-695 005, Email: esusanth@hotmail.com) : Parsonsia spiralis: new larval host plant of endemic butterfly Malabar tree nymph, Idea malabarica Moore (Danainae, Nymphalidae). J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 354-5.

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014012   Suneel Kumar;Singh S V (Zoology Dep, Faculty of Science, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Feeding potential of Clostera fulgurita Walker (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae) on the leaves of poplar, Populus deltoides. Indian J Ent 2006, 67(3), 208-10.

Studies on the feeding potential of C. fulgurita on the leaves of poplar were carried out in the Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad. Total Leaf Consumption (LC) of the female larvae was 146.44 cm² during entire larval life span, while their male counterparts consumed 83.42 cm² of leaf area. Significant difference in Consumption rate (CR) was observed between fifth instar female and male larvae as a female larva fed 33.00 cm² leaf area/day while-CR of corresponding male larva was 16.35. Consumption index (CI) was significantly higher in females (8.13) than that of males (5.57). Growth rate (GR) was found maximum (0.52) in fourth instar larvae as they gained maximum length (1.56 cm) during this stage. Efficiency of conversion of Ingested Food (ECI) was highest in the first instar female (36.00) and male (25.25) larvae followed by inconsistent decrease in the later instars.

1 table, 4 ref

014011   Suja N;Muthiah P (NO, , C/o Dr. Ram Mohan, M.K., MPEDA Regional Office, Bhidiya, Veraval-362 269, Email: nsuja_r@yahoo.co.uk) : Parasitic infestation of the clam, Marcia opima (Gmelin). J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 361-2.

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014010   Sudha Devi A R;Adiyodi R G (Zoology Dep, Mary Matha Arts and Sci Coll, Mananthavady-670 645) : Testicular responsiveness to eyestalk ablation and thoracic ganglion implantation during reproductively inactive phase in Paratelphusa hydrodromous. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2006, 26(2), 127-33.

Bilateral eyestalk ablation during the reproductively inactive period of intermoult led to a spectacular revival of testicular activity. The destalkation induced precocious spermatogenesis continued only for a short period. The fall in spermatogenic activity observed by four weeks postoperation was not due to lack of Gonad Stimulating Hormone as even thoracic ganglion implantation could not revive spermatogenic activity.

12 illus, 8 ref

014009   Sudersana Devi H;Singh T K (Entomology Res Lab, Life Sci Dep, , Canchipur-795 003) : Biology of Brachymeria bengalensis (Cameron) and Brachymeria lasus (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) pupal parasitoids of pieris brassicae (Lepidoptera: Pieridae). Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2006, 26(2), 235-7.

Developmental biology of Brachymeria bengalensis (Cameron) and B. lasus (Wlk.) of Pieris brassicae was studied in laboratory. The female parasitoid preferred only 2 to 3 days old pupa for parasitization. They usually deposited one egg in a host pupa. On an average a female laid 19-21 eggs during its life time. The females lived longer than males. Sex ratio is highly female biased.

1 table, 5 ref

014008   Srivastava A;Pawan Kumar;Sharma S;Sharma P K (NO, CSK HPKV Shivalik Agric Res and Exten Centre, Kangra-176 001) : Identification of few Microlepidopteran species of Himachal Pradesh. J ent Res 2006, 30(2), 183-6.

Seventy five species of Microlepidopterian were collected from Himachal Pradesh for the first time during the study. List of the species along with their status is given for updating the Microlepidoptera fauna of Himachal Pradesh.

23 ref

014007   Srinivasulu C;Srinivasulu B (Centre for Environmental Management of Degraded Ecosystems, School of, University of Delhi, Delhi-110 007, Email: hyd2_masawa@sancharnet.in) : First record of Hipposideros ater templetion, 1848 from Andhra Pradesh, India with a description of a new subspecies. Zoos Print J 2006, 21(5), 2241-4.

Author has reported the occurrence of Hipposideros ater Templeton, 1848 for the first time from Andhra Pradesh, India and describe a new subspecies collected from the Nallamala Hills, Eastern ghats. The new subspecies has been compared with its nearest allies and it differs from the known subspecies H.a.ater and H.a.nicobarulae in having narrower palate, smaller braincase and U-shaped anterior margin of mesopterygoid.

1 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

014006   Soni P;Sharma S;Sharma S;Suresh Kumar;Sharma K P (Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004) : Comparative study on the toxic effects of textile dye wastewaters (untreated and treated) on mortality and RBC of freshwater fish Gambusia affinis (Baird and Gerard). J envir Biol 2006, 27(4), 623-8.

Comparative toxicological studies of textile dye wastewater (untreated and treated) on a freshwater fish, Gambusia affinis, revealed a marked reduction in mortality and cytotoxic effects on RBGs, measured as reduction in their counts and percent changes in their shape (poikilocytosis) and variation in their size (anisocytosis)}, after subjecting them to both physicochemical and biological treatments. On comparing the data of mortality and the cytotoxic effects on RBGs, it has been found poikilocytosis is a better indicator for toxicity measurement of both untreated as well as treated wastewater, especially at their lowest concentrations where percent mortality was found to be either nil or lowerer than the percentage of poikilocytic RBGs. Although percent reduction in RBG counts and changes in their size (anisocytosis) indicated toxic effects of wastewaters, but EC₅₀ values for RBG counts were usually higher than those for poikilocytosis and mortality, and non-calculable for anisocytosis suggesting their lesser sensitivity to pollutants. In view of these findings, author recommend monitoring of toxic effects of wastewaters during fish bioassay on both mortality and variation in RBG shape.

1 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

014005   Sohini;Rana S V S (Zoology Dep, Toxicology Laboratory, Ch. Charan Singh Univ, Meerut-250 004, Email: sureshvsrana@yahoo.com) : Protective effect of ascorbic acid against oxidative stress induced by inorgnic arsenic in live and kidney of rat kidney. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(4), 371-5.

Ascorbic acid treatment in arsenic trioxide treated-rats increased arsenic excretion, inhibited lipid peroxidation, improved GSH status, regulated GSSG turnover and also restored glutathione-S-transferases activity in liver and kidney. Suitable mechanisms leading to ascorbic acid protection have been discussed. upregulation of GSH dependent enzymes was found to be necessary for a protective effect. Protection is finally attributed to higher GSH levels observed in the liver and kidney of ascorbic acid and inorganic arsenic treated rats. It is also concluded that ascorbic acid protection is influenced by gender dependent factors. Arsenic poisoning is a global problem now. Gender differences need to be considered while applying therapeutic measures.

1 table, 43 ref

014004   Sivakumar S;Manakadan R (NO, Bombay Natural History Society, Hornbill House, S.B. Singh Road, Mumbai-400 023, Email: bnhs@bom4.vsnl.net.in) : Record of the Amur Falcom Falco amurensis Radde on Sriharikota island, Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 339.

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014003   Siraj S;Yousuf A R;Bhatt F A;Parveen M (P.G. dept. of Zoology, Center of Research for Development, The University of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006) : Cladoceran community in dal lake Kashmir. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 343-50.

Distributional pattern of cladocera was studied in the five basins of the Dal lake, Kashmir, in relation to several physico-chemical parameters. Thirty species of cladocera belonging to six families were recorded from the lakel The contribution of different families followed the pattern Chydoridae <62> DaphnidaoBosminidae <62> Macrothricidae <62> Sididae <62> Moinidae. The population density of the first two families was high throughout the year, while others recorded only low population/Main contributors of cladocera in the lake were Chydorus sphaericus,Bosmina longirostris, Macrothrix rosea, Ceriodaphnia sp., Graptoleberis testudinaria. comparison of the present data with earlier records showed that the cadoceran community has changed significantly during the past seventy years, which seems to be related with the trophic evolution of the system. Marczewski and Steinhaus index indicated the highest similarity in species distribution between Nishat and Nigeen basins, while the Brarinambal basin recorded the least similarity with other basins due to its advanced trophic level.

2 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

014002   Singh N S;Ipe I M (Zoology Dep, Lucknow Christian College, Golaganj, Lucknow-226 018) : Geographic and seasonal distribution of Phlebotominae sand flies (Diptera: phlebotomidae) in India. Indian J Ent 2006, 67(3), 199-202.

Phlebotominae sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) are mgttically and veterinarilly important insects, as they transmit leishmaniasis and bartonollosses.Their distribution is directly or indirectly influenced by temperature and precipitation. In view of the above study was conducted on the occurrence of Phlebotomus papatasi and Phlebotomus argentipes in regard to various faunal limits (hot and cold) in different seasons. The Phlebotominae sand flies were collected from various Indian faunal limits but the main collections were made from endemic areas of Bihar (Patna, Vaishali, Muzaffarpur and Bhagalpur) Himachal Pradesh (Kullu and Manali). The results suggest that in summers and monsoon both the spieces of Phlebotomus were found less and almost nil in winters. The highest occurrence of both the species of sand flies were found in Patna (25.37°N 85.13°E). It is also suggested that the distribution of both the spieces of sand flies are dependent on the seasonal conditions especially temperature and humidity.

1 table, 16 ref

014001   Shweta;Sharma D;Sonal (Vermiculture Unit, Zoology Dep, D.S. College, Aligarh-202 001) : Survival and multiplication of red compost worm Eisenia foetida (Savigny) on organic wastes of different animal sources. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2006, 26(2), 193-6.

Survival, growth and multiplication of red compost worm Eisenia foetida (Savigny) were recorded on organic wastes of animal sources viz. goat, cow and buffalo dung. Longevity of survival of worm was recorded under similar climatic conditions. Cent percent survival of E. foetida were recorded in goat dung, 95% in cow dung and 90% in buffalo dung after four weeks of inoculation. The mean body length of E. foetida cultured in these forms of diet did not vary significantly whereas mean body length of worms was maximum in goat dung (60.8 mm) and minimum in buffalo dung (60.2 mm). On the other hand, the maximum mean body length of juveniles were also recorded maximum in goat dung (20.6 mm) and the minimum in buffalo dung (19.2 mm). There was a gradual increase in mean body length of the adult worm and juveniles in three forms of diet. The mean body weight of worms was maximum in goat dung (83.8 mg), than in cow dung (80.6 mg) and buffalo dung (81.4 mg). It was observed that mean weight of worms increases slowly (2.8, 1.6, 2.6%) during initial 15 days (2 weeks) of development and rapid (5, 5.8, 6.8%) from 16th gay upto 4th week of record in goat, cow and buffalo dung, respectively.

1 table, 19 ref

014000   Sharma S K (NO, Phulwari Wildlife Sanctuary, Kotra-307 025) : Ganges softshell turtle Aspideretes gangeticus (Cuvier) attacking a male peafowl pavo cristatus. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 341-2.

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013999   Sharma B;Reen S K (Zoology Dep, Univ of Tamil Nadu, Jammu-180 006) : Common butterflies of Jammu region (J&K State). Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2006, 26(2), 221-6.

Butterflies (Lepidoptera : Rhopalocera) are beautiful insects and they have attracted attention of both the naturalists and Zoologist for their aesthetic as well as scientific values. As a result the butterfly group has been by far the best worked out group from amongst the Insects. There are about 1.70.000 known species of Lepidoptera, about one tenth of which are butterflies and rest are moths. Their immense diversity and ability 10 adapt to virtually any climate has made them some of the most successful creatures on earth as their swarms has been reported as far as from coldest part of the world above the snow lines.

12 illus, 12 ref

013998   Sharma A K;Baruah K;Bhardwaj A C (Centre for Medical Entomology and Vector Management, National Institute of Communicable Diseases, 22, Sham Nath Marg, Delhi-110 054, Email: abhaynow@yahoo.com) : Susceptibility status of malaria vectors against certain insecticides (Diptera : culicidae). J ent Res 2006, 30(2), 147-9.

Susceptibility tests applying Organochlorine, Organophosphorus and Synthetic pyrethroids for 60 minutes exposures were carried out against Anopheles culicifacies, An. stephensi and An.subpictus adults. The laboratory results have shown that An. culicifacies the vector of rural malaria and An. stephensi the vector of urban malaria were resistance to DDT, whereas all the species were found susceptible to deltamethrin. However, against malathion An. culicifacies and An. stephensi requires continuous monitoring.

1 table, 19 ref

013997   Shankar D S;Kulkarni R S (Fish Endocrinology Research Unit, Zoology Dep, Gulbarga University, Gulbarga-586 106) : Effect of cortisol on female freshwater fish Notopterus notopterus. J envir Biol 2006, 27(4), 727-31.

Effect of cortisol on the ovary of the freshwater fish Notopterus notopterus was studied during four phases of the reproductive cycle. The hormone was injected 60μg/fish for ten days. Cortisol in fish is known to increase the metabolic activity. After the hormone treatment the ovarian somatic index and the hepatosomatic index increases during non breeding phase. The young oocytes transferred into vitellogenic oocytes in all the phases after cortisol treatment. The cortisol induced increased ovarian activity may be due to increase in the metabolic activity through the involvement of hepatic cells specially during non-breeding period providing support for energy production for reproductive activity in the freshwater fish N. notopterus.

2 illus, 1 table, 45 ref

013996   Sehgal J;Sidhu A K;Rose H S (Zoology Dep, Punjab Univ, Patiala-147 002) : Observations on the life history of blue Pansy, Junonia orithyia (Linnaeus), and yellow Pansy, Junonia hierta (Fabricius), (Papilionoidea: Nymphalidae). J ent Res 2006, 30(4), 351-7.

Antirrhium majus Linn. (Scrophulariaceae) has been recorded as new host plant of Junonia orithyia. The gross morphology and duration of various stages in life history has been recorded of two species of genus Junonia Hubner viz. orithyia and hierta. Some nectar food plants of adults were also recorded.

2 illus, 3 ref

013995   Saxena A;Shukla S (Zoology Dep, Govt Science College, Rewa, Madya Pradesh- 486 001) : Changes in haematological parameters in Labeo calbasu infected by tryanosoma at Rewa (M.P.). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 111-4.

Labeo calbasu infected by Trypanosoma showed considerable changes in the haematological parameters in both the sexes as compared to healthy fish. ESR, small lymphocytes, monocytes and eosinophils increased, while TEC, PCV, MCV, Hb, CT, Sp, Gr, PV, etc. decreased considerably.

1 table, 19 ref

013994   Sarada P T;Wesley S G (NO, Research Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, West Hill P.O., Calicut, Kerala) : Primary productivity of Minicoy lagoon, Lakshadweep. Ecol Envir Conserv 2006, 12(4), 707-14.

Phytoplankton productivity of Minicoy lagoon, its annual and seasonal variations and various factors including secondary production affecting productivity were studied during April 1999 to March 2001. The monthly gross production of the lagoon ranged from 3.98 to 44.17 with mean of 16.95±2.1 mgC/m³/hr. The peak production was in August. The net production varied from 0 to 18.15mgC/m³/hr. The mean net production was 6.18±1.11 mg C/m³/hr. The seasonal variations of primary production were found to be insignificant. The gross production showed good positive correlation with net production and surface temperature.

8 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

013993   Sangha H;Naoroji R (NO, , B-27, Gautam Marg, Hanuman Nagar, Jaipur-302 021, Email: sangha@datainfosys.net) : Large pied wagtail Motacilla maderaspatensis gmelin in Ladakh. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 341.

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013992   Sangeeta Rani;Malik S;Trivedi A K;Singh S; Vinod Kumar (Department of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow-226 007) : Circadian clock regulates migratory restlessness in the blackhead bunting, Emberiza melanocephala. Curr Sci 2006, 91(8), 1093-6.

Many diurnal songbirds undergo long-distance nighttime migrations twice a year between their breeding and wintering grounds. When caged, this is reflected in intense night-time restlessness, which is called Zugun-ruhe. Whether migratory restlessness is regulated by the endogenous near-24 h (circadian) clocks is less understood. Investigates this in a Palaearctic-Indian migratory songbird, the blackheaded bunting (Ember-iza melangcephala), which in caged conditions exhibits Zugunruhe. Movement of the bird within its cage (size = 60 X 45 X 35 cm was continuously recorded using infrared sensors. The onset and end of activity at night-time were distinct from activity during daytime;. ends consistently occurred about 1.5 h before the light on time. When released into LL_dim, the buntings freeran with a circadian period with reference to activity at night-time. They also significantly lost their activity during daytime. These results suggest that with the onset of Zugunruhe, the circadian clock regulating daily activity rhythms redefines its phases, and so the birds become predominantly active at night.

2 illus, 20 ref

013991   Sahoo D K;Roy A;Chattopadhyay S;Chainy G B N (Zoology Dep, Utkal Univ, Bhubaneswar-751 004, Email: chainyg@sify.com ) : Effect of T₃ treatment on gluthione redox pool and its metabolizing enzymes in mitochondrial and post-mitochondrial fractions of adult rat testes. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(4), 338-46.

T₃ (3,3', 5-triiodo-L-thyronine; 20 μg/100 g body weight/day in 0.01 N NaOH, i.p for 1, 3 and 5 days) treatment modulated reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione contents along with the activities of its metabolizing enzymes (such as glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione S-transferase) in the testis of Wistar rats. However, the magnitude and nature of changes in the above biochemical parameters in response to T₃ treatment were noticed to be different between mitochondrial and post-rnitochondrial fractions. This was accompanied with elevated levels of lipid hydroperoxide and ascorbic acid in the crude homogenate of testis. The level of hydrogen peroxide in the post-mitochondrial fractions of testes did not change on first day, decreased on 3rd day and increased on 5th day of the hormone treatment when compared to respective controls. Nevertheless, its content in mitochondria was significantly elevated in response to all the three durations of the hormone treatment having the highest induction on 3rd day. The changes observed in the levels of GSH and GSSG and its metabolizing enzymes in response to T₃ treatment reflect an alteration in the redox state of testis, which may be a causative factor for the impairment of testicular physiology as a consequence of oxidative stress.

4 illus, 3 tables, 62 ref

013990   Roy R;Chandrasekhar D;Pujari P (Zoology Dep, Taleigao Plateau, Goa Univ, Goa-403 206, Email: rroy@unigoa.ac.in) : Dietry fish oil as hepatoprotective agent in Mus musculus. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(4), 367-70.

Administration of galactosamine in omega-3 polyunsatu-rated fatty acid (PUFA) supplemented mice resulted in lesser amount of damage in the liver tissue compared to the mice without prior supplementation of fish oil. Only 50% elevation in the plasma total bilirubin was detected in omega: 3 supplemented mice injected with galactosamine over those supplemented with omega-3 without galactosomine injection. The results suggest that very long chain omega-3 PUFA like eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid may act as preventive agent for hepatic cirrhosis in Mus musculus.

3 illus, 1 table, 43 ref

013989   Rose H S;Pooni H S;Pathania P C (Zoology Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala-147 002) : Taxonomic studies on the family Tortricidae (Tortricoidea: Lepidoptera) from North-West India: IV. Tribe olethreutini (Olethreutevae). Indian J Ent 2006, 67(3), 252-82.

Eighteen species belonging to fourteen genera viz., Antehermenias gen. nov., Emrahia Kofak, Bubonoxena Diakonoff, Dudua Walker, Sorolopha Lower, Apotomis Hiibner, Ophiorrhabda Diakonoff, Lobesia Guenee, Cyclacanthina Diakonoff, Statherotis Meyrick, Costosa Diakonoff, Temnolopha Lower, Neopotamia Diakonoff and Olethreute Hiibner belonging to the tribe Olethreutini (Olethreutinae) of the family Tortricidae have been collected from the North-West India and dealtwith taxonomically. Key to the presently examined genera has been prepared on the basis of characters such as the labial palpi, antennae, costal fold, anal fold, wing venation and male and female genitalic characteristics. Further, keys to the species of the genera such as Dudua Walker, Sorolopha Lower, Ophiorrhabda Diakonoff and Lobesia Guenee represented by more than one species have also been furnished. Three species i.e., Antehermenias meyricki, Neopotamia bisignata and Olethreutes diakonoffi have been reported as new to science. Genera Temnolopha Lower and Cydacanthina Diakonoff have been reported for the first time from India. The species viz., Emrahia acanthis (Meyrick), Bubonboxena ephipias (Meyrick), Dudua tetanota (Meyrick), Sorolopha herbifera (Meyrick), S. phyllochlora (Meyrick), Apotomis generosa (Meyrick), Ophiorrhabda cellifera (Meyrick), Lobesia (Lobesia) aeolopa (Meyrick), Lobesia (Lomaschiza) genialis Meyrick, Statherotis leucaspis. (Meyrick) and Costosa rhodanta (Meyrick) have been collected for the first time from the area, under reference. Besides giving an illustrated account of the new species, the genitalic account of already known species have been added to improve their diagnosis.

34 ref, 10 plates

013988   Rao P R T;Ghosh B;Moorthy S M;Sengupta A K; Roy G C;Das S K;Sen S K;Sarathchandra B (Silk Worm Breeding and Genetics Lab, Central Sericultural Res and Training Inst, Berhampore-742 101) : Utilization of bivoltine female parents for preparation of cross breeds of Bombyx mori L. for the tropics. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2006, 26(2), 185-92.

Performance of 25 hybrids involving 5 multivoltine and 5 bivoltine liens was studied to find out the nature and extent of hetreosis during May-June-the most adverse commercial season of Eastern India. Marked better and mid parent hetrosis was observed in most of the crosses for most of the commercial characters. Better hetrosis in absolute silk content, considered as yield, ranged from 2.67% to 140.47%. A total of 5out of 6 yield compnents viz. ERR NO. ERR Wt, SCW, SSW and filament length showed better parent heterosis in most of the crosses, while no appreciable heterosis could be noticed for fecundity and the best hybrid for commercial use followed by NB₁₈ x G, P₅ X CB₅, KS(O) x B and NB₁₈ x G. The merits of the study are also discussed.

4 tables, 22 ref

013987   Ramanujam M E (Pitchandikulam Bioresource Centre, , Auroville, Pondicherry-605 101, Email: tedf@auroville.org.in) : On the prey of the Indian eagle owl Bubo Bengalensis (Franklin, 1831) in and around Pondicherry, Southern India. Zoos Print J 2006, 21(5), 2231-2240.

Total of 2,467 prey items of the Indian eagle owl Bubo bengalensis were identified accounting for an estimated biomass (dry weight) of 1,35,575.37g in 35 months at four study sites. Mammals accounted for an estimated biomass of 86.93% of which rodents occupied pride of place with 64.91%. Tatera indica (24.96%), Rattus rattus (20.43%), Bandicota bengalensis (12.28%), Mus spp. (4.67%), Bandicota indica (2.34%) and Funambulus palmarum (0.15%)featured prominently among rodent food, but Millardia meltada (0.06%) was conspicuous by its near absence. Increased predation was noticeable only when young were present, but other than this no distinct statistical variations were discemable. Trapping exercises showed only marginal seasonal fluctuations in rodent population (the greatest monthly variation being 4.63% for Rattus rattus), and this was linked to the year round availability of plant food in the region. Another basic food was Lepus nigricollis (20.06%), though, at one study site free from poaching became rampant, it could have been the primary prey resource. Suncus murinus (1.36>)and chiroptera (0.58%) were the other mammal prey. Bird (8.28%) were the most important non-mammal food, followed by batrachians (2.75%), both of which showed distinct seasonal fluctuations. Varanus bengalensis (1.64%) and a single Amphiesma stolata were the reptiles consumed. Arthropods accounted for 0.34%, of which Coleoptera dominated with 0.24%. The venomous Heterometrus swammerdami and Scolopendra morsitans also formed part of the prey spectrum, albelt in negligible quantities (a combined biomass of 0.022%).

2 illus, 6 tables, 79 ref

013986   Rajgopalan A (NO, , B-206, Haritara Apartments, B.T. Road, Dahisar (W), Mumbai-400 068, Email: bluesea_cowries@yahoo.com) : New food plant of the great Eggfly (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae). J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 355.

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013985   Rahmathulla V K;Rajini Devi;Rajan R K;Vindhya G S;Himantharaj M T (NO, Centrla Sericultural Res and Training Inst, Mysore-570 008) : Food ingestion, digestion and conversion pattern of new bivoltine hybrid silkworm, Bombyx mori L.. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2006, 26(2), 135-41.

Nutritional and feed conversion efficiency parameters of newly evolved race (CSR16 x CSR17) were studied. Nutritional indices parameters like ingesta, digesta, approximate digestibility, reference ratio and consumption index were recorded significantly less in CSR16 x CSR17 when compared with control (CSR2 x CSR4). Nutritional efficiency parameters like efficiency of ingested and digested food into larvae, cocoon and shell were recorded significantly higher in CSR16 x CSR17 when compared with CSR16 x CSR17.

1 table, 27 ref

013984   Raghuram K P;Venkataraman K (NO, Marine Biological Station, Zoological Survey of India, 130, Santhome High Road, Chennai-600 028, Email: raghurambut@yahoo.com) : New record of Turbinaria patula (Dana, 1846) (Scleractinia, Dendrophylliidae) in Tuticorin, Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 360-1.

^ssc2 illus, 4 ref