009753   Kalaiarasan P;Lakshmanna P L;Samiyappan R (Department of Nematology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: kalainem@rediffmail.com) : Biotization of Pseudomonas fluorescens isolates in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) against root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne arenaria. Indian J Nematol 2006, 36(1), 1-5.

Pseudomonas fluorescens isolates viz. Pf₁, PfCBE, PfPOL and PfBSR were found to protect the groundnut from root knot nematode, Meloidogyne arenaria. Induction of peroxidase by Pseudomonas fluorescens isolates against challenge inoculation with M arenaria in groundnut was studied. The plant growth was significantly higher in all treatments with the bacterium. The isolate Pf₁ performed significantly superior to the other three isolates. The bacterial treatments also reduced the level of infestation by nematode. Higher level of peroxidase activity in bacterized groundnut inoculated with nematodes was observed. Isoform analysis revealed the induction of unique PO1 isoform and higher level of PO2 isoform in bacterized groundnut inoculated with nematodes. The nematode disease suppression ability of the bacterial isolates were related to its root colonizing ability.

2 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

009752   Godlevsky L S;Kobolev E V;Luijtelaar E L J M V;Coenen A M L;Stepanenko K I;Smirnov I V (Informatics and Medical devices, Department of Biophysics,, Medical University, Odessa, Valehovsky Lane 2, Ukraine, Email: godlevsky@udmu.od.ua) : Influence of transcranial magnetic stimulation on spike-wave discharges in a genetic model of absence epilepsy. Indian J expl Biol 2006, 44(12), 949-54.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) impulses, (0.5 Hz, 3 impulses) were presented at threshold intensity to male WAG/Rij rats. One group received stimuli, which involved motor responses of hindlimbs, rats of the second group received sham stimulation. Electrocorticograms (ECoG) were recorded before and up to 2 hr from the moment of transcranial magnetic stimulation. It was established that such stimulation engendered a reduction of spike-wave discharge (SWD) bursts duration. This effect was most pronounced in 30 min from the moment of cessation of stimulation, when a decrease of 31.4% was noted in comparison with sham-stimulated control group. The number of bursts of spike-wave discharges was reduced, but did not reach significant difference when compared both with pre-stimulative base-line level and with sham-stimulated control rats. Bursts of spike- wave discharges restored up to pre-stimulative level in 90-150 minutes from the moment of cessation of transcranial stimulation. It can be concluded that transcranical magnetic stimulation possessed an ability to engender short- time suppression of bursts of spike-wave discharges in WAG/Rij rats.

2 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

009751   Ghule B V;Ghante M H;Saoji A N;Yeole P G (NO, Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Borgaon (Meghe), Wardha-442 001, Email: baluudps@rediffmail.com) : Hypolipidemic and antihyperlipidemic effects of Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) fruit extracts. Indian J expl Biol 2006, 44(11), 905-9.

Bottle gourd [(Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Stand.] fruit is ascribed with many therapeutic effects. Explore the antihyperlipidemic effect of four different extracts viz. petroleum ether, chloroform, alcoholic and aqueous extracts from bottle gourd in Triton-induced hyperlipidemic rats and their hypolipidemic effects in normocholesteremic rats has been undertaken. The study is comprised preliminary phytochemical screening of the extracts. Oral administration of the extracts, at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight in rats, dose-dependently inhibited the total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins level, and significantly increased the high density lipoproteins level. However, petroleum ether extract did not show the significant effects. Both the chloroform and alcoholic extract exhibited more significant effects in lowering total cholesterol, triglycerides and low density lipoproteins along with increase in HDL as compared to the others. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, sterols, cucurbitacin saponins, polyphenolics, proteins, and carbohydrates. The results obtained suggest marked antihyperlipidemic and hypolipidemic activity of the extracts.

3 tables, 25 ref

009750   Ganguly S;Pandey J;Rathour K S (Division of Nematology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: sg_nema@yahoo.com) : Species-Specific enzyme phenotypes of Steinernema carpocapsae, S. glaseri and S. thermophilum (Nematoda: steinernematidae). Indian J Nematol 2006, 36(1), 48-53.

Esterase, catalase and superoxide dismutase isozymic profiles of infective juveniles of Steinerncma thermophilum (IARI-EPN1), S. carpocapsae (IARl-EPN-ami), and S. glaseri (IARI-EPN-up2) were resolved on polyacrylamide mini slab-gel electrophorcsis. Remarkable differences among the species were evident as each species exhibited a unique banding pattern based on their Rf values. Isozymic profiles of esterase exhibited two species-specific bands in S. thermophilum. S. carpocapsae and S. glaseri. located at Rf 0.48 and 0.53, 0.52 and 0.65. and 0.69 and 0.87, respectively. Isozymic profiles of catalase revealed species-specific four isozymic bands in S. thermophilum, one in S, carpocapsae and two in S. glaseri. Superoxide dismutase isozymic profiles also revealed species specific patterns for S. thermophilum (three bands), S. carpocapsae (three bands) and S. glaseri (one marked band). The combination of esterase, catalase and superoxide dismutase isozymjc profiles from infective juveniles can be useful for preliminary differentiation of three indigenous species of Steinernema.

3 illus, 18 ref

009749   Fernando P;Wikramanayake E D;Pastorini J (Centre for Conservation and Research, , Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka, Email: pruthu62@gmail.com) : Impact of tsunami on terrestrial ecosystems of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka. Curr Sci 2006, 90(11), 1531-4.

Yala National Park in southeast Sri Lanka, lay in the direct path of the December 2004 tsunami, hence afforded a rare opportunity to study tsunami impacts on a natural ecosystem. Authors surveyed the impacted area amd studied the damage caused to vegetation, early response of vegetation, and effects on animals. Tsunami incursion was patchym much of the coast being protected by sand dunes. Although impact on vegetation within inundated areas was intense, survival and resiliency of the flora were high. Recovery of vegetation well be rapid and mainly a process of regeneration rather than primary succession. Few large animals were impacted by the tsunami. The occurence of any major long-term effects on fauna is unlikely.

3 illus, 16 ref

009748   Eriyamremu G E;Adaikpoh M A;Otokiti I O; Amaechuna F C;Omofoma C O (Department of Biochemistry, University of Benin, P.M.B. 1154, Benin City, Nigeria, Email: geogeeriyamremu@yahoo.com) : Blood pressure and tissue ATPases in salt loaded rats given a supplement of Acalypha wilkensiana. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 459-64.

The effect of feeding 5% dried ground Acalypha wilkensiana leaves on blood pressure and tissue ATPases were studied in twenty-four rats in a study which lasted for 6 weeks. The rats were divided into three groups of 8 animals each. The control group received normal chow, one test group received the chow with 8% NaCl and other received the chow 8% NaCl and the ground leaves. Terminal blood pressures; heart, aorta, red blood cell (RBC), kidney and liver Na⁺/K⁺, Mg²⁺ and Ca²⁺ ATPases; kidney and liver enzymes of energy metabolism; plasma and urine Na⁺ and K⁺ levels were studied. The results of the study show that Acalypha wilkensiana inclusion in the diet of the rats significantly (P<60>0.05) increased urine output and also lowered weight gain. Acalypha wilkensiana significantly (P<60>0.05) reduced systolic pressure, pulse pressure and the mean arterial pressure of the salt loaded rats, but did not change the diastolic blood pressure. We also observed that salt loading of rats significantly (P<60>0.05) reduced Na⁺/K⁺ ATPases activity in the heart, aorta, kidney and liver and that the plant leaves restored the activity of the enzyme levels comparable to the control. The leaves of Acalypha wilkensiana also improved energy generation in the kidney which may support the improved ATPase activity. The study thus show that the effect of the leaves of Acalypha wilkensiana on Na⁺/K⁺ ATPases in some important tissues is one of the means by which it decreases systolic pressure which is desirable. As the plant did not affect diastolic pressure which is considered the most deleterious, its possible use as a potential blood pressure lowering agent can only be on a very short term.

5 tables, 27 ref

009747   Dzhambazov B;Mladenov R;Teneva I;Belkinova D (Department of Development Biology, Cell Biology Laboratory, University of Plovdiv, 24 Tsar Assen St., 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Email: Balik.Dzhambazov@med.lu.se) : Karyotypic differences and evolutionary tendencies of some species from the subgenus Obliquodesmus Mlad. of genus Scenedesmus Meyen (Chlorophyta, Chlorococcales). J Genet 2006, 85(1), 39-44.

Karyotype structures of Scenedesmus acuminatus (Lagerch.) Chod. and Scenedesmus pectinatus Meyen are compared. The karyotype of S. acuminatus (n = 5) is described for the first time. It reveals four large metacentric and one large submetacentric chromosomes (4M + 1SM). The established karyotype differences have been helpful in clarifying the taxonomic position of these two species. The cytological analyses of other related clonal cultures suggest an evolutionary transition from S. pectinatus towards S. regularis through S. pectinatus f. regularis, which correlates with the morphological data about their variability. These results are discussed from the cytogenetic, morphological and evolutionary point of view. On the basis of the karyotypic analysis, it was confirmed that from a taxonomic point of view S. pectinatus, S. acuminatus and S. regularis are separate biological species.

5 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

009746   Durrani U F;Khan M A;Khalid A (Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan, Email: ufdurrani@hotmail.com) : Study of anaesthetic efficacy of detomidine-ketamine cocktail in budgerigars. Zoos Print J 2006, 21(9), 2416-7.

7 ref

009745   Dhanachand C H;Romoni H;Pramodini M (Life Sciences Dep, Parasitology Laboratory, Manipur University, Canchipur-795 003) : Two new species of mononch (Nematoda: Mononchida) from soil around the rhizosphere of bamboo from Manipur. Indian J Nematol 2006, 36(1), 32-6.

Two new species of Mononchida, Actus conoidus n.sp. and Cobbonchus subcaudatus n.sp. are described and illustrated. Actus conoidus n.sp. was characterized by having L=1.21-1.39 mm; a = 31.1-36.2; b = 4.1-4.5; c = 20.4-23.8; V = 59.0-61.7; c' = 2.4-2.6; buccal cavity = 20.8-22.4x9.6-11.2 μm, and more number of sub ventral teeth. Cobbonchus subcaudatus n.sp. had L = 1.00-1.23 mm; a = 36.3-48.0; b = 2.8-3.3; c = 38.3-48.0; V=65.5-73.8; c' = 1.2-1.3 in females; and L= 1.21-1.37 mm; a = 40.0-47.8; b = 3.18-3.6; c = 36.2-43.0; T = 45.2-46.9; c' = 1.31-1.33 in males. C. subcaudatus n.sp. was distinct in having longer buccal cavity, higher position of dorsal tooth. longer tail and more number of supplements.

2 illus, 3 ref

009744   David J R;Legout H;Moreteau B (CNRS, Laboratoire Populations, Genetique et Evolution, , 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette cedex, France, Email: david@pge.cnrs-gif.fr) : Phenotypic plasticity of body size in a temperate population of Drosophila melanogaster: when the temperature-size rule does not apply. J Genet 2006, 85(1), 9-23.

Natural population of Drosophila melanogaster in southern France was sampled in three different years and 10 isofemale lines were investigated from each sample. Two size-related traits, wing and thorax length, were measured and the wing/thorax ratio was also calculated. Phenotypic plasticity was analysed after development at seven different constant temperatures, ranging from 12°C to 31°C. The three year samples exhibited similar reaction norms, suggesting a stable genetic architecture in the natural population. The whole sample (30 lines) was used to determine precisely the shape of each reaction norm, using a derivative analysis. The practical conclusion was that polynomial adjustments could be used in all cases, but with different degrees: linear for the wing/thorax ratio, quadratic for thorax length, and cubic for wing length. Both wing and thorax length exhibited concave reaction norms, with a maximum within the viable thermal range. The temperatures of the maxima were, however, quite different, around 15°C for the wing and 19.5°C for the thorax. Assuming that thorax length is a better estimate of body size, it is not possible to state that increasing the temperature results in monotonically decreasing size (the temperature-size rule), although this is often seen to be the case for genetic variations in latitudinal clines. The variability of the traits was investigated at two levels-within and between lines-and expressed as a coefficient of variation. The within-line (environmental) variability revealed a regular, quadratic convex reaction norm for the three traits, with a minimum around 21°C. This temperature of minimum variability may be considered as a physiological optimum, while extreme temperatures are stressful. The between-line (genetic) variability could also be adjusted to quadratic polynomials, but the curvature parameters were not significant. Results shows that the mean values of the traits and their variance are both plastic, but react in different ways along a temperature gradient. Extreme low or high temperatures decrease the size but increase the variability. These effects may be considered as a functional response to environmental stress.

9 illus, 9 tables, 66 ref

009743   Dabur K R;Taya A S (Department of Nematology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004) : Extracting efficiency of different versions of Baermann's funnel technique. Indian J Nematol 2006, 36(1), 128.

^ssc1 table, 1 ref

009742   Chauhan D K;Tiwari S P (Department of Botany, University of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002) : Morpho-cuticular study of Noeggerathiopsis palaeovittarioides sp. nov., from the early permian of Indian lower Gondwana. J Geol Soc India 2006, 67(6), 721-9.

New species of Noeggerathiopsis viz. N. paldeovittarioides has been described from Birsinghpur Pali coalfield, Madhya Pradesh, India. Its morphological and cuticular details are described which suggests that this species occupies an intermediate position between Noeggerathiopsis and Palaeovittaria and bridge the gap between Noeggerathiopsidales and Glossopteridales.

1 table, 32 ref, 3 plates

009741   Chattopadhyay A;Sarkar M;Biswas N M (Department of Physiology, Harimohan Ghose College, Gardenreach, Kolkata-700 024, Email: drnmbiswas@rediffmail.com) : Effect of gold on stimulation of reproductive function immature female albino rats. Indian J expl Biol 2006, 44(12), 971-5.

Significant increase in ovarian and uterine weight and stimulation of ovarian Δ-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (Δ⁵-3β-HSD) activity and elevation of serum estradiol level were observed following gold chloride (0.2 mg/kg body weight/day), sc administration in immature female albino rats. Moreover, normal cyclic changes of estrus were found in vaginal smears of these rats whereas the rats of other groups showed diestrus phase throughout the period of experiment. Histological study of ovary also showed Graafian follicle with ovum in rats treated with 0.2 mg/kg/day of gold proving stimulation of reproductive function, which was not found in the ovarian histological study of other groups including controls. Suggests a significant stimulatory effect of gold chloride on female reproductive activity in immature rats. Further, since the above-mentioned changes were evident at a specific dose of gold chloride, the data may have some clinical implications on stimulation and enhancement of fertility in immature female rats.

2 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

009740   Bandyopadhyay P K;Bhakta J N;Shukla R (Department of Zoology, Parasitology Laboratory, University of Kalyani, West Bengal, Email: prabir0432@hotmail.com) : New eimeria species (Protozoa: apicomplexa: sporozoea) from the blue rock pigeon Columba livia (Aves: columbidae). Zoos Print J 2006, 21(9), 2386-7.

A new species of Eimeria is described from the faeces of the Blue Rock Pigeon, Columba livia Gmelin, 1789. Sporulation is exogenous and fully developed oocysts are ellipsoidal, 24.3 μm x 19.8μm; the shape index (length/width ratio) is 1.2. The oocyst wall is smooth and bilayered. There is no micropyle or oocyst residuum, but a prominent spherical polar granule is present. Sporocysts are pyriform, 12.06 μm x 10.1 μm; the shape index is 1.2 μm. A large and prominent stieda body is present. The sporocyst residuum is present with numerous, nearly uniform granules. Sporozoites are banana-shaped lying lengthwise head to tail inside the sporocyst.

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

009739   Aruna S;Ranganath H A (Department of Studies in Zoology, Drosophila Stock Center, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: dronsrang@sancharnet.in) : Introgressive hybridization and evolution of a novel protein phenotype: glue protein profiles in the Nasuta-albomicans complex of Drosophila. J Genet 2006, 85(1), 25-30.

Glue proteins are tissue-specific proteins synthesized by larval salivary gland cells of Drosophila. In Drosophila nasuta nasuta and D. n. albomicans of the nasuta subgroup, the genes that encode the major glue protein fractions are X-linked. In the study, these X-linked markers have been employed to trace the pattern of introgression of D. n. nasuta and D. n. albomicans genomes with respect to the major glue protein fractions in their interracial hybrids, called cytoraces. These cytoraces have inherited the chromosomes of both parents and have been maintained in the laboratory for over 400-550 generations. The analysis has revealed that cytoraces with D. n. albomicans X chromosome show either D. n. nasuta pattern or a completely novel pattern of glue protein fractions. Further, quantitative analysis also shows lack of correlation between the chromosomal pattern of inheritance and overall quantity of the major glue protein fractions in the cytoraces. Thus, in cytoraces the parental chromosomes are not just differentially represented but there is evidence for introgression even at the gene level.

4 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

009738   Ansari M N;Bhandari U;Pillai K K (Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi-110 062, Email: uma_bora@hotmail.com) : Ethanolic Zingiber officinale R. extract pretreatment alleviates isoproterenol induced oxidative myocardial necrosis in rats. Indian J expl Biol 2006, 44(11), 892-7.

Ethanolic Z. officinale (ZO) extract (200 mg/kg) pretreatment for 20 days in isoproterenol.(ISO)-treated rats significantly increased the levels of endogenous myocardial antioxidants (catalase superoxide dismutase and tissue glutathione), decreased the levels of serum marker enzymes (lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, aspartate, transaminase and alanine transaminase) and increased myocardial lipid peroxides. Histological examination of rat's heart section confirmed myocardial injury with ISO administration and near normal pattern with ethanolic ZO extract pretreatment. The results of the study, for the first time, provide clear evidence that the ethanolic ZO extract pretreatment enhances the antioxidant defense against ISO-induced oxidative myocardial injury in rats and exhibit cardioprotective property.

1 illus, 3 tables, 42 ref

009737   Anoop Das K S (Division of Conservation Ecology, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, Anaikatti (PO), Coimbatore-641 108, Email: anoopsacon@gmail.com) : Record of Nasikabatrachus from the Northern Western Ghats. Zoos Print J 2006, 21(9), 2410.

1 illus, 9 ref

009736   Anitha P;Indira M (Department of Biochemistry, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581, Email: indiramadambath@yahoo.co.uk) : Impact of feeding ethanolic extract of root bark of Cananga odorata (Lam) on reproductive functions in male rats. Indian J expl Biol 2006, 44(12), 976-80.

The 50% ethanolic extract of the root bark of C. odorata administered orally at the dose of 1g/kg body weight/day for 60 days resulted in decreased epididymal sperm motility and sperm count in male albino rats. Morphological abnormalities were also observed in the sperms. The testicular glycogen. the activities of 3β hydroxy steroid dohydrogenase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, malic enzyme, sorbitol dehydrogenase in seminal vesicle, fructose in seminal plasma and serum testosterone were significantly decreased in treated group. While testicular cholesterol level, the concentration of the fecal bile acids, urinary excretion of 17 ketosteroids. the activities of 17β hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase, epididymal lactate dehydrogenase and that of testicular HMG CoA reductase were increased in treated group when compared to control. The results suggest that the ethanolic extract of C. odorata possesses the spermatotoxic effects in male albino rats.

5 tables, 26 ref

009735   Ambrose D P (Entomology Research Unit, St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Palayankottai, Tamil Nadu-627 002, Email: eruxavier@sancharnet.in) : Checklist of Indian assassin bugs (Insecta: Hemiptera: Reduviidae) with taxonomic status, distribution and diagnostic morphological characteristics. Zoos Print J 2006, 21(9), 2388-406.

A checklist of 464 Indian species of assassin bugs under 144 genera and 14 subfamilies with their taxonomical status, their distribution in India and world over and their morphological characteristics are given. Members of the Harpactorinae are the most abundant group with 146 species and 41 genera followed by the Reduviinae and the Ectrichodiinae. The subfamilies such as the Physoderinae and the Ectinoderinae are represented each by two and lone species. Other characteristics of the family Reduviidae discussed in this overview include the rostrum structure, tibial pads, habitat characteristics, microhabitats and habits. Morphological characteristics are correlated with ecological, behavioural and biological manifestations of the reduviids.

3 tables, 42 ref

009734   Abraham S K;Easa P S;Sivaram M (NO, , Areacode P.O., Malappuram District, Kerala, Email: easa@wti.org.in) : Status and distribution of Nilgiri Tahr Hemitragus hylocrius in Kerala part of the Western Ghats. Zoos Print J 2006, 21(9), 2379-85.

A survey of the threatened and endemic Nilgiri Tahr was conducted in the Western Ghats in Kerala to identify locations of distribution and to assess its status in 2001. Study reveals that the population of tahr in Kerala is highly fragmented. A total of 998 animals were estimated in 11 populations. The largest population of 696 individuals was in Eravikulam National Park. The habitat in Varayattu Mala in Neyyar is extensive and rich in food species, though the number sighted was low. The Kochu Pamba area in the fringes of the Periyar Tiger Reserve is a promising location in terms of vastness and lack of disturbance. The areas in Nelliampathi Hills are rich in terms of food abundance and extent of grasslands. However, human disturbance poses a major threat to these populations.

2 illus, 5 tables, 41 ref

008583   Solomon Raju A J;Purnachandra Rao S (Department of Environmental Sciences, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: ajsraju@yahoo.com) : Nesting habits, floral resources and foraging ecology of large carpenter bees (Xylocopa latipes and Xylocopa pubescens) in India. Curr Sci 2006, 90(9), 1210-17.

Information on nesting, floral resources, floral characteristics and foraging ecology of two large carpenter bee species, Xylocopa latipes and X. pubescens in India has been reviewed. The review suggests that Xylocopa bees in general and X, latipes and X. pubescens in particular utilize almost the same wood materials for nesting and floral resources for food. The bees are characteristically multivoltine, provided there are adequate floral resources throughout the year in a habitat. They are bivoltine in habitat, where there are inadequate floral resources. Female bees collect pollen and nectar for production of offspring and floral reward for their own maintenance; male bees collect only nectar. How-ever, the bees utilize a limited number of plant species, a few of which produce only pollen and all others both pollen and nectar.

^iia6 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

008582   Qasim S Z (Government of India and former Member (Science) Planning Commission, , ) : Bottom animal communities in some estuaries of India. J Indian ocean Stud 2006, 14(1), 70-8.

Bottom faunal communities of the estuaries of the west coast of India are relatively better studied than those of the east coast. The Ashtamudy Estuary of Kerala has a poor fauna. Polychaetes and bivalves predominantly form the larger faunal group. Among the 14 taxa of polychaetes, 6 species are the most common. Molluscs form the next largest group. Among these the bivalves are exploited commercially. Meiofauna is also poorly represented. Cochin Backwaters have a much richer fauna in the marine sector declining towards the regions diluted with freshwater. Benthic fauna of the Kali estuary of Karnataka includes fair representatives of molluscus and crustaceans during the season when salinity is high. In the Vellar estuary of Tamil Nadu, which is the fairly well-studied, forty seven species belonging to eight groups have been identified. Several bivalve species are exploited as food.

1 table, 18 ref

008581   Patel N G;Bhadane V V (Department of Zoology, P.G. and Research Centre, Pratap College, Amalner-425 401) : Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) extract induced feeding behaviour modification in the red cotton bug, Dysdercus koenigii (Fabr.) (Pyrrhocoridae: Hemiptera). Bioinfolet 2006, 3(3), 199-202.

Extracts of seed kernel, leaves and pericarp of neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss). were found to be insect feeding behaviour modifier. In case of red cotton bug, Dysdercus koenigii (Fabr.), it has been observed that even 0.5% seed kernel ethanol extract prevents the bug from feeding on cotton seeds and works as gustato repellant. The possible gustato repellant time in relation to different concentrations of different neem extracts has been studied and discussed in the light of available literature.

7 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

008580   Kulkarni A N;Bhowate C S;Kanwate V S (Post Graduate Department of Zoology and Fishery Science, Science College, Nanded-431 605) : Bird census in Nanded region (Maharashtra). Bioinfolet 2006, 3(3), 173-8.

Under the all India Wildlife Census Programme (2005) Forest Department of Nanded Division, has conducted a program of bird census in Nanded region, from 18.4.05 to 24.04.05. For this census programme, six stations were selected. Five stations were from Kinwat forest and one was Manaspuri Tank, Khandhar. Sixty Six species of birds belonging to 15 orders and 38 families were recorded. Out of them 54 were resident (R), 11 were local migrant (LM) and 2 were migrant (M). Details about the study stations, bird's observations are discussed in the text.

1 table, 12 ref

008579   Kler T K (Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana) : Avifaunal diversity in the different areas of Ludhiana city. Pestology 2006, 30(7), 35-9.

Avifaunal survey was carried out in different areas of Ludhiana city by direct observations between November 2003 and December 2004. The study area was categorized into four ecologically different biotopes like urban parks, residential lanes, religious and market places. A total of 29 species belonging to 7 orders and 15 families were recorded. Some bird species like Columba livia, Corvus splendens, Acridotheres tristis, Sturnus contra, A. ginginianus and Streptopelia decaocto were noted to dominate the avian landscape and were on the top level of urbanization. The study showed that the urban parks and residential lanes with kitchen gardens/lawns were ecologically rich biotopes with richness of avifauna while religious places and market areas had poverty in ornithofauna. The former biotopes seemed to have outstanding role in the conservation and development of urban ornithocenose.

1 table, 14 ref

008578   Gautam V;Shrivastava V K (Department of Biosciences, Endocrinology Unit, Barkatullah University, Bhopal-426 026, Email: vinoyks2001@yahoo.com) : Dichlorovos induced changes in enzyme activities in testis and adrenal glands of male Mus musculus (P). J Biosci, Bangalore 2006, 1(1), 4-5.

Fifteen sexually mature male mice Mus musculus weighing 30 ± 5 grams were exposed with dichlorovos (1ppm) for 15 and 30 days and their enzyme activities i.e. ACP and ALP were estimated in testis and adrenal glands. Dichlorovos increased the ACP and ALP activities in testis and adrenal glands after 15 and 30 days when compared with control group. The significant values were noticed only in adrenal gland as compared to testis. These observations suggests that dichlorovos alters the functional activities of testis and adrenal glands of Mus musculus, by interfering metabolic activities and protein synthesis.

2 tables, 14 ref

008577   Arya R;Lakhotia S C (Zoology Dep, Cytogenetics Laboratory, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, Email: lakhotia@bhu.ac.in) : A simple nail polish imprint technique for examination of external morphology of Drosophila eyes. Curr Sci 2006, 90(9), 1179-80.

1 illus, 5 ref

007651   Thenmozhi K;Ramaswamy G (Dep of Zool, A.V.C. Coll (Autonomous) Mannampandal, Mayiladuthurai-609 305) : Effect of phosphamidon on serum protein of the Indian skipper frog Rana Cyanophlyctis. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2006, 16(2), 171-4.

Serum protein level was estimated in Phosphamidon administered Rana cyanophlyctis. It was 3.5 g/100 ml in control, which decreased to 3.3 and 2.4 g/100 ml at sublethal (LC₅₀) and median lethal dose (LC₅₀) whereas the serum protein content of R. cyanophlyctis was 2.3 g/100 ml at LC₅₀ condition. The toxic compounds of the pesticide act as one of the stress factors to the frogs and the organism responded to it by developing necessary potential to counteract that stress and protein replication.

1 table, 18 ref

007650   Sujay Kumar G;Reddy M H;Reddy M S (Dep of Zool Div of Aquacult, S.V. Univ P.G. Cent, Kavali-524 201) : Biological evaluation and utilization of lipid classes of locally available ingredients by penaeid prawn Penaeus monodon. J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 217-24.

Apparent digestibilities of total lipid, lipid classes and individual fatty acids in the residual lipids from locally available ingredients fish, prawn, fish liver, squid and soybean meal were determined to assess the nutritive value of these ingredients to penaeid prawn Penaeus monodon. Reference diet and other diets with locally available ingredients incorporated at 15% level with chronic oxide as the inert marker was biologically evaluated. The variability in the apparent digestibility coefficients for different lipid classes may be attributed to the differential processing stages of these ingredients during feed formulation studies.

6 tables, 26 ref

007649   Suhasini N;Lokanatha V;Sahitya C P;Rajendra W (Div of Molec biology Dep of Zool, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati-517 502) : Alterations in the protein catabolism and transamination pattern in the rat liver on repeated hexaclorophene treatment. Toxic int 2006, 13(1), 33-8.

Effect of Hexachlorophene (HCP) on protein profiles, protease activity, free amino acid content, and transmination pattern in rat liver were studied during the sublethal (18 mg/kg^-1/day^-1) and paralytic (60 mg/kg^-1/day) dose of HCP. The effect of HCP was assessed on the basis of biochemical profile of proteins (total, sucrose soluble and insoluble), protease activity (acid, alkaline and neutral), free amino acids (FAA) and aspartate (AAT), alanine (ALAT), leucine (LAT), isoleucine (ILAT) and valine(VAT) arninotransferases. Exposure to hexachlorophene by gavage (oral administration) for 7 days showed degradation in the protein profiles due to elevation in the activity levels of proteases, and subsequent elevation in the free amino acid content, and activity of aminotransferases.

3 tables, 26 ref

007648   Sisodia S;Singh B N (Genet Lab Dep of Zool, Hindu Univ, Varanasi 221 005) : Behaviour genetics of Drosophila: Non sexual behaviour. J Genet 2005, 84(2), 195-216.

Analysis of genetic behaviour within and between species provides important clues about the forces shaping the evolution of behavioural genes. Genes can affect natural behaviour variation in different ways. Allelic variation causes alternative behavioural phenotypes, whereas changes in ene expression can influence the initiation of behaviour at different ages. Identifying the genes involved ion polygenic traits has been difficult. Chromosomal analysis has been widely used as a first step in elucidating the genetic architecture of several behaviours of Drosophila. Behavioural genetic and molecular studies helped to reveal the genetic basis of circadian time keeping and rhythmic behaviours. In Drosophila, a number of key processes such as emergence from the pupal case, locomotor activity, feeding, olfaction and aspects of mating behaviour are under circadian regulation. Evolutionary biology considers migration behaviour as central in genetic structure of populations and speciation. Genetic loci that influence behaviour are often difficult to identify and localise in part due to the quantitative naturre of behavioural phenotypes. Diapause is a hormonally mediated delayed response to future adverse conditions and can occur at any stage of development in an insect. Diapause associated gene expression was studied in Drosophila using subtractive hybridisation. Several approaches have been made to unravel the genetic complexity of the behaviour, which have provided information that may be useful in differeny ways. There is evidence that species do differ in genetic architecture of photoresponse and this may be related to their natural environment. The classical experiments by Jerry Hirsh and Th. Dobzhansky to know the nature of genetic basis for extreme selected geotactic behaviour in fruit flies constituted the first attempt at the genetic dissection of complex, polygenic behaviour. Understanding the genetic differences between these selected lines would provide an important point of entry into the study of genetic mechanisms of sensing and responding to gravity, as well as clues to the origins of genetic flexibility and plasticity in an organism's response.

^iia222 ref

007647   Singh S C (P.G. Dep of Zool, A.N.S. Coll, Barh-803 213) : Potential of using neem bark powder (NEP) for the control of pulse beetle infesting stored khesari (Lathyrus sativus) seeds. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2006, 16(2), 197-9.

Traditionally extracted neem bark powder (NBP) was assessed as protectant of Khesari seeds against pulse beetle Collosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleopetera, Bruchidae), a serious pest of stored grain legumes. The test compound at different doses was effective in reducing the grain damage by mixing the seed at the rate of 0.5 to 2 g/100 g seed. These studies suggested that neem bark power (NBP) is pest effective, safer to use, economically viable and acceptable by the farmers.

^ssc 1 table, 5 ref

007646   Sindhe S C S;Indira Pala;Butchiram M S (Dep of Zool, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantapur-515 003) : Ziram induced histological changes in the liver of freshwater fish, Labeo rohita (Hamilton). J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 239-42.

Histopathological changes were observed in the liver of

2 illus, 25 ref

007645   Shivanikar S V;Thombare R D;Sakle J J;Vaidya D P;Shendge S R (Dep of Envir Sci, N.S.B. Coll, Nanded-431 602) : Studies on snakes of Chalisgoan, district Jalgaon, Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 93-5.

Snakes found in the region of Chalisgoan were studied. Species wise concentration was estimated to predict proportion of particular snake species. Common Indian Cobra (Naja naja) among poisonous and Common Wolf Snake (Lycodon aulicus) among non-poisonous category was found predominant.

2 tables, 3 ref

007644   Shingadia Hitesh U;Sakthivel V (Dep of Zool, S.V.K.M's Mithibai Coll, Vile Parle-West, Mumbai-400 056) : Effects of sublethal concentrations of detergent 'wheel' on tissue proteins in different body parts of common freshwater edible bivalve, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamarck). J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 163-7.

Detergents are non-soap preparations intended for washing clothes & cleansing vessels. These are rampantly used in various domestic chores & industrial cleansing processes. Detergents make their way into the aquatic ecosystem via domestic sewage when it leaches into the soil & ultimately reaches the freshwater ecosystems like rivers, ponds, lakes & streams. The effects of commonly used detergent 'Wheel' on protein contents in tissues like mantle, foot, gills, hepatopancreas & gonads of edible variety of pelecypod mollusk, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamarck). Preliminary short-term (24-96hrs.) range finding or screening tests were carried out to find, the range of dilutions causing 0 to 100% mortality. Based on this range the concentration selected were 200 ppm, 133 ppm & 100 ppm, which were 1/4th, 1/6th & 1/8th values of LC₅₀ at 24hrs test period, namely 800 ppm. The estimation of proteins at the end of the treatment period of 48 & 96 hrs. show significant changes (depletion) in the vital tissues like gills, hepatopancreas, gonads, mantle & foot as compared to the values of the control group of animals. The gills & hepatopancreas suffered the greatest damage followed by gonads, mantle & foot.

1 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

007643   Shilpa M C;Ranganath H A (Drosophila Stock Cent Dep of Stud in Zool, Univ of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: drosrang@sancharnet.in) : Evolution of new karyotypic races by interracial hybridization of different strains of D.N.nasuta (Kenya and Seychelles) and D.N. albomicans (Japan and Thailand). J Cytol Genet 2005, 6(NS)2, 79-95.

Interracial hybridization between different geographic strains of D.n. nasuta (Kenya and Seychelles) and D.n. albomicans (Japan and Thailand) lead to eight hybrid lines. Out of eight hybrid lines, in five hybrid lineages karyotypic mosaicism was lost and such lines with stable karyotypes were termed as Cytoraces. In continuation of earlier hybridization experiments, these new lines were named as Cytorace 26 to Cytorace 30. In the newly evolved Cytoraces, not only the dot chromosomes but even the sex chromosomes of D.n.albomicans have selective advantage to those of D.n. nasuta. The strategies involved in the evolution of new karyotypes have been discussed.

3 illus, 4 tables, 45 ref

007642   Selvasundari C J;Perumal N V (P.G. Dep of Zool, T.B.M.L. Coll, Porayar-609 307) : Studies on toxicological effects of monocrotophos in the tissues of fresh water fish, Cirrhinus mrigala. J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 176-8.

Sublethal effects of commercial grade organophosphorous pesticide Monocrotophos on carbohydrate metabolism was studied in selected organs of Cirrhinus mrigala for 24, 120 and 168 hours. A significant decrease was observed in all the tissues. The effects and the dosage was found to be directly proportional.

1 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

007641   Selvarani D;Juskar P K (Dep of Zool, Pope's Coll, Sawyerpuram-628 251) : Colour development in red oscar, Astronotus ocelatus using brine shrimp, Artemia salina. J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 198-201.

Forty five days old juvenile fish Oscar Astronotus ocelatus coloured black and white weighing approximately 4 gms were fed with brine shrimp Anemia salina for 90 days. The red colouration appeared on the 60th day of feeding and increased gradually. On the 90th day the pigmentation and weight had increased from 28% and 4.11g to 82.11% and 8.42 g respectively thereby proving Artemia salina to be a cheap source of carotenoids and protein.

1 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

007640   Satyaparameshwar K;Ravinder Reddy T;Vijaya Kumar N (Dep of Zool, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009, Email: nalamvijayakumar@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of chromium on protein metabolism of fresh water mussel, Lamellidens marginalis. J envir Biol 2006, 27(2), 401-3.

Effect of sub-lethal concentration of chromium was studied on the protein metabolism in adductor muscle, gill and mantle tissues of fresh water mussel, Lamellidens marginalis. Total proteins and RNA showed a decrease while free amino acids and protease activity showed an increase. Alanine and Aspartate aminotransferase activities showed an increase, while GDH activity showed a decrease. It may be suggested that the proteins are degraded and the amino acids are incorporated into TCA cycle to augment the energy needs of the organism due to chromium toxicity.

2 tables, 17 ref

007639   Sakthivel V (Dep of Zool, S.V.K.M.'S Mithibai Coll, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai-400 056) : Effect of organophosphate pesticide dimecron on brain acetyl cholinesterase activity of mosquito fish Gambusia affinis baird and Girard. J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 158-62.

Long use of organochlorines has taken the toll of nature and it is extremely difficult to get rid of these harmful compounds from environment even after its use was banned in 1970. Considering the higher rate of bio-degrdation, organophosphate and carbamate compounds were preferred over organochlorines and are in wide use today. All vertebrates are cholinergic. In cholinergic animal systems the enzyme acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) plays the most important role in the transmission of nerve impulse. One of the reasons why organophosphate and carbamate compounds were advocated as pest control agents because of their selective inhibitory action on AChE. Effects of chronic exposure to sub lethal concentrations of dimecron on the activity of acetyl cholinesterase in the brain tissue of mosquito fish Gambusia affinis was studied over a period of thirty days. There was a steady decrease or inhibition in the activity of the enzyme assayed at the end of 7, 14, 21, and 30 days. AChE is a membrane bound enzyme, which is specially inhibited following bio-molecular rate kinetics by pesticides such as organophosphates and carbamates. Inhibition of AChE is considered as a significant parameter to assess complex toxicogenetic effects Olsen and Christensen (1980). Carbofuran exposure to Channa punctatus and Anabas testudineus effected dose dependent decline of brain AChE activity accompanied by Ach accumulation in the brain Josh et. al.1982.

1 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

007638   Saha T K (Zool Dep, Annada Coll, Hazaribag-825 301) : Interspecific association and covariation among net-zooplankton in some ponds of coal mining areas of Jharkhand. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2006, 5(2), 165-72.

Interspecific association and covariation among 27 zooplankton species found in ten ponds situated in the five coal mining areas of Jharkhand has been presented. Although on the basis of presence and absence data many significant associations have been detected but on the basis of abundance data only eight positive significant results have been found. Habitat similarity index was determined by Chord distance and result shows that the adjacent water bodies have more similarities in terms of zooplankton diversity.

2 illus, 5 tables, 11 ref

007637   Ramalingam K;Vijayalakshmi V;Satyaprema V A (PG and Res Dep of Zool, Govt Arts Coll, Nandanam, Chennai-600 056, Email: drkrimmunotoxicol@yahoo.co.in) : Ascorbic acid levels in the proglottides of cestode parasite Avitellina lahorea (Woodland, 1972) and host serum (sheep) in relation to their sexual maturity. J envir Biol 2006, 27(2), 459-60.

Ascorbic acid level was highest in immature proglottides and lowest in gravid proglottides of Avitellina lahorea, the gut parasite of sheep. The ascorbic acid content in all the regions of the parasite viz., immature, mature and gravid taken together remained higher to the value of the host serum. The above gradient between the parasite and the host serum interface suggested its active uptake on the part of the parasite.

1 table, 17 ref

007636   Punzo F;Parker M (Dep of Biol, Box 5F Univ of Tampa, Tampa, Florida, 33606, USA, Email: fpunzo@ut.edu) : Use of tactile cues by Notiosorex crawfordi (Insectivora) in response to topographical features in the environment. J envir Biol 2006, 27(2), 335-9.

Ability of males of the gray shrew, Notiosorex crawfordi to use tactile cues to detect and respond to changes in topographical features of their environment has been conducted. The animals were videotaped, digitized, and analyzed through video recordings. All subjects showed habituation (decrease in distance traveled) to arena conditions, followed by dishabituation when positions of the blocks were changed. Intact (INT) and sham controls (SHC) shrews traveled significantly greater distances and showed higher exploration velocities as compared to animals with shaved vibrissae (SHV). Results provide empirical evidence that N. crawfordi can effectively use tactile cues to detect and respond to changes in its environment.

1 illus, 30 ref

007635   Pradhan P;Giri S;Chakraborty S K (Dep of Zool, Vidyasagar Univ, Midnapore-721 102) : Ecological gradients determining the density and diversity of rotifera in a fresh water river system of South West Bengal, India. J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 19-28.

Rotifera, the microscopic animals, are found to inhabit mostly in fresh water and are characterized by the presence of an anterior wheel like rotating structure, called "Corona". Rotiferan communities show considerable temporal and spatial variation with regard to species diversity and density. Species composition, abundance and distribution of different species of rotiferan communities have been found to be influenced by a number of physicochemical and biological factors like temperature, pH, alkalinity, hardness, conductivity, total dissolved solid, total suspended solid, dissolved oxygen, chemical oxygen demand, biological oxygen demand and nutrient contents. Besides, current of water, intra and inter-specific competition have also been found to greatly influence the species composition of this zooplankton community. The study was undertaken to study the role of different ecological parameters determining the population dynamics of rotifers from six study sites representing two zones in a major river of South West Bengal, India viz Shilabati during the period of July 2001 to June 2003. It has been observed that the population density was maximum during the pre-monsoon season followed by post monsoon and monsoon. Out of different ecological parameters, temperature, pH, alkalinity, total hardness, conductivity, total dissolved solid, chemical oxygen demand and biological oxygen demand displayed positive correlation while other such parameters showed negative correlation with rotifer population. ANOVA analysis revealed a significant variation in between different months but insignificant variation between different study sites.

1 illus, 7 tables, 14 ref

007634   Patole S S;Mahajan R T (Dep of Zoologym S.G. Patil, Arts, Commerce and Science College, Sakri-424 304) : Ichthyotoxic activity of some indigenous plants against fish: Lepidocephalichthys guntea (Ham-Buch). J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 168-72.

Laboratory evaluation of aqueous extracts of some indigenous plants belonging to different families against fresh water fish Lepidocephalichthys guntea (Ham-Buch) has been carried out. Among the 50 plants evaluated for ichthyotoxic study by static bioassay method, 12 of them viz: Acacia concinna DC, Acorus calamus Linn, Angallis arvesis Linn, Balanites roxburghii Planch, Cestrum nocturnum Linn, Cestrum diurnum Linn, Duranta rapens Linn, Nicotiana tabecum Linn, Randia dumetorum Lamk, Sapindus trifoliatus Linn Sphaeranthus indicus Linn and Tephrosia purpurea Pers etc showed very high potentiality whereas 16 plants showed moderate activity and remaining 22 plants were ineffective. It was found that indigenous plants those contain the active ingredients like saponin, alkaloid and rotenone showed potent ichthyotoxicity. The toxic effect of aqueous extract of indigenous plant was time as well as dose dependent. Reaction resulted by aqueous extract of these plants were noted carefully during exposure and found to be more or less similar to the members of a particular family. Utility of these plants may be applied by fisherman and in fish nurseries to remove notorious fishes.

1 table, 26 ref

007633   Panat A V;Chaudhari S V (NO, , ) : Cytolytic antiprotozoanal effect of the decaphytogenic decoction on the fresh water ciliate Paramecium caudatum (Ehrenberg)-A preliminary investigation. J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 188-92.

Effect of a decaphytogenic decoction was tested on the P. caudatum (Ehrenberg) at various concentration levels. It shows cytolytic effect which is termed as Vikashee' i.e. cell and tissue distructant in Ayurveda. At 10 and 20% concentrations no effect was observed. At 50% concentration most of the animalcules died. The decoction concentration at <62>70% was found to be completely lethal.

1 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

007632   Padmavathi G;Prema Kumari R (Dep of Zool, Sardar Patel Coll, Secunderabad) : Pyruvate sparing-probable strategy to mitigate starvation stress in climbing perch, Anabas testudineus (Bloch). J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 151-4.

Ascertains the role of pyruvate as important gluconeogenic precurssor during starvation in Anabas testudineus has been investigated. Pyruvate concentration during both shorterm and longterm starvation was estimated in various tissues. All the tissues like Liver, Kidney, Brain, Accessory Respiratory Organ, Muscle - Pectoral and Lateraline, showed an upheveal in pyruvate levels during shorterm fasting. On the other hand the longterm food deprivation showed a decrease in tissues like Liver and Accessory Respiratory Organ, where as other tissues i.e. Kidney, Brain and Muscle (Pectoral and Lateraline) showed an elevation.

3 illus, 22 ref

007631   Padmavathi G;Prema Kumari R (Dep of Zool, Sardar Patel Coll, Secunderabad) : Impact of starvation on total tissue lipid content in climbing perch, Anabas testudineus (Bloch). J Aquatic Biol 2006, 21(1), 147-50.

Starvation is a natural phenomenon in fishes during spawning migration. The study is aimed to asses the utilization of lipid during long-term and short term food deprivation in Anabas testudineus. Six tissues have been selected for the study ie. Liver, Kindey, Brain, Accessory respiratory organ and Pectoral and Lateralline muscle. Total tissue lipid was estimated in all the tissues. The study showed a significant decline in the total tissue lipid content in all the tissues, but for the muscle during longterm starvation, which showed an increase.

3 illus, 16 ref

007630   Oyewo E O;Pedro K N D (NO, Niger Inst for Oceanography and Mar Res (NIOMR), Victoria Island P.M.B. 12729, Lagos, Nigeria, Email: oyewo2000@yahoo.co.uk) : Acute toxicity and induced weight changes in laboratory tests with Mn and Cu against Tilapia guineensis (Dumeril) and Tympanotonus fuscatus (Linne). J envir Biol 2006, 27(2), 327-34.

Acute toxicity of Mn and Cu against Tilapia guineensis and Tympanotonus fuscatus and the sub-lethal effects of the metals on weight changes were investigated in laboratory experiments employing standard bioassay techniques. Based on 96 hr LC₅₀ values, copper was more toxic than manganese to either test animal by several orders of magnitude. Against either test metal, T. guineensis was remarkably more susceptible than T. fuscatus. At sub-lethal concentrations, particularly the two highest concentrations tested (0.016 and 0.03 mg Cu l^-1, 23.0 and 46.0 mg Mn l^-1), both metals adversely affected the test species by bringing about reduced weight gains or weight loss in exposed animals compared to untreated controls at the end of the test periods. The implications of these findings for ecosystem viability and management are discussed.

2 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

007629   Neetu;Chaudhry S (NO, Dev Samaj Coll for Women, Firozpur City-152 002) : RAPD-PCR based genetic relatedness among four malaria vector species of the genus Anopheles (Culicidae:Diptera). J Cytol Genet 2005, 6(NS)2, 147-54.

Majority of the malaria vectors in the genus Anopheles exist in the form of species complexes whose members are morphologically similar but reproductively isolated. the presence of sibling species has created major obstacles in distinguishing the exact taxonomic status of vector populations of species from their non-vector populations. The introduction of the technique of polymerase chain reaction (PCR), especially the randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD-PCR) has actually revolutionized the genomic characterization of species and their populations as it provides more accurate results of genetic relatedness. The paper deals with the molecular genetic investigations on laboratory populations of an. stephensi type form, An. fluviatilis sibling species T and An. culicifacies sibling species A, B & C and a wild population of An. subpictus sibling species A by using the technique of RAPD-PCR. The amplification reactions of the extracted DNA were performed using three random 10-base oligomers with following codes and sequence of nucleotides: 10JB:5'-ACCGCGAAAG-3', 11JB:5'-GTCCCGACGA-3', 12JB:5'-TGATCCCTGG-3'. The DNA bands in the gels were visualized and photographed over UV transilluminator. Further, the presence/absence of the bands in each pattern was recorded and the data thus obtained was used to calculate the pairwise distances between the samples. Distance matrix formed the raw data for the generation of "Neighbour Joining tree" by using computer based RAPDistance program. In a distance matrix based Neighbour joining tree, the members of the An. culicifacies complex and An. fluviatilis T formed one cluster while those of An. stephensi type form and An. subpictus A formed another cluster. Among the members of An. culicifacies complex, An. culicifacies B and C were more close to each other as compared to A.

2 illus, 44 ref