004782   Chavda D;Bhatt S;Sreepada R A;Sheth A (Zoology Laboratory, B.R. Doshi School of Biosciences, Bakrol Vadtal Road, Satellite Campus, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120) : Pathogenicity of myxobolus infection ad its effect on protein expression in Catla catla in central Gujarat region. J Cell Tissue Res 2010, 10(1), 2157-64.

Aquaculture of Major Carps (IMCs) has increased in India during the recent years. Myxobolus infection in fish Catla catla was detected during December 2007-February 2008 in a pond in central Gujarat (India) during the monitoring of hygienic conditions of carp culture. Infected catla exhibited hemorrhage condition with necrotic patches on the body, lethargic condition and enlargement of spleen. Myxozoan parasites were detected in gill and muscle. Gills showed the formation of round to elliptical cyst in secondary lamella measuring 37 to 39 um widths and 41 to 43 μm lengths. Hyperplasia and necrotic changes in epithelia and in connective tissues of gills were observed. In the muscles, the spores were seen along the myoseptal boundaries as well as in the connective tissues along with the destruction and necrosis of myofibril and of connective tissues. The histology of spleen indicated the influence of infection resulting the damage in cell structure and connective tissues. Thepolyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) of protein from infected fishes showed the newly expressed proteins viz., 68 kDa protein in gill and muscles; and 107 kDa and 122 kDa proteins in spleen. Hematological analysis showed the destruction of blood cells and presence of microscopic organisms. Anthropogenic activities in the pond, feeding behavior of fishes and very close contact of spores with fishes appear to be responsible for myxobolus infection in catla.

6 illus, 21 ref

004781   Bhagat P;Gupta R;Gupta P K (Zoology Dep, Kumaun Univ, D.S.B Campus, Nainital-263 002) : Distribution, composition and seasonal abundance of phytoplankton community in lake Naukuchiyatal, Uttarakhand, India. J Ecophysiol occup Hlth 2009, (3-4), 171-82.

Forty seven taxa of phytoplankton belonging to 6 taxonomic groups were collected from the lake during two years of the study. Synedra ulna, Synedra sp., Peridinium sp., Microcystis aeruginosa, Navicula sp., Amphora ova/is, Tabellaria fenestrata, Chlorococcum humicola, Ankistrodesmus falcatus were important with regard to their frequency of occurrence. Based on two years mean, community abundance of phytoplankton was 5.5x10⁵ cells/1. The group Bacillariophyceae was the most dominant group followed by Cyanophyceae and Chlorophyceae in terms of number. The two years average gross primary production (across months and depths) was 213 g C/m²/y while the community respiration was113 g C/m²/y. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index ranged from 1.16 to 3.48 while the concentration of dominance varied from 0.03 to 0.61.

15 illus, 4 tables, 40 ref

004780   Amutha Jaisheeba A;Sornaraj R;Ranjit Singh A J A (Research of Zoology Dep, Kamaraj College, Thoothukudi-628 003) : Impact of food ration size on biochemical constituents of the oramental fish, Etroplus suratensis. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2009, 19(2), 101-11.

Growth performance of an ornamental fish. Eiroplux stinitensix was assessed in relation to the quantum of feed provided, (Anemia) in different quantities after assessing the maximum intake of Artcmia by a fish in a day. Protein content decreased when the feed amount was decreased. At 100% feed, the protein content was 7.2 and 12.8 in muscle and liver and at 75% feed ration, the decrease in protein content in muscle and liver were 27.3% and 18.8%. At 25% feed ration, protein level decreased to a greater extent (47% in muscles & 41.1% in liver). Like protein, carbohydrate and fat in the liver and muscle of E. suratensis also showed a declining trend in relation to the feed consumed by the candidate species. The study concludes that low ration (25 and 50%) fed fishes showed poor proximate composition of their body tissues compared to higher ration led groups and the study also suggests 75% of food is enough for the normal growth performance of the candidate species.

7 Tables, 27 ref

004779   Abbas A (NO, K.N.P.G. College, Gyanpur, St. Ravidas Nagar, Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh, Email: ashraf.abbasl514@rediffmail.com) : Food and feeding habits of freshwater catfish, Eutropiichthys vacha (Bleeker). Indian J scient Res 0000, 1(2), 83-6.

The freshwater catfish Eutropiichthys vacha, is highly predaceous in nature. Feeding intensity with respect to season, maturity stages and food items of this fish were investigated. There was no major shift from the carni-omnivorous orientation of the fish during its various life stages. Aquatic insects, crustaceans, annelids, small forage fish were the main food of adult fish. While Phytoplanktons (Blue green algue, diatoms and desmids) and crustaceans and macrophytes constitute basic food of juveniles. Feeding intensity was high in early maturation and post spawning stages and was relatively lower in the specimens with ripe gonads. Adult consumed more food in autumn than in winter and raining season. Food intake in younger specimens was greater during mansoon and post mansoon season, well developed dentation, strongly built stomach and short intestine besides other characteristics are related to its dietary habits.

023582   Verma P (Dep of Zoology, College of Science, M.L.S.University, Udaipur-313 001, Email: priyankaverma_ra@rediffmail.com) : Solid waste management through vermicomposting by using indigenous earthworm species. J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 93-125.

With present extensive survey of earthworm species (Oligochaeta) from Udaipur (a city of lakes of Rajasthan) covering various different habitat shows existences of twelve species of earthworms namely: Perionyx excavatus, Perionyx sansibaricus, Metaphire posthuma, Polypheretima elongata, Amynthas morrisi (Family : Megascolecidae) Dichogaster bolaui, Dichogaster affinis, Octochaetona beatrix, Eutyphoeus waltoni, Ramiella bishambari (Family : Octochaetidae) Pontoscolex corethruru (Family : Glossoscolecidae) Ocnerodrilus occidentalis (Family: Ocnerodrilidae). Out of the above identified species P. excavatus, P. elongata and D. affinis were reported for the first time from Rajasthan whereas five species P. sansibaricus, P. corethrurus, D. bolaui, R. bishambari and o. occidentalis were reported first time from Udaipur. Among all the identified species D. bolaui, P.excavatus, P. elongata and P. sansibaricus have shown very good adaptability for vermicomposting technology. They have shown fast growth and able highly efficient in degrading different wastes. It will be also helpful in solid waste management besides proving easy and cheaper source of vermicomposting for the organic farming. Since Eisenia foetida and Eudrilus eugeniae are exotic species which are not freely available to the farmer and cost effective too. Hence the investigation is an attempt to find out some suitable indigenous earthworm species in and around Udaipur and their potential role in vermicomposting.

3 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

023581   Suryanarayana G;Awasthi J K;Sharma D K; Awasthi M (Dep of Biology, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Jaffaerpur, New Delhi, Email: dr_ds2004@rediffmail.com) : Effect of an organophosphorus insecticide-quinalphos on the haematology of myna, Acridotheres ginginianus (Latham). J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 125-33.

Organophosphorus insecticides are the widely used pesticides. The present study was carried out to study the effect of an organophosphorus insecticide-quinalphos on certain blook parameters of Acridotheres ginginianus. The mynas were subjected to lower sub lethal dose of quinalphos (0.605mg/kg) on alternate days for 15, 30, 60, 90 days to study the chronic toxicity effect. The study revealed that quinalphos caused shrinkage and elongation of the the erythorocytes in myna. Gradual decrease in TEC has been observed with the increase in the duration of treatment. Haemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume (PCV) were also found to be decreased in the toxicated birds. The study indicates that chronic treatment of quinalphos caused a state of microcytic and normochromic anemia in mynas.

3 tables, 34 ref

023580   Sreejith P;Beyo R S;Prasad G;Sunny F;Oommen O V (Zoology Dep, Kerala Univ, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581, Email: oomnenvo@yahoo.com) : Thyroid status alters gill ionic metabolism and chloride cell morphology as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy in a teleost Anabas testudineus (Bloch): short and long term In vivo study. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(12), 1015-21.

Gill is the main organ of osmotic regulation in teleosts and chloride cells are the sites of ion transport across gill epithelium. Thyroid hormones are implicated in the regulation of osmotic balance in teleosts also. Treatment with 6-propyl ihiouracil (6-PTU) inhibited the membrane bound enz.yme Na⁺K⁺ ATPase in the gill while triiodothyronine (T₃) injection stimulated it in a short-term in vivo study in the teleost Anabas testudineus, Na⁺, K⁺ and Ca²⁺ ions were also decreased in the 6-PTU treated fish and the T₃ treatment increased their concentrations in the gill lamellae. The gill morphology also changed according to the thyroid status in the long term study. 6-PTU treatment altered the typical serrated morphology of the gill lamellae, while the T₃ treatment reversed it. T₃ injection increased the density of pavement and chloride cells as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy. The results demonstrate that physiological status of the thyroid influences gill Na⁺ pump activity and chloride cell morphological changes. Further, the study suggests a regulatory role of T₃ on gill ions (Na⁺, K⁺ and Ca²⁺), Na⁺K⁺ and Ca²⁺ ATPase activity and the different gill cell types in A. testudineus.

2 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

023579   Rajashekhar A V;Lingaish A;Narsi Reddy Y (Dep of Zoology, Nizam College, Osmania University, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, ) : New species of mermithid nematode parasite romanomermis narayani N.SP. from Culex sp. mosquito larvae in the rice fields of A.P.. Curr Nematol 2006, 17(1-2), 7-15.

Romanomermis narayani n.sp. mermithid nematode parasitise the Culex sp. mosquito larvae of the rice fields around Hyderabad of A.P. has been described and compared with other speicies of Romanomermis. The seasonal incidence of natural nematode infection in Culex sp. Mosquito larvae was found to be more high in the fresh water bodies. The study includes taxonomy and biological diversity of mermithid family.

5 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

023578   Krishnamurthy R;Ramalingam K;Prabakaran E (Dep of Zoology, Presidency College, Chennai-600 005, Email: drkrimmunotoxiocol@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of seed extract of Momordica charantia on glycolysis regulation in alloxan induced diabetic rats Rattus norvegicus. J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 167-70.

The study was conducted to elucidate the role of a new, antidiabetic herbal aqueous extract of Momordica charantia on the regulation of glucose metabolism in blood and associate parameters in diabetic rats. Blood lactate and pyruvate levels increased in 96 hrs. after alloxan administration. Treatment of diabetic rats with Momordica charantia brough the raised lactate and pyruvate levels to within normal limits. It also infers that the seed extract of the above has a regulatory role in tissue glycolysis.

2 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

023577   Kharbuli Z Y;Biswas K;Saha N (Biochemical Adaptation Laboratory, Zoology Dep, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong-793 022, Email: nsaha@nehu.ac.in) : Mitochondrial citrulline sysnthesis from ammonia and glutamine in the liver of ureogenic air-breathing catfish, (Clarias batrachus (Linnaeus). Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(12), 1073-9.

The possible synthesis of citrulline, a rate limiting step for urea synthesis via the ornithine-urea cycle (OUC) in teleosts was tested both in the presence of ammonia and glutamine as nitrogen-donating substrates by the isolated liver mitochondria of ureogenic air-breathing walking catfish, C. batrachus. Both ammonia and glutamine could be used as nitrogen-donating substrates for the synthesis of citrulline by the isolated liver mitochondria, since the rate of citrulline synthesis was almost equal in presence of both the substrates. The citrulline synthesis by the isolated liver mitochondria requires succinate at a concentration of 0.1 mM as an energy source, and also requires the involvement of intramitochondrial carbonic anhydrase activity for supplying HCO₃ as another substrate for citrulline synthesis. The rate of citrulline synthesis was further stimulated significantly by the isolated liver mitochondria of the fish after pre-exposure to 25 mM NH₄Cl for 7 days. Due to possessing this biochemical adaptational strategy leading to the amelioration of ammonia toxicity mainly by channeling ammonia directly and/or via the formation of glutamine to the OUC, this air-breathing catfish could succeed in surviving in high external ammonia, which it faces in its natural habitat in certain seasons of the year.

3 illus, 37 ref

023576   Gupta V;Srivastav S K (Dep of Zoology, University of Lucknow, Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh)) : Scanning electron microscopy of tegumental surface of adult Fasciolopsis buski (Lankester, 1857). Curr Nematol 2006, 17(1-2), 51-4.

Tegumental surface of Fasciolopsis buski as viewed under scanning electron microscope, appeared rough wrinkled with small pits throughout the ventral surface. Middle part of the entral surface of body bears large scale,like the skin of crocodile. At higher magnificantion, in the wrinkled surface numerous ridges with small spine were seen. The dorsal surface of the tegument is devoid of scales or grooves but appeared wrinkled, at higher magnification. The oral and ventral suckers of tegument have thick rims, covered with transverse folds and appear spineless. The transverse folds under higher magnification, appeared meshwork like structures.

7 illus, 9 ref

023575   Gupta A K;Naresh Kumar;Virendra Kumar (Environmental Research Laboratory, Dep of Zoology, S.S.V.(P.G.) College, Hapur-245 101) : Review on the status of Apis cerena indica in India with special reference to bee flora. J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 83-92.

India is considered as the centre of origin and evolution of Apis cerena species. All the species of Apis cerena have been used in the country from time immemorial for collection of honey and bee wax. Apis cerena is one of the indigenous bees. The ancient Indians knew the Apis cerena as a milder bee that could render itself to manipulation. The study includes the distribution and present status of Apis cerena in India alongwith various aspects such as presence of major and minor bee flora in different states of India. This study confirmed that South Indian states such as kerala, tamil Nadu, Karnatake and Southern Andhra Pradesh has good population of Apis cerena than other northern states. Bombax ceida (Simbal) and Callistemon lanceolatus (Bottle brush) are major bee flora and Ageratum conyzoides (Phulana), Dacus carota (Carrot), Ellaterea cadamon (Elaichi), Musa paradisica (Banana), Zea mays (Maize), etc. are minor bee flora of India.

5 illus, 32 Ref

023574   Coumar A;Dey D (Entomology Div, I.A.R.I., New Delhi-110 012) : Redescription of Camponotus compressus Fabricius (hymenoptera: formicidae: formicinae: camponotini). Ann Pl Prot Sci 2008, 16(1), 128-34.

Camponotitus compressus Fabricius (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Formicinae: Camponotini), a ground dwelling ant species occurs all over India in almost all agro-ecosystems, often as a dominant species. Camponotus compressus is being redescribed with additional diagnostic characters including morphometric indices.

5 illus, 6 ref

023573   Bikshapathi V;Surender Reddy K;Laxma Reddy B; Benarjee G (Dep of Zoology, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 009, Email: gbgsss@yahoo.co.in) : Post helminth infection changes in the protein metabolism in Calotes versicolor. J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 27-34.

In the post helminth infection, proteins and related molecular changes have been studied in the Liver of Calotes Versicolor due to the intestinal infection with trematode, protocephalus beddardi. Various biochemical parameters that have been investigated are total proteins, sucrose soluble proteins, Albumins, Globulins and free amino acids. All these parameters were showed an increase in the liver of infected animals. The increase of substrate content enzyme and the activity levels of enzymes suggest that in the liver the rate of protein metabolism is greatly enhanced. The indicates that liver plays an active role in metabolic changes that occurred due to helminth infestation. The increase of various biomolecule indicate that biochemical adaptations of hosts to combat the parasitic effect.

3 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

022632   Wang W X;Yang Y;Wang H;Shu L H;Zhang Y;Zhang J L;Hou J H (Environmental Science and Engineering School, Shanghai Jiao Tong Univ, Shanghai 200240, China, Email: wangwx@hubu.edu.cn) : Allelopathic potential of Nerium indicum on Oncomelania hupensis. Allelopathy J 2008, 21(2), 405-10.

The cardiac glycosides from fresh leaves of N. indicun effectively killed the Oncomelania hupensis. The mortality of O. hupensis treated with 20 mg/L cardiac glycosides for 3-4 d was similar to that treated with 1 mg/L niclosamidum for 2-3 d. The LD₅₀ and LD₉₀ values for the cardiac glycosides were 4.05 mg/L and 22.25 mg/L, respectively. The treated samples showed higher activities of EST isozyme in early stage and lower activities in middle and late stages and drastically decreased the glycogen content (from 9.9 to 32.6 %) than control, however, the protein contents were not affected. It determined the molluscicidal activity of cardiac glucosides and the mechanisms for the allelopathical effects of cardiac glucosides on morphological pathology, metabolisms of sugar and protein of O. hupensis. It was found the chemiecological evidence that N. indicwn is capable of killing O. hupensis and plant molluscacide can control O. hupensis.

2 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

022631   Surendran A;Selvaraj Pandian R (Post Graduate and Research Dep of Zoology, The American College, Madurai-625 002) : Evaluation of larvicidal effect of Pseudomonas fluorescens isolates against the filariasis vector mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus Say. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(1), 65-8.

Larvicidal activity of Pseudomonas fluorescens was assessed by isolating from ecologically different sites in and around Madurai, Tamilnadu, S.India. The isolated organisms were conformed as Pseudomonas fluorescens. Larvicidal activity of Pseudomonas fluorescens isolates was tested against the larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus by using the standard bioassay and probit analysis. The isolates of Pseudomonas fluorescens showed a significant variation in their larvicidal activity. Protein profile study was also carried out to study the toxic proteins of Pseudomonas fluorescens isolates. The protein profiles of Pseudomonas fluorescens treated and untreated larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus showed the presence and absence of toxic protein respectively.

2 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

022630   Singh R K;Mohindra V;Punia R P;Gopalakrishnan A;Kapoor D;Shukla R N;Lal K K (NBFGR Cochin Unit, CMFRI Campus, Kochi-682 018) : Identification of polymorphic allozyme markers for assessing genetic variability in golden mahseer, Tor putitora. Fish Technol 2008, 45(1), 95-102.

Screening of thirty-two allozyme loci in Tor putitora yielded ten polymorphic loci, useful in determining genetic divergence in natural populations of the species. Samples from three different Indian rivers viz. the Satluj, Ganga and Garua were studied with the identified allozyme loci, to assess their suitability for genetic diversity analysis in T. putitora. The observed heterozygosity per locus varied from 0.0840 (Satluj) to 0.1245 (Ganga). The significant genotype heterogeneity was observed between the sample sets (P<60>0.05). The identified loci exhibited significant potential to determine population structure of T. putitora across its natural range of distribution.

3 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

022629   Shrivastava A (Zoology Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi-110 007, Email: ashrivastava@zoology.du.ac.in) : Activation of macrophages with N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine: Involvement of protein kinase C and tyrosine kinase. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(9), 755-63.

N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) a potent chemotactic peptide stimulates immune responses by activating macrophages and other cells of the immune system. Reports inhibition of fMLP-induced activation of murine peritoneal and P388D-1 macrophage cell line by protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors, H-7 and chelerythrine chloride. Similarly, tumoricidal activity was also downregulated by protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) inhibitors genestein and lavendustin A. Further, fMLP increased tyrosine phosphorylation of several proteins in murine macrophages, which were inhibited in presence of genestein and lavendustin A. These findings suggest the involvement of PKC and PTK in the activation of murine macrophages with fMLP.

5 illus, 4 tables, 47 ref

022628   Sahoo P K;Pillai B R;Mohanty J;Kumari J; Mohanty S;Mishra B K (NO, Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar-751 002, Email: pksahool@hotmail.com) : Differential affinity of natural haemagglutinin of Macrobrachium rosenbergii towards vertebrate erythrocytes: effect of sex, size and moult stage on haemagglutination titre. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(9), 830-3.

Lectins play important role in innate immunity of animals. The affinity of the natural haemagglutinin of the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenberuii towards vertebrate erythrocytes and its level with relation to sex, size and moult stages were studied. The strongest agglutinating titres in haemolymph of prawns were marked against guinea pig, chicken, Glorias batrachus, and rabbit erythrocytes, and the weakest towards cattle, dog, horse and goat erythrocytes. A moderately agglutinating titre was evident in duck and human erythrocytes. The haemolymph of adult, male or intermoult stage prawns weighing more than 100 g had the highest haemagglutinating activity as compared to their respective counterparts with varied responses observed towards various erythrocytes.

2 tables, 22 ref

022627   Sahoo A;Patra M;Dandapat J (Zoology Dep, North Orissa Univ, Takatpur, Baripada-757 003, Email: jagneshwar2002@yahoo.com) : Lipid peroxidation and nonenzymatic antioxidants, glutathione and ascorbic acid, in a carp, Labeo rohita . Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(1), 127-30.

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) also known as prooxidants generated during aerobic metabolism are neutralised by antioxidant defence components of the cell. An imbalance between the prooxidants and antioxidants in favour of the former leads to oxidative stress. Acute or chronic oxidative stress has been linked to several parhogenesis in the aquatic animals and the amounts of endogenous antioxidants potentially influence the nutritional quality of the edible parts of the fishes. In the present communication an attempt has been made to study the tissue specific distribution of two important nonenzymatic antioxidants (Glutathione and Ascorbic acid) and the level of lipid peroxidation (LPX) (an index of oxidative stress) in the liver and muscle of an important edible fish, Labeo rohita. The endogenous as well as FeSO₄-induced LPX value was found to be higher in liver than muscle. Ascorbic Acid (ASA) content is also more in liver than muscle, which may be due to tissue specific differential accumulation of ASA chiefly from dietary sources.

3 illus, 29 ref

022626   Raghu Prakash R;Rajeswari G;Sreedhar U (NO, Research Centre of Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Ocean Vi, Pandurangapuram, Visakhapatanam-530 003) : Size selectivity of 40 mm square mesh codend with respect to yellowstriped Goatfish, Upeneus vittatus (forsskal, 1775) and orangefin ponyfish, Leiognathus bindus (valenciennes, 1885). Fish Technol 2008, 45(1), 29-34.

Yellowstriped goatfish, Upeneus vittatus (Forsskal, 1775) and Orangefin Ponyfish, Leiognathus bindus (Valenciennes, 1835) are widely exploited by the trawl fishery. Due to the use of codends with conventional small diamond mesh in the trawl nets, large quantities of juveniles of these species are landed along the east coast of India. The size selectivity of 40 mm square mesh codend for Upeneus vittatus and Leiognathus bindus was studied with a 30 m demersal trawl, following covered codend method. The L25, L50 and L75 values for Upeumis vittatus were 10.0, 11.22 and 12.4 cm respectively. Selection factor, selection range and selection ratio for Upeneus vittatus were 2.8 and 2.43 and 0.6 respectively. The L25, L50, 1,75 values for Leiognathus bindus were 5.52, 7.7 and 9.88 cm respectively. Selection factor, selection range and selection ratio for Leiognathus bindus were 1.92, 4.36 and 1.09 respectively.

4 illus, 24 ref

022625   Meenakumari B;Bhagirathan U;Pravin P (NO, Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, Cochin-682 029) : Impact of bottom trawling on benthic communities: a review. Fish Technol 2008, 45(1), 1-22.

The detrimental consequences of trawling on the marine environment have always been a matter of great concern. Bottom trawling causes physical and biological damages that are irreversible, extensive and abiding. The present communication intends to focus the impact on benthic communities caused by bottom trawling. The different methodologies used world wide to study the impact of trawling is depicted here. The quantification and characterisation of bycatch will give an ample evidence of impact of bottom trawling. The interpretation of the available historical data of the trawling grounds is also in practice. The experimental trawling brings to light the physico-chemical and biological impacts. The dietary shifts in benthos are an indirect effect of trawling. Bottom trawling imparts both short term and long-term impacts. The long term effects have not been adequately studied as the impacts are ambiguous and are difficult to interpret. In India, studies on impact of bottom trawling has gained momentum by the establishment of Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences and Technology Cell (OASTC) supported by the Ministry of Earth Sciences. These studies have brought to light the impact of trawling on hydrographical parameters and benthic fauna.

143 ref

022624   Khatavkar R S;Shah N V;Chavan M D;Rao K R (Zoology Dep, Walchand College of Arts and Science, Solapur) : Production of vermicompost from leaf litter generated by beedi (hand made Indian cigarette industry). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(1), 137-8.

In the present work Tendu leaf litter (Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb family Ebanaceae leaves) were used. The waste of Tendu leaves after making beedi is thrown as garbage in tons everyday. This waste was used to prepare vermicompost. Residues rich in lignin like leaves or stalks of woody plants, take relatively more time. Fungal culture was used for partial decomposition of hard material. The partially decomposed material was further utilized by earthworm (Eudrilus eugeniae) and converted in to vermicompost.

1 table, 9 ref

022623   Das S;Surendran P K;Thampuran N (Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, , Cochin-682 029, Email: sanjoy325@rediffmail.com) : Isolation and PCR identification of Listeria spp. from fishes of Cochin area. Fish Technol 2008, 45(1), 73-8.

Fish samples were screened and procured from local markets of Cochin for the presence of Listeria spp. including L. monocytogenes. 25.7 % of the samples tested were found to harbour Listeria spp. The incidence rate of Listeria spp. in finfish, prawn and clam were found to be 26.8 %, 10 % and 37.5 %, respectively. But L. monoytogenes has not been detected in any of the fish samples tested. Listeria innocua was found to be the most prevalent species of Listeria. The isolates were characterized by Listeria genus specific PCR as well as L. monoytogenes, L. innocua & L. ivanovii species specific PCR. All of our L. innocua isolates have been confirmed by both genus and species specific PCR. For confirmation of species of Listeria, PCR has been shown to be an effective tool.

4 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

021575   Yuvaraj H;Dilipkumar D;Shivaprakash B V; Usturge S M (Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fishery Sciences Univ, Bidar-585 401) : Comparative evaluation of DCP with PMMA plate for femur and radius fracture in dogs. Indian J vet Surg 2007, 28(1), 1-5.

Twenty four long bone fractures including 12 radial and 12 femoral fractures were treated. Four- and six-hole DCP/ PMMA plates were used for the repair of radius and femur fractures. Four-hole DCP/PMMA plates for radius fractures achieved osteosynthesis. Whereas, six hole DCP/PMMA plates stabilized fractures of femur healed with callus formation. PMMA plates were superior in controlling osteomyelitis and were also cost effective.

12 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

021574   Thakur S S;Karnatak A K;Karnataka D C (Entomol Dep, Coll of Agric, G.B. Pant Univ of Agric and Technol, Pantnagar-263 145) : Effect of a carbamate insecticide, carbosulfan on the foraging behaviour of Apis mellifera L. foragers. Pantnagar J Res 0000, 5(1), 24-6.

Investigations were done to observe the effect of a carbamate insecticide, carbosulfan on the foraging activity of Apis mellifera L. The experiment consisted of two sets. In the first set bees were allowed to come in direct contact of insecticide treated surface while in the second set a wire net was kept over the treated surface so that only odour repelled the bees. Carbosulfan was found to repel the bees only through it's contact action while it's odour was found ineffective to repel the bees at all concentrations. When comparison was made between contact and odour action with control, for all the 3 concentrations, in combination then also the results were found to be significant. There was found significant difference in the number of bees visiting the petriplates (contact, odour and control) during different time intervals. When interaction was observed between concentrations, and the effects (control, odour and contact), it was significant.

3 illus, 2 tables, 4 ref

021573   Omprakasam M;Dayalan A;Arul Ganesan M (Zoology Dep, Sir Thyagaraya College, Chennai-600 021, Email: opmanne@gmail.com) : Aquatic toxicity of dimethyl sulphoxide on the Indian Major Carp, Catla catla (Hamilton). Indian J Sci Technol 2008, 4(1), (NULL).

DMSO is frequently used as carrier solvent in toxicological experiments due to its exceptionally low toxicity and environmental impact and also to achieve more effective dispersion of the toxicants. Aquatic toxicity studies of DMSO on the respiratory rates and the biochemical constituents of muscle and liver in catla revealed minimal lethality and negligible effect on the physiology of the test organism. This study helps in the choice of percentage of the carrier solvent that can be used in the preparation of toxicants for any toxicological studies involving fish.

4 tables, 20 ref

021572   Olofintoye L K;Akinbile P A (Zoollogy Dep, Univ of Ado-Ekiti, P.M.B.5363, Email: toyetalks@yahoo.com) : Molluscicidal properties of Azadriractha indica in the control of schistosome snail vector Bulinus globosus. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2007, 19(3), 419-26.

Boiled and blended extracts obtained from the bark, seed and leaf parts of the neam plant Azadiractha indica at different concentrations of 25%. 50% and 100% were used as treatment on Bulinus globosus at different hours of exposure (6, 12 and 24 hours). The molluscicidal potency on the mortality rate of B. globosus increases with increase in concentration levels and time of exposure for all experiments. Thus the 100% extract concentration shows a significant higher moliuscicidal potency in the mortality rate of B. globosus, P <60>0.05. The blended extract concentrations had more molluscicidal potency in the mortality rate of B. globosus than boiled extract concentrations and hours of exposure. Blended seed extract concentrations had highest snail mortality rate on B. globosus.

6 tables, 20 ref

021571   Ojha P;Mandloi A K;Dube K K (Fishery Sci Dep, Coll of Vety Sci & A. H., JNKVV, Jabalpur) : Diversity of fish fauna, benthos and macrophytes in Barnoo reservour. Indian J Trop Biodiversity 2007, 15(1), 75-7.

Barnoo reservoir fish fauna consisted of 28 - fish species under 19 genera and 9 families, zoobenthos population of annelids of 3- families, gastropods consisted of 4-families, bivalves of 3-families and aquatic insects of 4 - orders. Macrophytes had four groups; viz., marginal consisted of 4 - species; floating 6 - species; rooted submerged 5- species and rooted floating 2 - species.

1 table, 9 ref

021570   Mahadev J;Ahamad S A (Mysore Univ, Managangothri, Mysore, Karnataka) : Phytoplankton density in relation to environmental variables in Dalvoi lake at Mysore, India. Asian J envir Sci 2008, 3(1), 14-16.

Water samples of the Dalvoi lake was collected from different spots during May 2001 to June 2002 and phytoplanktons were studied in relation to 16 environmental variables during this period. A total of 44 species of phytoplankton were identified under four classes viz. Chlorophyceae Euglenophyceae Bacillariophyceae cyanophyceae. Maximum density was recorded under Cyanophyceae and Chlorophyceae showed considerable fluctuations with environmental variables.

3 tables, 11 ref

021569   Lohani U;Rajbhandari K;Shakuntala K (Zoology Dep, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Email: buba@wlink.com.np) : Need for systematic ethnozoological studies in the conservation of ancient knowledge systems of Nepal - a review. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(4), 634-7.

Ethnozoology deals with the study of interrelationship between the primitive human societies and the animal resources around them. Different factors like strategic location of the country along the central and eastern Himalaya, topographical and the climatic variations have given rise to diverse and unique assemblages of flora and fauna. Equally diverse are the people (59 ethnic groups), who have been interacting with these resources from the very beginning to adapt in the difficult Himalayan landscape. The knowledge as related to use, management and conservation of the animal resources, acquired during this long course of interaction, is transmitted orally from one generation to the next without being documented anywhere. The knowledge if harnessed properly could prove to be a valuable asset, which could be integrated into the modern development projects for fruitful results. But there is growing trend of depletion of biodiversity as well as cultural diversity in the country. Therefore, it is urgent to initiate organized scientific study and document such valuable and time tested ethnozoological knowledge before these culturally rich people and important faunal resources disappear.

021568   Hitendra Kumar;Gajendra Singh (Entomol Dep, Coll of Agric, G.B. Pant Univ of Agric and Technol, Pantnagar-263 145) : Biology of litchi bug, Tessaratoma javanica Thunberg (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) on litchi. Pantnagar J Res 2007, 5(1), 17-20.

Detailed study on biology of the litchi bug, Tessaratoma javanica Thunberg was undertaken. Insect laid globular and off pink eggs, mostly in bunch of fourteen on lower surface of leaves. The insect passed through five instars, which were sub rectangular and dark brick red except first instar, which was nearly subrectangular. Newly emerged adult was dirty white and soft bodied insect but colour changed to yellow red after few days. The average duration of male and female adults was 43.2±7.7 and 47.2±9.5 days, respectively. Both adults and nymph fed mostly on tender plant parts such as growing buds, leaf petioles, fruit stalks and tender branches of litchi tree. Excessive feeding caused drying of growing buds, tender shoots and ultimetly fruit drop.

3 tables, 4 ref

021567   Ahmad T;Mumtaz R;Suneel Kumar;Maurya R P;Khan M A (Entomol Dep, Coll of Agric, G.B. Pant Univ of Agric and Technol, Pantnagar-263 145) : Ecological studies on Choreodocus illustris Walker (Orthoptera: Acrididae) with special reference to suspected gregariousness in hoppers. Pantnagar J Res 2007, 5(1), 21-3.

7 ref

020679   Vijay Kumar;Prabhuraj A (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Raichur-584 101, Email: vijigall@gmail.com) : Variation in biological parameters in two forms of shoot bug, Peregrinus maidis (Ashmead) infesting sorghum in Southern India. J Insect Sci 2007, 20(1), 113-14.

Studies on various biological parameters of Peregrinus maidis revealed that both macropterous and brachypterous forms were found in each sex. Among two forms, brachypterous had shorter incubation (7.27±0.65 days), pre-mating (6.66±1.60 h) and pre-oviposition (2.20±0.9 days) period compared with 8.35±1.05 days, 8.10±1.9 h and 2.40±1.0 days, respectively in macropterous form. On the other hand, brachypterous forms showed higher mating (0.84±0.2 h), oviposition (5.93±1.4 days) and post-oviposition (18.95±3.2 days) period compared to macropterous forms, with 0.61±0.2 h, 5.66±1.70 days and 17.87±4.07 days, correspondingly. Higher fecundity (16 to 106 eggs/female) was recorded in brachypterous than macropterous forms which laid 22 to 72 eggs/female.

1 table, 6 ref

020678   Thakur A K;Ritu Kumari;Pandey B N (P.G. Dep of Zoology, Purnea College, Purnea-854 301) : Trend of menarche in four endogamous populations of Bhagalpur district, Bihar. Proc Zool Soc India 2008, 7(1), 145-5.

Deals with the mean menarcheal age in four endogamous populations inhabiting in different villages of Bhagalpur district of Bihar. The mean menarcheal age was found to be 13.47, 13.87, 15.1 and 15.24 years respectively in Bania, Brahmin, Mushar and Muslim. The difference in mean menarcheal age in these populations living in the same geographical region is attributed to the difference in nutritional status, socioeconomic conditions and family size. The mean menarcheal age in four populations is 14.42 years which is almost similar to mean menarcheal age in rural India.

1 table, 29 ref

020677   Suryawanshi G D (P.G.Dep of Zoology, Yogeshwari Mahavidyala, Ambajogai, district Beed-431517) : Seasonal variations of heavy metals in clam Meretrix meretrix from Ratnagiri coast. Proc Zool Soc India 2008, 7(1), 25-32.

Clam Meretrix meretrix of small (34.66 mm shell lengh), medium (46.66) and large (60.33) sizes from Kalbadevi creek at Ratnagiri were collected in monsoon, winter and summer seasons. The soft body on dry weight basis showed more amounts of zinc (105.61, 124.27 and 132.15 μ g/g dry tissue), lead (19.06, 28.47 and 35.28) and copper (1.34, 1.55 and 1.59) during monsoon. Where as, the zinc content 96.78, 102.06 and 105.35, lead - n17.83, 19.86 and 22.89, cadmium - 3.64, 4.04 and 9.04 and copper - 1.22, 1.23 and 1.54. were observed in winter. The low level of zinc (80.04, 96.33 and 98.07), lead (17.80, 18.59 and 22.63), cadmium (N.D., 0.28 and 0.57) and copper (N.D., N.D. and 0.12) were observed during summer in small, medium and large sized clams respectively. Generally, the metal content was high in large sized individual, which were followed by the levels found in medium and small sized clams in all seasons. In addition to these, study revealed that the metal content was found more in monsoon, followed by winter and summer. On the other hand, the cadmium was not detected in monsoon in all sizes and small sized clams in summer, copper was not detected in small and medium sized clams in summer.

1 table, 16 ref

020676   Sunandita;Gupta D (Entomology Dep, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173 230) : Host range of fruit fly species infesting summer vegetable crops in mid hills of Himachal Pradesh. J Insect Sci 2007, 20(1), 106-7.

Survey in the mid hill region (1200-1500 m amsl) of Himachal Pradesh revealed an exclusive infestation of fruit fly, Bactrocera tau on tomato, summer squash, pumpkin and chow-chow, whereas, on the other hosts, viz. bottle gourd, cucumber, snake gourd, sponge gourd and bitter gourd, the mixed infestation of Bactrocera cucurbitae and B. tau was recorded with dominance of the latter. Bactrocera scutellaris was also recorded on bottle gourd and pumpkin flowers with one maggot flower.

1 table, 3 ref

020675   Subash Singh;Dhooria M S (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004) : Feeding preference of red spider mite, Tetranychus cinnabarinus (Boisduval) (Acari: Tetranychidae) on different cucurbits. J Insect Sci 2007, 20(2), 243-5.

Laboratory studies on feeding preference of red spider mite, Tetranychus cinnabarinus on cucurbits - through free choice method, revealed that water melon, summer squash, musk melon, ash gourd and squash melon exhibited maximum preference for feeding by mites while wild melon, wanga, cucumber and bitter gourd showed comparatively less preference.

1 table, 6 ref

020674   Soni R;Deol G S;Brar K S (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004) : Feeding potential of Coccinella septempunctata linnaeus (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on wheat aphid complex under cage conditions. J Insect Sci 2007, 20(1), 118-19.

Feeding capacity of Coccinella septempunctata at different population levels on wheat aphid complex increased with the increase in number of predators. It was found that 8-10 grubs (two-day-old) and 6-10 adults consumed more aphids than 2-6 grubs and 2-4 adults when 50 aphids were provided per pot having four leaf stage wheat plants for feeding to predator.

1 table, 7 ref

020673   Sohi A S (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004) : Biodiversity of typhlocybine leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Homoptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae) from India. J Insect Sci 2007, 20(1), 1-9.

Leafhoppers belong to family Cicadellidae of order Hemiptera. They are exclusively phytophagous in habit and are cosmopolitan in distribution. Cicadellidae is the largest family of order Hemiptera and is subdivided into 64 subfamilies comprising 21,305 species failing under 2,476 genera from the world. The identification of leafhoppers upto species level is based mainly on the structure of their male genitalia. Leafhoppers belonging to subfamily Typhlocybinae are commonly known as typhlocybine leafhoppers. They are small, slender, often beautifully coloured and possess only four apical cells in their fore-wings. More than 5,200 species of typhlocybine leafhoppers failing under 470 genera have been reported from the world whereas 568 species referable to 146 genera are known from India. Illustrated taxonomic keys have been prepared to identify the Indian species of tribes: Dikraneurini, Typhlocybini, Zyginellini and Empoascini. Typhlocybine leafhoppers inflict direct damage to plants by sucking sap from the mesophyll tissues resulting in stippling symptoms while phloem feeders cause hopper-burn symptoms. Forty one species of typhlocybine leafhoppers have been found as pests of different plant species In India and biology of seven pest species has been studied. They also cause indirect damage by transmitting plant-pathogens which cause diseases in plants. From India, only one species of typhlocybine leafhopper, Alebroides nigroscutellatus (Distant) has been reported to transmit pathogen of purple top roll and witch's broom disease of potato.

3 tables, 50 ref

020672   Smetacek P (The Retreat, , Jones Estate, P.O.Bimtal, Nainital-263136) : Moths recorded from different elevations in Nainital District, Kumaon Himalaya, India. Bionotes 2008, 10(1), 5-15.

7 ref

020671   Singh S P (Deptt. of Zoology, D.B.S. (PG) College, Dehradun-248 001) : White blooded fish (Chaenocephalus aceratus. Cheetal 2007, 46(1-2), 31-3.

020670   Singh S C;Singh B K (P.G. Dept. of Zoology, A.N.S. College, Barh, ) : Effectiveness of different concentrations of neem oil (no) against Callosobruchus chinensis (L) (coleoptera, bruchudiae) infesting chickpea seeds in storage. Proc Zool Soc India 2008, 7(1), 105-8.

Traditionally extracted neem oil (NO) was assessed protectant of chickpea seeds against Callosobruchus chinensis (Coleoptera, Bruchidae), a serious pest of stored legumes. The study revealed encouraging results as the seeds of chickpea could effectively be protected from the damage by mixing the seed on the rate of 0.50 ml to 2 ml/100g seed. It provides good result on respect of toxic effect, safety and economy.

1 tables, 10 ref

020669   Singh R K;Vijay Kumar (Dept. of Zoology, Z.A. Islamia College, Siwan (Bihar)) : Effect of adrenocortical hormones on oxygen uptake in an air breathing fish, Channa punctatus (Bloch). Proc Zool Soc India 2008, 7(1), 135-7.

Attempt has been made to study the effect of adrenocortical hormones and drugs on oxygen uptake in an air breathing fish, Channa punctatus (Bloch). Treatment of adrenaline brough significan decrease in oxygen uptake as compared to control while the injection of both phentolamine and hydrocortisone brought statistically significant increase in oxygen consumption of the fish to any significant level.

1 table, 8 ref

020668   Singh P B;Singh V;Srivastava S;Pandey S (Zoology Dep, Tilak Dhari (PG) College, Jaunpur-222 002, Email: pratap_b_singh@rediffmail.com) : Effects of estradiol-17β and 17α, 20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one on different phospholipids metabolism and histological changes in ovary during reproductive growth in the catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch). J envir Biol 2007, 28(4), 771-8.

Effects of estradiol-17β and 17α, 20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one on different phospholipids metabolism and histological changes in ovary during reproductive growth in the catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) Effect of cumulative doses of estradiol -17β (E₂-1, 14 and 28 mg/kg body weight) and 17 α, 20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (17α, 20 β P-7,14 and 28 mg/kg body weight) on total phospholipids (TP) and various phospholipids-phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylserine (PS), phosphatidylinositol (PI) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) on liver, plasma and ovary were investigated during the reproductively active preparatory and prespawning phases of the annual reproductive cycle in the freshwater female catfish, H. fossilis. The effect of E₂ on TP was generally stimulatory and has pronounced effect than 17α, 20βP during both the phases. The levels of PC was promoted high during prespawning phase by E₂ comparatively very less than by 17α,20βP in studied tissues during both the phases. The levels of PS after E₂ treatments was maximum in all tissues during prespawning phase whereas 17α, 20β P was effective only in liver during this phase. The PI was elevated in liver during preparatory phase but its elevation was in all studied tissues during prespawning phase after E₂ treatments. The levels of PI was most effective in ovary during preparatory phase in response to 17α, 20β P. The levels of PE was declined in fever but elevated in ovary after E₂ treatments during both the phases. Treatments of E₂ during preparatory phase showed greater number of vitellogenic oocytes as compared to 17α, 20 β P treatments. The present finding has demonstrated that estradiol-17β has more pronounced effects than the 17α, 20 β P in regulation of different phospholipids and ovarian recrudescence during reproductively active phases and among the phospholipids the PC is the main phospholipids of vitellogenin/ovarian lipids in H. fossilis.

5 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

020667   Singh K I;Singh M P;Das D;Singh N G;Singh T R (Entomology Dep, Central Agricultural University, Imphal) : Influence of graded levels of nitrogen and potash on the incidence of rice gall midge, Orseolia oryzae wood-mason in Manipur. J Insect Sci 2007, 20(2), 156-9.

Studies conducted at the Rice Research Farm, Central Agricultural University, Imphal during kharif season of 2002 and 2003 on the influence of four levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 60 and 80 kg ha^-1) and potash (0, 20, 30 and 40 kg ha^-1) on the incidence of gall midge, Orseolia oryzae in rice revealed its maximum incidence under N₈₀ treatment. The plots applied potash at 20 kg ha^-1 registered higher O. oryzae incidence followed by at 30 kg ha^-1. Application of 40 kg K ha^-1 resulted significantly lower silver shoot incidence. Higher doses of nitrogen exhibited more infestation, whereas higher doses of potash resulted in lesser incidence of the pest. The maximum grain yield (58.14 q ha^-1) was obtained from the plots applied nitrogen @ 80 kg ha^-1 and potash @ 40 kg ha^-1.

2 illus, 6 ref

020666   Singh D P;Saxena R S (Zoology Dep, Ganjdundwara (P.G.) College, Ganjdundwara, District Etah, Uttar Prade, ) : Effect of dieldrin on the growth of heterocystous cyanobacteria, Aulosira fertilissima. Bionotes 2008, 10(1), 22.

7 ref

020665   Singh B K;Singh S K (P.G. Dep of Zoology, Magadh University, Bodh-Gaya-824 234) : Functional anatomy of the male genital duct of Chrysocoris stillii Wolff. (Heteroptera : pentatomidae) with special reference to the ejaculatory tube. Proc Zool Soc India 2008, 7(1), 115-24.

Male genital duct of chrysocoris stollii includes the paired vasa deferentia, an ejaculatory tube divisible into the ejaculatory bulb and ejaculatory duct, three pairs of ectadene-accessory glands and a single median accessory gland. The genital duct extends between 4^th to 9^th abdominal segment and the male gonopore opens into the aedeagus present in the genital pouch. Each part of the genital duct has been examined histologically and histochemically to correlate its functions.

9 illus, 18 ref

020664   Singh A;Singh I J;Ram R N;Kushwaha B (Fishery Biology Dep, College of Fisheries, G B Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: singhij2@gmail.com) : Ovarian development in Labeo dyocheilus (McCelland) during active reproductive phase under captive and wild conditions. J envir Biol 2008, 29(2), 169-74.

Ovarian development in Labeo dyocheilus was assessed during active reproductive phase under ambient environmental conditions in captivity and wild. Increasing day length and water temperature seemed favourable for ovarian development in female L. dyocheilus under both conditions. Gonadosomatic index (GSI) was lower in May and higher in July in captivity (6.168 and 13.366) and wild (5.798 and 16.166) respectively. Ovarian development started little bit in advance in captivity with late yolk vesicle stage oocyte in May when yolk globule stage oocytes were prominent in wild. Fully grown oocytes with germinal vesicle migration (GVM) and germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) stages were observed in July in both conditions. Degree of transformation of developing oogonials into advance stage oocytes was observed to be better in wild fish compared to captivity reared ones. The histophysiological changes in liver corresponded well to the progression of ovarian development. Successive granulation and vacuolization of hepatocyte cytoplasm were indicative of augmented synthetic activity and probably mobilization of energy content for oocyte growth. These observations indicated that normal ovarian development of L.. dyocheilus under captivity in Tarai region of Uttarakhand would be useful for success of its seed production in captivity for stock augmentation in wild or species diversification in aquaculture.

16 illus, 3 table, 27 ref

020663   Sidhu M S;Sohal B S (Biochemistry Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004) : Esterase activity I₅₀ variation in Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) from different locations in Punjab. J Insect Sci 2007, 20(1), 15-20.

General esterases from Helicoverpa armigera from cotton and non-cotton growing areas of Punjab were examined for their activity and relevant inhibition studies carried out to find esterase I₅₀. The highest activity of general esterases was found from Mansa (8019.96 ± 893.50 μg α naphthol/g larva) and lowest from Hoshiarpur (247.09 ± 74.18) populations representing two different locations. Highest activity as well as specific activity was observed from Mansa (660.27 ±39.46) whereas minimum was found to be from Ludhiana (98.44 ± 7.3) populations. Per cent variation in standard deviation for activities of esterases with mean values was in the range of 19.63 to 59.67 per cent whereas 150 (50% inhibition of enzymes with different insecticides) showed variation with respect to its mean value in the range of 4.67 to 18.9 per cent and it was found to be much less within the same region. Esterase I₅₀ has no correlation with activity of enzyme and can be used as a parameter in monitoring resistance to insecticides.

1 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref