003756   Stella C;Raghunathan C (Oceanography and Coastal Area Studies Dep, Alagappa University, Thondi-623 409) : New eecord of Muricanthus kuesterianus (Tapparone-Canefri, 1875) Family: Muricidae, from Palk Strait, Southeast Coast of India. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(1), 63-8.

Study reports the occurrence of Muricanthus kuesterianus in the Palk Strait region of southeast coast of India as a first hand record. The detailed description of this species has been given with the comparison of its close resembled species Chicoreus virgineus.

2 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

003755   Srikanth K;Ramu G;Benarjee G (Zoology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Vidyaranyapuri, Warangal-506 009) : Fish diversity of Rammappa lake, Warangal district, Andhra Pradesh, India. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 57-60.

The fish fauna of Ramappa lake were collected for the present study. The results of present study confirmed the occurrence of 33 species of fishes belonging to 6 orders, 23 genera of 14 families. The order Cypriniformes was dominant with 14 species followed by order Siluriniformes with 7 species. While the order Perciformes were represented with 6 species and Channiformes with 3 species and remaining orders Osteoglossiform.es with two species and Antheriniformes was represented with one species. Thus the reservoir was good potential for fishfauna.

1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

003754   Sridharan R;Veerappan N;Balasubramanian T (Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Annamalai Univ, Parangipettai-608 502, Email: sridharancdm@yahoo.co.in) : Biometric and length-weight relationship of Sardinella fimbriata (Cuvier and Valenciennes) from point Calimere coast, Tamil Nadu, India. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 148-52.

The study describes the biometric characters and Length-weight (L-W) relationship of Sardinella fimbriata, which is a common marine fish found abundantly in Point Calimere coast. About 140 specimens were collected and biometric characters were studied using angle of tangent value, showed that only the total length exhibited the allometric growth. The Linear regression and analysis of covariance were conducted to study the L-W relationship of males, females and indeterminates showed the significant differences between sexes. The regression equation and the correlation coefficient (r) were W=-4.2642+2.7428logL (0.98) for males, W=-4.2210+2.8518 log L (0.97) for females and W=-5.3100+3.25 log L (0.91) for indeterminates showed a good relationship between the two parameters.

4 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

003753   Sree Latha K (Zoology Dep, Dr. S.R.K. Government Arts College, Yanam-533 464) : Toxicity impact on protein metabolism of Anabas testudineus (Bloch) exposed to sublethal concentrations of plant extract of Calotropis gigantea (L.) R.BR.. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 225-8.

Air-breathing fish, Anabas testudineus (Block) were exposed to plant extract of C. gigantean (L)R.Br. for 96 hours to three different sub-lethal concentrations viz., 1/5th, 1/10th and 1/20th of LC₅₀. At the end of each exposure period, the total protein content of gill(P<60>0.05), liver(P<60>0.01) and brain(P<60>0.05) was found to be decreased.

1 table, 27 ref

003752   Shendge A N;Mane U H (Zoology Dep, Tuljaram Chaturchand College, Baramati-413 102) : Gonadosomatic index and spawning season of freshwater catfish Clarius batrachus (Linn.). J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 169-72.

In the investigation the Gonadosomatic Index (GSI) and spawning season of freshwater catfish Clarius batrachus (Linn.) from Bhima river, near Bhigwan, Dist. Pune were studied. Observations on the variations in seasonal fluctuations in the gonadosomatic index confirmed that the spawning period begins in June. The species has a prolonged spawning period in the females extending from June to October. The recruitment pattern confirmed the one breeding season. There are two spawning peaks, the first in June and the second in September. Breeding season lasted from June to October but July to September were the best periods of spawning. In the present study GSI is found to be directly proportional to spawning season and inversely proportional to post-spawning season.

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

003751   Rupa L;Naseem Haleem Khan A (Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Chemistry Dep, Telangana Univ, Dichpally, Nizamabad-503 175) : Isolation and characterization of bacteria in biofilms from leaf and root of Nelumbo nucifera (Lotus) plant. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 1-4.

Biofilms is an assembly of surface associated with microbial cells that are enclosed in extra cellular matrix. During the process of colonization on surfaces microbes produce excess amounts of extra cellular polymeric substances (EPS). From the leaf surface a total of 653 different bacterial species were isolated. 80% of the bacterial isolates were gram positive cocci and 20% gram negative bacilli. Percentage of adherence was higher in Staphylococcus carnosus compared to the other bacterial isolates from leaf surface. Pseudomonas fluorescent was more adherent compared to P. aeruginosa on the leaf surfaces. 125 different species of gram positive aerobic bacilli were isolated from the root surfaces such as Bacillus subtilis. B. licheniformis and B. mycoides. Among the Bacillus species, Bacillus subtilis was strong adherent to the root surface compared to B. licheniformis and B. mycoides. Results of this study indicate that the data of hydrophobicity varies within the similar and different genera of bacterial isolates from leaf and root surfaces of the lotus plant. The differences in degree of hydrophobicity can be correlated to the attachment of bacterium to the surfaces.

18 ref

003750   Rudneva I I;Kuzminova N S;Skuratovskaya E N; Kovyrshina T B (NO, Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas National Ukrainian Academy o, Ukrain, Email: svg-41@mail.ru) : Comparative study of Glutathione-S-Transferase activity in tissues of some black sea teleosts. Int J Sci Nat 2010, 1(1), 1-6.

The activity of Glutathione-S-Transferase (GST) in blood cells, liver, spleen and gonads in five Black Sea fish species horse mackerel Trachurus mediterraneus (Staindachner), high body pickarel Spicara flexuosa (Rafinesque), shore rockling Gaidropsarus mediterraneus (L.), round goby Neogobius melanostomus (Pallas), scorpion fish Scorpaena porcus (L.) caught in coastal area of Sevastopol (Black Sea, Ukraine) was studied. All the examined tissues had GST activity. The high enzyme activity was shown in spleen and in the liver. The interspecies differences of GST activity associated with the specific fish biology and ecology were demonstrated. The different ways of physiological adaptation for effective xenobiotics biotransformation and detoxification in fish tissues are discussed.

1 table, 5 illus, 28 ref

003749   Rathod S D;Patil N N (Zoology Dep, B.N. Nandodkar College of Science Jnanadweepa, Chendani, Thane-400 601) : Feeding habits of Boleopthalmus dussumieri (Cuv. & Val.) from Ulhs river estuary near Thane city, Maharashtra state. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 153-9.

It has envisaged to make available the information on a season-wise pooled data of the feeding habits of Boleopthalmus dussumieri (Cuv. & Val) studied along the Ulhas river estuary using point method during the period of two years from July 2004 to June 2006,. The qualitative and quantitative analyses of stomach content were carried out to calculate percentage frequency of occurrence of food items (F), feeding index (IA) and vacuity index (VI).. Electivity analysis showed that the fish is herbivorous feeding mainly on diatoms and other species of algae.

6 illus, 2 tables, 34 ref

003748   Raju S K;Sadhu D N;Alam M N (Zoology Dep, St. Columba's College, Hazaribagh, Jharkhand) : Toxicity of parathion to a freshwater fish, Channa gachua (Ham.). Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(1), 77-80.

Research work is oriented to find out toxic effects of an organophosphate insecticide, parathion on a freshwater fish, Channa gachua. By following standard procedures for toxicity determination, it was found that 34.0, 33.0, 32.0 and 31.0 ppm of the parathion formed 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 hours LC₅₀ doses, whereas LC₀ and LC₁₀₀ doses were 21.0 and 35.0 ppm respectively showing toxic nature of the insecticide.

2 tables, 19 ref

003747   Radhakrishnan M V;Hemalatha S (Zoology Dep, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Effect of superoxide dismutase and catalase in erythrocytes of catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis Bloch.) exposed to cadmium. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(1), 33-5.

Effect of sublethal concentration of cadmium chloride (12 ppm; 10% of 96h LC₅₀) in erythrocytes of catfish was studied for a period of 5, 10, 20 and 45 days. It was found that the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in red blood cells (RBC) significantly decreased after 5 and 10 days of cadmium exposure. However, the SOD activity increased after 20 and 45 days of cadmium treatment. Elevated activity of catalase (CAT) was found in erythrocytes of cadmium treated fish after 45 days. These results indicate oxidative stress and cell damage in the exposed fish.

1 table, 22 ref

003746   Pratihar S;Kundu J K (Molecular Biology Laboratory. Zoology Dep, Vidyasagar Univ, Midnapore, W.B., Email: pratihar_vu@rediffmail.com) : Differential expression of G₆PD in haemoglobin and RBC during hibernation in anuran, Duttaphrynus melanostictus. Int J Sci Nat 2010, 1(1), 31-3.

In this study it was tried to investigate that the seasonal variation of Glucose-6-phosphate dedydrogenase activity was associated with hibernation in Indian common toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus). The decline in Glucose-6-phosphate dedydrogenase activity had its behavioral and physiological response that leads to increase the efficacy of hibernator survival.

2 illus, 2 ref

003745   Poonia F S (Zoology Dep, Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur-342 006, Email: fspoonia_invu@yahoo.co.in) : Nutritional role of proteins in the food, gut, haemolymph and exereta of surface grasshopper, Chrotogonus trachypterus Blanch. when fed on legumes crops. J Arid Legume 2009, 6(2), 63-8.

Protein is the basis of the entire biological activity. The primary function of food protein is to supply the amino acids required for the growth, development and maintenance of the structural and biochemical machinery of the organism. The present study is made on quantitative analysis of total proteins in the host leaves (mungbean, moth-bean, cowpea and guar), gut, haemolymph and excreta of adult surface grasshopper, Chrotogonus trachypterns. The result showed that the protein concentration was 38.20% mg/g in mungbean, 36.61 mg/g in mothbean, 33.19 mg/g in cowpea and 27.20% in guar leaves. The percent utilization of proteins by adults of surface grasshopper during metabolism was maximum in mungbean i.e. 21.33% respectively. Whereas, in the dietary regimes mothbean, cowpea and guar leaves shows values lower than mungbean i.e. 21.05, 20.51 and 15.25% respectively. The percent transmission of proteins from dietary regimes to gut was maximum in mungbean i.e. 26.88%, respectively. Whereas, the percent transmission of proteins during metabolism was minimum in guar i.e. 19.55%, respectively. The percent transmission of proteins in adults from dietary regimen to haemolymph was maximum in mungbean i.e. 32.98 and mipimum in guar leaves i.e. 25.07% respectively. The foregoing observations thus indicates that susceptible dietary regimen (mungbean) has higher protein content in comparison to mothbean, cowpea and guar. Considering, the quantitative analysis of protein during metabolism in the adult surface grassho-pper among the four dietary regimes, preferential nature of the surface grasshopper was as follows: mungbean <62> mothbean <62> cowpea <62> guar.

4 illus, 10 tables, 22 ref

003744   Patole S S;Patil M (Zoology Dep, V V M's. S. G. Patil Arts, Science and Commerce College, Sakri-424 304) : Note on ichthyofauna of Panzara river (Tah. Sakri), district Dhule, Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 61-6.

The ichthyofauna of Panzara river (Sakri), Dhule district was surveyed from three stations spread over the entire tahsil were visited. 56 specimens were examined comprising of 22 generas (25 species) of fishes of order (Cypriniformes, 15; Siluriform.es, 04; Osteoglossiformes, 01; Perciformes, 04 and Synbranchiformes, 01). Out of 25 species, we are newly reporting 13 species in the earlier work i.e. ichthyofauna of Dhule district.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

003743   Patil P B;Mahajan G K;Mahajan A Y (Zoology Dep, J.D.M. V.P. Samaj's Nutan Maratha College, Jalgon-425 501) : Variations in some biochemical constitutents of Lamellidens corrianus (LEA) exposed to copper chloride. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 205-8.

The variation in some biochemical constituents of mantle, foot and gills of the freshwater bivalve, Lamellidens corrianus exposed to acute treatment of coppoer choloride were studied changes in the percentage of glycogen, protein and lipids. LD 50/2 value of 96 hr was taken for acute exposure. The results have shown over all decline in percentage composition of three basic biochemical consituttents in all the tissues studied.

1 table, 17 ref

003742   Mokhtari M (Biology Dep, Faculty of Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Kazeroun Branch, Iran) : Effect of alcoholic extract of Phoenix dactylifera spathe on pituitary-gonad hormones in adult male rat. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2009, 8(1), 29-32.

Chemical composition of Phoenix dactylifera spathe including proteins, fibres, moisture, reducing sugar, none-reducing sugar, three kinds of coumarin, organic compounds of camphor family, phytosterols, and 1,2-dimethoxyl 4 methyl benzene. These chemical compounds have biological effects mainly antimitotic, estrogenic, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiobesity and antimutation. In the study effect of extract of Phoenix dactylifera spathe on spermatogenesis, and concentrations of LH, FSH and testosterone and histological changes in testis of rat were studied. The concentration of testosterone showed a significant decrease to different dosage of extract 0.5, 0.1 (g/kg) in comparison to the control and sham groups. In addition, histological studies showed a significant effect caused by the extract such as decreased density of spermatozoa in seminiferous tubules and disorders in spermatogenesis. So body weight and testis showed significant decrease in experimental groups relative to control and sham groups. Serum levels of LH and FSH did not show a significant difference in experimental groups relative to control and sham groups.

1 table, 12 ref

003741   Mehraj Ud Din;Altaff W K;Haniffa M A (Unit of Reproductive Biology and Live Feed Culture, Zoology Dep, The New College (Autonomous), Chennai-600 014, Email: kaltaff@rediffmail.com) : Comparative study on growth of Channa striatus fry and fingerlings using different feeding regimes. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 173-6.

To examine the effect of different feeds on growth of fry and fing erlings four types of feeds viz; Chicken intestine, fish waste, mixed feeds of chicken intestine with fish waste (50:50), and natural live feed (Zooplankton) were selected for feeding the fry and fingerlings. Experiment was carried out in 100 litre fiber tanks on 30 fishes for 30 days and the feed was provided twice a day at 8.00am and 6.00pm. Anova revealed that the percentage increase in weight of the fish on their initial weight for the feeds was significantly (P<60>0.05) different among different diets.

2 tables, 17 ref

003740   Laxmi Prasad K;Balakrishna D;Ravinder Reddy T (Zoology Dep, L.B. College, Warangal-506 007) : Impact of sub-lethal concentrations of confidar (Imdacloprid) on the carobhydrate metabolism of a bivalve, Lamellidens marginalis (L.). J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 182-4.

Impact of sublethal concentration of confidar (0.33 ppm) on the carbohydrate metabolism was studied in selected tissues of fresh water mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (L). Glycogen and pyruvicacid levels were decreased while the lactic acid level showed an increase. In all the tissues studied. Activities of dehydrogenases Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH),and Malate dehydrogenase (MDH) were showed a decrease in the present investigation.

1 table, 15 ref

003739   Langer S;Sharma C;Karlopia S K (Zoology Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006) : Effect of feed cycling and ratio level on the compensatory growth response in Cirrhinus mrigala (Hamilton, 1822). J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 219-24.

To investigate the nature of compensatory growth in fish, a 6 week study was performed on mrigal, Cirrhinus mrigala weighing 7-8 g. Fishes were starved for 0 (control-1A), 1 (IB), 2 (1C) and 3(1D, 1E & 1F) weeks and then re-fed to satiation for 1, 2 and 3 weeks. Weekly changes in weight gain, percentage weight gain, specific growth rate and food conversion ratio were monitored during re-feeding. Irrespective of feed cycling, ration level also plays an important role in depicting FCR values during initial phase of experiment. During the later phase, however, no significant difference was found in the FCR as the values of FCR at the end of the experiment were observed to be in a very close range for all the groups (3.78 - 4.67). No hyperphagy occurred in C. mrigala during re-feeding periods. '3 and 3' feeding cycle group (3 week starvation and 3 week feeding) with 5% ration level performed better than '2 and 2' (2 week starvation and 2 week feeding) and '1 and 1' (1 week starvation and 1 week feeding) feeding cycle groups since all the parameters viz. mean weight gain, %age weight gain, SGR and FCR values showed an improving trend after re-feeding in this group. However final results suggested that growth parameters were significantly different (P<60>0.05) in case of control group in both the experiments as compared to experimental groups suggesting that starvation followed by subsequent re-feeding did not play a role in more growth of Cirrhinus mrigala.

1 table, 20 ref

003738   Langer S;Bakhtiyar Y;Karlopia S K;Khan I A (Zoology Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006) : Optimum dietary protein requirement of Macrobrachium dayanum (Herndersen) larvae. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 142-7.

To study the optimum dietary protein requirements of newly hatched larvae of M. dayanum. Six laboratory diets (AF25, AF30, AF35, AF40, AF45, AF50) having varying levels of protein (25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%) were formulated. Their suitability was tested in terms of growth, survival and biochemical composition. AF45 (45% dietary protein) resulted in maximum weight gain (9.50 ± 0.20mg) and survival (75.00 ±. 8.00) whereas lowest growth (5.03 ± 0.05mg) and survival rate (63.33 ± 5.77%) was recorded with 25%. The flesh protein content was also found to be highest in AF45 followed by AF40 <62> AF50 <62> A 35 <62> AF30 <62> AF25.

4 tables, 41 ref

003737   Kamble S M;Kamble A H (P. G. Zoology Dep, S.M.D. Mohekar Mahavidyalaya, Kallam-413 307, Email: www.smdmmkl@sify.com ) : Biodiversity of some aquatic animals (Crustaceans, molluscans and fishes) from Ruti-reservoir near Ashti: dist. Beed (M.S.) India. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 67-72.

Ruti-reservoir is located 6 km away on west side of Tahasil Ashti, Dist. Beed, Maharashtra state. It is a medium sized reservoir. It is natural reservoir well protected catchment of surrounding hills. This is one of the large sources of aquatic animals including Molluscans, Crustaceans, fishes and other animals, which are economically important. The present investigation was carried out to study biodiversity of aquatic animals with references to Molluscans, Crustaceans and fishes of Ruti-reservoir's water body during the period from March 2008 to Feb 2009 one year. The result of present investigation were confirmed the occurrence of Crustaceans with 5 species belonging to 2 orders and 3 genera, 3 species of Molluscans belonging to 2 orders and 3 genera while 26 species of fishes belonging to 7 orders, 17 genera and 9 families. The order cypriniformes was dominant with 12 species followed by orders channiformes with 4 species, siluriformes with 3 species, orders clupeiform.es, Perciformes and Mastacembeliformes each with 2 species while order Mugiliformes with one (1) species during the research investigation. The results shows rich aquatic animals biodiversity.

3 tables, 33 ref

003736   Jayakumaran P S;Saravanan R (Advanced Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, Sri. K.G.S. Arts College, Srivaikuntam-628 619) : New species of Thiara (Mollusca-gastropoda) from a western ghat stream. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 43-5.

A new species of Thiara has been reported from a small east-flowing stream called Karuppanadhi which is a tributary of a major river system called Tampiraparani in south Tamil Nadu. The new species Thiara (tuberculata) aruna differs from the Thiara (tuberculata) crebra by several morphological characters and colour pattern.

1 table, 6 ref

003735   Jalilzadeh K;Yamakanamard S M;Altaff K (Fresh Water Microbial Ecology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangothri, Mysore-570 006) : Abundance of copepods from three contrasting lakes of Mysore, Karnataka, India. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 26-30.

The copepod community structure in three contrasting (highly, moderately and least polluted) lakes, namely, Hebbal (in Industrial area), Lingambudi (in Domestic/Residential area) and Bannur (in Agriculture area) of Mysore city, Karnataka State, India, was studied for Mo years from February 2007-January 2009. The seasonal abundance of the dominate copepods are described, like Nauplius, Copepodite, Calanoids, Cyclopoids and Harpacticoids.

2 tables, 10 ref

003734   Hashmi S;Ansari N;Quazi S;Sayyed N R (Microbiology and Zoology Dep, Milliya College, Beed-431 122) : Purification and enzymatic activity of phenoloxidase from Barytelphusa cunnicularis. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 216-18.

Phenol oxidase from the crab, Barytelphusa cunnicularis was extracted and purified by salt fractionation using ammonium sulphate and its enzymatic activity was determined using L-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA), catechol, hydroquinone, phenol & tyrosine as substrate. The activity of purified enzyme was compared with the crude enzymatic ativity. It was found the purified phenol oxidase was able to hydrolyse L-DOPA, and catechol effectively but unable to hydrolyse hydroquinone, tyrosine and phenol,the result suggest that the isolated enzyme was propably a kind of O- diphenoloxidase and not laccase or tyrosinase.

1 table, 6 ref

003733   Gupta K;Sharma A;Suri G (Zoology Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006) : Effect of different hormones on the gonads of adults of Puntius sophore. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 239-44.

Attempt has been made to study the effect of various hormones viz., ovaprim, sumaach (HCG), carp pituitary extract and estradiol in the induction of maturation in adults of P. sophore. The histological (qualitative) and quantitative studies in the experimental fishes (after 90 days of experiment) when treated with different hormones showed advancement in time of maturation as compared to the control. The changes resulted in early nuclear extrusions, vitellogenesis, increase in GSI values, increased percental frequency of stage III oocytes and increased mean oocytes diameter. Out of all the four hormones used, ovaprim and sumaach treated fishes showed pronounced development than the others.

1 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

003732   Dayana M L;Fleming A T;Shanthi V;Nirmala T (Zoology Dep, Jayaraj Annapackinam College of Women, Periyakulam-625 601) : Effect of plant food utilization and energy budget of fresh water fingeriling Catla catla and Cirrhinus mrigala. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 234-8.

Experiment was conducted at the Research Department of Zoology, Loyola College, Chennai during 2007-2008 to know the influence of plant diet viz., Eichhornia crassipes, Bacopa monneieri, Cabomba aquatic and Vesicularia dubyana on Catla catla and Cirrhinus mrdgala. Among the different plant diet Baccopa monneieri plant diet recorded significantly highest growth rate whereas Cabomba aquatic, Vesicularia dubyana and Eichhornia crassipes plant diet were least influenced the Catla catla and Cirrhinus mrigala growth rate. Further, the study also revealed that plant diet Bacopa monneieri approached to be more effective in increasing the growth of both fishes. The maximum growth rate was seen in Catla catla than Cirrhinus mrigala in all the plant diet.

4 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

003731   Babu Kumar D;Obaiah J;Sudhakar Reddy P; Bhavani G;Usha Rani A (Environmental Biology Div, Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati-517 502, Email: aur_svu9@yahoo.co.in) : Combined effect of copper, mercury and cadmium induced bioaccumulation in the selected tissues of two aquatic organisms. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 177-81.

Heavy metals are intrinsic, natural constituents of our environment. They are generally present in small amounts in natural aquatic environment. Apart from the natural sources, several anthropogenic factors also contribute to metal concentrations in the environment. Anthropogenic activity can result in greatly increased levels of metals mainly copper (Cu), mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd) in the environment. Fishes, crabs and shrimps are the main aquatic organisms in the food chain which may often accumulate large amounts of certain metals. Hence, an attempt is made to study the bioaccumulation of such combinations of metals in two different aquatic organisms like fish, Oreochromis mossambicus (Tilapia) and crab, Oziotelphusa senex senex under the combined effect of three heavy metals. The test animals were exposed to sub lethal concentrations of Cu, Hg and Cd for fishes it was 0.6ppm, 0.12ppm and 5ppm and for crabs 2.8ppm, 0.17ppm and 0.4ppm respectively for selected time intervals of 7, 15 and 30 days (d) long sojourn. After the specific time intervals the animals were sacrificed and the tissues like liver, muscle and hepatopancreas were isolated. 50mg of each tissue was weighed and acid digested overnight in3:2 nitric acid : perchloric acid mixture. It was then subjected to evaporation. The residue was dissolved in 5ml of double distilled water and 1ml was withdrawn for metal accumulation by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Schimadzu AA 6300). Results revealed a significant increase in accumulation of three metals in all the selected tissues of test animals when compared with control animals. Maximum accumulation was observed in 30d Cu exposed fish liver (26.05 ± l.08 μg/g) followed by 30d Cu exposed crab hepatopancreas (18.86 ± 1.02 μg/g) and minimum level of accumulation was found in 30d Hg exposed fish and crab muscle (2.42 ± 0.09 μg/g and 2.58± 0.79 μg/g respectively).

4 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

003730   Appa Rao J;Das P;Rathna V V;Luther Das (Zoology Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Nagrjunanagar-522 510, Email: dhone_venkatayahoo.co.in) : Toxicity evaluation and behavioral studies of freshwater fish Cirrhinus mrigala exposed to dimethoate. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(2), 199-206.

Fish were exposed to any toxicant of different concentrations, due to stress the physiology gets disturbed, thus considerably affecting the enzyme system. In the present investigation, toxicity evaluation and behavioral studies of freshwater fish Cirrhinus mrigala exposed to Dimethoate in static test and flow through continuous test for 24hrs, 48hrs, 76hrs, 98hrs, were observed. The Lc50 values found to decrease constantly with increasing of exposure periods. It indicates that even low concentration of toxicant was also much toxic to fish Cirrhinus mrigala.

3 table, 31 ref

003729   Aguyoh J N;Audi W;Saidi M;Gao-Qiong L (Horticulture Dep, Egerton University, P.O. BOX 536, Njoro, Kenya, Email: nyamori2001@yahoo.com) : Growth, yield and quality response of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus [Thunb] Mansf. & Nakai) cv. crimson sweet) subjected to different levels of tithonia manure. Int J Sci Nat 2010, 1(1), 7-11.

Low soil fertility in the small-hold farms due to depletion of nitrogen and organic matter is one of the major factors contributing to the declining yield of watermelon in Kenya. A focused study was therefore carried out at the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute regional research center in the semi-arid area of Marigat in Kenya. The main objective was to investigate the effect of different rates of Tithonia diversifolia manure on the performance of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus. Thunb. ( Mansf. & Nakai) cultivar ,Crimson Sweet?. Tithonia diversifolia manure was applied at the rates of 0 kg (0 ton ha-1) 1.5 kg (1.8 ton ha-1), 3.0 kg (3.6 ton ha-1) and 4.5 kg (5.4 ton ha-1). The treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design. The study was conducted for two seasons in (Aug-Dec 2007 and Feb-April 2008). Application of T. diversifolia manure in all cases resulted in significant increase in total and marketable yield, fruit numbers, and average fruit weight, compared to the control. Total yield was increased by between 25% and 31% when tithonia was applied at 5.4 t/ha compared to the yields obtained from the untreated plots. The sweetness of watermelon fruits, as well as leaf area index and number of leaves were also enhanced under high levels of tithonia application.

3 tables, 2 illus, 25 ref

002488   Zenith N;Gambhir R K;Tarnita T;Gyaneswori I; Indrani C (Life Sciences Dep, Manipur Univ, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003) : Seasonal distribution of Lytocestus indicus-a cestode in a freshwater fish, Clarias batrachus (Linneaus) in Manipur. J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 39-40.

The host fishes Clarias batrachus were collected and observed to study the seasonal influence of cestode infection from March, 2007 to February 2008. The period of study was divided into three seasons viz. summer, monsoon and winter and the infection was found to be highest in summer season.

2 tables, 5 ref

002487   Yogesh Kumar J S;Sornaraj R;Asir N G G; Chakkaravarthy V M;Roy T S C (Zoology Dep, Kamaraj College, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu) : Scleractinian diversity of Keelakarai group of islands in Gulf of Mannar biosphere reserve, Tamil Nadu. Int J biol Sci 2010, 1(1), 59-66.

Gulf of Mannar is one of the world's richest marine biospheres and occupies an area of 10,500 sq. km. 21 coral reef islands and unidentified small patchy reefs are present between 80° 47' N Lat.78° 12'E long to 90° 15' N Lat 79° 14'E Long. From Pamban to Thoothukudi as an arc, these islands possess a very interesting heterogeneous group of fauna and flora. About 3600 species of fauna and flora have been identified from this area, out of which 114 species of hard corals belonging to 37 genera have been reported so far. Coral reefs of Gulf of Mannar regions are mostly fringing type. During this survey we have estimated the present coral reef status of Keelakarai group of islands and five patchy reefs of this region for the first time. High diversity of corals were present at Appa island and low diversity was at Valimunai Islands was observed.

1 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

002486   Yadav R;Haldar C (Zoology Dep, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005) : Variataion in gonadal steroid and melatonin during gestation of a diurnal seasonal breeder Indian plaam squirrel Funambulus pennanti. J Endocr Reprod 2009, 13(1), 1-6.

Very little information is available to delineate the role of melatonin during the complex process of gestation in seasonally breeding mammals. The present study was aimed at understanding the physiology of gestation and fetal growth in relation to maternal hormonal levels, including melatonin, of a tropical seasonal breeder, Funambulus pennanti. Through assessment of the vaginal smear during breeding season (March) we selected the early pregnant females (~5 days) from nature and provided them adequate facility in laboratory as in nature. The total length of gestation period i.e., ~45 days, comparatively a long gestation period for a diurnal rodent, was recorded. The litter size was small (3-4), with the maximum number of pregnancies during March to May (in August to September, very less) depending upon the availability of food. The intrauterine growth of the fetus is divisible into three phases, i) implantation and cell division, ii) organ formation, and iii) growth and completion of intrauterine development. A method for the quantitative analysis of fetal growth was devised. A correlation with the levels of maternal hormones suggests that a direct relationship of progesterone and melatonin exists during pregnancy, which declined immediately after parturition. The high melatonin level during gestation, having an almost inverse relationship with estradiol level, suggests that melatonin might play a role in maintenance of pregnancy. Variations, if any, in the melatonin receptor expression in the uterus throughout the gestation period may throw some light on the role of melatonin in maintenance of pregnancy.

4 illus, 26 ref

002485   Venkatesh H;Katti S R;Hadimani M B; Vijayakumar P B (NO, Karnataka State Sericulture Research and Development Institute, Thalaghattapura, Bangalore-560 062) : Observations on the loss of weight of the eggs in some pure races of silkworm, Bombyx mori L.. J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 145-7.

Study was conducted to assess the daily weight loss of the eggs during embryonic development in five pure races of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. The results show that the eggs loose about a total of 10-12% of weight prior to hatching. The weight loss is very less during the early development and gradually increases there upon. The weight loss per day is maximum around 6-8 days exhibiting a peak during this period, suggesting the packing of eggs have to be effected before 5th day.

1 table, 15 ref

002484   Tyagi S;Joshi V D (Zoology Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Kotdwara-246 149) : Biometrical analysis of measurements of the dog louse Heterodoxus spiniger (Phthiraptera: Amblycera). J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 61-4.

Nine somatic characters (head length, head width, prothorax length, prothorax width, pterothorax lenglh, pterothorax width, abdominal length, abdominal width and total length) of one dog louse, Heterodoxus spiniger have been analysed by the statistics of location and dispersion. The departure from normality has been tested by skewness and kurtosis. The dimensions of abdomen and total length exhibited greater variations. On the other hand, measurements of head and prothorax showed lesser variation and appear to be more useful for the statistical measurements of dog louse.

2 illus, 14 ref

002483   Tomar S K;Yadav P R (Zoology Dep, D.A.V.(P.G.) College, Muzaffarnagar-251 001) : Predatorypotential of Coccinella septempunctata instars on mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.). J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 197-9.

Predatory potential of Coccinella septempunctata instars were studied in laboratory by supporting mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) as food. The experiments were conducted during year 2002-03,2003-04 and 2004-05 respectively. The first instar larva consumed 24.2±5.63 aphids, Ilnd instar larva consumed 70.7±7.02, Illrd instar larva consumed 160.8±13.90 and fourth instar larva consumed 293.4±10.14 aphids during larval period in year 2002-03. While during 2003-041st, Ilnd, Illrd and IVth instar larva consumed 27.2±5.50, 74.8±6.06, 170.8±8.64, 306.6±20.03 aphids and 22.4±3.36, 69.2±7.33, 151.6±13.96,283.2±14.87 aphids during larval period in 2004-05 respectively.

3 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

002482   Tomar S K;Yadav P R (Zoology Dep, D. A. V. (P.G.) College, Muzaffarnagar-251 001) : Population and infestation of Mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.). J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 149-52.

Population built up and percentage of infestation of Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) as recorded from December to February during three consecutive years on mustard. Aphid infestation increases gradually from December and reached at its peak in the last week of January during the year 2002-2003 when the temperature ranged 8.4 - 20.2°C and relative humidity was 78.5%. Aphid infestation begun in the fourth week of December and reached at its peak is the Illrd week of February during year 2003-04 when temperature ranged 10.5 - 25.7°C and relative humidity was 68%. During year 2004-05 infestation begun in first week of December and reached at its peak in the Illrd week of January when the temperature ranged from 6.6-15.9°C and relative humidity was 77.5% respectively. During year 2002-03,2003-04 and 2004-05 the maximum percentage of infestation was 72.5,66.25 and 55 in the months of January.

3 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

002481   Suruchi Kumari;Sinha M P (Zoology Dep, Ranchi Unvi, Ranchi-834 008) : Toxic impact of phthalate (Di-n-butyl phthalate) on haematological profile of mice. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(2), 209-11.

The haematological toxicity of phthalate was studied in mice in laboratory experiments. The sub-lethal concentration of 1.666 ml of phthalate/Kg body wt. of mice was administrated subcutaneously in the experiments. The mice were kept at room temperature and kept on normal diet. The hematological profile was analyzed at an interval of 3 days and continued up to 18 days. A significant decrease in haemoglobin % and total erythrocyte count was observed. The maximum reduction in haemoglobin % (6.5%) was noticed on 3rd day but the reduction in % was slightly improved on 18th day. In total erythrocytes count, the highest % (8.92%) was on 18th day. An increasing pattern was also noticed in the total counts on these intervals. The differential counts % of neutrophils (up to 40.9%) and lymphocytes (up to 388%) were maximum on 9th day. The present study suggests that phthalate was a potent hematological toxin.

5 tables, 7 ref

002480   Sumathi V;Isaiarasu L (Zoology Dep, ANJA College, Sivakasi-626 124) : Vermicomposting potential of the native earthworm, Lampito mauritii (KINB.) with three different leaf litter wastes. J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 51-5.

The life span of the native earthworm, Lampito mauritii (Kinb.) as observed in the present study ranged from 73 to 119 days attaining a maximum weight of 119±6 mg/worm and length of 142±5 mm/worm respectively. The worms recorded a growth of 88 per cent in weight and 58 per cent in length in a period of 40 days showing a rate of 1.5 mg/day and 1.15 mm/day respectively. The physico-chemical analysis of the vermicompost produced by these worms from the leaf litter wastes of three different plants namely mango, guava and custard apple resulted a substantial increase in the nutrient composition of the compost produced. The variations observed in the nutrient composition of the composts also indicated that vermicomposting is largely influenced by the food quality and that the compost produced from custard apple leaf litter was relatively better.

2 tables, 35 ref

002479   Suguna P;Ramulu K S (Zoology Dep, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Effect of parasitic infection on oxygen consumption values of Carassius auratus var. Bicaudatus (Redcap, Redform and Telescope). Ecol Envir Conserv 2009, 15(1), 45-7.

The hydrobiological study on Carassius auratus var. bicaudatus (Redcap, Redform and Telescope) which belongs to carp family cyprinidae were made because carp has worldwide choice for culture. In the present study Carassius auratus var. bicaudatus (Red Cap, Red form and Telescope) were collected from aquarium designing centers and were observed for the effect of parasitic infection on oxygen consumption values. Disolved oxygen was found to be an important factor in parasitic infection.

1 tables, 15 ref

002478   Srivastava S J;Gupta A K;Chaturvedi S K; Abhinav;Singh R (Zoology Dep, S.M.M. Town P.G. College, Ballia-277 001) : Effects of short-term therapeutic bath of malachite green and formalin on certain hematological parmeters of a freshwater catfish, Heteropenustes fossilis (Bloch). J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 79-83.

The catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis were exposed for 1 h daily therapeutic bath for four days to malachite green (1 mg/l), formalin (0.25 ml/l) and mixture of malachite green and formalin (0.25 ml/l). Different hematological parameters were evaluated. After four days bath total RBC count, Hb%s PCV, MCHC and MCH values exhibited significant decrease whereas increase in total WBC count, MCV, ESR, CT and BT values were recorded. The present study clearly indicates the toxic effects of these chemicals on hematological parameters of fish. However, exposure to formalin was found to be more toxic than to malachite green and to mixture of malachite green and formalin.

1 table, 40 ref

002477   Sivaprasad S;Sailaja B (Zoology Dep, Smt. N.P.S. Government College of Women, Chittoor-517 002, Email: sivaprasadzoology@yahoo.co.in) : Mobilisation and utilisation of proteins derived from the disintegating gut in the silkworm Bombyx mori during pupal - adult metamorphosis. Int J biol Sci 2010, 1(1), 33-40.

During the silkworm metamorphosis, the larval form, which is a voracious feeder with a well-developed gut, transforms into non-feeding pupal and adult stages in which the gut disintegrates. The histolysis of the gut is associated with decrease in the levels of structural proteins with concomitant increase in the levels of soluble and total proteins from the early to mid pupa and their decline thereafter through late pupal and adult stages. The free amino acid levels were elevated from early pupa to late pupa but significantly declined in the adult stage. The protease activity, which was at a low level in the early pupal gut has attained a maximal level at mid pupal stage, but significantly maintained lower levels both at late pupal and adult stages. The changes in the levels of gut biochemical constituents were compared with those in the haemolymph and fatbddy. The trends in the levels of amino acids and total proteins in haemolymph and fatbody coincided with those of the gut. The fluctuations in the levels of free amino acids in the gut, haemolymph and fatbody indicate that proteo-lytically derived amino acids are first released into the circulating haemolymph, which are then taken-up by other tissues such as the fatbody and gonads. The results indicate the prevalence of a dynamic biochemical relationship between the disintegrating gut and haemolymph on one hand and between the haemolymph and fatbody on the other. The exchange of biochemical constituents seems to facilitate the effective utilization of proteo-lytic products of the gut by tissues like fatbody and gonads for meeting their energy requirements during pupal development. The findings were correlated with protein synthesis during the critical period of pupal-adult transition.

1 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

002476   Singh S;Srivastava A N;Tripathi P N (Zoology Dep, K S Saket P G College, Ayodhya, Faizabad-224 123) : Toxonomical investigation of cestode parasites in common myna, Acridotheres tristis in Uttar Pradesh. J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 159-62.

Deals with the taxonomical description of cestode parasites of the common myna. The study was conducted at Ambedkarnagar. The species is compared with the earlier ones.

1 table, 12 ref

002475   Singh J;Sachdeva S;Rana K S;Arya S (Zoology Dep, KLMDN College for Women, Faridabad, Email: jyoji.singh@gmail.com) : Effect of heavy matals cadmium and chromium on carbohydrate metabolism of fresh water fish, Channa punctatus. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(2), 305-10.

Heavy metals like Cadmium and Chromium are known to cause changes in the metabolic activities of various organisms. In this study the fish Channa punctatus was subjected to sub-lethal doses of Cadmium and Chromium for 45 days. The tissue extracts were taken and tested for activity of key enzyme of Glycolysis and Krebs's cycle along with their biochemical components. In liver LDH activities doubled by 104.16% with cadmium and decreased by 39.11% with chromium. PDH activity increased to 121% with cadmium and 155.74% with Chromium respectively. Glucose-6-phosphatase activity increased by 17% with cadmium and decreased marginally by 3.40% with Chromium. In muscle LDH activity increased by 18% with cadmium and 19% with chromium. Glucose-6-phosphatase activity was insignificant in muscles. In Gills PDH activity increased to 76.59% with cadmium while it decreased to 48% with chromium. SDH activity increased upto 92.6% with cadmium but decreased marginally by 1.66% with chromium. LDH activity decreased by 12.20% in cadmium treated fish while increased by 80% with chromium. SDH activity increased with both cadmium and chromium upto 42%. Glucose-6-phosphatase showed increased activity with cadmium 2.85% and decreased to 4.50% with chromium. In blood the amount of glucose increased by 35% in Cadmium treated fish while it decreased by 25% in chromium treated fish. Lactic acid increased by 5.7% with cadmium and decreased by 19.5% with chromium. Pyruvic acid increased by 80.76% with cadmium and decreased by 28.2% with Chromium. Thus, it may be concluded that long time exposure to cadmium or chromium in the present study resulted in increase in glycolysis and impaired oxidative metabolism.

14 ref

002474   Siddique S S;Arif M;Ram Babu;Shujauddin;Hooda K S (NO, DARL, Haldwani, Nanital) : Discrepancy toxicity of Bacillus thuringiensis strains and their gemstone toxins against the high altitude Himalayan populations of diamond-back moth, Plutella xylostella Linn.. J appl Zool Res 2009, 20(2), 91-101.

Diamond-back moth, Plutella xylostella is one of the most destructive insect pests in the western Indian Himalayan hills and causes severe economic damage on crucifers. Indigenous B. thuringiensis strains tested, subspp. kurstaki, galleriae, galleriae/colmeri and some of their Cry1 class toxins were found highly toxic. Surprisingly, the subsp. tolworthi and Cry9 class toxins were found non-toxic. Midgut homogenate from the 4th instar larvae was found to activate 130 kDa protoxin from the subsp. tolworthi in to 68 kDa toxin, but failed to exert any larval mortality probably due to lack of receptor binding. The B. thuringiensis strains isolated from the Indian Himalayan hills were found to grow and sporulate well at relatively low temperature (15 °C), indicating their adaptability to survive and colonize insect host in this sub temperate region. The results of the present study will serve as a valuable base line susceptibility data for optimal use of B. thuringiensis formulations, deployment of B. thuringiensis transgenic cole crops as well as future monitoiing of development of insect resistance to 8. thuringiensis in this ecologically sensitive reqiorw.

4 tables, 20 ref

002473   Shukla S;Yadav P R;Narain R;Tripathi P N (Zoology Dep, D A V College, Muzaffarnagar-251 001) : Evaluation of mulberry silkworm races suitable for Uttar Paradesh; I-rearing of pure race nistari in the agro-climatic conditions of Basti. J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 167-70.

The present work on the rearing of pure multivoltine Nistari race of Bombyx mari was carried out on the plantation of Morus alba at Basti, U P during 7th September 2008 to 1st November 2008. The data are discussed in the light of present literature.

3 tables, 8 ref

002472   Shendge A N;Mane U H (Zoology Dep, Tuljaram Chaturchand College, Baramati-413 102) : Ponderal index in the freshwater fishes Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters) and Clarias batrachus (Linn.). J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 91-3.

Oreochromis mossambicus and Clarias batrachus, the common freshwater fishes of Bhima river, have high economic and considerable fishery importance. The variations in the ponderal index in respect to size groups, maturation, spawning and feeding intensity have been studied. The work was carried out on 532 specimens of Oreochromis mossambicus ranging from 11.0 to 20.9 cms and 478 specimens of Clarias batrachus ranging from 14.0 to 23.9 cms in length. Oreochromis mossambicus showed comparatively high value of K (1.8551) than Clarias batrachus (0.7489), suggesting well being of Oreochromis mossambicus than Clarias batrachus. The ponderal index showed almost a continuous decrease with the increase in length.

1 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

002471   Sharma M K;Singh P K;Gupta A K;Vajpeyi A P (Zoology Dep, Dr. B.R.A. Univ, Khandari Campus, Agra-282 002) : Beneficial impact of Tinospora cordifolia extracts on serum protein profile in albino rats. J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 57-9.

In view of suggested well being anabolic potential, effect of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Tinaspom cordifolia Miers (Menispermaceae) on blood protein, albumin, globulin and A/G ratio in albino rats was investigated. Both the extracts of T. cordifolia produced a significant anabolic activity at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight. Concurrent studies on protein profile also establishes it as a potent well being agent. The serum total protein, albumin and total globulins showed a general tendency of increasing highly significantly; while A/G ratio significantly after the administration of T. cordifolia aqueous extract and serum total protein, albumin, globulins and A/G ratio very highly significant in T. cordifoiia alcoholic extract treated groups for 7,15,30,45 and 60 days. The increased protein profile suggests its role in well being and preventing damage to the tissue due to daily wear and tear.

2 tables, 12 ref

002470   Sharma M B;Sahesh Devi;Bhardwaj P (Zoology Dep, K V A D A V College for Women, Karnal-132 001) : Scanning electron microscopic analysis of Cyclops exilis and Cyclops basitosus. J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 211-7.

Cephalosomes and ventral appendages revealed a smooth topography having uniform texture. At few places the surface was warted in appearance. Each somite of metasome possessed a pair of biramous swimming legs. Each leg except the last was comprised of coxa, basis, exopod and endopod. The coxae of each pair of legs were joined medially by rigid and tough intercoxal sclerite. The lower margin of each somite was slightly fringed. The first thoracic leg possessed two endopodal and three exopodal segments, while the rest of the thoracic legs possessed three endopodal and two exopodal segments. Outer side of each thoracic appendage one short and one large stout and pointed spines were present while on their inner side large number of long setae were observed. The terminal segment of both exopod and endopod possessed three spines. Each spine was more or less triangular in outline, swollen at the base and pointed at the tip and had small spinules at its margin. The size and morphology of thoracic appendages is one of the distinguishing feature of Cyclops species. Abdominal somites were devoid of limbs, except the anal somite which possessed a pair of setiferous caudal rami. The detailed of ornamentation of caudal setae was observed. In Cyclops exilis the apical caudal setae were long and stout but not fibrous, while in Cyclops basitosus the apical setae were stout, long and fibrous in nature and length of outer setae were about half of the length of inner setae.

10 illus, 38 ref

002469   Saxena P;Saxena A K (Zoology Dep, D.A.V. College, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Email: padmasaxenadav@gmail.com) : Acute and sub-chronic oral toxicity of cypermethrin in rats. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(2), 301-4.

The study was performed to calculate the acute and sub- chronic doses of cypermethrin to avoid damage to non- target organisms including human beings. The cypermethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide is now widely used in world being considered as safe. LD₅₀ was calculated in rats as 620 mg/kg b.wt. In the present study, 310 mg/kg b.wt. of cypermethrin was administered orally for acute treatment and was given once and later 15 mg/kg. b.wt. was administered on 7, 14 and 21 days as sub-chronic doses. Results show that cypermethrin caused a significant decrease (P<60>0.05) in RBC count (Red Blood Corpuscles) from 4.45 X 10¹²/L to 3.37 X 10¹²/L, PCV (Packed Cell Volume) from 47.00 % to 42.6 %, Hb (Haemoglobin Concentration) from 11 g/dl to 7.33 g/dl and MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration) from 23.39 g/dl to 17.05 g/ dl. While significant increase (P<60>0.05) was noticed in TLC (Total Leukocyte Count) from 6.76 X 10³/l to 9.0 X 10³/l and MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) from 105.63 f1 to 127.46 f1 in all treated groups in comparison with controls. On the basis of these results, it is concluded that cypermethrin is not safe for non-target animals in high doses as it induces changes in blood constitution.

2 tables, 39 ref

002468   Savita Rani;Verma R;Sharma M;Juhie Rani (Zoology Dep, D.N. (P.G.) College, Meerut-250 002) : Endemicity of ascariasis in children of Meerut region. J expl Zool 2009, 12(1), 71-4.

The studies have revealed that in Meerut region infection of Ascaris lumbricoides is an endemic intestinal nematode infect many of the poor children and constitute a public health problem. The case has been studied around 300 children and examined 124 (41.3%) had Ascaris infection. Both male and female were harbouring infection but males were more infected than females (43.9% vs 38.8%). This infection mostly occur in children about 7-10years old as they live under poverty and unhygienic condition. The majority of the helminth infection can be cause of death so we should take all possible precautions to avoid such a serious problem.

3 illus, 3 tales, 9 ref

002467   Sastry M S;Choudhury S (Zoology Dep, RTM Nagpur University, Nagpur -440 033) : Histochemical localization of two oxidative enzymes in the leydig cells of microchiropteran bat Hipposideros speoris (Schneider)during the annual testicular cycle. J Endocr Reprod 2009, 13(1), 7-12.

Hipposideros speoris is an insectivorous bat which breeds once in a year. The adult males show peak in their testicular activity from November-December, corresponding to the mid-December ovulation in the females. The testis of this bat was investigated for histochemical localization of succinic dehydrogenase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in the Leydig cells. Specific changes in the enzyme reactions were observed correlative to the reproductive status. Thus, during the quiescent phase (April-August) proliferation of the atrophied Leydig cells was observed, along with a moderate activity of both the enzymes. With the approach of maturity (recrudescent phase: September-October) an enhancement in the enzyme activities was noticed. The onset of breeding period (November-December) brought about an abundance of Leydig cells and increase in the intensity of the enzyme reactions. During the post-mating phase (mid-December) the Leydig cells were not only regressed but decreased in abundance, with corresponding decrease in the localization of the enzymes. During the regression phase (January-March) there was a dramatic decrease in the abundance of the cells as well as intensity of reaction of the enzymes. It is concluded that G-6-PDH and SDH would generate NADPH that is needed for hydroxylation of steroids during steroidogenesis and the histochemical demonstration of these two enzymes provides an additional evidence for the steroid generating capacity of the Leydig cells, which follows a seasonal pattern.

14 illus, 14 ref