014980   Esmaeili H R;Ebrahimi M;Ansari T H;Teimory A; Gholamhosseini G (Biology Dep, College of Sciences, Shiraz Univ, Shiraz 71454, Iran, Email: esmaeili@susc.ac.ir) : Karyotype analysis of Persian stone lapper, Garra persica Berg, 1913 (Actinopterygii: Cyprinidae) from Iran. Curr Sci 2009, 96(7), 959-62.

Karyotypic and cytological characteristics of an endemic cyprinid fish Garra persica Berg, 1913 have been investigated by examining metaphase chromosome spreads obtained from gill epithelial and kidney. The diploid chromosome number of this species was 2n = 48. The karyotype consisted of 15 pairs of meta-centric, eight pairs of submetacentric and one pair of subtelocentric chromosomes (15m, 8Sm, 1St). The arm number was 94. No heteromorphic sex chromosomes were cytologically detected. Chromosome number, karyotype formula and arm number of G. persica differentiate it from G. rufa, a closely related species.

3 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

014979   Durga Prasad M K;Simhachalam G (NO, Krishna Univ, AJ Kalasala Campus, Rajupeta, Machilipatnam-521 001, Email: profmkdprasad@yahoo.com) : Distribution of Indian clam shrimps (Branchiopoda: Crustacea). Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 71-3.

Thirty-five species of clam shrimps known from India are listed. These include one species of Cyclestheria, five species of Lynceus, nine species of Eulimnadia, two species of Leptestheria, two species of Leptesthe-riella, one species of Sewellestheria, one species of Caenestheria, six species of Caenestheriella, and eight species of Eocyzicus. All these species except Lynceus brachyura, Cyclestheria hislopi and Sewellestheria sambarensis are distributed only in temporary waters. The distributional aspects of all the Indian clam shrimp species are discussed.

1 table, 27 ref

014978   Dumont H J;Adriaens E (Laboratory of Animal Ecology, Gent Univ, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium, Email: Henri.Dumont@ugent.be) : Experimental hybridization of two African Streptocephalus species (Crustacea, Branchiopoda: Anostraca). Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 88-90.

Fairy shrimp are ancient crustaceans that live in islands of ephemeral waters all over the world. Although an ancient group, there is evidence that they evolve slowly and thus, genetic differences between species can be relatively small. Here, we hybridize two African species of Strepto-cephalus with overlapping geographical ranges, and find that hybrids have reduced viability. We postulate a model of allopatric speciation, and discuss what may happen if sympatry is secondarily regained. We argue that strong pre- and post-mating barriers should be favoured if speciation has proceeded in conditions where the risk of sympatry is non-negligible. In species that evolved in absolute allopatry (like in Africa and North America), no selection for such barriers exists, however. Man nowadays increasingly interferes with incipient speciation by artificially connecting ephemeral pools, in which case full introgression may occur.

11 ref

014977   Devkar R V (Avian Biology Div, Zoology Dep, Faculty Science, The M.S. Univ of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002, Email: rvdevkar@rediffmail.com) : Episodes of unnatural injury and death of Barn owls (Tyto alba); a warning call. Curr Sci 2009, 96(2), 209-10.

1 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

014976   Choudhury K;Ghosh S (NO, Science College, Kokrajhar, Assam) : Butterflies of Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam. Indian For 2009, 135(5), 714-20.

^ssc1 table, 14 ref

014975   Chhangani A K (Zoology Dep, J.N.V. Univ, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) : Status of vulture population in Rajasthan, India. Indian For 2009, 135(2), 239-51.

An extensive survey was carried out to locate breeding colonies and nests of vultures in Rajasthan. This includes Long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus), White-backed vulture (Gyps bengalensis), Red-headed vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) and Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) as breeding residents, Himalayan griffon (Gyps hymalayensis), Eurasian griffon (Gyps fulvus) and Cinereous vulture (Aegypius monachus) were recorded as winter migrants. A total of 5,080 vultures of 7 different species were counted in 23 districts of Rajasthan. This includes 1,086 Long-billed vultures, 325 White-backed vultures, 84 Red-headed vultures, 2,413 Egyptian vultures and 1, 172 migratory vultures i.e. Himalayan griffon, Eurasian griffon and Cinereous vulture. Many serious threats to these vultures were recorded during the study other then 'diclofenac', like habitat loss, predation by dogs, hunting and disturbances, kite flying, scarcity of food and water, weather conditions, miss fledgling, change in land use practices, road accidents and electrocution. Therefore strong in-situ vulture conservation programmme is equally required with the present ex-situ conservation programmes.

2 tables, 38 ref

014974   Campos Ramos R;Obregon Barboza H;Maeda Martinez A M (Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas del Noroeste S.C., (CIBNOR), Mar Bermejo 195, Col. Palya de Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur 23090, Mexico, Email: almaeda04@cibnor.mx) : Species representaiton and gender proportion from mixed Artemia franciscana and A. parthenogenetica (Anostraca) commercial cysts hatched over a wide range of temperatures. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 111-13.

Species representation and gender proportion from mixed Artemia franciscana and A. parthenogenetica commercial cysts from the Great Salt Lake were obtained experimentally under 31 incubation temperatures from 10°C to 40°C. From 10°C to 32°C, the species representation was skewed to about 65% parthenogenetic females. From 33°C to 38°C, the zy-gogenetic species dominated 80-100%. Parthenogenetic cysts did not hatch at 37°C, whereas few zygogenetic cysts hatched up to 38°C. The proportion of zygogenetic males remained below 20% until the hatching temperature reached 32°C, and from 33°C to 38°C increased to about 50%. Two 'pure' zygogenetic strains, A. franciscana from a San Francisco Bay commercial lot and an Artemia sp. from a natural population in Oaxaca, Mexico, were also studied for comparison. A significantly lower proportion of males (or a significantly higher proportion of females) can preliminarily detect the presence of parthenogenetic individuals in a sample incubated below 33°C.

2 illus, 7 ref

014973   Borgave S;Ghaskadbi S (Animal Sciences Div, Agharkar Research Institute, Pune-411 004, Email: ghaskadbi@gmail.com) : Modulation of cell surface architecture in gastrulating chick embryo in response to altered fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(4), 346-53.

Gastrulation is a fundamental process that results in formation of the three germ layers in an embryo. It involves highly coordinated cell migration. Cell to cell communication through cell surface and the surrounding molecular environment governs cell migration. Cell surface features, which are indicative of the migratory status of a cell, of an early gastrulating chick embryo were studied using scanning electron microscopy. The distinct ultrastructural features of cells located in the various regions of the epiblast are described. Differences in the surface features of cells from distinct embryonic regions indicate differences in their migratory capacities. Further, the dynamic nature of these cell surface features by their response to altered fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling, experimentally created by using either excess FGF or inhibition of FGF signaling are demonstrated.

5 illus, 32 ref

014972   Biswas J (NO, National Cave Research and Protection Organization, Central Zone, Raipur-492 001, Email: jayant@cave-biology.org) : Biodiversity of krem mawkhyrdop of Meghalaya, India, on the verge of extinction. Curr Sci 2009, 96(7), 904-10.

Cave fauna are unique and constitute one of the important components of biodiversity. The prevalence of cave organisms (cavernicoles) is always more in wet and longer caves compared to small and dry ones. Cavernicoles continue to evolve in the habitat characterized by complete darkness, constant temperature, high humidity and low predatic pressure. The subterranean biospheres located in tropical and sub-tropical India are poorly explored. Quarrying/mining activities in the karst area directly or indirectly harm such subterranean biosphere. Krem Mawkhyrdop located in Meghalaya, is affected by such activities. Recently, a portion of this cave collapsed despite early warning calls. In this article, we explain how an unscientific and random quarrying/mining process may possibly lead to extinction of biodiversity of this cave.

4 illus, 21 ref

014971   Bindhuja M D;Meenakshi M;Revathi K;Gopal C; Muralidhar M;Abraham A V (NO, , No.: 10/1, Pammi Sivaramulu Street, Old Washermenpet, Chennai-600 021, Email: bindhu01@rediffmail.com) : Copper concentrations in different tissues during ovarian development of Indian white shrimp, Fenneropenaeus indicus (H. milne edwards, 1837).. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(4), 863-7.

Copper concentrations in different tissues such as exoskeleton, muscle, gonad, hepatopancreas and gills of Indian white shrimp, Fenneropenaeus indicus females were examined at different stages of gonadal maturation. Adult shrimp (average weight 36 ± 2 g) from wild F. indicus were collected and identified according to their stages by visual examination. The shrimps were immediately sacrificed and dissected in cold (4°C) and individual organs were stored in the freezer for further analysis. Copper concentration was examined in all the organs by atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) and the result showed an increase in copper concentration during ovarian maturation. Amongst the organs examined, gills had highest copper concentration followed by hepatopancreas and ovary and least in exoskeleton and muscle. Copper concentration increased significantly (p<0.01) in all the organs during gonadal maturation and was highest at IV stage of the ovary.

5 illus, 46 ref

014970   Benvenuto C;Calabrese A;Reed S K;Knott B (Biological Sciences Dep, Kent State Univ, Kent, Ohio 44242, USA, Email: cbenvenu@kent.edu) : Multiple hatching events in clam shrimp: implications for mate guarding behaviour and community ecology. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 130-6.

Large branchiopods rely on dormant eggs to subsist in an ephemera) environment. Only a portion of the accumulated egg bank breaks dormancy when pools are filled, which is a bet-hedging strategy. Hatchings have been assumed to be discrete; however, multiple emergences have been reported for tadpole shrimp and fairy shrimp. We monitored the hatching frequency of the clam shrimp Limnadia badia in 35 pools on four granite outcrops in Western Australia. Here we report the occurrence of multiple hatching events, discuss their role as a secondary form of bet-hedging, and speculate on the implications for mating behaviour and community dynamics.

2 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

014995   Weeks S C (Biology Dep, Akron Univ, Akron, OH, USA, Email: scw@uakron.edu) : Can males successfully in vade hermaphroditic populations of clam shrimp (Eulimnadia texana)?. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 98-100.

Androdioecy (mixtures of males and hermaphrodites) is distinguished by its rarity, being found in only ~40 animal species. Many of these species are clam shrimp in the genus Eulimnadia. A metapopulation model for the maintenance of androdioecy is tested herein by examining male success in aquaria with a single male-producing hermaphrodite introduced into an otherwise all-hermaphrodite population. This migration experiment did allow males to persist in these populations for seven generations, although at levels below those found in other populations of these shrimp. These results suggest that the maintenance of androdioecy via 'reproductive assurance' is unlikely by way of migration of male-producing hermaphrodites.

1 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

014994   Upadhyay N;Bansal A;Goyal R K (Zoology Dep, D.S. College, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of helminth parasites on biochemical profile of fresh water fish, Channa striatus. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(4), 847-9.

Fish constitutes a cheap source of food and provide good staple food to tide over the nutritional need of human being. Various anthropogenic factors made the fishes more prone for diseases and susceptible for various parasites. So, examine the effect of these parasites on fishes is mandatory to do the effective aquaculture. In the present study attempt has been made to asses the effect of Helminth parasites (Nematode, Cestode, Trematode) on serum protein, serum albumin, serum globulin. The biochemical observation revealed a significant decrease in total serum protein & globulin in serum of blood and a significant increase in albumin in serum of blood of fresh water fish Channa striatus.

1 table, 21 ref

014993   Tizol Correa R;Maeda Martinez A M;Weekers P H H;Torrentera L;Murugan G (NO, Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas del Noroeste, S.C., Mar Bermejo 195, La Paz, Baja California Sur 23090, Mexico, Email: murugan04@cibnor.mx) : Biodiversity of the brine shrimp Artemia from tropical salterns in southern mexico and Cuba. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 81-7.

Using a fragment of the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA (16S) and cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene sequences, the biodiversity and phylogenetic relationships of the brine shrimp Artemia from tropical salterns of southern Mexico (four sites in the Yucatan Peninsula, one site each in the states of Oaxaca and Campeche), and two sites in Cuba were examined. The Mexican populations showed genetic distances of 0-0.43 among themselves and 0.0298-0.0324 with the Cuban populations. Eight haplotypes (16S + COI) were identified from the studied populations, one for the Cuban populations and seven for the Mexican populations. Phylogenetic analyses of these haplotypes indicate that Artemia from these salterns are separated into two well-differentiated clades, one constituted by the Mexican populations and another by the Cuban populations of A. franciscana, suggesting that Artemia populations of Mexico are native and the Cuban are introduced.

3 illus, 4 tables, 43 ref

014992   Thinesh T;Mathews G;Patterson Edward J K (NO, Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, 44-Beach Road, Tuticorin-628 001, Email: thina.sathesh@gmail.com) : Coral disease prevalence in mandapam group of islands, gulf of mannar, Southeastern India. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(4), 444-50.

Assessment of coral disease prevalence was carried out in six islands in the northern region of the Gulf of Mannar during February 2007. Assessment was made in two sites in each island and three transects were laid in each site, white band, white plaque, white spot, pink spot, black spot, black band, yellow spot, yellow band and tumors were the observed common diseases in this regime. Overall coral disease prevalence was 8.9%. Prevalence was highest at Poomarichan Island (10.90%), followed by Manoli (9.38%), Pullivasal (9.28%), Hare (8.64%), Krusadai (8.27%) and Shingle (6.82%). Most common disease was pink spot in Porites sp followed by black band in Porites sp., Pocillopora sp., Favia sp., and Favites sp. Tumors were also observed in low frequencies in Acropora cytheria. Other affected species were Acrpora cytherea, Favia pallida and Goniastrea sp. Present study also consists the frequency of temperature anomalies, which can increase the susceptibility of corals to disease, leading to outbreaks where corals are abundant both in cover and diversity.

5 illus, 3 tables, 35 ref

014991   Singh B N (Genetics Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: bnsingh@bhu.ac.in) : Drosophila ananassae: a good model species for genetical, behavioural and evolutionary studies. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(4), 333-45.

Drosophila ananassae, a cosmopolitan and domestic species, was first described by Doleschall in 1858 from Indonesia. During 1930s, cytological and genetical investigations in D. ananassae were initiated in Japan and USA which showed that it is a genetically unique species. Since then a large number of studies have been carried out by researchers in japan, USA, India, France and Germany in this genetically unique species. Present review briefly summarizes the work done on genetical, behavioural and evolutionary aspects in D. ananassae which demonstrates that it is a good model species for such studies. Further, it is also discussed how the work on D. ananassae has enriched our understanding of basic phenomena like evolution and behaviour compared to similar studies on other model Drosophilds like D. melanogaster, D. pseudoobscura or D. subobsura.

^iia166 ref

014990   Pala I;Sindhe S C S;Naik M J (Zoology Dep, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh) : Effect of ziram on pyruvate and lactate levels in fresh water teleost, Labeo rohita (Hamilton). Asian J envir Sci 2008, 3(2), 86-9.

Freshwater fish, Labeo rohita were exposed to technical grade dithiocarbamate fungicide, ziram for 96 hours and the LC₅₀ was determined as 0.66 mg/1. One-tenth of LC₅₀ (0.066mg/l) was selected as sublethal dose for studies on pyruvate and lactate levels for a period of 1,7,15 and 30 days. The depletion in pyruvate and lactate levels and an increase in muscle lactate were observed significantly.

2 tables, 24 ref

014989   Orozco Medina C;Lopez Cortes A;Maeda Martinez A M (NO, Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas del Noroeste (CIBNOR), Mar Bermejo 195, Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur 23090, Mexico, Email: almeda04@cibnor.mx) : Aerobic gram-positive heterotrophic bacteria Exiguobacterium mexicannum and Microbacterium sp. in the gut lumen of Artemia franciscana larvae under gnotobiotic conditions. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 120-9.

In a previous study, Exiguobacterium mexicanum strain 8N (DSM 16483^{T) and Microbacterium sp. strain 8L (DSM 16485) in gnotobiotic cultures of the brine shrimp, Artemia franciscana indicated beneficial effects on the development of Artemia larvae. In this study, Artemia larvae with and without autoclaved yeast as food, were challenged with strains 8N and 8L under monoxenic condition to determine ingestion, location and viability of bacterial cells in Artemia gut lumen. The results of light and scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that the bacterial cells of both strains were ingested by Artemia metanauplii. Furthermore, both strains were detected by fluorescence microscopy as live or dead cells along the Artemia gut lumen. However, the band profile in denaturing-gradient gel electrophoresis of the 16S rDNA sequence, retrieved from Artemia gut lumen exposed to both bacteria in monoxenic and dixenic conditions, showed only a band corresponding to strain 8N, suggesting that a differential bacterial ingestion or a differential generation of PCR products occurred. In all Artemia experiments, the cells of the strains 8N and 8L were confined within the chyme in the space limited by the perithrophic membrane. No evidence was found that the bacteria adhered or colonized the intestinal epithelium.}

5 illus, 1 table, 48 ref

014988   Nazeer R A;Sampath Kumar N S;Naqash S Y; Radhika R;Rahul Kishore;Bhatt S R (Biotechnology Dep, School of Bioengineering, SRM Univ, Kattankulathur-603 203, Email: ra_nazeer@yahoo.com) : Lipid profiles of threadfin bream (Nemipterus japonicus) organs. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(4), 461-3.

The study of the lipid content in different organs of marine fish Threadfin bream (Nemipterus japonicus) indicates that a major amount of lipids are accumulated in liver (6.22%) when compared with remaining organs like muscle (2.7%) and skin (1.0%). Cholesterol studies reveal that muscle (36.2%) is having more quantities than liver (32.4%) and skin (24%). Fatty acid composition reveals that the lipids of each organ of threadfin bream are enriched in the unsaturated fatty acids and all the organs were found to be rich in linoleic (C_18:2), oleic (C _18:1) and palmitic (C_16:0). The study further elucidates that a considerable amount of two physiologically important n-3 PUP As, i.e. EPA and DHA were found more in skin (1.6% and 0.5%) and liver (1.6% and 0.6%) than in muscle (1.4% and 0.4%).

2 tables, 11 ref

014987   Nagabhushan Reddy M;Basha Mohideen M D (Zoology Dep, Rayalaseema Univ, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, Email: mnbhushr@gmail.com) : Levels of n-3, n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and serum cholesterol in fish from different aquatic habitats. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(4), 899-902.

Fish and other marine life are rich sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids known as omega-3 or n-3 fatty acids. Fish with higher levels of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and lower levels of serum cholesterol has important role in reducing coronary heart diseases. Marine fish, mackerel showed significantly higher levels of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids - alphalinolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid and lower levels of both serum cholesterol and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids -arachidonic acid, linoleic acid when compared to brackish water fish, mullet and freshwater fish catla, rohu and mrigal. The levels of different types of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in fish from different aquatic habitats were in the order: mrigal<catla<rohu<mullet< F128><60>mackerel and mackerel<mullet<mrigal<ca tla<rohu respectively. Thus fish fauna are important sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids providing several nutritional and health benefits for humans if included them in the diet.

3 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

014986   Munuswamy N;Sathyanarayanan S;Priyadarshini A (Unit of Live Feed Aquaculture, Zoology Dep, Madras Univ, Chennai-600 025) : Embryonic development and occurrence of p26 and artemin-like protein in the cryptobiotic cysts of freshwater fairy shrimp, Streptocephalus dichotomus Baird. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 103-10.

Embryonic development as well as stress resistance exhibited by the encysted embryo of the fairy shrimp, Streptocephalus dichotomus were studied. Embryonic development took place in a rapid phase and the nauplii hatched in about 8 h following hydration. The morphology and developmental features of the embryo, at different timescales, have been recorded. Despite undergoing interrupted development, encysting embryos synthesized large amounts of two proteins, namely p26 and artemin in the cysts. Western blot analyses of the desiccated and non-desiccated cysts showed the presence of p26 and artemin-like proteins with similar electrophoretic pattern and cross reactivity with poly-clonal antibodies raised against Artemia p26 and artemin. Thus, the presence of p26 and artemin-like proteins has been documented in the cysts of the freshwater fairy shrimp other than Artemia. Levels of selected sugars are also reported in the desiccated and non-desiccated cysts, of which cysts containing more trehalose were capable of protecting the encysted embryos. The functional significance of sugars found in the encysted embryo is discussed in relation to cryp-tobiosis.

4 illus, 1 table, 45 ref

014985   Mishra D B;Winkle R;Singh V B (Zoology Dep, Biochemistry Lab, T.D. College, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh) : Distribution of antoxidant enzyme SOD in Gomti and Ganga river in liver and skin of Cirrhinus mrigala (Ham.). Asian J envir Sci 2008, 3(2), 128-30.

Laboratory experiments were carried out to expose the activity of superoxide dismutase in the liver and skin of fresh water teleost fish, Cirrhinus mrigala(Ham.) from sample of water collected from river Gomti at Ramghat, Jaunpur and river Ganga at Ghazipu. The fishes were acclimatized in both types of water sample for 14th days. The superoxide dismutase activities were significantly higher in the sample of water collected from river Gomti than river Ganga and control. The physico-chemical parameters of four samples indicated that sample from Ganga river had high biological oxygen demand in comparison to Gomti river, chemical oxygen demand and pH where as the same samples was low in dissolved oxygen when compared with control sample.

014984   Mehata P;Dattani J J;Rajput D K;modi N; Highland H N;Desai K R (Zoology Dep, Univ School of Science, Gujrat Univ, Ahamdabad, Gujrat - 380 009) : Biochemical Alterations induced By Chronic Exposure of Chloroquine in swiss Albino Mice. Prajna 2009, 17(Dec), 35-9.

The present study was undertaken to determine biochemical changes induced by antimalarial drug, Chloroquine Phosphate (CQ) on certain tissues of mice (Mus musculus). Healthy adult male Swiss albino mice weighing between 30-40gm were used for the study. 200mg/kg body weight/day of Chloroquine phosphate (CQ) was administrated through oral route for 45 days. Control animals were given distilled water for the same duration (45 days). Liver, kidney, and brain tissues were biochemically investigated for toxic effects post treatment. Results obtained exhibited significant decrease in protein levels of liver (p< 0.01) and brain (p< 0.001). Cholesterol level was found to be increased significantly in kidney (p< 0.01) and liver (p< 0.001). Creatinine concentration was significantly (p< 0.001) elevated in kidney. Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity significantly (p< 0.01) decreased in brain. Thus, use of choloroqoine for longer duration stipulates austere monitoring, as chronic usage may lead to development of many adverse effects in the humans.

3 table, 32 ref

014983   Koladiya M H;Narasimhacharya A V R L (Biosciences Dep, Sardar Patel Univ, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Gujarat-388 120) : Avifaunal diversity in and around Vallabh Vidyanagar-a short term survey. Prajna 2009, 17(Dec), 1-6.

In view of increasing population and urbanization of Vallabh Vidyanagar, a time bound short-term survey was conducted in Vallabh Vidyanagar and its environs to study the avifaunal diversity. Several sites- approach roads to four major villages near Vallabh Vidyanagar i.e., Lambhvel, Vadtal, Bakrol and Karamsad and Shastri Maidan within Vallabh Vidyanagar were selected. The study sites except Shastri Maidan, included both residential and commercial areas, besides the open areas. A total of 210 visits were made during the morning and evening hours comprising of 105 rounds between Dec 23, 2007 and April 12, 2008. In this study period 44 species of birds belonging to 24 families were encountered. Our observations indicate that 15 species of birds are abundant in frequency while 10 common, 7 frequent and 5 rare. These observations indicate that despite the rapid urbanization of Vallabh Vidyanagar, it is still rich in avian biodiversity.

2 illus, 4 tables, 7 ref

014982   Jayakumar R;Nagarjuna A;Jayantha Rao K (Zoology Dep, Toxicology Div, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh) : Cypermethrin toxicosis on protein metabolic profiles in Rana hexadactyla. Asian J envir Sci 2008, 3(2), 174-8.

Cypermethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide with low mammalian toxicity but high insecticidal activity. Frogs, Rana hexadactyla were exposed to sublethal concentration (i.e., 1/10 LC₅₀1.63mg/l) of cypermethrin for 7 days and 30 days to analyze various protein metabolic profiles in different tissues. Total proteins showed decrement, whereas free amino acids and the activity of protease, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and glutamate dehydrogenase as well as ammonia and urea significantly increased in cypermethrin -exposed frogs. It was also observed that alterations steadily increased with the days of exposure and exhibited tissue specificity. These effects on the protein metabolism of frogs exposed to cypermethrin, which cause impairment on protein synthetic machinery, indicate its toxic effects on cellular functioning.

2 tables, 16 ref

014981   Garcia-Velazco H;Obregon-Barboza H; Rodriguez-Jaramillo C;Maeda-Martinez A M (Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autonoma de Baja California, Apartado Postal 233, Ensenada, Baja California, 22800 Mexico, Email: almaeda04@cibnor.mx) : Reproduction of the tadpole shrimp Triops (Notostraca) in Mexican waters. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 91-7.

Gonadic histology of the tadpole shrimp Triops sp. froni 22 Mexican locations was determined using light microscopy to investigate the hermaphroditic tissue. The sex ratio and type of morphotypes were also determined. Short morphotype individuals with ovisacs (58) were hermaphrodites and were recorded from 14 locations. Of the 34 long morphotype individuals with ovisacs, 25 were hermaphrodites recorded from seven locations, whereas nine were females recorded from only three locations. The proportion of males in hermaphrodite populations ranged from zero to 21%. Thus we infer that such populations have an an-drodioic reproduction. In female populations, it ranged from 50 to 62%; therefore such populations have a gonochoric reproduction.

4 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

014980   Esmaeili H R;Ebrahimi M;Ansari T H;Teimory A; Gholamhosseini G (Biology Dep, College of Sciences, Shiraz Univ, Shiraz 71454, Iran, Email: esmaeili@susc.ac.ir) : Karyotype analysis of Persian stone lapper, Garra persica Berg, 1913 (Actinopterygii: Cyprinidae) from Iran. Curr Sci 2009, 96(7), 959-62.

Karyotypic and cytological characteristics of an endemic cyprinid fish Garra persica Berg, 1913 have been investigated by examining metaphase chromosome spreads obtained from gill epithelial and kidney. The diploid chromosome number of this species was 2n = 48. The karyotype consisted of 15 pairs of meta-centric, eight pairs of submetacentric and one pair of subtelocentric chromosomes (15m, 8Sm, 1St). The arm number was 94. No heteromorphic sex chromosomes were cytologically detected. Chromosome number, karyotype formula and arm number of G. persica differentiate it from G. rufa, a closely related species.

3 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

014979   Durga Prasad M K;Simhachalam G (NO, Krishna Univ, AJ Kalasala Campus, Rajupeta, Machilipatnam-521 001, Email: profmkdprasad@yahoo.com) : Distribution of Indian clam shrimps (Branchiopoda: Crustacea). Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 71-3.

Thirty-five species of clam shrimps known from India are listed. These include one species of Cyclestheria, five species of Lynceus, nine species of Eulimnadia, two species of Leptestheria, two species of Leptesthe-riella, one species of Sewellestheria, one species of Caenestheria, six species of Caenestheriella, and eight species of Eocyzicus. All these species except Lynceus brachyura, Cyclestheria hislopi and Sewellestheria sambarensis are distributed only in temporary waters. The distributional aspects of all the Indian clam shrimp species are discussed.

1 table, 27 ref

014978   Dumont H J;Adriaens E (Laboratory of Animal Ecology, Gent Univ, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium, Email: Henri.Dumont@ugent.be) : Experimental hybridization of two African Streptocephalus species (Crustacea, Branchiopoda: Anostraca). Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 88-90.

Fairy shrimp are ancient crustaceans that live in islands of ephemeral waters all over the world. Although an ancient group, there is evidence that they evolve slowly and thus, genetic differences between species can be relatively small. Here, we hybridize two African species of Strepto-cephalus with overlapping geographical ranges, and find that hybrids have reduced viability. We postulate a model of allopatric speciation, and discuss what may happen if sympatry is secondarily regained. We argue that strong pre- and post-mating barriers should be favoured if speciation has proceeded in conditions where the risk of sympatry is non-negligible. In species that evolved in absolute allopatry (like in Africa and North America), no selection for such barriers exists, however. Man nowadays increasingly interferes with incipient speciation by artificially connecting ephemeral pools, in which case full introgression may occur.

11 ref

014977   Devkar R V (Avian Biology Div, Zoology Dep, Faculty Science, The M.S. Univ of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002, Email: rvdevkar@rediffmail.com) : Episodes of unnatural injury and death of Barn owls (Tyto alba); a warning call. Curr Sci 2009, 96(2), 209-10.

1 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

014976   Choudhury K;Ghosh S (NO, Science College, Kokrajhar, Assam) : Butterflies of Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam. Indian For 2009, 135(5), 714-20.

^ssc1 table, 14 ref

014975   Chhangani A K (Zoology Dep, J.N.V. Univ, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) : Status of vulture population in Rajasthan, India. Indian For 2009, 135(2), 239-51.

An extensive survey was carried out to locate breeding colonies and nests of vultures in Rajasthan. This includes Long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus), White-backed vulture (Gyps bengalensis), Red-headed vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) and Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) as breeding residents, Himalayan griffon (Gyps hymalayensis), Eurasian griffon (Gyps fulvus) and Cinereous vulture (Aegypius monachus) were recorded as winter migrants. A total of 5,080 vultures of 7 different species were counted in 23 districts of Rajasthan. This includes 1,086 Long-billed vultures, 325 White-backed vultures, 84 Red-headed vultures, 2,413 Egyptian vultures and 1, 172 migratory vultures i.e. Himalayan griffon, Eurasian griffon and Cinereous vulture. Many serious threats to these vultures were recorded during the study other then 'diclofenac', like habitat loss, predation by dogs, hunting and disturbances, kite flying, scarcity of food and water, weather conditions, miss fledgling, change in land use practices, road accidents and electrocution. Therefore strong in-situ vulture conservation programmme is equally required with the present ex-situ conservation programmes.

2 tables, 38 ref

014974   Campos Ramos R;Obregon Barboza H;Maeda Martinez A M (Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas del Noroeste S.C., (CIBNOR), Mar Bermejo 195, Col. Palya de Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur 23090, Mexico, Email: almaeda04@cibnor.mx) : Species representaiton and gender proportion from mixed Artemia franciscana and A. parthenogenetica (Anostraca) commercial cysts hatched over a wide range of temperatures. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 111-13.

Species representation and gender proportion from mixed Artemia franciscana and A. parthenogenetica commercial cysts from the Great Salt Lake were obtained experimentally under 31 incubation temperatures from 10°C to 40°C. From 10°C to 32°C, the species representation was skewed to about 65% parthenogenetic females. From 33°C to 38°C, the zy-gogenetic species dominated 80-100%. Parthenogenetic cysts did not hatch at 37°C, whereas few zygogenetic cysts hatched up to 38°C. The proportion of zygogenetic males remained below 20% until the hatching temperature reached 32°C, and from 33°C to 38°C increased to about 50%. Two 'pure' zygogenetic strains, A. franciscana from a San Francisco Bay commercial lot and an Artemia sp. from a natural population in Oaxaca, Mexico, were also studied for comparison. A significantly lower proportion of males (or a significantly higher proportion of females) can preliminarily detect the presence of parthenogenetic individuals in a sample incubated below 33°C.

2 illus, 7 ref

014973   Borgave S;Ghaskadbi S (Animal Sciences Div, Agharkar Research Institute, Pune-411 004, Email: ghaskadbi@gmail.com) : Modulation of cell surface architecture in gastrulating chick embryo in response to altered fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(4), 346-53.

Gastrulation is a fundamental process that results in formation of the three germ layers in an embryo. It involves highly coordinated cell migration. Cell to cell communication through cell surface and the surrounding molecular environment governs cell migration. Cell surface features, which are indicative of the migratory status of a cell, of an early gastrulating chick embryo were studied using scanning electron microscopy. The distinct ultrastructural features of cells located in the various regions of the epiblast are described. Differences in the surface features of cells from distinct embryonic regions indicate differences in their migratory capacities. Further, the dynamic nature of these cell surface features by their response to altered fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling, experimentally created by using either excess FGF or inhibition of FGF signaling are demonstrated.

5 illus, 32 ref

014972   Biswas J (NO, National Cave Research and Protection Organization, Central Zone, Raipur-492 001, Email: jayant@cave-biology.org) : Biodiversity of krem mawkhyrdop of Meghalaya, India, on the verge of extinction. Curr Sci 2009, 96(7), 904-10.

Cave fauna are unique and constitute one of the important components of biodiversity. The prevalence of cave organisms (cavernicoles) is always more in wet and longer caves compared to small and dry ones. Cavernicoles continue to evolve in the habitat characterized by complete darkness, constant temperature, high humidity and low predatic pressure. The subterranean biospheres located in tropical and sub-tropical India are poorly explored. Quarrying/mining activities in the karst area directly or indirectly harm such subterranean biosphere. Krem Mawkhyrdop located in Meghalaya, is affected by such activities. Recently, a portion of this cave collapsed despite early warning calls. In this article, we explain how an unscientific and random quarrying/mining process may possibly lead to extinction of biodiversity of this cave.

4 illus, 21 ref

014971   Bindhuja M D;Meenakshi M;Revathi K;Gopal C; Muralidhar M;Abraham A V (NO, , No.: 10/1, Pammi Sivaramulu Street, Old Washermenpet, Chennai-600 021, Email: bindhu01@rediffmail.com) : Copper concentrations in different tissues during ovarian development of Indian white shrimp, Fenneropenaeus indicus (H. milne edwards, 1837).. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(4), 863-7.

Copper concentrations in different tissues such as exoskeleton, muscle, gonad, hepatopancreas and gills of Indian white shrimp, Fenneropenaeus indicus females were examined at different stages of gonadal maturation. Adult shrimp (average weight 36 ± 2 g) from wild F. indicus were collected and identified according to their stages by visual examination. The shrimps were immediately sacrificed and dissected in cold (4°C) and individual organs were stored in the freezer for further analysis. Copper concentration was examined in all the organs by atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) and the result showed an increase in copper concentration during ovarian maturation. Amongst the organs examined, gills had highest copper concentration followed by hepatopancreas and ovary and least in exoskeleton and muscle. Copper concentration increased significantly (p<0.01) in all the organs during gonadal maturation and was highest at IV stage of the ovary.

5 illus, 46 ref

014970   Benvenuto C;Calabrese A;Reed S K;Knott B (Biological Sciences Dep, Kent State Univ, Kent, Ohio 44242, USA, Email: cbenvenu@kent.edu) : Multiple hatching events in clam shrimp: implications for mate guarding behaviour and community ecology. Curr Sci 2009, 96(1), 130-6.

Large branchiopods rely on dormant eggs to subsist in an ephemera) environment. Only a portion of the accumulated egg bank breaks dormancy when pools are filled, which is a bet-hedging strategy. Hatchings have been assumed to be discrete; however, multiple emergences have been reported for tadpole shrimp and fairy shrimp. We monitored the hatching frequency of the clam shrimp Limnadia badia in 35 pools on four granite outcrops in Western Australia. Here we report the occurrence of multiple hatching events, discuss their role as a secondary form of bet-hedging, and speculate on the implications for mating behaviour and community dynamics.

2 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

024399   Tamboli A S;Gaikwad A R;Korad V S (Zoology Dep, Mudhoji College, Phaltan, District-Satara) : Survey of dung beetles (Coleoptera : Scarabaeidae) in Pune district of Maharashtra. Bioinfolet 2010, 7(3), 215-16.

The occurrence of 9 genera and 15 species of dung beetles have been reported from Pune district of Maharashtra state.

4 ref

023355   Walvekar M V;Bhopale L P;Sarvalkar P P (Zoology Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004) : Effect of sublingulectomy on submandibular gland of female mice (Mus musculus). Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 637-9.

The mouse submandibular gland is a rich source of various biologically active polypeptides. The polypeptides are also found in sublingual gland in smaller amount. To elucidate the functional significance of sublingual gland we have sublingulectomised (removal of sublingual gland. It was removed in female mice of twenty days old and maintained under normal conditions in the departmental animal house up to the age of three months. There after protein content and amytase activity was determined from submandibular gland of both sublingulectomised and normal mice. The protein content and amylase activity was increased significantly in submandibular gland of sublingulectomised mice as compared to the normal mice. The present data suggest that submandibular gland compensate the functions of sublingual glands related to growth factors in absence of sublingual gland.

2 tables, 36 ref

023354   Vimala S;Paul V I (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: issac_paul@rediffmail.com) : Analytical study of some environmental isolates for the presence of Staphylococcus aureus. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 671-3.

Staphylococci are ubiquitous Gram-positive bacteria that could enter the bodies of humans and animals through wounds or cuts in skin or mucous membranes leading to diseases. The enterotoxins of Staphylococcus aureus are the major sources of food borne illnesses also. The present study is an attempt to explore the presence of 5. aureus in some environmental samples collected from various geographical areas in Tamilnadu and Pondicherry, All together 30 environmental isolates were collected, processed and cultured. The isolates, which formed golden yellow round colonies in culture, were further purified by repeated streaking and stored as slants. Nutrient broth enriched cultures were subsequently subjected to further standard biochemical tests such as Gram's staining, coaguiase, catalase, citrate utilization, indole production, methyl red, Voges-Proskauer, oxidase, triple sugar iron and urease tests. Out of the 30 isolates, 15 showed the presence of S. aureus indicating its cosmopolitan distribution pattern.

20 tables, 25 ref

023353   Venkata Chandrudu M;Radhakrishnaiah K (Zoology Dep, Sri Krishnadevaraya Univ, Anantpur (A.P.)) : Cadmium induced alterations in certain aspects of protein metabolism of the freshwater mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamarck) and freshwater fish, Labeo rohita (Hamilton). Asian J envir Sci 2009, 4(1), 48-54.

The levels of glutamine, ammonia and urea and the activities of alanine and aspertate aminotransferases (A1AT and AAT) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) were estimated in the organs of mussel and fish exposed to acute concentration (7.0mg/l) of cadmium relative to their controls at day 1,2 and 3. The AlAT and AAT activities decreased with an increase in GDH activity and glutamine levels in all the organs of the mussel and fish, greater in degree in fish than in mussel. The level of ammonia increased with a decrease in urea level in all the organs of mussel and fish. Eeither the increase or decrease in parameters was more in fish than in mussel and they were in the order day 1 <2 > 3 in mussel and day 1 < 2 <3 in fish over time of exposure. Among the organs, the degree in all the changes of all the parameters of protein metabolism were more or less insignificant and inconsistent but in general they were in the order ctenidium > mantle > hepatopancreas > foot in mussel and kidney > liver > gill > muscle in fish. In between the two animals, the degree of either the decrease or increase, as the case may be, in the parameters studied was more in the organs of fish and less in mussel. Further, the changes were progressive overtime of exposure in fish, but a slight recovery was observed at day 3 in mussel. The results indicated increased deamination, ammonia accumulation and suppression of urea synthesis in the organs of both the animal groups exposed to acute cadmium stress, with a greater in degree and progressive over time of exposure in fish.

6 illus, 35 ref

023352   Vashista P;Nautiyal P (Zoology Dep, P.G. Govt. College, New Tehri-249 001) : Length-weight relationship in black-spot infected Schizothorax richardsonii (Gray) from river Alaknanda (Garhwal: west Himalaya). J Mountain Res 2006, 1, 95-102.

Investigations were carried out to determine the length-weight relationship of Schizothorax richardsonii (Gray) infected with blackspot disease. Samples of snow trout were collected randomly from the Alaknanda at Srinagar Garhwal from the fisherman for a period of one year. Samples were segregated on the basis of sex to determine the length-weight relationship. In both sexes of S. richardsonii the relationship did not follow the cube law and exhibited allometric growth, attributed to absolute (100%) incidence of the disease.

3 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

023351   Tripathi N K;Gorkie M (Zoology Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006, Email: maxi_gorkie@yahoo.co.in) : Chromosomal data o three species of genus orthetrum (Libellulidae: anisoptera: odonata). Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 711-15.

Cytogenetical analysis on three species of genus Orthetrum belonging to family Libellulidae from Jammu has been carried out. The present studies on Orthetrum glaucum, O. sabina sabina, O. pruinosum neglectum revealed 2n= 25 with m-chromosomes. All the species possess XX-XO sex determining mechanism. Total chromosome length (TCL), m: X and longest autosome: X ratios have been studied in this genus.

29 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

023350   Tirpude J;Sastry M S (Zoology Dep, Sevadal Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Nagpur-440 009, Email: pawar.drvishwajeet@gmail.com ) : Cytological study of amniotic fluid in the Indian leaf nosed bat, Hipposideros speoris (Scheneider) at full term pregnancy. Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 587-9.

Hipposidems speoris is monotoccous and monoesterous bat breeding once a year. The gestation lasts from 125 to 135 days. The amniotic fluid from the uterus of full term pregnant Microchimpteran bat, Hippofideros speoris (Schneider) was drawn and cytological examination was done. Three types of exfoliated or desquamated cells may be from fetal skin, hairs, vernix caseosa or amnionic epithelial cells or urinary tracts were morphologically examined in the fluid. Since amniotic fluid contains cells from skin, umbilical cord, vagina, urinary bladder lung as well as amniotic membrane, amniotic fluid cytology is considered to reflect other organ maturity more faithfully than the light, scanning electron microscopy, ultrasound estimations of gestational age, biochemical assessments since these changes are accompanied by almost parallel changes in cell exfoliation to the amniotic fluid from various differentiating tissues facing the amniotic cavity.

2 illus, 14 ref

023349   Tara J S;Feroz M (Zoology Dep, Entomology Div, Jammu Univ, Jammu (Tawi)-180 006) : Lady bird beetles (Coleoptera: coccinellidae) from Kargil (J and K). Bioscan 2009, 4(4), 683-88.

High altitude region (Cold Desert) of Himalaya comprises twin districts of Kargil and Leh. Kargil district ranges from an altitude of 2704 m - 7135 m above sea level was studied during the year 2007-08 to report the diversity of insect fauna of family Coccineiiidae (Coleoptera) from three different altitudes viz; low, medium and high of the area. Five Cocdnellid species viz; Adalia sp., Hippodamia variegata,, Coccinela sp, Coelophora sp. and Halyzia sp. were recorded during the survey. Further studies with regard to their diagnostic features are also incorporated in this communication.

1 illus, 31 ref

023348   Sivadas M;Bhaskaran M M (NO, Calicut Research Center of Center Marine Fisheries Research Institute,, Calicut-673 005, Email: sivadasmadhav@yahoo.com) : Stomach content analysis of the Indian mackerel Rastrelliger kanaguta (Cuvier) from Calicut, Kerala. Indian J Fish 2009, 56(2), 143-6.

The food and feeding of the Indian mackerel Rastrelliger kanagurta was studied from Calicut based on 1,551 fishes ranging in size from 100 to 280 mm total length (TL) collected from both multi-day trawlers and ring net during the period January to December 2006. There was a preponderance of empty stomachs in all the months. The dominant food item was copepod. Sand and foraminiferans also formed part of the stomach content. The fish, Bregmaceros sp. was noticed for the first time in the adult mackerel.

1 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

023347   Shri Prakash;Tikar S N (Entomology Div, Defence Research & Development Establishment Organisation, Jhansi Road, Gwalior-474 002, Email: shripra2004@yahoo.co.in) : Muscoid flies in tsunami hit areas & their management. Indian J med Res 2009, 129(6), 631-3.

16 ref

023346   Saraswathamma S;Bai K Kalyani;Yellamma K (Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati (A.P.)) : ATPase in rat brain under aluminium toxicity. Asian J envir Sci 2009, 4(1), 15-23.

The study deals with evaluation of the impact of aluminium acetate on the ATPase system in rat brain. Male albino rat, Rattus norvegicus, weighing 130±2 grams, of 60±2 days age was the experimental animal model and aluminium acetate, the toxicant. Aluminium toxicity (LD50/24h) was evaluated and was found to be 700mg/kg body weight. 1/5th of lethal dose was taken as the sub-lethal dose. For acute dose studies, rats were given a single lethal dose of aluminium acetate orally for one day only and for chronic dose studies, the rats were administered with sub-lethal dose of aluminium acetate once in a day for 25 days continuously. The levels of various constituents of the ATPase system viz. Total ATPases, Na^{+ K+ - ATPase and Mg+2 ATPase were determined in different regions of rat brain such as Cerebral Cortex (CC), Hippocampus (He), Hypothalamus (Ht), Cerebellum (Cb) and Ponsmedulla (Pm) at selected time intervals/days under acute and chronic treatment with aluminium. The results revealed that the levels of all ATPases were inhibited to different extent in all the above areas of brain upon aluminium intoxication thus exhibiting region specific sensitivity of rat brain. While under acute treatment, inhibition in ATPase commenced from 3h, reaching maximum at 12h, under chronic exposure, maximum inhibition was observed on 15th day. Further, in acute treatment, the ATPase system never gained normal levels,where as under chronic exposures, a slight recovery was observed in all ATPases from 20th day onwards and by 25th day almost near normalcy was restored.}

2 illus, 3 tables, 39 ref

023345   Sanjay Kumar;Kesari K K;Behari J (Bioelectromagnetic Laboratory, School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru Univ, New Delhi-110 067, Email: jbehari@hotmail.com) : Evaluation of genotoxic effects in male wistar rats following microwave exposure. Indian J expl Biol 2010, 48(6), 586-92.

Wistar rats (70 days old) were exposed for 2 h a day for 45 days continuously at 10 GHz [power density 0.214 mW/cm^{2, specific absorption rate (SAR) 0.014 W/kg] and 50 GHz (power density 0.86 μW/cm2, SAR 8.0 xlO-4 W/kg). Micronuclei (MM), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and antioxidant enzymes activity were estimated in the blood cells and serum. These radiations induce micronuclei formation and significant increase in ROS production. Significant changes in the level of serum glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase were observed in exposed group as compared with control group. It is concluded that microwave exposure can be affective at genetic level. This may be an indication of tumor promotion, which comes through the overproduction of reactive oxygen species.}

3 illus, 45 ref

023344   Sahoo S K;Giri S S;Chandra S;Sahu A K (NO, Center Institute of Frehwater Aquaculture, Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar-751 002, Email: sksahoo100@rediffmail.com) : Larval rearing of the spiny eel, Macrognathus aculeatus (Lacepede) under different rearing conditions: a preliminary study. Indian J Fish 2009, 56(1), 47-9.

A study was carried out to evaluate the role of rearing conditions on growth and survival of the spiny eel, Macrognathus aculeatus (Lacepede) larvae during a 30 days experimental period. The study was conducted with three treatment groups: the first group was reared in fibre-glass tanks with 6" deep water (Treatment-1), the second group in tanks provided with floating weed covering one fourth of the water surface (Treatment-2) and the third group was reared in tanks provided with soil bed and floating weed (Treatment-3). The tanks used for treatments 1 and 2 were not provided with soil bed. The growth and survival rate of the larvae, reared in the tanks with normal bottom and weed as well as in normal bottom without weed did not differ (p<0.05). However, the growth and survival rate were significantly reduced (p<0.05) when reared in tanks with soil base as well as floating weed. The results indicated that either providing soil at tank bottom or weed in rearing system did not help increase growth and survival of this species during the experimental rearing.

1 table, 13 ref