IBRAHIM N I, SULIEMAN A M E, HANNACHI S, STEVENSON S L
047320 IBRAHIM N I, SULIEMAN A M E, HANNACHI S, STEVENSON S L (Biology Dep, Univ of Hail, Hail - Saudi Arabia, Email: abuelhadi@hotmail.com) : The effect of wildfires on wood - decay fungi in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Adv life Sci 2020, 8(1), 73 - 7.
In late November and early December of 2019, wildfires occurred over portions of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. More than 4,000 ha were affected by the wildfires. The objective of the research reported herein was to access the impact of these wildfires on the assemblages of wood - decay fungi associated with the study areas in the park. The investigated fungi were confined to two study areas; the first subjected to a relatively high intensity burn and the second subjected to a relatively low intensity burn. In addition to specimens of fungi obtained in the field, small pieces of coarse woody debris were assembled, brought back to the laboratory and placed in plastic chambers for incubation and kept moist. Over the course of two months, fruiting bodies appearing in these incubation chambers were observed and collected. All specimens from both the field and incubation chambers were identified from sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal DNA. A total of 31 different taxa were identified along with nine taxa reported previously as unknown and uncultured. However, almost all of these records were from the study area subjected to the relatively low intensity burn. The relatively high intensity burn site was almost completely devoid of wood - decay fungi.
3 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref
RAMTEKE I P, SRINIVASU T
047314 RAMTEKE I P, SRINIVASU T (Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur Univ, Nagpur - 440 033) : Some additions to the flora of Wardha District. Bioinfolet 2020, 17 (3 B), 517 - 9.
Total four new species of family Leguminosae (Fabaceae) were reported, which include Aeschynomene americana L., Crotalaria pusilla DC., Stylosanthes fruticosa (Retz.) Alston. (Papilionoideae DC.) and Senna uniflora H. S. Irwin & Barneby (Caesalpinioideae DC.). These species were added to the existing flora of Wardha district. Some of them are medicinal plants. Detail taxonomic descriptions, location, status and other relevant information has been given on the basis of fresh collections. Local name of the species along with their medicinal use have been briefly mentioned.
7 ref
BRAMHANKAR K B, GHUGAL S I, RAHILE B S
047311 BRAMHANKAR K B, GHUGAL S I, RAHILE B S (S. S. E. S. Amaravati's Science Coll, Bhandara) : Melittopalynological studies on pollen load of apis cerana indica from pauni region of Bhandara District (Maharashtra). Bioinfolet 2020, 17 (3 B), 507 - 11.
The forest area of Pauni region (District Bhandara, Maharashtra State ) is of mix deciduous type forest along with agricultural tracks, which provides a rich diversity of pollen grains. Honeybees play an important role in cross pollination of various indigenous, wild, cultivated, agricultural and horticultural crop plants, resulting into substantial increasing in their yield associated with an improvement in the quality of the crops. Present study was undertaken on bee fauna of Pauni region, which include analysis of pollen pollen load of domesticated honey bee Apis cerana indica, during summer season of 2016. During qualitative analysis of pollen load on honeybees, out of 110 pollen loads, 65 ( 59.9 % ) pollen loads were found to be unifloral, 5 (4.54 % ) bifloral and 40 (36.36 %) multifloral. The plants contributing their pollen grains included Psidium guajava, Alangium salvifolium, Citrus sps., Pongamia pinnata, Parthenium hysterophorus, Mangifera indica, Azadiracta indica, Sonchus olaraceous, Tridax procumbens, Sphaeranthus indicus, Solanum sps., Coriandrum sativum, Physalis minima, Albezia lebbeck, Acasia nilotica, Poaceae sp., Terminalia sps. Sapindus detergens and Bombax ceiba. In all nineteen pollen types, belonging to the plants of fourteen families were obtained from pollen load on the honeybees of Pauni region.
1 illus, 1 table 10 ref
DESHMUKH S S
047307 DESHMUKH S S (Shivaji Science Coll, Nagpur) : Leech fauna of Melghat region. Bioinfolet 2020, 17 (3 B), 496 - 8.
Present present paper deals with latest information on species diversity of freshwater and terrestrial leeches of Melghat Region It includes 6 species. belonging to 2 orders ( Rhynchobdellae, Arhynchobdellae) and 2 families (Erpobdellidae and Hirudidae ). Geographic distribution and morphological characters of each species have been given.
1 table, 11 ref
PURI K, VEL A S, MANOHARAN N, JAMES R A, JOSHI R
045748 PURI K, VEL A S, MANOHARAN N, JAMES R A, JOSHI R (Forest and Climate Change, New Delhi, Email: genetics_1407@yahoo.co.in) : Pro-environmental attitude and behaviour of rural students – A case study from Bhopal, Madhya pradesh, India. Int J Sci Nat 2020, 11(2), 39-40.
The purpose of this study was to assess environmental literacy which includes the dimensions of environmental attitudes and behaviour among rural school students in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India. Environment education has been introduced as a regular course in formal school education system following the directive of the Honorable Supreme Court of India. The population for the study was VIII and IX class school students. This study was primarily based on field survey, wherein students responded to predefined questionnaire covering environment aspects. A total of 120 students were randomly selected and students responded voluntarily. The environmentally responsive behavior of these students are great indicators of how environment education is progressing in rural areas.
3 tables, 9 ref
IQBAL S, MAHMOOD S, MUBEEN I, KHALID Z, AYAZ M
045744 IQBAL S, MAHMOOD S, MUBEEN I, KHALID Z, AYAZ M (Huazhong Agricultural Univ, Wuhan- 430 070, P.R. China, Email: shehzadbhutta02@gmail.com) : Molecular interaction between candidatus liberibacter asiaticus and citrus: A review. Int J Sci Nat 2020, 11(2), 17-23.
Huanglongbing (HLB), the most devastating disease of citrus, is associated with infection by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, a phloem-limited, fastidious α-proteobacteria in the family Rhizobiacea and is vectored by the Asian citrus psyllid Diaphorina citri Kuwayama. In this study, the molecular basis of citrus-HLB interactions has been studied using transcriptome analyses, and these analyses have identified many pathways modulated by C. las infection among different citrus cultivars. Pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMP) activity of flg22 in Las is weaker than those in other well studied plant pathogenic bacteria. Predecessors thought that host citrus plants have not evolved sufficient immune responses to effectively prevent infection. The accessibility of high throughput sequencing, transcriptomes and proteomes have functional to Las-infected plants and treated plants; as a result, numerous characteristic innate immunity elicitors, transcription factors, defense responsive components, and signaling molecules have revealed. This aspect, the relationship between Ca. Liberibacters and citrus now can be interpreted from a plant innate immunity perspective. As a counteraction, plants have evolved cellular processes that can specifically recognize the effectors, either directly or indirectly, by producing disease resistance (R) proteins. HLB strongly affected pathways and processes, such as sugar and starch metabolism, cell wall metabolism, stress response, hormone signaling and phloem genes were significantly altered in citrus. This study helps to understanding some aspects related interaction between Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus and citrus and helps to developing defense against Huanglongbing in future.
1 illus, 45 ref
JAGDALE Y L, SAKDEO B M, ALI S S
045742 JAGDALE Y L, SAKDEO B M, ALI S S (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Pune– 413 115, Email: yljagdale@gmail.com) : Effect of training & pruning techniques on yield & quality of capsicum under protected cultivation. Int J Sci Nat 2020, 11(1), 8-9.
The present investigation was carried out during 2017-2018 & 2018-2019 with the objective of observing the effect of the tested systems of pruning on vegetative, fruiting, yield and quality traits of capsicum varieties on farmer’s field of Baramati tahasil. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with one replications and two treatments with Indra, Bachata and Inspiration cultivars of capsicum pruned with two intensities i.e. two shoots and un- pruned (control). The results showed that the two stem pruning treatment significantly affected the plant growth and the average weight of fruit is increased i.e. 226 gm in comparison with farmers practice only getting 175 gm average fruit weight. It was observed that the yield of capsicum was increased by 23.67 % as compared to farmers practice with the good quality fruit production. The average yield obtained in trial plot was 79.40 ton/ha as compared to 64.20 tons/ha from farmers practice. The net returns Rs.15,43,000/- per ha and B: C ratio is 1: 3.8 ratio were also recorded highest in treatment plots as compared to local check net returns Rs.10, 90,064.4/- per ha and B: C (1: 2.3) ratio.
1 table, 8 ref
JAGDALE Y L, SAKDEO B M, ALI S S
045742 JAGDALE Y L, SAKDEO B M, ALI S S (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Pune– 413 115, Email: yljagdale@gmail.com) : Effect of training & pruning techniques on yield & quality of capsicum under protected cultivation. Int J Sci Nat 2020, 11(1), 8-9.
The present investigation was carried out during 2017-2018 & 2018-2019 with the objective of observing the effect of the tested systems of pruning on vegetative, fruiting, yield and quality traits of capsicum varieties on farmer’s field of Baramati tahasil. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with one replications and two treatments with Indra, Bachata and Inspiration cultivars of capsicum pruned with two intensities i.e. two shoots and un- pruned (control). The results showed that the two stem pruning treatment significantly affected the plant growth and the average weight of fruit is increased i.e. 226 gm in comparison with farmers practice only getting 175 gm average fruit weight. It was observed that the yield of capsicum was increased by 23.67 % as compared to farmers practice with the good quality fruit production. The average yield obtained in trial plot was 79.40 ton/ha as compared to 64.20 tons/ha from farmers practice. The net returns Rs.15,43,000/- per ha and B: C ratio is 1: 3.8 ratio were also recorded highest in treatment plots as compared to local check net returns Rs.10, 90,064.4/- per ha and B: C (1: 2.3) ratio.
1 table, 8 ref
YAKUBU U P, IBRAHIM S U, BELLO O S
045741 YAKUBU U P, IBRAHIM S U, BELLO O S (Federal Univ of Technology, Minna, Email: umar.yakubu@futminna.edu.ng) : Impact of some hydrological factors on phytoplankton community structures in agaie-lapai dam reservoir of Niger state, Nigeria. Int J Sci Nat 2020, 11(1), 1-4.
The impact of some hydrological factors (rainfall, inflow and depth of water) on phytoplankton biodiversity in Agaie- Lapai dam reservoir were studied by monthly sampling and measurements taken from May, 2013 to October, 2014. This reservoir is situated at 90 39ˊ N latitudes and 60 33ˊ E of longitudes. The reservoir is near Bakaje village at the confluence of the River Jatau and two other rivers, the Jimada and Chemi. Samples of phytoplankton were collected with plankton net of 50µm mesh size in designated stations within the reservoir. Seven (7) phytoplankton taxa are identified during the study belonging to Chrysophyta (with 99 spp), Bacillariophyta (104 spp), Chlorophyta (with 196 spp), Cyanophyta (with 21 spp), Euglenophyta (with 93 spp), Pyrrophyta (with 33 spp) and Cryptophyta (with 35spp). The highest level of impact of rainfall was corrected by the phytoplankton from the month of November to December. Cryptophyta recorded the highest respond while other phytoplankton taxa showed increase or decrease in the first and second seasons respectively. The Bacillariophyta and Euglenophyta taxa did not respond to the fall and rise of rainfall level while other phytoplankton taxa were significantly correlated by the rainfall.
4 illus, 14 ref
VELLINGIRI S, DUTTA P, SINGH S, SATHISH L M, PINGLE S, BRAHMBHATT B
039387 VELLINGIRI S, DUTTA P, SINGH S, SATHISH L M, PINGLE S, BRAHMBHATT B (Indian Institute of Public Health, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, Email: priya.iiphg@gmail.com) : Combating climate change-induced heat stress: Assessing cool roofs and its impact on the indoor ambient temperature of the households in the urban slums of Ahmedabad. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2020, 24(1), 25-9.
The rising global temperature and frequent heatwaves are the adverse effects of climate change. The causalities and ill impacts of the heat stress were higher among the slum dwellers because of the vulnerable household structures, which were made by heat-trapping materials like tin sheets, cement sheet (asbestos), plastic, and tarpaulin. The houses are not only dwellings but also a source of livelihood for many slum dwellers as they are involved in home-based work. The increase in the temperature of more than 40°C severely affects health and increases energy expenditures. The present study conducted to identify the efficient cool roof technologies that reduce indoor temperature of the households and improve the heat resilience of dwellings located in the urban slums of Ahmedabad. The performances of cool roof interventions were compared with the non intervention - roof types, namely, tin, asbestos/cement sheet, and concrete. Relative humidity/temperature data loggers (Lascar EL-USB-2-LCD, Sweden) were used to measure the indoor ambient temperature and humidity. The questionnaire-based survey also has been conducted to understand the socioeconomic status and the perceptions related to roofing and health. The results revealed that selected cool roof technologies including Thermocol insulation, solar reflective white paint on the outer surface of the roof, and Modroof are effectively reducing the indoor temperature as compared to the non intervention roofing.Cool roof technologies have a wider scope as number of informal settlements are increasing across the cities in India and other developing countries. The governments may not able to provide proper housing to all these inhabitants due to various reasons including the land tenure of the habitats. Validated cool roof technologies can be promoted as these structures are not requires legal sanctions and easily dismantled and installed in multiple places and safeguards the investment of urban poor.
5 illus, 21 ref
CHAI Y, WANG H, GE C
039149 CHAI Y, WANG H, GE C (Shandong Univ, Weihai- 264 209, Email: changzige@sdu.edu.cn) : Maintenance mechanism of Enteromorpha prolifera green tide: From perspective of nutrients utilization. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2020, 49(2), 293-7.
Green tide caused by macroalgae is one of the global ocean ecological disasters and nutrients with high concentration are considered as materials base for the outbreak of green tide. Nevertheless, there is no continuous nutrients supply formacroalgae during their floating in sea areas. Thus, there must be special nutrients utilization strategy for the macroalgae to maintain growth and proliferation even if the nutrients in seawater can not supply enough nutrients for them. To verify the hypothesis, Enteromorpha prolifera responsible for green tide was exposed to nutrients with different concentrations.E. prolifera absorbed and stored excrescent nutrients when it encountered nutrient eutrophication, then released and reutilized those stored nutrients for growth and proliferation in the nutrient-shortage seawaters. Thus, the green tide can be maintained by the nutrients regulation ability of E. prolifera. Results of the present work may be helpful to provide enlightenment on prediction and controlling of macroalgae green tide.
6 illus, 1 table, 22 ref
IMCHEN T, EZAZ W
039146 IMCHEN T, EZAZ W (CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa-403 004, Email: temjen.imchen@gmail.com) : Time course nutrient uptake study of some intertidal rocky shore macroalgae and the limiting effect due to synergistic interaction. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2020, 49(2), 287-92.
The time course nutrient uptake study of some intertidal rocky shore macroalgae showed a marked variation in the uptake of nutrients. In the present study, Caulerpa sertularioides, Padina tetrastomatica, Sargassum cinctum, and Gracilaria corticata which are slow growing assimilated ammonium, whereas the fast growing Chaetomorpha antennina, Ulvaflexuosa, and Ulva lactuca assimilated nitrate. Nitrate in the medium was assimilated quickly by these three species.It was below the detection level after five hours. The study showed that the characteristic of nutrient uptake varies between different macroalgae. The slow growing perennial macroalgae preferred ammonium and fast growing annuals preferrednitrate. The preference of different form of nitrogen is inferred to be mainly due to low energetic cost and opportunistic uptake. The combination of nutrient-N and phosphate in the medium showed a synergistic interactive effect in some of thealgae wherein the uptake of nutrient was slowed comparatively. This synergistic interactive effect was significant (P < 0.05) and these were observed in Caulerpa sertularioides, Chaetomorpha antennina,and Ulva lactuca.
1 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref
SALARI-ALIABADI M A, MONJEZI-VEYSI M
039141 SALARI-ALIABADI M A, MONJEZI-VEYSI M (Marine Biology Dep, Khorramshahr Univ of Marine Science and Technology, Iran, Email: Salari1346@yahoo.com) : Application of calcareous spicules for the identification of sea cucumbers in the rocky shores of northern Persian gulf. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2020, 49(2), 281-6.
Sea cucumbers as a large group of marine invertebrates have traditionally been demanded as a food with high nutritional value and for medicinal aims in Asia and the Middle East for many years. To identify and compare sea cucumber species in the tidal rocky northern coast of the Persian Gulf, samples were collected from six stations in the four seasons. Based on the results of morphological and microscopic aspects, two sea cucumber species were identified including, Holothuria parva and Holothuria arenicola from Holothuriidea, Echinodermata. Comparison based on the calcareous structures (spicules orcalcareous ossicles), is an important key in the identification, as it displays obvious differences between both species. The most common type of spicule of H. parva was various forms of rod shape, and for H. arenicola was related to Buttony spicules. Overall, our results indicated that skeletal microscopic structure can be used in the taxonomy of sea cucumbers,and also established the important role of calcareous spicules as an identification key to distinguish sea cucumber species.
4 illus, 8 tables, 35 ref
SUNNY A R, REZA M J, CHOWDHURY M A, HASSAN M N, BATEN M A, HASAN M R, MONWAR M M, HOSSAIN M S, HOSSAIN M M
039062 SUNNY A R, REZA M J, CHOWDHURY M A, HASSAN M N, BATEN M A, HASAN M R, MONWAR M M, HOSSAIN M S, HOSSAIN M M (Coastal and Marine Fisheries Dep, Sylhet Agricultural Univ, Bangladesh, Email: atiksunny@yahoo.com) : Biodiversity assemblages and conservation necessities of ecologically sensitive natural wetlands of north-eastern Bangladesh. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2020, 49(1), 135-48.
North-Eastern region of Bangladesh is very promising for freshwater capture fisheries, nevertheless, comprehensive assessment on faunal composition and diversity assemblages of natural wetlands are scant. This study identifies theoccurrence, different biodiversity indices and composition of fish with various gear types by means of qualitative and quantitative approaches in Tanguarhaor and Dekarhaor. A total of 75 fish species were identified, of which 53 % were Cypriniformes, followed by Siluriformes (15 %), Perciformes (14 %), Channiformes (7 %) and Clupeiformes (4 %). Amongthe identified taxa 42 species were not threatened, 12 vulnerable, 11 endangered and 8 critically endangered. The values of diversity indices explicitly Shannon-Weiner (H'), Pielou evenness (J'), Margalef richness (d) and Simpson dominance(c) indices indicated that Tanguarhaor was more diversified and evenly distributed than Dekharhaor. For effective management of the haors comprehensive stock assessment, establishment of fish sanctuaries, and combination of input and output control is suggested.
5 illus, 3 tables, 50 ref
RAY D, MOHAPATRA A
039059 RAY D, MOHAPATRA A (Bajkul Milani Mahavidyalaya, West Bengal, Email: anil2k7@gmail.com) : First report of ten grouper species (Serranidae: Epinephelinae) from the West Bengal coast, along the east coast of India. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2020, 49(1), 108-17.
Present paper reports 10 groupers (family Serranidae) from West Bengal coast on the east coast of India for the first time.These 10 species are Cephalopholis formosa, Epinephelus areolatus, E. bleekeri, E. caeruleopunctatus, E. erythrurus,E. fasciatus, E. longispinis, E. magniscuttis, E. radiatus, E. sexfasciatus. This paper provides comprehensive morphometriccharacters, description, photography and distribution of these 10 groupers.
11 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref
RAY D, MOHAPATRA A
039058 RAY D, MOHAPATRA A (Bajkul Milani Mahavidyalaya, West Bengal, Email: anil2k7@gmail.com) : New record of five ornamental triggerfishes (Tetraodontiformes: Balistidae) from West Bengal coast, India. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2020, 49(1), 102-7.
The present paper reports five ornamental triggerfishes (Tetraodontiformes: Balistidae) for the first time from the coastalwaters of West Bengal. The five species namely, Balistapus undulatus (Park, 1797) Balistoides viridescens (Bloch &Schneider, 1801), Canthidermis maculata (Bloch, 1786), Odonus niger (Ruppell, 1836) and Sufflamen fraenatum (Latreille,1804) are reported here for the first time from West Bengal coast with detailed morphometry.
5 illus, 1 table, 28 ref
DASH D, ROY S, YADAV R, PATRO S, MOHAPATRA A
039057 DASH D, ROY S, YADAV R, PATRO S, MOHAPATRA A (Marine Science Dep, Berhampur Univ, Odisha- 760 007, Email: shesdevpatro@yahoo.com) : First record of grunting toad fish, Allenbatrachus grunniens (Linnaeus, 1758) (Batrachoidiformes: Batrachoididae) from Odisha Coast, India. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2020, 49(1), 99-101.
This paper reports Allenbatrachus grunniens (Linnaeus, 1758), a toadfish species for the first time from Odisha coast. The specimen was collected from the mangrove area of Mahanadi estuary at Paradeep. From Odisha coast only one species of fish from the Batrachoididae family, Austrobatrachus dussumieri (Valenciennes 1837), presently known as Colletteichthys dussumieri (Valenciennes, 1837) was reported. Here a systematic account of Allenbatrachus grunniens (Linnaeus, 1758) with its morphometry is reported for the first time as an additional record to the fish fauna of Odisha.
1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref
VINOTHKUMAR R, RAJKUMAR M, THIRUMALAISELVAN S, SARAVANAN R, REMYA L, BATCHA S M S, NAZAR A K A
039056 VINOTHKUMAR R, RAJKUMAR M, THIRUMALAISELVAN S, SARAVANAN R, REMYA L, BATCHA S M S, NAZAR A K A (ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi- 682 018, Email: vinothanars16@gmail.com) : First record of deformity in Chinese Pomfret, Pampus chinensis (Euphrasen, 1788) from Indian waters. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2020, 49(1), 95-8.
The Chinese pomfret Pampus chinensis (Euphrasen, 1788) (Stromateidae) observed with deformity from fish landings atthe Jegathapattinam fishing harbour along Palk Bay coast of Tamil Nadu. The abnormality owing to fractional dorsal finmay call as ‘saddleback syndrome’ and this may be due to any kind of physical injury during early stages or to a higher chance of predation and in due course, the wound healed and the individual survive even with extreme deformed condition. Such a deformity for this species of Pomfret has never been documented from Indian waters and this could be the first record in Pampus chinensis.
3 illus, 1 table, 32 ref
THOMAS L C, SATHISH T, JESLIN I J, SREERAG A, NANDAN S B, PADMAKUMAR K B
039052 THOMAS L C, SATHISH T, JESLIN I J, SREERAG A, NANDAN S B, PADMAKUMAR K B (Marine Biology Dep, Cochin Univ of Science and Technology, Kochi-16, Email: kbpadmakumar@gmail.com) : Unusual mass shoreward movement of bivalve (Mollusca) Donax scortum Linnaeus along the coastal waters off Calicut - South Eastern Arabian Sea. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2020, 49(1), 67-72.
Eutrophication and oxygen depletion are the major factors influencing the responses of benthic organisms in coastal ecosystems. Along the coastal waters of South Eastern Arabian Sea a mass shoreward movement of bivalve Donax scortum (locally referred as “eranthu”) occurred during end phase of summer monsoon upwelling. Possible reasons for this shoreward movement points to the low dissolved oxygen (0.25 ml L-1) in the bottom waters. Intense blooms of large dinoflagellate species, Noctiluca scintillans were observed a week prior to this event along these coastal waters and the crashing related decaying might have resulted in lower DO values in the region. The study discuss on the deleterious effects of hypoxic conditions caused by summer monsoon algal blooms on benthic fauna of South Eastern Arabian Sea.
5 illus, 29 ref
MORANO S, STEWART K M, DILTS T, ELLSWORTH A, BLEICH V C
006312 MORANO S, STEWART K M, DILTS T, ELLSWORTH A, BLEICH V C (Natural Resources and Environmental Science Dep, Nevada Reno Univ, Nevada- 89557, Email: sabrina.morano@maine.edu) : Resource selection of mule deer in a shrub-steppe ecosystem: Influence of woodland distribution and animal behavior. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02811.
Ungulates inhabiting arid ecosystems are reliant on productive forb and shrub communities during summer months to meet nutritional demands for survival and reproduction. In the western United States, expansion of woodland vegetation into shrub-dominated communities and the potential loss of habitat are of concern with regard to animal populations reliant on robust sagebrush shrub and forb vegetation. We used mixed-effects logistic regression to model resource selection of female mule deer (Odo-coileus hemionus) during the summers of 2005–2008. We considered selection at two spatial scales, and during three daily activity periods (night, crepuscular, and mid-day) corresponding to resting and foraging. We evaluated habitat variables related to vegetation type, site productivity, terrain attributes, and fine-scale abundance of pinyon–juniper cover. Those attributes allowed us to account for variation in site productivity and animal behaviors that could obscure the true relationship between density of pinyon–juniper woodland and habitat use by mule deer. We detected observable differences in habitat use by muledeer among the three activity periods with significant differences in movement rates. Deer were most active during crepuscular periods corresponding with foraging activity, and least active mid-day when temperatures were highest. Summer habitat consisted of sites with high potential productivity, greater shrub abundance, and greater proximity to riparian areas. Deer avoided high levels of tree cover (>40 % coverage) at all spatial and temporal scales, and in general selection declined with increasing pinyon–juniper cover, particularly during foraging periods. Nonetheless, mule deer selected areas with low to intermediate tree cover (10 % to 40 %) during resting periods and avoided areas of productive shrub and forb vegetation and riparian areas, when surrounded by denser stands of pinyon–juniper cover. These results emphasize the importance of productive shrub and forb vegetation to mule deer in habiting semi-arid regions and suggest that low levels of tree cover are beneficial, especially during resting periods. Nevertheless, dense pinyon–juniper cover was generally avoided even in areas of high site productivity.These relationships lend support to the concern that increases in large, dense stands of pinyon–juniper reduce availability of summer habitat and alter patterns of resource selection for mule deer, a shrub-dependent ungulate.
9 illus, 2 tables, 102 ref
JINKS K I, BROWN C J, RASHEED M A, SCOTT A L, SHEAVES M, YORK P H, CONNOLLY R M
006308 JINKS K I, BROWN C J, RASHEED M A, SCOTT A L, SHEAVES M, YORK P H, CONNOLLY R M (Griffith Univ, Queensland- 4222, Email: kristin.jinks@griffithuni.edu.au) : Habitat complexity influences the structure of food webs in Great Barrier reef seagrass meadows. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02928.
Structural habitat complexity is a fundamental attribute influencing ecological food webs. Simplification of complex habitats occurs due to both natural and anthropogenic pressures that can alter productivity of food webs. Relationships between food web structure and habitat complexity may be influenced by multiple mechanisms, and untangling these can be challenging. We investigated whether size spectra vary across agradient of habitat complexity in seagrass meadows and structural complexity changes the importance of different primary producers supporting the food web (determined using stable isotope analysis) in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. We found that moderately complex meadows had much steeper size spectraslopes, caused by a higher abundance of smaller animals and fewer larger animals, while meadows on either end of the complexity scale (low and a single meadow with very high complexity) had shallower slopes,indicative of a more balanced distribution of animal sizes across the spectrum. We also found that the importance of epiphytic algae as a food source was high in most meadows, despite the increase in seagrass surface area on which epiphytes could grow. The consistent importance of epiphytic algae suggests that the changes inthe availability of different potential food sources did not affect food web structure. Our findings indicate that food web structure may change with variations in structural complexity because of changes in the abundance of smaller and/or larger animals. Food web structure and food sources are important determinants of the dynamic stability of food webs. Size spectra analysis is already used as a monitoring tool for assessing populations of key fisheries species in commercial fishing operations, and thus, we recommend using size spectra as aproxy for assessing the structure of the food webs in different types of seagrass meadows. Size spectra may bea useful indicator of how different meadows provide for ecosystem services such as fisheries.
3 illus, 58 ref
NANDINTSETSEG D, BRACIS C, LEIMGRUBER P, KACZENSKY P, BUUVEIBAATAR B, LKHAGVASUREN B, CHIMEDDORJ B, ENKHTUVSHIN S, HORNING N, ITO T Y, et al.
006314 NANDINTSETSEG D, BRACIS C, LEIMGRUBER P, KACZENSKY P, BUUVEIBAATAR B, LKHAGVASUREN B, CHIMEDDORJ B, ENKHTUVSHIN S, HORNING N, ITO T Y, et al. (Senckenberg Gesellschaft f€ur Naturforschung, Frankfurt- 60325) : Variability in nomadism: Environmental gradients modulate the movement behaviors of dryland ungulates. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02924.
Studying nomadic animal movement across species and ecosystems is essential for better understanding variability in nomadism. In arid environments, unpredictable changes in water and forage resources are known drivers of nomadic movements. Water resources vary temporally but are often spatially stationary, whereas foraging resources are often both temporally and spatially variable. These differences may lead to different types of nomadic movements: forage- vs. water-driven nomadism. Our study investigates these two different types of nomadism in relation to resource gradients from mesic steppe toxeric desert environments in Mongolia’s Gobi-Steppe Ecosystem. We hypothesized that in the desert,where water is a key resource, animals are more water-dependent and may show water-driven nomadism with frequent revisits to spatially fixed resources, while in the steppe, animals are less water-dependent and may show forage-driven nomadism, tracking high-quality foraging patches with infrequent revisits top reviously used resources. We utilized GPS movement data from 40 individuals of four ungulate species (Mongolian gazelle, goitered gazelle, saiga antelope, and Asiatic wild ass) in the Gobi-Steppe Ecosystem.We calculated displacement distances and recursion metrics and subsequently performed a principal component analysis to quantify the variation in movement patterns. The satellite-derived vegetation green nessserved as a proxy for the resource gradient and was associated with variation in movement behaviors described by the first principal component, demonstrating that the variability in movements was closely related to the resource gradient from mesic to xeric habitats. We showed that ungulates in the resource-rich steppe tended to move long distances with few revisits (forage-driven nomadism), while ungulates in the resource-poor desert tended to move shorter distances with more revisits (water-driven nomadism). Our results suggest that xeric and mesic habitats promote different types of nomadic strategies. These results have important implications for conservation strategies: Forage-driven nomads primarily require a high degree of landscape-level permeability, and water-driven nomads additionally require the protection of ephemeral water bodies and actions to maintain the functional connectivity between them.
4 illus, 1 table, 62 ref
MORRIS K A, NAIR R F, MORENO G, SCHRUMPF M, MIGLIAVACCA M
006313 MORRIS K A, NAIR R F, MORENO G, SCHRUMPF M, MIGLIAVACCA M (Biogeochemical Integration Dep, Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, Jena- 07745, Email: kmorris@bgc-jena.mpg.de) : Fate of N additions in a multiple resource-limited Mediterranean oak Savanna. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02921.
Mediterranean oak savannas, such as Spanishdehesas, are multiple resource-limited ecosystems found in semiarid regions which are key contributors to interannual variability of the global carbon (C) bud-get. Interactions between nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) cycles are expected to play a major role in overallecosystem function as anthropogenic N deposition shifts ecosystems from N to P limitation, leaving unknownhow increased N availability might influenceCuptake.Therefore,thefateofNadditionsindehesasisimpor-tant for understanding global C cycling. Using a 15N tracer experiment within fertilized (N or N+P) plots ofa Holm oak dehesa, we tested the effects of ecosystem spatial heterogeneity (habitat), P addition, and time onthe fate of added N. We expected that open pasture areas would retain more of the added N in biological com-ponents due to greater N limitation, that the additionof P would enhance N retention in biological compo-nents relative to N alone, and that added N would shift from being within the microbial biomass immediately after addition to being predominantly within plants at the beginning of the following growing season. Wefound that open pasture plots with N only had the greatest label recovery seven months after the start of the experiment, supporting the idea that open pasture was more N-limited than under-canopy areas. However,soil was the largest sink for added N, regardless of habitat, treatment, or time. Our results suggest that abioticfixation of N may play an important role in modifying the effects of N deposition in dehesas.
4 illus, 3 tables, 76 ref
KATZ S L, BARNAS K A, DIAZ M, HAMPTON S E
006310 KATZ S L, BARNAS K A, DIAZ M, HAMPTON S E (Washington State Univ, Washington- 99164, Email: Steve.Katz@WSU.edu) : Data system design alters meaning in ecological data: Salmon habitat restoration across the U.S. Pacific Northwest. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02920.
As an increasing variety and complexity of environmental issues confront scientists and natural resource managers, assembling the most relevant and informative data into accessible data systems becomes critical to timely problem solving. Data interoperability is the key criterion for succeeding in that assembly, and much informatics research is focused on data federation, or synthesis to produce interoperable data.However, when candidate data come from numerous, diverse, and high-value legacy data sources, the issue of data variety or heterogeneity can be a significant impediment to interoperability. Research in informatics,computer science and philosophy has frequently focused on resolving data heterogeneity with automation, but subject matter expertise still plays a large role. In particular, human expertise is a large component in the development of tools such as data dictionaries, crosswalks, and ontologies. Such representations may notal ways match from one data system to another, presenting potentially inconsistent results even with the same data. Here, we use a long-term data set on management actions designed to improve stream habitat foren dangered salmon in the Pacific Northwest, to illustrate how different representations can change the under-lying information content in the data system. We pass the same data set comprised of 49,619 records through three ontologies, each developed to address a rational management need, and show that the inferences drawn from the data can change with choice of data representation or ontology. One striking example shows that theuse of one ontology would suggest water quality improvement projects are the rarest and most expensive restoration actions undertaken, while another will suggest these actions to be the most common and least expensive type of management actions. The discrepancy relates to the origins of the data dictionaries them-selves, with one designed to catalog management actions and the other focused on ecological processes. Thus,we argue that in data federation efforts humans are “in the loop” rationally, in the form of the ontologies they have chosen, and diminishing the human component in favor of automation carries risks. Consequently, datafederation exercises should be accompanied by validations in order to evaluate and manage those risks.
2 illus, 1 table, 26 ref
PETTIT J M, BURTON J I, DEROSE R J, LONG J N, VOELKER S L
006315 PETTIT J M, BURTON J I, DEROSE R J, LONG J N, VOELKER S L (Wildland Resources Dep, Utah State Univ, Utah- 84321, Email: jessikapettit@gmail.com) : Epidemic spruce beetle outbreak changes drivers of Engelmann spruce regeneration. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02912.
Climate-mediated disturbances outside the range of historical variability can have severe conse-quences on vital, post-disturbance regeneration processes. High-elevation forests of the Rocky Mountains thatare dominated by Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii) and subalpinefir (Abies lasiocarpa) are expected to be sensitive to climate change. Additionally, these forests have experienced recent epidemic spruce beetle (Den-droctonus rufipennis) outbreaks that have often resulted in >95 % mortality of overstory Engelmann spruce.Therefore, the future distribution of Engelmann spruce forests depends largely on natural regeneration pro-cesses. We examined Engelmann spruce seedlings across gradients in soil moisture and stand structural conditions 20 yr post-disturbance on the Markagunt Plateau in southern Utah. All Engelmann spruce seedlings were mapped, measured, and aged, and aspects of stand structure and the micro climate were measured. Thegoal of our research was to infer processes affecting Engelmann spruce establishment by determining if patterns of advance regeneration that established before the outbreak (~60% of individuals) differed from seed-lings that established during and immediately following the outbreak (combined into one group,~40 % ofindividuals). A generalized linear multi-model approach identified that the density of advance regeneration(seedlings/saplings) was negatively influenced by historical competition with overstory trees. In contrast,post-outbreak regeneration was related to microclimate conditions, including positive relationships with climatic moisture deficit and July soil water content. All seedlings were not significantly clustered around Engel-mann spruce snags; however, there was evidence of facilitation of post-outbreak seedlings by pre-outbreak seedlings at higher elevation sites with lower moisture deficit. Together, these findings suggest post-outbreak seedlings were not moisture-limited at lower elevations but instead encouraged by higher evapotranspiration.Moreover, facilitation at higher elevations likely resulted from how preoutbreak seedlings modify snow pack and associated seedbed environments. Our study provides insight for managing Engelmann spruce after abeetle outbreak. In these forests, pre- and post-outbreak regeneration can increase resilience to climate–distur-bance interactions, but are patchy and structured at different scales. Therefore, the presence of advance regen-eration and the likelihood of post-outbreak seedlings depend on local environment (soil moisture and standstructure) and could be taken into account to most effectively plan post-disturbance planting activities.
6 illus, 2 tables, 92 ref
JOHNSON L R, BREGER B, DRUMMOND F
006309 JOHNSON L R, BREGER B, DRUMMOND F (Research and Conservation Div, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania- 19348, Email: ljohnson@longwoodgardens.org) : Novel plant–insect interactions in an urban environment: Enemies, protectors, and pollinators of invasive knotweeds. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02885.
Relationships between invasive plants and other species in their introduced ranges may facilitate or hinder the process of invasion. Fallopia japonica (Japanese knotweed), Fallopia sachalinensis(giant knotweed), and their hybrid Fallopia X bohemica(Bohemian knotweed) are widespread invasive plants in North America and Europe. These species possess extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) that attract mutualist insect protectors in their native ranges. Popillia japonica Newman, 1841 (Japanese beetle) is a primary herbivore of invasive Fallopia spp. in these species’native range in Japan. These natural enemies are reunited in North America, where Fallopia spp. have been repeatedly introduced as ornamental plantings of residential and commercial properties since the 1800s, and the Japanese beetle has become a widespread insect pest.Spread of Fallopia spp. and their hybrids along linear features of urban landscapes such as roads, railways, and waterways make their performance in urban environments important to these invasive species’ impact. To test the role of insect interactions in the success of Fallopia japonica and F.9bohemicain urban conditions in their invasive range, we examined ant visitation, Japanese beetle abundance and herbivory, ant–Japanese beetle interactions, pollinator visits, and seed production. All active herbivory observed was by Japanese beetles. Leaf area loss to herbivory was much lower than levels reported in Japan, suggesting partial enemy release. New Fallopia leaves were more frequently visited by ants than mature leaves, while Japanese beetle herbivory was observed on mature but not on new leaves. All ant species observed visiting invasive Fallopia EFN were native to North America. Active physical defense by these ants against Japanese beetles was observed but was rare. Native and non-native insects visited Fallopia flowers, followed by seed production. Our results indicate that both native and non-native species may facilitate invasion of Fallopia through pollination and protection mutualisms.
4 illus, 4 tables, 106 ref
RIGINOS C, MONACO T A, VEBLEN K E, GUNNELL K, THACKER E, DAHLGREN D, MESSMER T
006316 RIGINOS C, MONACO T A, VEBLEN K E, GUNNELL K, THACKER E, DAHLGREN D, MESSMER T (Wildland Resources Dep, Utah State Univ, Utah- 84322-5230, Email: corinna.riginos@tnc.org) : Potential for post-fire recovery of Greater Sage-Grouse habitat. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02870.
In the western United States, fire has become a significant concern in the management of big sage-brush (Artemisia tridentataNutt.) ecosystems. This is due to large-scale increases in cover of the fire-prone inva-sive annual cheat grass (Bromus tectorum L.) and, concurrently, concerns about declining quantity and quality of habitat for Greater Sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus). The prevailing paradigm is that fire results in a loss of sage-grouse habitat on time scales relevant to conservation planning (i.e., 1–20 yr), since sage brush cover can take many more years to recover post-fire. However,fire can have effects that improve sage-grouse habitat, including stimulating perennial grass and forb production. The conditions under which fire results in the per-manent loss or enhancement of sage-grouse habitat are not well understood. We used long-term data from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Range Trend Project to assess short-term (1–4 yr post-treatment) and long-term (6–10 yr post-treatment) effects offire on vegetation cover at 16 sites relative to sage-grouse habitat vegetation guidelines. Sagebrush cover remained low post-fire at sites considered historically unsuitable for sage-grouse (<10% initial sagebrush cover). In contrast, at sites that had higher (>10%) pre-fire sagebrush cover, sage-brush cover decreased to<10% in the short-term post-fire, but by 6–10 yr after fire, most of these sites exhibiteda recovering trajectory and two sites had recovered to>10% cover. Post-fire sagebrush cover was positively related to elevation. Across all sites, perennial grasses and forbs increased in cover to approximately meet the habitat vegetation guidelines for sage-grouse. Cheatgrass cover did not change in response tofire, and increased perennial grass cover appears to have played an important role in suppressing cheatgrass. Our results indicate that, while fire poses a potential risk for sage-grouse habitat loss and degradation, burned sites do not necessarily need to be considered permanently altered, especially if they are located at higher elevation, have high sagebrush cover pre-fire, and are reseeded with perennial grasses and forbs post-fire. However, our results confirm that fire at more degraded sites, for example, those with<10% sagebrush cover, can result in cheat-grass-dominated landscapes and sagebrush loss at these sites should be avoided.
3 illus, 2 tables, 51 ref
KAYODE J, COLE A T, OBEMBE M O
006311 KAYODE J, COLE A T, OBEMBE M O (Plant Science and Biotechnology Dep, Ekiti State Univ, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, Email: joshua.kayode@eksu.edu.ng) : Checklist and conservation of spices’ plant species in Ijesa region of Osun State, Nigeria. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect B 2019, 38B(2), 85-92.
The spices’ plant species in Ijesa region of Osun State, Nigeria were examined in this study through field observation and interviews with randomly selected respondents using a semi-structured questionnaire matrix. The interviews were focused, conversational and two-way in communication. Spices plant species used and the part(s) of the species used were indentified. The cultivation status of the identified spices’ plant species was defined. Group interviews were conducted in each community to validate the information obtained during the individual interviews. Also the abundance status of the spices’ plant species in each community was determined. A total of 29 spices’ plant species, belonging to 18 families were identified in the region. Thus the identified spices were derived from diverse plant species; most of them were aromatic and pungent and contained various active ingredients. The flower/fruits/seeds formed the major parts used and their extractive methods used were destructive and annihilative. 45 % of the identified species were not cultivated but occurred in the wild where a number of anthropogenic activities affect their demography. 28 % of these species were rare and they were mostly indigenous tree species that were not cultivated in the study area. Strategies that could ensure sustainable supply of the spices plant species were recommended.
5 tables, 23 ref
TASHPULATOV Y SH, KHAMDAMOV I KH, NURNIYOZOV A A
006317 TASHPULATOV Y SH, KHAMDAMOV I KH, NURNIYOZOV A A (Biotechnology Dep, Samarkand Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Uzbekistan- 140 103, Email: yigitali_t1981@mail.ru) : Water and coastal water vegetation of various types of waters in the Samarkand region. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2019, 38A(2), 61-6.
In the study of hydrobiology of water basins, a separate study of higher plants is required. Higher plants growing in water for aquatic organisms remain not only a habitat, a nutrient, a source of oxygen, but they are also important in the course of many biological processes in this environment. The vegetation of aquatic and coastal aquatic plants weakens the rate of flow of water, impedes the movement of silt and mineral particles, has anti-erosion significance and is used to strengthen the banks of water bodies. Among the higher aquatic and coastal aquatic plants, many species have diverse uses as a raw material for the pulp and paper, medical, perfume industries, building materials, fertilizers for the fields, food for people and pet food.
12 ref
RAMYA N, MESHRAM N M
005070 RAMYA N, MESHRAM N M (Entomology Div, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi- 110 012, Email: nmmeshram@gmail.com) : New record of small brown planthopper Laodelphax striatellus from Delhi. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 532-5.
The small brown planthopper Laodelphax striatellus (Fallen), an important pest as well as vector of rice diseases, is brought out as a new record from the National Capital Region (NCR) Delhi. Recent field surveys in the rice fields of NCR revealed this. A detailed redescription along with illustrations is provided, along with mtCO1 analysis enabling its authentic identification. Perusal of >250 mtCOI sequences of L. striatellus available in NCBI GenBank reveal that this is the first submission from India. The blast results reveal its 100 % similarity with the Chinese samples. The voucher material is deposited in the National Pusa Collection, Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi.
10 illus, 10 ref
GRAY M E, DICKSON B G, NUSSEAR K E, ESQUE T C, CHANG T
005066 GRAY M E, DICKSON B G, NUSSEAR K E, ESQUE T C, CHANG T (Conservation Science Partners, California- 961 61, Email: miranda@csp-inc.org) : A range-wide model of contemporary, omnidirectional connectivity for the threatened Mojave desert tortoise. Ecosphere 2019, 10(9), e02847.
As habitat destruction leads to species extinctions globally, conservation planning that accounts for population-level connectivity and gene flow is an urgent priority. Models that only approxi-mate habitat potential are incomplete because areas of high habitat potential may be isolated, where as intermixed areas of lower habitat potential may still be critical for maintaining connectivity between andamong populations. We developed a range-wide, omni directional (coreless) connectivity model and mapfor the threatened Mojave desert tortoise at a high spatial resolution (30 m), based on empirical movement data and a circuit-theoretic approach to estimating connectivity. Specifically, we first estimated habitat potential (i.e., quality) for tortoise movement (as distinct from habitat potential more generally) across its range using hypotheses based on the published literature, linear mixed models, multiple environmental factors derived from remotely sensed data, and recent solar and wind development foot prints. The resul-tant raster output was used to represent landscape conductance in a circuit-theoretic model of connectivity, which relates the flow of electrical current through a circuit to the movement of tortoises through the land-scape. We then modeled potential connectivity across the range of the tortoise using Circuitscape software and the Julia numerical programming language. Intermediate distances from minor roads, intermediate values of annual average maximum temperature, and increasing density of desert washes were among the strongest predictors of movement habitat quality. There was also strong evidence for increased habitat quality for movement with increasing amounts of vegetation cover. The resulting connectivity model and map was determined to accurately reflect important areas for tortoise movement, but we encourage others to do their own evaluation of the model within local areas of interest and as more data become available.Accordingly, the map can provide an important component to improve management decisions that have the potential to influence the conservation of connected desert tortoise populations throughout the range.
5 illus, 1 table, 61 ref
JOY T K, VANITHARANI J, JEYAPRABA L
005067 JOY T K, VANITHARANI J, JEYAPRABA L (Zoology Dep, Sarah Tucker Coll, Tirunelveli- 627 012, Email: tijokjoyz@gmail.com) : First authentic report of Salim Ali's fruit bat (Latidens salimalii) and its range extinction record in Kerala State of Southern Western Ghats. Ambient Sci 2019, 6(2), 53-5.
The total population in Kerala was seen to be 250 to 300 individuals for Salim Ali's Fruit Bat which belongs to two permanent roosts, eight seasonally roosts, and they are using 44 resting feeding roosts in a different part of High Range Mountain Munnar landscape. The elevation ranges from approximately 800–1600 m, currently distribution the range of Latidens salimalli Thonglongya, 1972 extends only Southern Western Ghats of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
3 tables, 9 ref
MIPUN P, BORAH D, BHAT N A, KUMAR Y
005068 MIPUN P, BORAH D, BHAT N A, KUMAR Y (North Eastern Hill Univ, Meghalaya- 793 022, Email: mipunpuranjoy@gmail.com) : Checklist for phytodiversity of East Karbi Anglong Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, Northeast India: Part I. Ambient Sci 2019, 6(2), Online.
This work presents a checklist of plant species in East KarbiAnglong Wildlife Sanctuary (EKAWLS), Assam, India. Inventorization wascarried out from 2015-2018, and a total of 252 plant species are recorded belonging to 203 genera and 87 families. Fabaceae (25 species) is the most dominant family, and Clerodendrum (4 species) is the most species-rich genera. The enumerated taxa are presented with their vernacular names, habit form, and voucher numbers. Threat status of each taxon according to IUCN Red List categories is also provided. Anthropogenic activities and other natural calamities are causing serious threats particularly to the threatened species of the sanctuary. Population survey of all the threatened species was done based on the number of seedling, sapling, and adultfrom the study site.
2 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref
BISWAS D , BISWAS J
005065 BISWAS D , BISWAS J (National Cave Research and Protection Organization, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, Email: jb@caves.res.in) : Microhabitat dependant the proliferation of microfungi in Dandak cave of Kanger Valley National Park, India. Ambient Sci 2019, 6(1), 26-30.
The possibilities of obtaining biotechnologically potent microbes are always much from the uncommon ecological niches. In the present study, the diversity of microfungi associated with soil sediments of two distinct ecosystems existing inside a cave of Central India "Dandak" were compared. Soil samples were collected from three different seasons; Summer, Rainy, and Winter. Results revealed the Aspergillaceae and Trichomaceae family to be the most dominant over other families. Ecological contributions were also recorded in which Aspergillus niger was found in highest percent frequency (66.67 %) with 9.57 % total percent contribution. Bartaliana robillardoides and Histoplama capsulatum are some of the specific types of microfungi were isolated from the soil sediments of the outer chamber of the cave. The possible reason for identifying uncommon microfungi from outer chamber of the Dandak cave has been further discussed.
2 tables, 34 ref
PANDEY A, MAHATO A K R
005069 PANDEY A, MAHATO A K R (Policy Studies Dep, TERI School of Advanced Studies, New Delhi- 110070) : The forest of reverence (sacred groves) in the arid biogeographic province of India: A literature-based comparison with the sacred groves of the arid deserts of the world. Ambient Sci 2019, 6(1), 5-10.
Forests preserved on religious grounds are generally called "sacred groves". In other words, sacred groves are the patches of forests or natural vegetation protected by the indigenous people through religious and cultural practices from time immemorial. These are patches of natural vegetation dedicated to certain local deities, which helps to preserve rich varieties of plants and animal population. Sacred groves are one of the heritage sites for biodiversity and also an aesthetic site for local communities. All forms of vegetation viz. trees, shrubs and climbers found in such grove are believed to be under the protection of the reigning deity of that grove and removal of even the dead wood is a taboo. These practices played a key role in the maintenance of ecological services, protection of biodiversity and conservation of soil and water. Despite their size limitations, these fragments conserve local biodiversity and offer important ecological services. Therefore, the present study aims to give the comparative analysis of the sacred groves existing on the hot desert of India and the world.
43 ref
SHAMEEM K M, HIREMATH S R, PRATHAPAN K D
003823 SHAMEEM K M, HIREMATH S R, PRATHAPAN K D (Government Coll, Palakkad- 678 104, Email: prathapankd@gmail.com) : Fishtail palm, Caryota urens L. – A new host plant record for the arecanut spindle bug, Volkeliopsis arecae (Miller & China) (Heteroptera: Miridae). J Trop Agric 2019, 57(2), 160-2.
Fishtail palm, Caryota urens L. (Arecaceae) is reported as a host plant for the arecanut spindle bug, Volkeliopsis arecae (Miller & China) (Heteroptera: Miridae), for the first time.
1 illus, 9 ref
FRIEDMAN W R, MARTIN B T, WELLS B K, WARZYBOK P, MICHEL C J, DANNER E M, LINDLEY S T
003821 FRIEDMAN W R, MARTIN B T, WELLS B K, WARZYBOK P, MICHEL C J, DANNER E M, LINDLEY S T (California Univ, California, USA, Email: friedman@nceas.ucsb.edu) : Modeling composite effects of marine and freshwater processes on migratory species. Ecosphere 2019, 10(7), e02743.
Life histories of migratory species such as anadromous fishes make them particularly susceptible to composite effects of processes experienced across distinct habitats and life stages. Therefore, their population dynamics are difficult to quantify and manage without tools such as life-cycle models. As amodel species for which life-cycle modeling is particularly useful, we provide an analysis of influential processes affecting dynamics of the Central Valley fall-run Chinook salmon (CVFC) population (Oncorhynchustshawytscha). This analysis demonstrates how, through identification of covariates that affect this population at each life stage and their relationship to one another, it is possible to identify actions that best promote sustainability for this anadromous species. We developed a life-cycle model for CVFC examining primary processes influencing variability in observed patterns of escapement from 1988 to 2016. CVFC area valuablefishery along the US West Coast; however, their natural population is a fraction of its historicsize, and recent low escapements have resulted in substantial restrictions on the fishery. Our model explains 68.3% of variability in historic escapement values. The most influential processes include temperatures experienced during egg incubation, fresh waterflow during juvenile out migration, and environmentally mediated predation during early marine residence. This work demonstrates the need, and methodology, for considering the interactions between freshwater and marine dynamics when evaluating the efficacy of managerial practices in freshwater and the ocean, especially in the context of increased environmental variability, climate change, and dynamic predator populations. The methodology developed in this study can be used toward improved conservation and management of other anadromous fishes and migratory species.
6 illus, 3 tables, 102 ref
BADRY M O, RADWAN T A A, AYED F A A, SHEDED M G
003820 BADRY M O, RADWAN T A A, AYED F A A, SHEDED M G (Botany and Microbiology Dep, South Valley Univ, Qena- 83523, Egypt, Email: mohamedowis@svu.edu.eg) : Floristic diversity of riparian plants in Aswan reservoir at the extreme south of the river Nile, upper Egypt : A closed ecological system. Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019, 16(3), 595-609.
The present study was undertaken to survey the floristic composition in the islands and shorelines in Aswan Reservoir, south of the River Nile at Aswan Governorate, Egypt. Four elements of vegetation were analyzed: floristic composition, lifespan, life form, and phytogeographical affinities. A total of 165 species were recorded belonging to 135 genera in 45 families of vascular plants, of which six species were new to the flora of Aswan and Nubia (Amaranthus spinosus L., Doellia bovei (DC.) Anderb., Eleocharis parvula (Roem. & Schult.) Link ex Bluff, Nees & Schauer, Haematoxylum campechianum L., Polygonum aviculare L., and Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth.) The most represented families are Leguminosae, Poaceae, and Compositae. Species richness is highest in low-lying areas (shorelines) liable to flooding, compared to those of the islands in the river. The recorded flora consists of 50.91% perennials and 49.09% annuals. Therophytes and phanerophytes were the predominant life forms. Phytogeographical analysis revealed the prevalence of the pantropical (28.48%), palaeotropical (17.57%), and cosmopolitan (16.36%) plant species. Monoregional chorotype was represented by 29 species (17.58%) of the recorded flora with the Sudano-Zambezian species (11.52%) being the highest chorotype, while pure Mediterranean species were very poorly represented (3.63%). Biregional chorotype was represented by 25 species (15.15%), while the pluriregional chorotype was accounted for 2.43% of recorded species.
3 illus, 4 tables, 69 ref
ARYA A K, BHATT D, SINGH A, SAINI V, VERMA P, RATHI R, BHATNAGAR P
003819 ARYA A K, BHATT D, SINGH A, SAINI V, VERMA P, RATHI R, BHATNAGAR P (Zoology and Environmental Science Dep, Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar-249404) : Diversity and status of migratory and resident wetland birds in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(3), 732-7.
Migration is the seasonal habitual movement, exhibited by many avian species along a flyway from breeding to wintering grounds and vice versa all over the world. Migratory birds are very sensitive to even small changes in water level which may be affected by flood or drought on their breeding and wintering grounds. High rains during monsoon season can cause flood conditions in the lower hills and Gangetic plains including Harid-war district. In our study, conducted during last ten years (2009-2018), we covered Bheemgoda Barrage and Missarpur Ganga Ghat of Haridwar, Uttarakhand, where 46 species of Migratory (M) and Resident Migratory (RM) wetland birds were observed. Bird survey indicated that there was a significant increase (p = 0.064, t-test) in the population of certain species such as Bhraminy Shelduck (67 %), Black Headed Gull (31 %), Gadwall (7 %), Northern Pintail (59 %), Red Crested Pochard (10 %) and Tufted Pochard (47 %) in Missarpur Ganga Ghat as compared to Bheemgoda Barrage (based on the average abundance of the species observed during study period). It may be pointed out that after flood and loss of vegetated island, there was significant decrease (p= 0.023, t-test) in the population of species such as Black necked stork (76 %), Great crested grebe (56), Pallas gull (47 %) at Bheemgoda barrage, while some species such as Bar headed goose, Common pochard did not arrive in Bheemgoda barrage after the flood. The study would help to understand the effect of climatic change on water birds species distribution in natural and man-made wetlands.
2 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref
MOHAMED A-R M, AL-JUBOURI M O A
003822 MOHAMED A-R M, AL-JUBOURI M O A (Fisheries and Marine Resources Dep, Basrah Univ, Basrah, Iraq, Email: abdul19532001@yahoo.com) : Growth, reproduction and food habit of an invasive species of Carassius auratus in the Al-Diwaniya River, Middle of Iraq. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(3), 704-11.
Carassius auratusis an invasive species that has successfully established populations throughout Iraq. Unfortunately there is no information available regarding the biological properties of the species in Al-Diwaniya River, Middle Euphrates, Iraq. So growth, repro-duction and food habit of C. auratus were investigated in this river from November 2016 to October 2017. Length groups of the fishes from 19 to 21 cm were prevailing the catch and formed 30.8 %. Length-weight relationship was calculated as W= 0.013 L3.129 for all individuals, with allometric growth. The condition of the fish increased in early spring. The maximum age recorded was 5 years with 30.1 cm. The parameters to the von Bertalanffy growth curve fitted to mean total lengths at age were L∞= 43.0, K= 0.225 and to= -0.412. The index of growth performance (Φ) was 2.612. The unbalanced overall ratio of males to females was 1:3.81. Higher values of gonado-somatic index (GSI) for males and females occurred in early spring. C. auratusis an herbivorous, with a diet that includes algae (52.6%), macrophytes (22.0%), diatoms (15.8%), crustacean (4.8%) and aquatic insects (4.8%). Our results highlighted basic biological aspects of the invasive C. auratus which can assist in fisheries management and conservation of the fish species in Al-Diwaniya river.
8 illus, 2 tables, 58 ref
UPADHYAY K K, JAPANG B, SINGH N S, TRIPATHI S K
003824 UPADHYAY K K, JAPANG B, SINGH N S, TRIPATHI S K (Forestry Dep, Mizoram Univ, Aizawl- 796 004, Email: upadhyay_keshav@yahoo.co.in) : Status and socio-ecological dimensions of sacred groves in Northeast India. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(3), 590-5.
Sacred groves are among one of the best practices of biodiversity conservation used by the ethnic societies which are deeply associated with the religion and culture that signifi-cantly nurture nature. As these practices play a vital role in conserving socio-ecologically important species and protect threatened flora and fauna from extinction in different eco-logical zones. In northeast India, sacred groves are well connected with culture and society through religious beliefs of the population and their associated myths. Sacred groves cover a total of > 40,000 hectares of natural forest area in the five north eastern states of India. These forests house some of the most important and highly threatened species of plants. Wild relatives of present-day cultivated plants are found in these forests and hence act as the gene pool for these species. Social transformation and urbanization have a large impact on the structure and health of these forests and responsible for their destruction. Developmental projects like railways, roads, hydro-electric projects etc. have reportedly destroyed many groves in the past. Due to social transformation, the rate of activities like grazing, encroachment, cutting and collection of fuel wood, fruits and leaves has been increasing and posing a threat to the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem function in the future. Creating awareness about the social and ecological benefits of maintaining sacred groves among local people, especially youth, can help in reviving these practices and conserving them as a natural heritage for future generations is the need of the hour.
3 illus, 1 table, 35 ref
DONG C, FANG L
002555 DONG C, FANG L (A&F Univ, Hangzhou 311300, China) : Association analysis between the site index model and the site factors of Cunninghamia lanceolata timber forest in Western Zhejiang Province. Nat Environ Pollut Technol 2019, 18(2), 359-68.
Forest site conditions affect the tree growth. In this study, a site index model based on Richard’s theoretical equation was established using the dynamic monitoring data of forest resources in Lin’an District in Zhejiang Province, Chinese fir [Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook.] as the study object, and a difference equation to determine the internal relationship between site factors and forest stand growth. The FP-growth algorithm was used to explore the association rules between site and forest stand growth factors. A total of 175 factor association rules were obtained with the confidence coefficient and support degree of more than 80% and 10%, respectively. The main factors that influence the site quality of Chinese fir timber forest in Lin’an District are altitude, slope position, slope direction, slope gradient, soil type, soil texture, soil layer thickness, humus layer thickness, undergrowth vegetation species, and undergrowth vegetation coverage. The rules revealed the hidden associations between site factors and site quality and between site and forest stand growth factors in the Chinese fir forest. The results can provide a theoretical foundation for follow-up site evaluation work and are of great practical significance to scientific afforestation and forest management.
6 tables, 28 ref
PANDEY H K, JOSHI G, BALA M
002557 PANDEY H K, JOSHI G, BALA M (Defence Institute of Bio-energy Research (DRDO), Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, Email: hkpandey5@rediffmail.com) : Survey and their conservation measures on medicinal plants of Soar valley, Pithoragarh, Uttrakhand. Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 30-40.
The western Himalayas are famous for its rich medicinal and aromatic plant biodiversity and also known as treasure of medicinal and aromatic plants. Nowadays, due to increasing awareness towards herbal products there is tremendous pressure on Himalayan medicinal plants. The natural environment of this region has been affected to a great extent due to overgrazing, cultivation in slopes, sub marginal lands, ruination of forest, change in weather pattern and unplanned developmental activities. The indiscriminate and over-exploitation have severely disturbed the ecological balance. Survey on the medicinal and aromatic plants has been undertaken in different adjacent villages of Soar valley Pithoragarh and other nearby areas. The Medicinal Plants were collected on the basis of literature and folklore information, There proper herbarium of collected plants was prepared and identification was undertaken from authentic sources. The unscientific, over and irregular exploitation of medicinal plants of Soar valley has resulted in very fast depletion as well as extinction of some important medicinal plant species. The threat of extinction can be reduced by developing their agro-technology, adopting scientific methods of collection, in-situ and ex-situ conservation. The aim of this survey is to create awareness among local people about this depleting valuable herbal heritage and to motivate them for its conservation.
2 tables, 27 ref
ALWIN F, DHANALAKSHMI A, GOKULNATH R, KARTHIGAIDEVI S, NAGALAKSHMI N, RAKESH V, SRUTHI A B, IBRAHIM S S M, THERADIMANI M, GOPALAKRISHNAN R
002554 ALWIN F, DHANALAKSHMI A, GOKULNATH R, KARTHIGAIDEVI S, NAGALAKSHMI N, RAKESH V, SRUTHI A B, IBRAHIM S S M, THERADIMANI M, GOPALAKRISHNAN R (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Theni, Tamil Nadu) : Diversity of butterfly species, host preference and seasonal distribution in cat campus. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(6), 44-7.
A random field survey was conducted to explore the diversity of butterfly species, their host preference and their seasonal distribution in CAT Campus from post monsoon months to summer months (December 2018 – April 2019). Results revealed about the different butterfly fauna and their preferred hosts and their seasonal variation during different months from December to April. Studies of butterflies indicate that the resources availability abundantly a key role in their population ecology. Their presence in an area emphasize the availability of larval food plants in abundance.
1 illus, 8 ref
SOUNDARARAJAN C, NAGARAJAN K, ANILKUMAR R
002559 SOUNDARARAJAN C, NAGARAJAN K, ANILKUMAR R (Veterinary Parasitology Dep, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Chennai – 600007, Tamil Nadu, Email: drsoundarpara@gmail.com) : Seasonal prevalence and habitat of Radix auricularia in an area with outbreaks of Fasciola gigantica in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu. J Vet Parasitol 2019, 33(1), 1-4.
Snails including Radix auricularia act as intermediate hosts for trematode infections including Fasciola gigantica. Seasonal prevalence and habitat of R. auricularia was studied from January 2012 to December 2012 in a private sheep farm reporting persistent outbreaks of fasciolosis in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. The prevalence of R. auricularia was highest during summer months (42.74%) followed by winter (31.05%), north-east monsoon (20.51%) and south-west monsoon (5.70%). The snails were mostly found only on the aquatic plants such as Nostacium officinale, Pennisetum glandulosum and Rotala rotundifolia. They were not found on the plants like Polygonum leshnaultucum, Cyprus weightii and Eichhornia. The eggs of R. auricularia were bullet shaped and each egg capsule contained 26-28 eggs.
2 illus, 18 ref
GOWRI N, ARUNPRASATH A
002556 GOWRI N, ARUNPRASATH A (Botany Dep, PSG Coll of Arts & Science, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Floristic wealth and its traditional usage in parson’s valley dam of Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, India. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2019, 6(5), 97-103.
Understanding the diversity of nature in various forms is fundamental goal of ecological research. In addition, investigations into traditional use and management of local flora have demonstrated the existence of extensive local knowledge of not only about the physical and chemical properties of many plant species, but also the phenological and ecological features in the case of domesticated species. In such manner, an exhaustive study was carried out to explore the floristic wealth and traditional usage of the same in Parson’s Valley located in Nilgiris of Tamil Nadu, for a period of about 8 months from July, 2018 to February, 2019. By this present investigation, totally 104 species comes under various plant groups were recorded. Among them, 100 species comes under angiosperms, 2 were Gymnosperms and 2 were Pteridophytes. Regarding the habits of total species recorded, 58 species were found as herbs, 26 species were shrubs and 15 species as trees. 5 species of climbers were also recorded from the study site. The family Asteraceae was noted as dominant family. For this current research work, it was also documented that a total of 101 species were used as medicine for various ailments and 3 as fodder. The traditionally used plants in the study region lack phyto-therapeutic evidence. Hence, it is necessary to perform phytochemical or pharmacological studies to explore the potentials of plants used for medicinal purposes. Conservation strategies must also be carried out these species.
1 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref
SINGH S P, KUMARI B
002558 SINGH S P, KUMARI B (Botany Dep, Hindu Coll, Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Distribution and beneficial uses of invasive alien angiosperms in the roadside areas of JP. Nagar, Uttar Pradesh. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(3), 08-11.
A survey of invasive alien angiosperms of J. P. Nagar was made and we found a total richness of 24 species belonging to 14 families. Dicots represented 22 species and monocots 2 species. About 54.16 % of these angiosperms were introduced from Tropical America and maximum number of angiosperms (6) were from the family Asteraceae. Parthenium hysterophorus L. shows highest frequency (69.23 %) followed by Ageratum conyzoides (L.) L. (53.07 %), Alternanthera ficoidea (L.) Sm. (42.30 %), Sida acuta Burm.f. (39.16 %) and Euphorbia hirta L. (36.15 %). Many of the invasive alien species are of economic importance also, due to which some alien species, often cultivated (ornamental), may provide food, medicine, and fodder to the local communities.
3 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref
ACHARYA A, PAL P
001296 ACHARYA A, PAL P (Zoology Dep, North Orissa Univ, Baripada, Mayurbhanj, Odisha) : An assessment of the odonata fauna in and around the Goseindhara waterfall, Nabarangpur, Odisha. Int J Entomol Res 2019, 4(2), 46-50.
A study on the abundance of Odonates was conducted around the Goseindhara waterfall which is situated near the Nabarangpur district of Odisha and is a tourist spot due to its natural beauty. Our study duration was about 12 months and it revealed a total of 42 species of Odonates belonging to 31 genera and 8 families. More number of species were recorded under the sub-order Anisoptera (64.28 %) in comparison to suborder Zygoptera (35.71 %). The highest number of species were recorded under the family Libellulidae (47.61 %) and the lowest number of species were recorded under the family Lestidae (2.38 %). This is a first attempt to prepare a checklist for the Odonate population present in this area which could be referred for further studies in the future.
5 illus, 1 table, 20 ref
GHAZAL E M A A
001298 GHAZAL E M A A (Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad, Maharashtra) : Floristic study on the vegetation of Hajjah government, West of Yemen. J Med Plants Stud 2019, 7(2), 12-7.
The present paper deals with some important plant species in Hajjah governorate, West of Yemen. The study was carried out during the period from September 2017 to March 2018. In this research 43 families, 97 genera and 125 species were identified, including 60 herbs, 16 shrubs, 29 under-shrubs, 20 trees species have been included. The most highly represented families were Fabaceae (18 species; 11 genera), Asteraceae (17 species; 14 genera), Euphorbiaceae (8 species; 4 genera), Lamiaceae (7 species; 6 genera), Solanaceae (6 species; 5 genera), Acamthaceae (6 species; 4 genera), Amranthaceae (5 species; 4 genera), Asclepiaceae (4 species; 4 genera), Apocynaceae & Cucurbitaceae (3 species; 3 genera) Moraceae (4 species; 1 genera), and Plantaginaceae (3 species; 1 genera)., also, 6 families are represented by two species and two genera, and 4 families are represented by two species and one genus, while there 21 families are represented with one species and one genus in each. Plant life forms were categorized as Chamaephytes (43 species; 34.4 %), Phanerophytes, (36 species; 28.8 %), Therophytes (25 species; 20 %), Hemicryptophytes (15 species; 12.8 %), Geophytes (5 species; 4 %).
6 illus, 1 table, 22 ref
DHANALAKSHMI S, JAYAKUMARI S
001297 DHANALAKSHMI S, JAYAKUMARI S (Pharmacognosy Dep, Dr. M. G. R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai - 600 077, Email: dhanadinesh2011@gmail.com) : A review on the pharmacognostical, ecology and pharmacological studies on marine red algae – Hypnea valentiae. Int J Pharm Sci Res 2019, 10(3), 1065-71.
Seaweeds are the potential marine living resources in the world. More than 20,000 seaweeds are distributed throughout the world, of which only 221 (1.1 %) are commercially utilized, which includes 145 species for food and 110 species for phycocolloid production. The biodiversity of the marine environment and the associated chemical diversity constitute a practically unlimited resource of new active substances in the field of the development of bioactive products. Carrageenans are galactans extracted mainly from species belonging to Gigartinales. These sulfated galactans, consist of linear chains of D-galactopyranoses linked in a (1 & 3) and b (1 & 4). Seaweeds constitute some of the most important reservoirs of new therapeutic compounds for humans. Several of them have been shown to have many biological activities, including anticancer activity, in this present review study is mainly focused on Hypnea valentiae.
1 illus, 5 tables, 20 ref