010987   Gani M O (Bangladesh For Dep, Bana Bhavan, Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh, Email: bforest@citechco.net) : Distribution of masked finfoot Heliopais personata in the Sundarbans Reserved Forest of Bangladesh. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(1), 112-14.

1 illus, 6 ref

010986   Choudhury A (NO, Rhino Foundation for Nature in NE India, C/o Assam Co., Ltd., Bamunimaidam, Guwahati-781 021, Email: badru1@sancharnet.in) : Great-tufted myna Acridotheres grandis an addition to the birds of Meghalaya. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(1), 117.

9 ref

008708   Shah D G;Bahuguna A;Deshmukh B;Nayak S R; Singh H S;Patel B H (NO, Space Applics Cent (Indian Space Res Organisation), Ahmedabad-380 015, Email: anjali@sac.isro.org) : Zoning and monitoring dominant mangrove communities of a part of the Marine National Park, gulf of Kachchh. J Indian Soc Remote Sens 2005, 33(1), 155-63.

Mangroves of the Marine National Park constitute the second largest patch of mangroves in Gujarat, extending up to 11,000 ha, comprising six species of mangroves. Earlier studies carried out using remote sensing data pertained to baseline data generation and mapping and monitoring the mangroves (density-wise) of the Park from 1975 to 1993. Using IRS 1C/1D LISS III data (1998-2001) supported by ground data, the distribution of different mangrove communities in the Park has been attempted. Amongst various image-processing techniques, band ratioing followed by supervised classification gave the best result (classification accuracy was 92%). Avicennia community is the most dominant community accounting for more than 70% of the area. The Rhizophora community occupies the inward margins of the creeks and the Ceriops community is present in the interior regions. The ecotone between the marsh and mangrove communities has been identified as the transitional mangroves (Avicennia alba, Sueada), representing the transition from the less saline mangrove to the highly saline marsh community. The zoning of the mangroves has also helped in assessing the diversity of the region. Based on the richness of species, three areas, namely Bhains Bid, North-east Dide Ka Bet and South-east Chhad Island have been identified as highly diverse (most suitable area for preservation.

5 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

008707   Manju G;Chowdary V M;Srivastva Y K;Selvamani S;Jeyram A;Adiga S (Regional Remote Sens Serv Cent, Indian Space Res Organization, Kharagpur-721302, Email: chowdary_isro@yahoo.com) : Mapping and characterization of inland wetlands using remote sensing and GIS. J Indian Soc Remote Sens 2005, 33(1), 51-61.

Study has been carried out to delineate the wetlands of east Champaran district of Bihar, India, using IRS 1D LISS III data. The data for the pre and post monsoon seasons have been analysed and the wetlands have been qualitatively characterized based on the turbidity and aquatic vegetation status. The extent of water logging problem in the study area was inferred from the seasonal variation of waterspread during both the seasons. The three categories of wetlands (ponds/lakes, water logged areas and oxbow lakes) have been identified. From the analysis, it has been observed that the inland wetlands constitute 2.7% of the study area, of which 1.8% is subjected to water logging. Thus, the study highlights the usefulness of remotely sensed data for wetland mapping, seasonal monitoring and characterization.

8 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

008706   Deshmukh B;Bahuguna A;Nayak S;Dhargalkar V K;Jagtap T G (Space Applics Cent, Indian Space Res Organisation, Ahmedabad- 380 015, Email: anjali@sac.isro.org) : Eco-geomorphological zonation of the bangaram reef, Lakshadweep. J Indian Soc Remote Sens 2005, 33(1), 99-106.

Coral reefs. which are known for rich biological diversity and productivity, are being threatened throughout the world by various natural and anthropogenic activities. The study concentrates on establishing methodology to zone the geo-morphological and ecological zones of the Bangaram reef (of atoll type). Lakshadweep islands, using remotely sensed data and adequately supported by field data. Classification system has been evolved to zone the reefs. Comparative studies have also been carried out using image processing techniques in order to establish the suitable technique for studying the Indian reefs. The IRS L1SS III images representing three different tidal conditions of the period 1998-2000 were analyzed. The unsupervised classification of both the raw images as well as principal component images gave similar information. The classified product was subjected to contextual editing. Misclassification among various classes was found to increase with the increase in the depth of the water column present over the reef. The zones identified on the image are central deep lagoon, reef knolls (rising steeply from the central deep lagoon floor), reef edge, reef platform, coralline shelf, broad shallow sandy-bottomed lagoon, beach and two islets. The zonation has helped in getting information on the presence of live corals on the Bangaram reef.

2 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

007670   Himmat Singh (NO, , W/4 AFRI Residential campus, Basni II Phase, Jodhpur, Raiasthan) : Sighting of Sirkeer Malkoha Phaenicophaeus leschenaultii in the Thar desert. Zoos Print J 2005, 20(6), 1903.

7 ref

006524   Verma A (NO, Wildlife Inst of India, Post Box 18, Chandrabani, Dehradun, 248 001, Email: vermaasok@rediffmail.com) : Winter ecology of harriers roosting at Akola Maharashtra, India. Zoos Print J 2005, 20(8), 1943-7.

Study was undertaken on wintering ecology of harriers during February 2003 and October 2004 at Akola district of Maharashtra, western India. The data collected from a communally roosting harriers estimated a maximum population at roost was ca. 200 and 72 harriers during February 2003 and October 2004, respectively. Four species of harriers roosted namely Eurasian Marsh, Montagu's, Pallid and Hen barriers. Montagu's harriers dominated the roost. In all, 105 pellets were collected from the roost to obtain information on diet composition of wintering harriers at Akola. More than 80% pellets contained locust remains. Other prey items consumed by harriers included reptiles (lizards, skinks and snakes), birds (small land birds) and small mammals (rodents). The diet was compared with other harriers' roosting elsewhere in India and Africa. The paper also describes roost habitat and roosting behaviour. Major threats of roosting harriers are highlighted.

2 tables, 24 ref

006523   Nanda Kumar N V;Rajasekhar M;Ameer Basha S (Div Envir Biol Dep Zool, S V Univ, Tirupati-517 502) : Slender loris habitat analysis in Sri Venkateswara National Park Area, Andhra Pradesh by remote sensing. Ecol Envir Conserv 2004, 10(4), 501-3.

Satellite imagery of Sri Venkateswara National Park comprising Chamala valley was obtained for the year 1998 for analysis of Slender loris (Loris tardigradus lydekkerianus) habitat. Slender lorises were spotted by flasihing light on tree branches for eye reflection in Chamala valley. The ground truthing revealed that there are ecologically and vertically stratified forested areas in isolated pockets comprising herbaceous, shrub and tree communities, as 3-tier stratal layers. Studies were extended to other locations in SVNP area for comparing habitat. The vegetation cover up for loris habitat is described after ground truthing. Continuous arboreal corridors are more ideal habitant for lorises than broken arboreal corridors.

1 table, 7 ref

006522   Bhutiani R;Khanna D R;Pandey S (Dep Zool Envir Sci, Gurukul Kangri Vishwidyalaya, Haridwar - 249 404) : Biodiversity conservation : The need of the hour. Aquacult 2005, 6(1), 117-20.

^ssc4 ref

003259   Anand S (Flamingo House, Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird sanctuary, Kodiakkara, , ) : Wildlife management through waterholes for blackbuck, at Point Calimere Wild Life Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu. Bionotes 2005, 7(3), 99.

2 ref

003258    (NO, , ) : New species of Monkey discovered in Arunachal Pradesh. Bionotes 2005, 7(3), 81.

1 illus

002159   Tripathy B (Ashoka Trust for Res in Ecology and the Environment, , 659, 5th A Main, Hebbal, Bangalore560 024, Email: tripathyb@yahoo.co.uk) : Status of the loggerhead turtle in India. Curr Sci 2005, 88(4), 535-6.

1 illus, 13 ref

002158   Pilo B;Senan G P;Manoj E;Desai B;Dave M; Thaker K;Dhuru S;Siliwal M;Pradeshi M (Dep of Bot and Zool Fac of Sci, M S Univ of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002) : Conservation status of Citrullus colocynthis (L). Schard. in Gujarat state. Ecol Envir Conserv 2005, 11(1), 105-10.

Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schard commonly known as 'Bitter Apple/Wild Gourd', is a medicinally important plant belonging to family Cucurbitaceae. Both the pulp of the fruit and roots are used in curing a number of diseases. Because of this, it is exploited by Pharmaceutical Industries. It is found growing in the drier parts of India. The paper mainly deals with the distribution of C. colocynthis in Gujarat, its current status, threats and conservation measures. Different areas of Gujarat State were surveyed and population of Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schard., have been studied at all its microhabitat level. Once widely distributed, this plant is now restricted to few localities in Gujarat.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

002157   Nayak L (Post Grad Dep of Mar Sci, Berhampur Univ, Orissa) : Loss of marine biodiversity : conservation of sea turtles along the Orissa coast. J Indian ocean Stud 2005, 13(1), 141-6.

Coastline is one of the most spectacular gradients on earth since it forms the transition between the saline, aquatic environment of the ocean to the dry, air-exposed land over a distance of several metres. The total length of the world's coastline amounts to several million kilometres, the India's coastline is about 8129 km and Orissa's coastline is 480 km. From the giant dolphin to the spectacular Noctiluca occurs in the marine waters of Orissa. Its marine water contains a diversity of life forms and communities.

4 tables

002156   Khan S A;Raffi S M;Lyla P S (Cent of Advd Study in Mar Biol, Annamalai Univ, Parangipettai-608 502, Email: s_ajmalkhan@rediffmai.com) : Brachyuran crab diversity in natural (Pitchavaram) and artificially developed mangroves (Vellar estuary). Curr Sci 2005, 88(8), 1316-24.

The brachyuran crab diversity was studied in four stations of Pitchavaram mangroves and three stations of Vellar mangroves. A total of 38 species of brachyuran crabs was recorded in the Pitchavaram mangroves (18 species of grapsids and 8 species of ocypodids besides others), while 8 species were recorded in Vellar mangroves (5 species of grapsids and 3 species of ocypodids). The abundance of crabs also varied between the two mangrove habitats (65-82/m² in Pitchavaram mangroves and 27-40/m² in Vellar mangroves). The Pitchavaram mangrove forest has been in existence since sixteen to seventeen hundred years. In Vellar estuary, mangrove was established 13 years ago. The mangroves with vast network of roots and trunks offer a good niche for the brachyuran crabs. Due to its age and vast extent, the Pitchavaram mangrove forest has higher brachyuran crab diversity. When the mangroves were established in Vellar estuary, the mangrove-associated crabs were not present. But subsequently due to larval transport from the Pitchavaram mangroves, few species got established. Due to the above process, the remaining species may also get established. But how much time it will take? It is an interesting question worth investigating. Continuous monitoring of brachuran crab diversity may provide the answer.

7 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

001030   Sathe S S;Pawar S M (NO, , ) : Animal biodiversity of Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra, India. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2005, 4(3), 437-40.

Forests play an important role in the life and economy of the country. The tropical wildlife sanctuaries provide natural and varied ecological habitats for animals. Sagareshwar is one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in southern Maharashtra. A scientific study has been carried out with respect to biodiversity of animals and ecological aspects. Reports was undertaken to enlist, identify and quantify different species of reptiles, birds and mammals. During identification the care was taken to avoid any disturbance to them. The study have reported 7 reptiles, 75 birds and 11 mammals. The sanctuary is very pleasant to visit during monsoon and winter season to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

5 ref

000012   Venkataraman A B;Saandeep R;Baskaran N;Roy M;Madhivanan A;Sukumar R (NO, Asian Elephant Res and Conserv Centre, Bangalore-560 012, Email: rsuku@ces.iisc.ernet.in) : Using satellite telemetry to mitigate elephant human conflict: an experiment in northern West Bengal, India. Curr Sci 2005, 88(11), 1827-31.

Satellite tracking of animals has advantages in the study of species that migrate across international borders, have large home ranges and occupy remote and inaccessible areas. The efficacy of this technology in dense tropical forests may, however, be limited. At the same time, its use in mitigating wildlife-human conflict has not been examined so far. The movement patterns and habitat utilization of an adult male Asian elephant, and a preliminary assessment of the potential use of satellite technology as an 'early warning system' for conflict mitigation have been reported. Data on the location of the animal were obtained from a Platform Transmitter Terminal mounted on an elephant in Jaldapara, West Bengal, the first if its kind used on this species in India. It has been found that the animal preferred forest and forest plantations during the day, making visits to cultivated lands at night. There was some predictability in the movement of this animal, suggesting that similar technologies such as the more advanced Global Positioning System can be used for near 'real-time tracking' of problem elephants.

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

000011   Natarajan K;Senthilarasu G;Kumaresan V; Riviere T (Cent of Advd Study in Bot, Univ of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai-600 025, Email: knraj42@yahoo.com) : Diversity in ectomycorrhizal fungi of a dipterocarp forest in Western Ghats. Curr Sci 2005, 88(12), 1893-5.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

000010   Natarajan K;Narayanan K;Ravindran C; Kumaresan V (Cent of Advd Study in Bot, Univ of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai-600 025, Email: knraj42@yahoo.com) : Biodiversity of agarics from Nilgiri Biosphere reserve, Western Ghats, India. Curr Sci 2005, 88(12), 1890-3.

5 tables, 18 ref

023990   Roy H;Wanganeo A;Mandloi A K;Ojha P;Sasmal D (Limnology Dep, Barkatullah Univ, Bhopal-462 026) : Variation in physico-chemical characteristics of seepage water at various levels of PK-1 coal mine of Pathakhera, MP. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(1), 66-8.

Water from PK-1 Coal mine of Pathakhera, district Betul, Madhya Pradesh was analyzed throughout the year 2002 to evaluate the physico-chemical nature and its potential environmental impact. Due to seepage of water the underground mines run the risk of collapse and so that huge amount of water is mostly removed by pumping and mixed with surface water. During underground operation, exposed portions within the mines slowly oxidize resulting into acid production and pollution. These waters carried by rainwater mix with nearby water courses and alter the chemistry and often make them unfit for human use. The present study focus on the physico-chemical characteristics of seepage water at 86 and 92 meter depths. The physico-chemical characteristics such as water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, carbonate, bi-carbonate, total hardness, Ca⁺ hardness, Mg content, chloride, and chemical oxygen demand varied in between the range of 15-36°C, 6.0-7.2, 5.2-6.6 mg/liter, 36-52 mg/liter, 18-36 mg/liter, 12-24 mg/liter, 330-404 mg/liter, 233.1-352.8 mg/liter, 11.245-24.034 mg/liter, 46-71 mg/liter, 608-752 mg/liter, respectively.

2 tables, 8 ref

022981   Ramanujam M E (Pitchandikulam Bio-Resource Centre, , Auroville, Puducherry-605 101, Email: tdef@auroville.org.in) : Catalgue of auditory and visual communicatory traits in the Indian eagle owl Bubo bengalensis (Franklin, 1831). Zoos Print J 2007, 22(8), 2771-6.

Vocalisations (auditory communication) and displays (visual communication) of Bubo bengalmsis were recorded in the field over a period of 78 months. This disclosed 18 distinct behavioural traits - nine auditory and nine visual. None of these components were solitary units; each led on to another, increasing in intensity and was linked by short duration transition phases. A combination of both auditory and visual displays was found to be the most effective. Three distinct patterns of behaviour were discernable. Their causations, emphasising motivational and phylogenetic elements, are discussed.

4 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

022980   Gandhe K R;Kuvalekar A (PG Res Centre, Botany Dep, Modern Coll of Arts, Sci and Commerce, Shivajinagar, Pun-411 005, Email: kanchan.gandhe@gmail.com) : Enzymatic and hormonal studies in Acacia eburnea infected with Ravenelia esculenta. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(8), 2781-5.

Ravncelia esculenta Naras, and Thirum, infects Acacia eburnea Willd, producing hypertrophy in infected parts, mainly thorns, inflorescence, flowers and fruits. The hypertrophied parts are edible and consumed with relish. The severe stages of the disease are marked by pronounced hypertrophy in the infected parts, frequently 10 times or more. The disease progress is marked by gradual increase in hypertrophy and severe stages show presence of brown aecial cups. The process of disease development was studied to analyse various biochemical changes. Enzymatic studies showed significant shifts in the activities of enzymes like Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) (EC 1.14.18.1), Peroxidase (POX) (EC 1.11.1.7) and IAA Oxidase (IAAO). Activity of PPO was found to be in accordance with the quantity of total phenols. POX activity was found to be maximum during severe infection stage. Maximum IAAO activity was noticed during initiation of hypertrophy. These studies help to reveal the enzymatic changes during disease development by fungi. Changes in IAAO activities are suggestive of possible involvement of IAA, its derivatives and GA interaction in development of hypertrophied structures.

3 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

022979   Das A;Firoz Ahmed M;Lahkar B P;Sharma P (Herpetol Div, Aaranyak, Sommonoy Path, , Survey, Beltola, Guwahati-781 028) : Peliminary report of reptilian mortality on road due to vehicular movements near Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(7), 2742-4.

Reports road mortality of reptiles on a highway segment passing along thesouthern boundary of Kaziranaga National Park, Assam. India. A total of 68 instances of road kills of reptiles belonging to 21 species and seven amilies were recorded. Thee was a greater mortality among snakes compared to lizards. The arboreal reptiles were the most affected, the highest percent being those that were diurnal followed by the nocturanal, crepuscular and both day and night active species. Possible explanations of such differences in mortality among reptile groups ae discussed. It is feared that such king of persistent loss can be detrimental to the local reptilian population.

1 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

022004   Dhakal R D;Sharma G;Basnet K (NO, World Wide Fund for India, Sikkim State Office, Deorali-737 102) : Community dependence of Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary in the Sikkim Himalayas. J Hill Res 2006, 19(1), 24-33.

Community dependence and resource (firewood, fodder and NTFPs) utilization by settlements adjoining to Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary (MWLS) was studied during 2001-2003. Total firewood collection was 8343 t/year, 80% of which was used at the household and 20% in the GoTh. Community used 1.4 times more firewood in winter than in rainy season. Fodder collection from the forest was higher (9508 t/year) than the farm (8333 t/year). Different NTFPs extracted were used for local handicrafts, construction, and local medicine, for food and for exchange cash. The pre-structured questionnaire survey reveals that there is a need to increase agricultural diversification, production systems, agricultural income, off-farm income, total household income and the sale of horticultural produce and establish forward and backward linkages of their farm produce. This will reduce the dependence of communities towards the forest and enhance opportunities for better livelihoods. The study emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to agroforestry development for improved economic return and sustainability of the communities together with participatory PA management.

4 tables, 16 ref

021021   Nirmal Kumar J I;Soni H;Kumar R N (Biosciences Dep, N.V. Patel Coll of Pure and Appl Sci, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120) : Assessment of anthropogenic interventions in Jambughoda wildlife sanctuary, Gujarat, India. Ecol Envir Conserv 2006, 12(2), 235-48.

Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary OWLS) is an important Protected Area (P A) of Gujarat State, encomªpassing an area of 130.38 sq. km. along the north-eastern border of Panchmahal district. The area lies between 22° 22' N to 22° 28' N latitude and 73° 38' E to 73° 44' E longitude at 900 msl. The sanctuary supports mainly tropical dry deciduous floral elements with rich diversity of faunal species. The entire area experiences three seasons. Winter being the coldest with minimum of 7°C temperature, while the hottest summer with 46°C and monsoon experiences 800 mm average rainfall. Geologically, the basaltic rocks of the area belonging to Deccan trap interspersed with inter-montana valleys of upper cretaceous to lower Eocene age. In the present study, 18 villages were selected to investigate various anthropogenic interventions. Besides human (n= 17,260) and livestock population (n=7,995) of these villages, uncontrolled grazing by cattle, sheeps and goats were identified as the major sources of anthropogenic pressures in the sanctuary area. The local inhabitants reside within the P A zone are totally dependent upon the nature reserve for their livelihood. Mainly focuses on human generated threats like grazing, cutting, forest fire, hunting and poaching of animals and encroachment of forest areas for agricultural practices. Among the studied parameters, human and cattle population, grazing, cutting and encroachªment go parallel to each other and was found maximum in Duma village, followed by Unchet, Narukot, Nathpari and Jabban villages. However, such pressures were low in Paniyara, BhiI Dungar and Malbar villages. Also collection of minor forest produce for earnings by local inhabitants follows the analogous trend in Duma village, followed by Unchet, Narukot and Nathpari villages. Hunting and poaching of animals by local people for food were noticeable in Duma, Samot and Narukot villages. The virgin forest cover of the area has been considerably reduced by clear-felling activities like human settlements, shifting agriculture and massive extraction of Minor Forest Produce (MFP). The quantification of each pressure and salient findings are discussed.

6 illus, 5 tables, 68 ref

018963   Sankar K;Johansingh A J T;Mathur R (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, P O Box#18, Dehara Dun, Uttarakhand-248 001, Email: sankark@wii.gov.in) : Food habits of three major ungulate species in a semi-arid zone of Rajasthan, India. Cheetal 2007, 44(3-4), 18-39.

3 illus, 6 table, 31 ref

018962   Chackacherry G;Madhava Chandran K (Centre for Water Resources Development & Management (CWRDM), , Sub Centre, Neyyattinkara, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala-695 121) : Improving irrigation efficiency in Kerala through participatory irrigation management. Int J Envir Dev 2006, 3(1), 55-63.

Though many States in India advanced in the implementation of participatory irrigation management (PIM), serious initiatives had not been taken up in Kerala State for irrigation management transfer to farmers through PIM. Neither the farmer organization set up, nor the government agency concerned is physically or socially equipped for taking up PIM and joint management of irrigation systems. It was in this background that a study was undertaken by the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM) and Command Area Development Authority (CADA) of the State, with the main objectives of suggesting measures for reorganizing/restructuring the existing farmer associations for implementing PIM in the State and to suggest improvements in the irrigation agency set up for supporting the process. The study was carried out in three irrigation projects in Kerala. namely, Neyyar. Chalakkudy and Malampuma. More than 650 farmers, 300 officials, members of Legislative Assembly, leaders of political parties, etc. were consulted under the study. The study has identified the following prerequisites for implementation of PIM in Kerala: (i) favourable orientation of politicians and administrators; (ii) changes in the organizational set up; (iii) legislative backing; (iv) clear water rights; (v) rehabilitation of irrigation system; (vi) meaningful transfer agreement; (vii) coordination between stakeholders; (viii) consultation and involvement of farmers; (ix) motivation and incentive system; (x) training and awareness programmes; (xi) involvement of women; and (xii) mechanism to settle disputes. Based on the study, strategy was designed for the implementation of PIM, and accordingly, two pilot projects are being presently implemented at Neyyar and Malampuzha irrigation commands.

13 ref

018961   Bisht M P S;Mehta M;Nautiyal S K (Geology Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Srinagar(Garhwal) Uttarakhand-246 174) : Cordyceps sobolifera, another "Yarsa Gumba" from a himalayan biosphere reserve, India. Cheetal 2007, 44(3-4), 47-51.

New species of Cordyceps i.e. Cordyceps sobolifera is reported for the first time in the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Uttaranchal Himalaya. It is a parasitic fungus which grows over Ci-cada sp. in grasslands between the altitudes of 2800m amsl to 3600m amsl in the buffer zone of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. Unlike a Cordyceps sinencis (Tibetan name 'Yarsa Gumba', locally known as 'Keera Jari') which is widely collected from Nepal and eastern part of Uttaranchal, this species has long asco-carps (fruiting bodies), which pour out from the bodies of Cicada nymphs, a soil dwelling root parasite. Cicadas suck juice from tree roots at the larval stage. Physical characteristics and the habitat identification of the fungus is discussed. It is also suggested that there is an urgent need to promote further scientific exploration and detailed research on biological screening of this fungus.

3 illus, 12 ref

017863   Joshi R;Radhey Shyam;Negi M S (NO, G B Pant Institute of Himalayan Env and Dev, Garhwal Unit, Srinagar-Garhwal, Uttaranchal) : Observation on movement and feeding pattern of sloth bear Melursus ursinus in the Rajaji National Park, Uttaranchal: a case study from Chilla Forest Range. Natn J Life Sci 2006, 3(2), 169-73.

Deals with movement and feeding pattern of sloth bear at Rajaji National Park. Bear movement was more observed during extreme cold months and their movement was more frequent near to the Garhwal forest division and it was inferred that during unfavourable conditions (water and fodder scarcity, forest fire etc.) their movement is towards upper areas of the forest i.e. towards Garhwal/Kotdwara forest division. At the same time they extensively feed on various plant species like Banyan (Ficus benghalensis), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), Jungle jalebi (Pithecellobium dulce), Bel (Aegle marmelos), Zizyphus mauritiana (Ber), Mahua (Madhuca indica) along with the termitariums and honey hives present within the park premises. An important and interesting thing that was observed during the recent past is increasing frequency of frequent movement of Sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) in few of the forest compartments those are having rich vegetation cover. The present note is a part of the long term study on the behavioural biology of Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) in the Rajaji National Park area.

3 illus, 6 ref

016844   Yalavarthy Prameela Devi;Sultana R;Janaki Rama Rao N (Enviromental Biology Lab, Zoology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Bioindicators of pollution of Miralam Lake. J Nat Conserv 2006, 18(2), 193-201.

Objective of the investigation is to study the bioindicators of pollution of Miralam Lake. Samples were collected from the stations to study total Coliforn, Phyto and Zooplankton, benthic macro invertebrates and macrophytes. The various species that are identified are listed separately. Based on the species that are identified, the total coliform MPN/100 ml, Palmer Algal Genera Index, Saprobic Score and Diversity Score are analyzed and compared. Based on their analysis the scores and indices are compared for pollution index. The pollution load of the Miralam Lake is identified based on .the biological analysis and their indication and a map of pollution load, based on biological species occurrence is drawn and presented. It is identified that the Miralam Lake is with high organic pollution.

2 illus, 7 tables, 14 ref

016843   Vinod Rishi (Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy, , Dehra Dun (Uttaranchal)) : Mitigating man-wildlife conflict-identifying aberrant predators: a case study of the man-eater of Sonaripur. Indian For 2005, 131(10), 1255-66.

One of the problems in wildlife conservation has been the question when to declare an aberrant wild animal dangerous to human life. another relaed question is how to identify an aberrant animal out of animals of the same species sharing the same species sharing the same area. In the case study presented here the two questions were addressed to and an aberrant tiger was identified as a potentially dangerous animal much before it became a confirmed man-eater. The case study provides a scope for taking a proactive approach in the case of bigh cats like the leopard and the tiger for overcoming some of the limitations in mitigation of man-wildlife conflict.

2 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

016842   Verma G;Tomar A;Singh K K (Chemistry Dep, B.S.A. College, Mathura-281 001) : Physico-chemical studies on the influence of organci pollutants on the heavy metals translocation in alfizol. J Nat Conserv 2006, 18(2), 209-16.

Translocation of heavy metals viz. Cu, Cd, Co, Ni and Zn as influenced by organic pollutants such as methanol, ethanol, propanol, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, benzaldehyde, acetone, ethyl methyl ketone and cyc1ohexanone was studied in laterite soil using soil thin layer chromatography (s-TLC). It was observed that an increase in the concentration of organic compounds as developer enhances the mobility of heavy metals except in the case of Cu which shows a decreasing trend. The order of mobility of heavy metals was found to be Cu<62> Cd<62> Co<62> Ni<62> Zn. The results are discussed in the light of physico-chemical characteristics of the soils and adsorption-desorption phenomena.

3 illus, 1 table, 39 ref

016841   Verma A (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehra Dun (Uttranchal)) : Preliminary observations on the ecology of harriers (Circus sp.) roosting at Hessarghata, (North Bangalore in Karnataka, South India with special reference to Eurasian marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus). Indian For 2006, 132(3), 337-44.

Harriers are widespread winter migratory raptors to India. A communal roost comprising of over 100 harriers was recorded at Hessarghata, North Bangalore (Karnataka) in South India during January 2005. Of six species of harriers reported wintering in India, four were found roosting here including globally threatened Pallid harrier. Eurasian Marsh harrier was the most dominant species at the roost. They took shelter in a fodder grassland patch belonging to a Cattle Breeding Farm every evening and deserted the area by early mrning around sunrise. the pellets of harriers collected from the roost showed birds and rodents as their major prey in South Indian wintering ground. Also discusses about their population structure, winter diet, and roosting behaviour and suggests measures for their conservation.

19 ref, 3 tables

016840   Sinha P R (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehra Dun (Uttaranchal)) : Global illegal trade in wild animals and its impact on conservation in India. Indian For 2005, 131(10), 1267-71.

There is no denying that brisk illegal trade in wildlife and its productsis on despite ban, fetching fabulous returns to the smugglers and traders involved in it. The National Wildlife Action plan has identified priority areas and a two-pronged strategy of strengthening enforcement machinery and securing the borders of the countries who are its consumers. the buyers in these countries are the rich elite, willing to pay anything to satisfy their lust for such products. Committees at Central, State and Protected Area level, having close coordination among enforcement agencies, i.e. forest, police, revenue intelligence and Intelligence Bureau should be formed and hold meetings at regular intervals to curb this crime. However, there is also need for diplomatic activity to develop a common platform by building public opinion against use of wildlife in medicine, perfumes and beauty products in these consumer countries. It will make poaching unattractive in India. This issue should also be taken up with China, etc. and MoUs worked out.

6 ref

016839   Singh P;Upadhyay A;Rai J P N (Environmental Sci Dep, Ecotechnolgy Lab, College of Basic Sci and Humanities, G.B. Pant Univ of Agri and Techno, Pantnagar-263 145) : Decolourization of distillery effluent by sequential chemical microbial treatment. J Nat Conserv 2006, 18(2), 203-8.

Distillery producing alcohol from molasses are considered to be one of the most polluting industry and releases huge amount of colouring effluent into water stream having high BOD, COD, TSS, TDS and dark brown colour. The sequential treatment of chemicals [KmnO₄ and AI₂(SO₄)₃3] and microbes (Phanerochaete chrysoporium and Pseudomonas fluorescens) have shown better results in COD and colour (91.6% and 99.81%) than any of the chemicals tried. High correlation was observed between the physicochemical parameters studied. Increase in EC and decrease in pH to be related to reduction in COD, TSS, TDS and colour. Mineralization of organic matter resulted in formation of organic acids and inorganic compounds.

3 tables, 16 ref

016838   Pahari D;Hazra A K;Moitra M N;Roy Mahato A K (NO, Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053, Email: dhrubajyoti_zsi@yahoo.com) : Effect of industrial effluent on the population structure of soil microarthropods at Bokaro Steel Plant area, Jharkhand. J envir Sociobiol 2006, 3(1), 33-40.

Field survey was conducted in and around Bokaro steel plant area, Jharkhand, India to know the effect of continuous discharge of steel plant effluents on the soil microarthropods. The density and diversity of soil microarthropods are low nearer to the steel plant area compared to those of the distant sites. Acari was the predominant group followed by the Collembola and other soil microarthropods are few in number. The soil factors like temperature, relative humidity, moisture, pH and organic carbon have also been conducted. The relationship between soil microarthropods and these physico-chemical parameters is analyzed statistically.

8 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

016837   Gupta A K;Srivastava R (Deptt. of Population Management, Capture & Rehabilitation, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehra Dun (UA)) : Tiger crisis: A (MIS) understood development paradigm. Indian For 2005, 131(10), 1272-8.

Tiger crisis is a stark reality of our times. There is deep concern about but its implication are not fully and properly recognized. Conserving the tiger is to conserve the biodiversity and consequently nature itself, so very essential for our own existence. Development poses a great problem as it is diametrically opposed to conservation, in essence craze for tangible benefits vis-a-vis intangible benefits goes against objectives of conservation. Development of scheduled tribes living in and around forests,upto developed national nation standards will further tax our limited resources to the detriment of Homo sapiens. The authors suggest levying a tax on hotel industry, earning from eco-tourism, to provide funds for the welfare of ecosystem people. Stringent measures should be taken to curb poaching, illicit trade in wildlife and its production, revamp the monitoring system by inducting scientifically trained person in the forest services etc. and bring back the lost glory.

015804   Surasinghe T D (Zoology Dep, Univ of Colombo, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka, Email: surasinghe@yahoo.com) : Conservation overview of herpetofauna of Sinharaja Man and Biosphere Reserve of Sri Lanka. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(1), 2535-8.

Sinharaja Man and Biosphere (MAB) Reserve is one of the largest intact rainforest in the southwestern lowlands of Sri Lanka, which is known to be rich in reptile and amphibian diversity. This reserve is a refuge for many taxa of point endemism concerning herpetofauna. Conseaquently, the Sri Lankan government along with the UNESCO has given a top level of conservation status for Sinharaja forest by nominating it not only as an international MAB reserve but also as a world heritage site. Despite the high priority given to the forest in terms of legislation, the reserve is facing threats due to various human activities, chiefly habitat disturbances. In fact the herpetofaunal diversity in disturbed areas is significantly lower than in the undisturbed areas. Investigates the threats encountered by the herpetofauna in the Sinharaja MAB reserve and discusses the management and conservation approaches that would contribute towards the well being of herpetofaunal communities of the reserve.

^iia39 ref

015803   Srivastava P (Wildlife, Allapalli Divn., Chandrapur, Maharashtra) : Understanding reasons behind degrading habitat of Chaprala wildlife sanctuary : a bionomical approach. Indian For 2006, 132(10), 1357-62.

^ssc3 tables

015802   Srivastava D S;Lahiri S (NO, , Daltonganj, Jharkhand) : Status of elephants in Jharkhand. Indian For 2006, 132(10), 1376-9.

1 table

015801   Sharma D;Gavali D (Gujarat Ecological Society, , Vadodara, Gujarat) : Protected areas in Gujarat: prospects and perspectives. Indian For 2006, 132(10), 1292-1302.

Most of the Protected Areas (PAs) in Gujarat are islands of natural biodiversity amidst agriculture lands and human dwellings. Several issues, like boundary settlements, cattle grazing, human-wildlife conflicts, illicit cutting of trees and illegal Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) collection, inadequate research create hurdles for proper management of PAs. Major reason for these problems is that the social aspects are not adequately considered while declaring and managing the PAs. The absence of public support in the management strategy has created conflicting situations time and again. Almost all the PAs in Gujarat have a vast scope of improving the conservation status. A new model of wildlife conservation is needed in which traditional resource rights and role of local communities and importance of research and monitoring are recognised adequately.

1 illus, 2 tables, 42 ref

015800   Sahu H K;Jena J;Dutta S K;Rout S D (PG Dept of Zoology, North Orissa Univ, Takatpur, Baripada, Orissa) : Common butterflies of Chahala range of similipal tiger reserve, Orissa, India. Indian For 2006, 132(10), 1363-6.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

015799   Ilyas O;Khan J A (Wildlife Sciences Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh) : Biodiversity conservation and management in kumaon Himalayas : assessment of socio-economic status and threat perception. Indian For 2006, 132(10), 1315-28.

Socio-economic and threat assessment survey were conducted at 18 oak patches in Kumaon Himalayas. Total 84 Gram sabhas (revenue villages) and 184 villages were surveyed. Human as well livestock population was found to be maximum in Mechh (20,000, 25000 respectively). The mean tree species density was found to be maximum in Gasi (1006.37/ha), while minimum in Kunjakharak (280.25). Tree species diversity was found to be maximum in Munsiyari (2.51), while it was found to be minimum in Mukteshwer (1.01). Mean tree cutting was recorded maximum in Mukteshwer (7.3±1.3), while it was found to be minimum in Kunjakharak (1.3±0.36). Tree lopping was highest in Pandavkholi (8.1±1.3) and found minimum in Pindari and Binayak (0.01±0.1). Various threat factors were asses and the threats scores were calculated for different sites in Kumaon Himalayas. The most threatened site was recorded as Jageshwer, Gager, Sitlakhet, while least threatened surveyed site was recorded as Duku, Pindari, Sobla etc. The conservation problems and the management recommendation for biodiversity conservation have been discussed in the paper.

3 illus, 6 tables, 8 ref

015798   Dey S;Debnath H S;Sikdar P K (Botanical Survey of India, Indian Botanical Garden, Howrah, West Bengal) : Review of the legal tools for management of sundarban biosphere reserve, West Bengal, India. Indian For 2006, 132(10), 1343-56.

The Sunderbans Biosphere Reserve (SBR) is the largest marine biosphere reserve in India to conserve the coastal and threatened mangrove ecosystem. The importance of mangrove forests of Sunderbans in terms of international, national and local level as well as to the total economy of the country is immense. However it has been reported that for the last two decades this rich and diverse mangrove ecosystem is under continuous threat due to various natural and anthropogenic activities. To conserve this ecologically fragile environment various rules, regulations and legislations were enacted from time to time. The Indian Forest 'Act, 1927, is responsible for declaration of 9,630 km² areas as Reserved Forest within the Sunderbans. The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, actually forms the basis of protection of forestland because it restricts use of forestland for non-forest purposes. The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, provides the basis for declaration of national Parks and sanctuaries within the reserve. It also prohibits hunting and poaching of wild animals. The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, is an umbrella act and provides protection from all the different types of pollutants. The Coastal Regulation Zone Notification (CRZ), 1991, The West Bengal Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1993 regulates shrimp culture and marine fishing respectively. But in spite of all these legal tools and machinery the illegal trespassing, hunting discharge of various types of pollutants and unsustainable fishing are still continuing. So more stringent legal action against the defaulters by increase in penalty and imprisonment years as well as closing of polluting units in some cases are recommended. The Coastal Regulation Zone Notification (CRZ), 1991, is required to be reviewed for formulation of the Shoreline Management Plan. Also to make the legal tool stronger the identified provisions of various International Conventions should be incorporated in the legal framework on a priority basis.

1 table, 9 ref

015797   Chaudhary A P (Animal Sci Dep, C.P. Coll of Agric, S.D. Agric Univ, Sardarkrushingar) : Demographic distribution and management of elephant. Cheetal 2007, 44(1-2), 25-31.

^iia4 tables, 16 ref

015796   Bhardwaj A K;Krishnan P G;Geetha K;Veeramani A (Project Tiger, , Kottayam, Kerala) : Conservation of tiger (Panthera tigris) and its habitats - experiences of co-existence of people and protected area from Periyar tiger reserve, Kerala, India. Indian For 2006, 132(10), 1233-42.

Understanding the significance of Tiger in the ecosystem, Government of India launched 'Project Tiger' in 1973 for the conservation of tiger and its habitat. By the end of year 2000, 27 Tiger Reserves were established in the country. One of the major constraints or issues confronting conservation in the Tiger Reserves can be attributed to the existence of human population in and around the reserves. These Reserves with the status of Sanctuary or National Park are traditionally following the conventional model of exclusionist Protected Area (PA) management which stresses on coercion and policing as the dominant tool for biodiversity conservation. However, consistent with the National Forest Policy, 1988, the PAs have gradually started addressing the livelihood needs of the local communities and soliciting their support for conservation. Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR), Kerala, is an example of the successful co-existence of park and people. The tiger reserve along with its adjoining forest areas form an exceptionally rich rainforest landscape. However, mega developmental threats and subsistence dependency of local people had threatened the long-term conservation of PTR. The implementation of India Ecodevelopment Project (IEP) between 1996 and 2004 opened a new vista of PA management, which goes hand in hand with the protection of the PA and livelihood security of the local people. One of the most important contributions of the project has been the evolution of various Community Based Ecotourism Programmes (CBEP) with strong focus on park protection and visitor experience providing sustained livelihoods to about 2000 including indigenous families and rehabilitated forest offenders. Involvement of the local people in pilgrimage management has resulted in safeguarding the ecological sanctity of Sabarimala apart from generating valuable income for forest dependent communities. The project has resulted in the improved planning and protection of the PA Area, reduction in resource use by local people, improvement in habitat health, building social capital among local communities and creation of institutional mechanisms for sustaining the achievements. In order to ensure the post project sustainability, the Government of Kerala has established a semi autonomous Trust named Periyar Foundation with the objective of supporting biodiversity conservation and community welfare initiatives of PTR and adjoining landscape. An eco development surcharge levied on visitors to the PA is being pooled into the operational fund of the Foundation. In nut shell, a new system of decentralized and self-reliant PA management system is evolving in PTR wherein the interest of the biodiversity of the PA is integrated and mainstreamed with the livelihood security of the local people in the landscape.

7 ref

014631   Kalita G (Zoology Dep, Guwahati College, Assam, Email: girin_05@yahoo.co.in) : Traditional bird traps of Kamrup district, Assam, India. Zoos Print J 2007, 22(5), 2678-9.

1 table, 4 ref

013523   Vijay M;Bhupathy S (Northern Regional Station, Zoological Survey of India, Dehra Dun-248 195) : Nesting and mortality of Olive ridley along Nagapattinam coast, south eatern India. Ann For 2005, 13(2), 332-6.

The nesting and mortality of Olive ridley sea turtle along Nagapattinam coast was studied from January to April 2004. A stretch of 50-km beach area between Pazhaiyar to Tranquebar was monitored fortnightly. A total of 17 nests were recorded. The nesting density along the Nagapattinam coast was estimated at 5 nests/km. Nesting was high between the first fortnight of January to first fortnight of March and the turtle mortality was highest during the month of January (48 dead turtles). A total of 88 carcasses in different stages of decomposition were observed in the sampling localities during the study period. Over 75% of the dead turtle had shell length above 60 cm and remaining below 60 cm. Beaches that had vegetation such as Spinifex littoreus (Ravanan meesai grass) and Casurina spp., little disturbance from light and sand bar near rivers were preferred nesting habitats.

3 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

013522   Bhattacharya A (Botany Dep, Burdwan University, Barddhaman-713 104) : Significance of gaia hypothesis in relation to the conservation of biodiversity. Ecol Envir Conserv 2006, 12(4), 665-76.

Now a days the eco-aware people are very much concerned and sensitive about biodiversity and the issues of its distresses and conservation. There is no other option to continue the existence on this planet without going for conservation of biodiversity. In present discussion, an endeavour would be made to realize the significance of the Gaia hypothesis in relation to conservation of biodiversity, or in other words, how the hypothesis can promote conservation. At heart, the hypothesis suggests that the evolution of organisms and their environment are tightly coupled as a single process through self-regulation and the ecosphere is a super-ecosystem (the Gaian system) with numerous interacting functions and feedback loops maintained by the action, co-action, reaction and interaction between the biotic and abiotic components which are equally weightfull to maintain the ecospheric homeorhesis (evolutionary and ecological stability). The hypothesis has different notions, whichever be accepted, makes persons thinking carefully about the planetary health and environmental, developmental and conservational issues. This stimulates mankind to care for nature and to think her as guide for optimization, thus leading to eco-compatible life and sustainable development.

5 illus, 44 ref

012472   Varghese A O;Krishna Murthy Y V N (NO, Regional Remote Sensing Service Centre, Nagpur-440 010, Email: aovarghese@rediffmail.com) : Application of geoinformatics for conservation and management of rare and threatened plant species. Curr Sci 2006, 91(6), 762-9.

Currently available floras, which provide valuable information about the species distribution pattern, do not indicate specific locations. The preservation of threatened plants has to be based upon site-specific geographical information, knowledge of their critical habitat and distribution pattern of each threatened species in a phytosociological layout. Precise point-location data on microclimate, topography, and soil in association with geographical distribution of threatened species in the phytosociological layout will lead to the exact locality information of the concerned taxa, their population status, edaphic and climatic characters of their habitat, their niche width, potential localities to be searched, knowledge of their habitat requirements, particularly the factors limiting their distributions, the factors leading to local and biological extinction and critical habitats. Habitats of Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary were analysed by stratified random sampling techniques and locations of rare and threatened species were gathered by GPS. Satellite remote sensing data with the aid of GIS were used for site-specific mapping of each threatened species, their realized niches and the status of niches with regard to degradation. The study resulted in documenting 151 tree species belonging to 51 families with six rare and eight threatened species. The distribution of each rare and threatened species, their realized niches and status, ecological amplitude among forest types and their geographical positions in the landscape were documented and mapped.

4 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref