014524   Virkar P S;Shrotriya S;Uniyal V P (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, Po. Box 18, Chandrabani, Dehradun-248 001, Email: preeti@wii.gov.in) : Building walkways: observation on nest duplication of stingless bee Trigona iridipennins smith (1854). Ambient Sci 2014, 1(1), 38-40.

Beekeeping for honey and other bee products is an age old practice. Besides the popular honeybees, Apis cerana and Apis mellifera, stingless bees belonging to the tribe Meliponini, subfamily Apinae and family Apidae (Michener, 2007) are also reared for honey, having high medicinal value. Stingless bees are exclusive to tropics and their size ranges from 2mm to slightly bigger than the popular honeybee A. mellifera (O'Toole & Raw, 1999). The practice of keeping stingless bees is called meliponiculture, and once it was an integral part of the culture of indigenous people of South and Central - 16 - America. It held a social and religious significance in the meso-American culture, mainly the ancient Mayans (Sommeijer, 1999). Stingless bee products such as honey, wax and propolis formed a small-scale economy in their livelihood as well (Cortopassi-Laurino et al., 2006). Although least explored, meliponiculture is an age old practice in India also. Kani tribe in Western Ghats is the only reported reference, keeping stingless bees (Kumar et al., 2012). Trigona iridipennis is the widespread stingless bee species in the Indian subcontinent and used for meliponiculture.

1 illus, 15 ref

014523   Vanjari R S (School of Dep, Azim Premji Univ, Electronics City, Hosur Road, Bangalore, Email: rvanjari@yahoo.co.in ) : Ecosystem services by the Indian courser bird cursorius coromandelicus. Bionotes 2017, 19(3), 104-5.

10 ref

014522   Soni V C;Rana A;Dave S M;Bhalodia K (Biosciences Dep, Saurashtra Univ, Rajkot-360 005, Email: davesanjay@gmail.com) : Birds and their status in Khijadia Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat, an Asian fly way stopover place in India. Bionotes 2017, 19(3), 99-103.

3 tables, 10 ref

014521   Singh H S (NO, National Board for Wild Life, Plot-44, Sector-8, gandhinagar-382 010, Email: hss.ifs@gmail.com) : Dispersion of the asiatic lion Panthera leo persica and its survival in human-dominated landscape outside the Gir forest, Gujarat, India. Curr Sci 0000, 112(5), 933-40.

Expansion and consolidation of Gir Protected Area, Gujarat, India - habitat of the Asiatic lion, and response of prey and predator to the management and dispersion trend of lions outside the Gir forests are interesting and noteworthy. During the last five decades (1965-2015), an approach for the Asiatic lion conservation is one of the best efforts in the world. Unlike other super predators, the number of lions has increased by 4-folds and wild ungulates by over 13-folds in the Gir forest during this period. The distribution range of lions has also expanded to a large landscape in four districts in the state. The consistent shift in feeding patterns of lions is mainly due to the improved availability of wild prey. Lions were restricted in the Gir forest till 1990, and the dispersion started when their population increased. In two decades, more than 40% of the total number of lions was spotted outside the Gir landscape. It is interesting to know that lions and leopards live in human-dominated landscape outside the Gir forest. Blue bull, wild boar and feral cattle, and carcasses of livestock in the villages are major food for the lions. The prey population, predation behaviour of the lion and acceptance of the lion as honourable animal by the villagers indicate that the present trend may continue in the near future as well.

2 illus, 3 table, 17 ref

014520   Pegu R;Tamuli A K;Teron R (Life Science & Bioinformatics Dep, Assam Univ- Diphu Campus, Diphu, Karbi Anglong-782 462, Email: robin.teron@gmail.com) : Assessment of human-wildlife conflicts in Poba reserved forest, Dhemaji district, Assam (India). Ambient Sci 2014, 1(2), 36-46.

Human-wildlife conflicts from 1971-2013 in Poba Reserved Forest is presented here. Data collection included interview, records of forest department and participant observation. There is an increasing trend of human-wildlife conflict in Poba RF. Encroachment for agricultural expansion, frequent venturing into forests to collect minor forest products and livestock grazing are major causes of conflicts. Most cases of conflict occurred in forests and crop fields suggesting encroachment and venturing into animal habitat exposed human to conflict with wildlife. Pearson's correlation at 0.01 level of significance showed positive correlation between wildlife injured/killed and livestock killed/injured (0.819411) and wildlife injured/killed and property damaged (0.658009) but negative correlation between wildlife injured/killed and crop damaged (-0.04104). Crop raiding by wildlife caused considerable damage to crops and property resulting in food insecurity and economic loss to farmers; farmers also suffered economic loss due to livestock lifting by prey animals. Long years of exposure to crop and property loss and risk to life are associated - 15 - with negative attitude towards wildlife. The present report will be useful in understanding the nature of conflicts and help local forest department in initiating appropriate conservation measures in Poba RF.

8 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

014519   Paunikar S;Talmale S S;Gupta D (NO, Tropical Forest Research Institute, PO RFRC, Mandal Road, Jabalpur-482001, Madhya Pradesh) : Food habit of spotted owlet athene brama (Temminck, 1821) in the campus of tropical forest research Institute, Jabalpur: an ecological representation of central India. Ambient Sci 2015, 2(1), 9-15.

The study on food habits of the Spotted Owlet, Athene brama (Temminck, 1821) in Tropical Forest Research Institute campus, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India was conducted in June 2011 to May 2012 by analyzing their regurgitated pellets. The insect order Coleoptera with three dung beetle species, Onitis philemon, Onitis virens, Onitis brahma and two orders and five species of small mammals, Mus booduga, Vandeleuria oleracea, Millardia meltada, Suncus etruscus and Suncus murinus were recorded from the pellets. The other insect taxa found in the pellets include Carabidae and Hydrophilidae beetles and Earwigs in the order Dermaptera. This is for the first time food habits of the spotted owlets, being reported from the state of Madhya Pradesh, which further provides identifying key characters of the dung beetles along with illustrations, obtained from the pellet materials. The study on the feeding habits of the owlet species is very important not only for its significance in conservation but also for their predatory potential, as they are the main predators of insects and non insect pests (rodents) of forestry and agricultural importance.

2 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

014518   Patel D;Dharaiya N (Life Sciences Dep, GNG Univ, Patan, Gujarat, Email: nadharaiya@gmail.com) : Human-wildlife conflicts in arid areas of western India: strategies for mutual co-existence. Ambient Sci 2014, 1(1), 29-37.

The study has been carried out in the North Gujarat region of Gujarat state, Western India which represents unique habitats from arid regions to dry deciduous forests with annual rainfall ranging from 25-125 cms. Human-wildlife conflicts are intensifying owing to increase in human population and destruction of wildlife habitats. In the present study we characterized and classified the conflicts, identified zones with acute conflicts and evaluated the economic loss to the local villagers due to such humanwildlife conflicts. Sampling methods mainly included village surveys for interviewing locals who are affected by wildlife damage. The information was overlaid on the existing digital land use data to identify landscape characteristics associated with wildlife occupancy in the region. The result depicts that 80% of total damage in seasonal crop is caused by wild ungulates. Wild animals like Blue bull, Wild The study has been carried out in the North Gujarat region of Gujarat state, Western India which represents unique habitats from arid regions to dry deciduous forests with annual rainfall ranging from 25-125 cms. Human-wildlife conflicts are intensifying owing to increase in human population and destruction of wildlife habitats. In the present study we characterized and classified the conflicts, identified zones with acute conflicts and evaluated the economic loss to the local villagers due to such humanwildlife conflicts. Sampling methods mainly included village surveys for interviewing locals who are affected by wildlife damage. The information was overlaid on the existing digital land use data to identify landscape characteristics associated with wildlife occupancy in the region. The result depicts that 80% of total damage in seasonal crop is caused by wild ungulates. Wild animals like Blue bull, Wild boar and Porcupine are reported as a chief crop raider. The Leopard is the only big cat occurring in the region reported to cause human injury and livestock predation. Sloth bear attacks on human are very common in some part of the study area. Conflicts are more severe around unprotected forests while high intensity of conflicts was recorded on the fringes of the forests. Less compensation and delayed process of compensation by the government makes the local community more hostile towards the - 14 - presence of wildlife in the area. boar and Porcupine are reported as a chief crop raider. The Leopard is the only big cat occurring in the region reported to cause human injury and livestock predation. Sloth bear attacks on human are very common in some part of the study area. Conflicts are more severe around unprotected forests while high intensity of conflicts was recorded on the fringes of the forests. Less compensation and delayed process of compensation by the government makes the local community more hostile towards the presence of wildlife in the area.

5 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

014517   Parida S;Sajan S K;Debata S;Das G C;Rout S D;Sahu H K (P.G Dep. of Wildlife & Biodiversity Conservation, North Orissa Univ, Baripada, Email: sangramparida02@gmail.com) : Group size and age-sex comparison of Gaur (Bos gaurus) in Kuldhia wildlife sanctuary, Eastern Ghats, India. Ambient Sci 2015, 2(2), 25-30.

The Gaur is under the vulnerable category on Red list and Schedule-I species as per Wildlife Protection Act (1972) in India. Till date, little information is - 13 - available on group size and age-sex composition of Gaur from Kuldhia Wildlife Sanctuary. Thus, by keeping the same in mind an investigation of group size and age-sex composition of Gaur was carried out during January to June 2013 in Kuldhia Wildlife Sanctuary. In addition, the secondary sources of data from 2007-2013 were also collected from forest department. During investigation 26 direct sightings and 72 saltlick record from different part of the sanctuary was considered. A total of 14 group-sizes were recorded and the group size varied from one to eighteen individuals. Solitary male group constitute 27.55% (n=27), which is the dominant group size from other three group (Mixed, all male and all female). For age and sex composition, gaur mainly classified into four type's i.e. adult male, adult female, juvenile (sub adult male and female) and calf. Total 98 (saltlick and direct sighting data) sightings consisted 453 individuals of gaur in KWLS, out of which 27 sightings were of loners. All the loners were adult male and they were found apart from the groups. Adult male constitute 22.51% (n=102) from the total number of gaur sighted.

4 illus, 18 ref

014516   Mishra S R;Bisht H K (Office of regional Chief Conservator of Forest & Field Director, Similipal Tiger Reserve, Baripada-757 002, Email: mishra_sandeepranjan@yahoo.co.in) : Evidence dependent population distribution patterns of Tiger and Leopard in Similipal Tiger Reserve, Odisha, India. Ambient Sci 2015, 2(2), 42-4.

The Tiger (Panthera tigris) is an endangered carnivore with uncertain demographic status spanning 13 Asian countries. Due to its larger body size and carnivorous diet in nature it always occurs at low population densities. Further prey depletion due to overhunting (Karanth & Stith, 1998), poaching, habitat shrinkage (Kenny et al., 1995, Wcs, 1995) and direct killing altogether have also become a major factor for depletion of wild tiger populations tiger. Monitoring the abundance and its alteration is always important for the effective management of endangered species. Tiger is categorized as "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List (IUCN, 2008) and listed under Schedule-I of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 in India and Appendix-I of the CITES. Leopard (Panthera pardus) is also included in the Schedule- I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and is placed under "Least Concern" category of 2002 IUCN Red List of threatened animals. Similipal Tiger Reserve is one of the largest Tiger Reserves of India with an area of 2750 km2. Therefore we have to depend mainly on the direct sightings and evidence records of the animals to analysis the status and distribution pattern of these two big cats in the core area of this Tiger Reserve.

2 illus, 7 ref

014515   Manchiryala R;Desai A A;Musjkam S;Predit P P (NO, , Bejjur Foresr Range Office, Adilabad, Telangana, Email: raviwildlife.rr@gmail.com) : Evaluating the feasibility of using pellets to asses Age, relative abundance and habitat of Nilagiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius) in Mukurthi National Park, of Nilgiri biosphere reserve, India. Ambient Sci 2015, 2(2), 8-17.

The Nilgiri tahr; Nilgiritragus hylocrius is an endangered mountain ungulate of India, endemic to two states comes under Western Ghats. It is a social and shy animal found in mixed herds composed of adult and their sub adult young ones. Due to its shy nature and rapid escape tendencies into sharp mountain cliffs the correct population estimation of it is always remain difficult. Thus to make the age-sex estimation of Nilgiri tahr populations feasible, we have used as tools its various sizes of pellets collected from habituated Tahr herd. In the present study, based on pellet sizes about 80% of population were segregated into different age-sex related classes. Result revealed higher overlap in pellet sizes among few age and sex related groups. On the basis of the results the feasibility of using pellet to assess age-sex structure and proper habitat preferred by Nilgiri tahr has been discussed.

6 illus, 7 tables, 13 ref

014514   Biswas S (Central Zone, National Cave Research and Protection Organization, Raipur-492 001, Email: sid@caves.res.in) : Gallus gallus domesticus Linnaeus, 1758: keep safe your domestic fowl from your domestic foil. Ambient Sci 2014, 1(1), 41-3.

Universally, today the ill effects of pesticides/insecticides in agricultural practices have been well realized due to which a certain percentage of health cautious human population has started to prefer the eco-friendly agricultural products inspite of its high cost. On the other side, majority of us consume protein-rich foods, mainly from animal origin, viz., meat from various origins (goat, sheep, birds, pigs, fish and seafood/shellfish), milk and eggs to obtain our nutritional requirements instantly. Food safety and its systematic distribution are now a days an issue of international concern. The negligence in such issues has resulted various serious consequences especially when the food is of animal origin.

1 illus, 7 ref

014513   Aul B (NO, , Bombay Natural History Society, Hornbill House, Dr. Salim Ali Chowk, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Road, Mumbai-400 001, Email: b.arora@bnhs.org) : Record of Tylonycteris pachypus (Lesser bamboo bat) from Andaman Islands. Ambient Sci 2014, 1(1), 44-6.

There was very limited and fragmented information on the bat fauna in the Andaman Islands before the study initiated in the Islands (2003-2007) and during this survey 25 species of bats were recorded along with the roosts and habitats. Our survey reconfirmed the presence of the bamboo bat after almost 3 decades from its last report by Hill in 1967. Bamboo bats are a group of small bats with unique skull and morphology. This species has been recorded from southern and northeastern South Asia, southern China, and much of Southeast Asia. In South Asia, this species is widely distributed and is presently known from Bangladesh (Chittagong and Sylhet divisions) and India (Andaman Islands, Karnataka, Kerala, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Tripura and West Bengal (Bates et al., 2008). They roost inside hollow bamboo stems. During survey, we examined 8 specimens of Tylonycteris from Andaman Islands of which six were caught by local inhabitants and 2 were mist netted across fresh water pond in Webi (North Andaman Island). The earlier record of this specimen from this zone was without any proper information regarding its proper distribution and habitats.

1 illus, 9 ref

013407   Mamgain S;Joshi S P (Ecology Research Laboratory, Botany Dep, D.A.V. (P.G.) College, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Email: shambhujoshi77@gmail.com) : Exotic species diversity in a famous picnic spot of Doon valley. Envir Conserv J 2017, 18(1-2), 239-46.

The present study was carried out in Sahastradhara, a famous picnic spot of Doon Valley. During the tourist season, more than 5 lakh tourists visit the site for their recreation. The tourist activities has declined the native species diversity and promoted the introduction of 96 exotic species. Tropical America and Tropical South American plants have contributed to 45% and 2% of the total invasive diversity respectively. Asteraceae with 13 species is the most dominant family of the site.

2 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

013406   Keshre V;Shrivastava S (NO, S.N. Govt. P.G. College, Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, Email: vivek.keshre@gmail.com) : Avifaunal diversity of Kalibhit forest district Khandwa. Envir Conserv J 2017, 18(1-2), 63-9.

Khandwa is one of the districts of state Madhyapradesh which is situated at the southern part of state Madhyapradesh The East Kalibhit forest is one of the largest forest range of dist. Khandwa which is situated nearly 75 kilometres in the eastern part of dist. Khandwa The present investigation was carried out to document the avifauna of this forest This habitat attracted nearly 102 bird species which are local and migratory belonging to 35 families and 14 different orders viz. Ciconiformes, Anseriformes, Gruiformes Pelecanformes, Charadriformes, Coraciformes, Passeriformes and Suliformies Highest population of parakeets and starlings were recorded in all seasons.

2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

010381   Kaushik T K;Gupta R C;Vats P K (Biology Dep, Govt. Senior Secondary School, Garhi Jattan, Indri, Karnal-132 041, Email: tarshemkaushik@rediffmail.com) : A study on the causes for depletion of kalayat wetland in Haryana province, India and its winter migratory birds' diversity. J appl nat Sci 2017, 9(2), 1194-1202.

Kalayat wetland is a historical and religious natural lake having direct connection with a sage, writer, namely, "Kapil-Muni" who is revered in the echelons of Hindu thought as a authority of literary predicament and his epical compositions were composed on the moorings of this very wetland. The objective of this research work is to singularly emphasize on the silently ongoing process of depletion of age-old wetland on a very fast rate in Haryana province of India. In the present research work, a total of 57 species of wetland birds belonging to 8 orders and 15 families were recorded. Out of the 57 species of wetland birds, 29 - 6 - species of birds were winter migratory, 18 species resident and 7 species were Local migratory. The major causes of extinction of this historical lake of immense universal importance includes its renovation and supposedly rejuvenation by constructing cemented brick wall and consequently destroying the age old aquatic plants and animal, purely decimating the trophic structure. In addition, land filling deliberate and subsequent encroachment has spelled havoc with vast sheet of water. Resultantly, migratory birds coming in winter to Kalayat Wetland from far off places like Ladakh, Siberia, Russia and central Asia have stopped coming.

8 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

010380   Gavhane B U;Nasreen S (Botany Dep, Kohinoor Arts, Commerce and Science College, Kuldabad, Maharashtra) : Agarics from Gautala Wildlife Sancutuary, Maharashtra, India. Bioinfolet 2017, 14(2), 211-14.

Gautala wildlife sanctuary lies in Kannad taluka of Aurangabad district, Maharashtra state. Present study deals with the diversity of macrofungi in semi evergreen and moist deciduous forest of Gautala wildlife sanctuary. For this purpose, extensive surveys were undertaken from July 2013 to September 2016. Ten genera of order Agaricales were identified up to species level which includes Agrocybe, Agaricus, Leucocoprinus, Calocybe, Hygrophorus Hygrocybe, Lepiota, Lycoperdon, Marasmius, and Panaeolus.

10 illus, 12 ref

009325   Suthar A R;Trivedi M;Vyas S (Earth and Environmental Dep, Krantiguru Shyamji Krishna Verma Kachchh Univ, Bhuj Kachchh-Gujarat, Email: akshitsuthar@gmail.com) : Preliminary survey on avifauna diversity of Krantiguru Shaymji Krishna Verma university campus, Kachchh, Gujarat. Ambient Sci 2017, 4(1), 90-1.

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

009324   Phangchopi U;Teron R;Tamuli A K (Life Science & Bioinformatics Dep, Assam Univ-Diphu Campus, Diphu, Karbi Anglong, Assam-782 462, Email: urmi.phagchopi@gmail.com) : Conservation crisis in Marat Longri Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, India. Ambient Sci 2017, 4(1), 67-73.

People-forest interactions in protected area have been debated around the world. The present study evaluates land-use pattern, diversity and utilization of forest resources in Marat Longri Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) using semi-structured interview, remote sensing, and Global Information System (GIS) techniques. Such study can have many implications on people-forest interactions in the sanctuary and promote symbiotic approach in dealing with biodiversity conservation in protected area. Marat Longri WLS is indispensable to forest dwellers for subsistence and livelihoods. The result of pair-wise ranking revealed jhum (3160) is the major threat to forest cover followed by illegal felling (2850), agricultural expansion (2346), encroachment (2211) and collection pressure (2680). To reduce dependence on Marat Longri WLS, domestication of wild plants and other agroforestry systems can augment food production and realize other needs of forest dwellers.

7 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

009323   Nisha;Dharaiya N (Life Sciences Dep, Laboratory of Wildlife and Conservation Biology, Hemchandracharya North Gujarat Univ, Patan-384 265, Email: nadharaiya@gmail.com) : Virtual survey based debate on conservation strategies of Indian giant flying squirrel (Petaurista p. philippensis). Ambient Sci 2016, 3(1), 16-21.

The information on status and distribution of small and rare animals are always necessary for designing, implementation and evaluation of conservation measures was the reason behind origin of this study on the Indian Giant Flying squirrel. Since available information is small and scattered, an attempt was made to collect information from the peoples who are directly or indirectly related with wildlife/forest services. To go ahead with our research on this species, we prepared a structured questionnaire and sent to the individuals through an online survey tool, to whom we know and further the same were also posted on social website for voluntary participation. We have set the time duration of the survey and at the end we received a total of 66 responses from a diverse group of individuals; most of them belong to Gujarat. Responses were analyzed to reach a conclusion that the flying squirrel population has declined from the past few decades.

3 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

009322   Narayana B L;Rao V V;Pandiyan J (All India Network Project on Veretebrate Pest Management, PJTS Agricultural Univ, Rajenderanagar, Hyderabad-500 030, Email: narayana.laxi8@gmail.com) : Four insectivorous birds in search of foraging Niche in and around an agricultural ecosystem of Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. Ambient Sci 2016, 3(1), 7-15.

Foraging niche of Small Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis, Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis, Common Myna Acridotheres tristis and Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus was studied in and around agricultural landscapes of Sherpally, Nalgonda District of Telangana, India. Data on perch types, perching height, foraging height, foraging substrates types and foraging methods were transformed into percent use. Small Green Bee-eater predominantly perched on electric power lines (67.21%), Common Myna used plants (75.44%) as a substrate and gleaning was the common feeding technique used by all the birds with height of 0-3111, Indian Roller fed mostly at 3-6m (30.91%). Black Drongo and Indian Roller had the highest niche overlap (O=o.96) for perch typeswhile the lowest overlap was observed for small Green Bee-eater and Common Myna (0=0.34) in the foraging substrate.

7 illus, 5 table, 32 ref

009321   Mitra B;Roy S;Roy S;Halder S;Chattopadhyay U;Bhaumik S (NO, Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata, Email: sroy.zoology@gmail.com) : Current status on diversity and distribution of black flies (Insecta: Diptera: Simuliidae) in India. Ambient Sci 2017, 4(1), 21-6.

Till date a total of 69 species of eight sub-genera under one genus belonging to the family Simuliidae of the order Diptera are reported from India, which is 3.11% of the total world extant simuliid fauna. Among these, 30.43% species are restricted to India. Out of 36 states and union territories of India, simuliids are reported only from 20 states and UTs. Highest numbers of species are reported from the Himalayan biogeographic zone (68.11%) and lowest in Indo-Gangetic plains (5.79%). So far, nothing has been known from Islands biogeographic zone.

2 illus, 1 table, 50 ref

009320   Mishra S R (Office Regional Chief Conservator of Forest & Field Director, Similipal Tiger Reserve, Mayurbhanj, Asanabani, Odisha, Email: sandeep.mishra579@gmail.com) : Report on resident, local migratory and migratory water fowl diversity in Mayurbhani district, Odisha, Eastern India. Ambient Sci 2016, 3(2), 95-6.

1 illus, 2 tables, 2 ref

009319   Meghwal R;Sen P K;Bhatnagar C (Zoology Dep, Aquatic Toxicology and Wildlife Research Laboratory, Univ of Science, Mohanlal Sukhadia Univ, Udaipur, Email: rmchandramlsu@gmail.com) : Distribution and habitat preference of four-horned antelope (chowingha), Tetracerus quadricornis in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan. Ambient Sci 2016, 3(1), (NULL).

Four-horned Antelopes, commonly known as Chowsingha, are unique mammals. Unfortunately the reports on its distribution patter and habitat preferences are still scanty from south Rajasthan. The present study is an attempt to fill up such gaps of this animal in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Results revealed that Chowsingha is present in only four forests blocks out of Thirty four. The relation between the observed distribution pattern, preferred habitats and ecological boundaries of the sanctuary have been tried to correlate.

2 illus, 2 table, 20 ref

009318   Mane A M;Shirish M S (Conservation Ecology Dep, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, Anikatty P.O., Coimbatore-641 108, Email: akshayamane@gmail.com) : Physical and environmental characteristics based classification of the caves of the Andaman Islands. Ambient Sci 2017, 4(1), 82-7.

The objective of the study was to classify the caves in the Andaman Islands, on the basis of their existence, rock layer type, cave size, cave openings (number, size, and shape) and the presence of light zones inside. All the 314 caves visited on 27 Islands were of limestone, dominated by Archipelago and Flysch group of rock layers. More than 60% caves are of small size, located in inland forests, below the ground, which lead to downward length from the opening. Around 86% caves had a single opening. We found the cave size varied with the rock layer type, vegetation type and a number of openings. Multiple regression models with different variables showed the type of rock layer as the most influencing factor deciding the cave size in the Islands. This exploratory work, as a baseline study, is a furtheraddition to the knowledge on the scarcely studied hypogene caves in the Andaman Islands.

4 illus, 3 tables, 39 ref

009317   Manchiryala R;Medicheti R M (NO, Forest Range Office, Bejjpur, Adilabad district, Telangana State-504 299, Email: raviwildlife.rr@gmail.com) : Breeding biology of critically endangered long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus) at a unique site in Telangana state, India. Ambient Sci 2016, 3(1), 49-51.

1 illus, 6 ref

009316   Malek-Hosseini M J;Sadeghi S;Bakhshi Y; Dashan M (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science, Shiraz Univ, Shiraz, Iran, Email: ssadeghi@shirazu.ac.in) : Ecoparasites (Insecta and Acari) associated with bats in south and south-western caves of Iran. Ambient Sci 2016, 3(1), 22-8.

This paper presents a part of the study conducted on cave fauna in Kohgiluyeh & Boyer-Ahmad and Pars provinces, South West and South of Iran. Eleven caves were investigated and seven species of bats were examined for identifying the ectoparasites. We found six species of ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and four mites (Acari: Spinturnicidae and Macronyssidae), eight species of Nycteribiidae and two Strelibidae (Diptera: Insecta) as ectoparasites of bats. Two species of ticks and mites; Ixodes simplex (Ixodidae) and Macronyssus granulosus (Macronyssidae) were recorded for the first time from Iran. The threats from such ectoparasites have been discussed.

24 ref

009315   Kasambe R (NO, , B-205, Trimurti Apartment, Borkar Lane, Tilak Nagar, Dombivli (East)-421 201, Email: raju.bnhs@gmail.com) : Hill gynura plant, Gunura cusimbua, as a possible new larval host plant of the common onyx butterfly, Horaga onyx, from southern Western ghats, Kerala. Bionotes 2016, 18(3), 94.

3 ref

009314   Joshi A K;Bhatnagar C (Wildlife Conservation Research Laboratory, Zoology Dep, M.L.V. Government College, Bhilwara, Rajasthan, Email: kashvini80@yahoo.com) : Diversity and habitat association of birds in a Vindhyan gorge of Kekariya, Rajasthan, India. Ambient Sci 2016, 3(2), 55-60.

Vindhyan gorges are spreaded in the south east part of Rajasthan. Geologically the Vindhyan gorge of Kekariya, Rajasthan is kept in Bhander group under Vindhyan supergroup having rocks of sandstone, shales and limestone. We studied the diversity of the avifauna of this gorge from 2013 to 2016 using line transect method. Total 82 species of birds were recorded during the present study. Out of these, 64 species were resident and 18 species were migratory. Birds showed their habitat preference for different parts of the gorge. Raptor birds dominated all other birds. Illegal woodcutting, over grazing and people's ignorance towards conservation were some of the threats identified to the gorge biodiversity.

2 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

009313   Jangid A;Prajapati R;Dharaiya N (Wildlife & Conservation Biology Lab, Life Sciences Dep, Hemchandracharya North Gujarat Univ, Patan, Gujarat, Email: ashishjangid22@gmail.com) : Anurans in polo reserved forests of Gujarat state, India: two new geographical records. Ambient Sci 2017, 4(1), 78-81.

Anurans are very mysterious fauna of animal kingdom. The current study represents the preliminary checklist of frogs and toads of Polo forest, a reserved forest of north Gujarat, mostly covered by dry deciduous vegetation. Our literature survey revealed that the herpetofauna including anurans is least explored fauna in northern Gujarat except few stray notes and checklist prepared before almost two decades hence there are vital chances in the change in species composition with respect to lesser- known fauna like amphibians. The area was surveyed by line and strip transects as well as visual encounter and sono-taxonomical methods in order to record the presence of anuran species. The study_shows ten species of anurans belonging to four families; among which two are newly recorded species in this area. The study can be an initiation to arrange baseline data regarding anuran's checklist, which can be extended to all the herpetofauna and other diversity too. Taxonomy of unidentified anuran species can also be determined in future.

3 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

009312   Gupta S K;Chandra K (NO, Zoological Suvey of India, Prani Vigyan Bhawan, 'M' Block New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053, Email: skumarento@gmail.com) : Orthopetra fauna, it's habitat ecology and threats in Barnawapra Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh, India. Ambient Sci 2016, 3(1), 29-37.

In Nature inspite of serious floral damaging characteristic, Orthopteran insects also have some ecological and economical importance. In the present study we identified total 56 species of Orthopteran fauna representing 43 genera and 8 families are reported from different localities of Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India. Among which, nine species are new addition to the Chhattisgarh state reporting here with comprehensive account. Acrididae family represents maximum diversity and species richness (271), followed by Gryllidae (65), while the minimum number of species (3) was recorded from Tridactylidae family. Further, with respect to their habitat, the most appropriate seasons of their occurrences have been noted. The pest characteristics of newly noted species for the studied area have also been discussed.

2 illus, 2 table, 30 ref

009311   Ghorpade K (Scientist Emeritus and Research Associate in Systematic Entomology, Agricultural Sciences Univ, C/o P.O. Box 221, K.C. Park P.O., Dharwar-580 008, Email: kumarsinh.g@gmail.com ) : Butterflies of Keoladeo national park, Bharatpur (Rajasthan). Bionotes 2016, 18(3), 81-5.

46 ref

009310   Boruah B;Gogoi M J;Payra A;Das G N;Bortamuly M;Sharma R (Wildlife and Biodiversity Conservation Dep, North Orissa Univ, Odisha, Email: arajushpayra@gmail.com) : Diversity and habitat perference of Odonata fauna (Insecta) in Kaziranga-Karbi hills, central Assam, Northeast India. Ambient Sci 2016, 3(2), 64-8.

Diversity of Odonata and their habitat preference was studied in a landscape between Kaziranga National Park and Karbi Hills of Assam. During study period we recorded total 82 species of odonates from 51 genera and 10 families out of which, dragonfly (Anisoptera) represented by 43 species and damselfly (Zygoptera) represented by 39 species. Family Libellulidae was the most dominant family with 36 species among the Anisopterans than after family Coenagrionidae with 20 species among Zygopterans. Among the six selected habitats, stream and river sites hold highest species (45) and lowest species found in human habitations (21). Among the recorded species Orthetrum pruinosum, Orthetrum sabina and Pantala flavescens were found to be occupied in all types of habitats.Sorensen's Similarity index of all the six habitats for odonates species composition during study periods had maximum values CL-WP (0.77) and lowest value FA-GL (0.26). A checklist of odonates for central Assam has also been forwarded.

3 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

009309   Bhattacharyya K;Mondal K (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun-248 001, Email: kamalika589@gmail.com) : Overview of great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo in the Indian Himalayan region, with information on recent records. Ambient Sci 2017, 4(1), 88-9.

2 illus, 11 ref

009308   Banafar A S;Biswas J (NO, Government College Silfili, District Surajpur, Chhatisgarh, Email: jayant@cave-biology.org) : Hathipol: Biodiversity of a tunel 'cave' of Chhattisgarh, India. Ambient Sci 2016, 3(1), 52-4.

6 illus, 5 ref

009307   Baja N;Sankari A;Baskaran N;Nagarajan R; Saravanan M (P.G. and Research Dep of Zoology and Wildlife Biology, A.V.C. College (Autonomous), Tamil Nadu, Email: nareshwildlife@gmail.com) : Indian giant squirrel (Ratufa indica) distribution pattern, habitat structure and characteristics in the Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu, India. Ambient Sci 2017, 4(1), 57-61.

An attempt has been made to study the distribution pattern and habitat characteristics of the Indian Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica) at Grizzled Giant Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a part of the Periyar-Agasthyamalai landscape of Southern Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu, Southern India. The study results revealed that the R. indica is widely distributed in moist deciduous forest followed by evergreen forest and not located in dry thorn forest habitat. Among the 17 habitat variables studied, 14 variables were significantly higher in R. indica distribution area than those in the non-distribution area. Tree species density and GBH were significantly higher in R.indica distribution area (density: 442±13.12, GBH = 81±1.56) than that of non-distribution area (density: 318<60>6.3, GBH: 57<60>o.68) (density: t -test, df = 153, P <60> 0.05 and GBH: t = -7.27, df = 169, p<60>o.O5). The present distribution pattern and habitat characteristics of R. indica in the area provides baseline data for future studies. The study is also addressed the issue of an urgent need of survey the status, distribution, abundance and habitat utilization patterns of R.indica in thestudied area.

5 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

009306   Akram F;Ilyas O;Haleem A (Wildlife Sciences Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Email: orus16@gmail.com ) : Food and feeding habits of Indian crested porcupine in Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, India. Ambient Sci 2017, 4(1), 62-6.

Dietary habits of Indian Crested Porcupine (Hystrix indica) were studied in the Pencil Tiger Reserve India (dry tropical forest), by the faecal analysis. The results of the study suggest that the porcupines have a diverse diet and the tree barks and seeds were the most consumed items. It was followed by leaves, twigs, flowers and grasses. Seasonally, barks (34.9%), twigs (17.2%), seeds (17.1%), leaves (9.4%), grasses (8.7%), bones (4.9%) and roots (2.6%), stones and others unidentified things (2.2%) and hairs of animals (0.7%) were fed more in winter than summer where as seeds (27.3%), barks (23.1%), leaves (11.7 %), grasses (9.9%), roots (6.8%), twigs (6.7%), bones (6.03%), flowers (1.4%) and stones/other things (0.8%), hairs (0.4%) were fed more in summer than winter season. Only barks and twigs were found to be significantly different seasonally. Furthermore, the Berger-Parker index (d) of each season was calculated to ensure the variation in diet, by the species dominance in each faecal matter group. Through this method, diversity in food items of the porcupine reflected that the diet of porcupine in summer season (2.2) was more diversified as compared to the porcupine diet in the winter season (1.835). Overall the diet of the porcupine comprises 92% vegetative matter and remaining 6.3% comprises of animal matters and 1.5% other materials (stones, threads, etc). Hence, it is considered as a generalist herbivore.

2 illus, 1 table, 40 ref

008289   Nkwabi A K;Liseki S;Bukombe J K;Kija H; Mmassy E;Otsyina R M;Monjare J F;Kajuni A R;Mwita M (Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute, Arusha, Tanzania) : Species richness and composition of butterfly with reference to anthropogenic activities in the wildlife management areas, Southern Tanzania. Int J Fauna biol Stud 2017, 4(1), 34-40.

The objectives of this study were to assess butterfly communities, and to determine the influence of disturbance on individual butterflies, species richness and composition within five Wildlife Management Areas (Mbarang'andu, Kimbanda, Kisungule in Namtumbo District; Nalika and Chingoli in Tunduru Didistict) located in Ruvuma landscape. The survey was conducted between September and November 2014 using sweep nets and visual observations. A total of 545 butterflies from 90 species that belong to 6 families, were recorded. Butterfly species richness was highest in Mbarang'andu (28.7±0.81) and lowest in Kimbanda (2.2±0.29). Mean number of individual butterfly was higher (3.1±0.26) in miombo woodlands compared to riverine forest (2.9±0.37). Further destruction of vegetation could affect species richness and abundance, hence; we recommend that more resources and effort such as human resource be in place to safe guard these Wildlife Management Areas from any environmental degradation for the benefit of present and future generation.

5 illus, 33 ref

008288   Koskey J (Wildlife Management Dep, Univ of Eldoret, Kenya) : Neutral detergent fibre in forages preferred by African elephant (L.africana) in Rimoi Game Reserve, Kenya. Int J Fauna biol Stud 2017, 4(1), 29-33.

Grass and browse have their relative advantages and disadvantages. For grass, intake rates are higher (it is easier to harvest and handle), it is lower in toxins and when its nutrient content is high, its fibre content is low (Lindsay, 1994), it also provides a return per unit time feeding that is higher than browse. It may, however, lack certain essential key nutrients and when it matures its nutrient content becomes very low. Browse offers generally higher levels and diversity of nutrients, but toxin and lignin levels are also higher. The tendency of elephants to shift from consuming mainly grass in the wet season to mostly browse in the dry season has been noted by many researchers (Santra et al., (2008); Lindsay, (1994)) [8]. Elephants can fulfil energy requirements from either browse or grass, depending on availability and quality, and switch to consuming crops whenever their forage sources are insecure, as grass availability is highly seasonal. Despite the attractiveness of crops to elephants, Osborn (2004) observed that elephants did not immediately leave protected areas when crops planted along the boundary were mature, which suggests that crop raiding could not be linked to the availability of crops, and thus this behaviour could be related to the quality and availability of wild foods. Hence it is important to establish the particular plant species which elephants eat in the wild, as the availability of these species could diminish the temptation to begin crop raiding. This paper presents findings of an investigative study on Neutral Detergent Fiber in Forages Preferred by African elephant (L. africana) in Rimoi Game Reserve, Kenya.

4 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

008287   Gupta D;Tripathi M (Zoology Dep, Aquatic Toxicology Research Univ of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh) : Present status and diversity of ichthyofauna at five selected sites of the Gomti river, Lucknow (India). Int J Fauna biol Stud 2017, 4(1), 49-56.

Anthropogenic activities affect aquatic habitats leading to loss of many species as well as bring changes in the species composition of some regions. Therefore, ichthyofaunal diversity studies are essential for sustainable management. An exploratory study regarding the ichthyofauna of the river Gomti at Lucknow has been done which is presented in this paper. In total 61 icthyospecies belonging to 18 families and 8 orders were caught. Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Cyprinus carpio, Clarias gariepinus and Ctenopharyngodon idella were the exotic fish species in the Gomti River. The study revealed that there were noteworthy variations found in the ichthyofaunal diversity indices among five different selected sampling sites. Cypriniformes emerged out as the dominant order at all the selected sites. The present study shows that in spite of high pollution level, numbers of fishes were found satisfactory in most of the selected sites of this river.

5 illus, 3 tables, 44 ref

008286   Aruna R;Balasubramanian P (Botany Dep, Thiagarajar College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu) : Studies on avifauna of Attappady and Anaikatty, Western Ghats, Southern India. Int J Fauna biol Stud 2017, 4(1), 45-8.

Bird population studies were done using fixed width line transect method. A total of 13 transects were laid for the study, where five were in AHADS plantation sites, five in AHADS biomass sites and three sites are located in Anaikatty A total of 108 species of birds belonging to 36 orders were recorded from the study sites in Attappady and Anaikatty. Of these 47 species were insectivores (42%), 17 species were omnivores (15%), 14 species were frugivores (13%).

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

007270   Khadka C B;Hammet A L;Singh A;Timilsinha Y P;Balla M K;Khadaka C B (National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Chitwan National Park, Nepal) : Ecological parameters and diversity indices of marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza hatagirea D.Don) and its associates in lete village of Mustang district, Nepal. e-J appl For Ecol 2016, 4(2), 60.

This paper focuses on the ecological parameters and diversity indices: Simson's Index (C), Simson's Index of Dominance (D), Shannon-Weaver Index (H), Shannon Evenness (E_shannon) and Simson Evenness (E_Simson) of D. hatagirea and its associates- Rheum australe, Rumex nepalensis and Allium wallichii kunth in Lete village of Mustang District within the Annapurna Conservation Area. The inventory was conducted during the monsoon season (June/July) of 2013 within an area of 4.5 ha. Altogether, 100 circular plots, each with 25 m2 area, were laid out purposively with the sampling intensity of 5.55. The relative frequency, relative density, abundance, relative coverage and the Important Value Index of D.hatagirea were found to be 70.27, 49.64, 0.44, 70.27 and 190.18, respectively. Similarly, the value of C, D, H, Eshannon and ESimson of D. hatagirea were 0.35, 0.65, 1.18, 0.85 and 0.71, respectively, indicating relatively even and relatively diverse community. The study showed relatively higher values of all the parameters of D. hatagirea as compared to its associates indicating good ecological value. The Rank abundance curve showed uneven plant community in the study site. However, threats remain due to the unsustainable harvesting, illegal trading and overgrazing in the study site.

006244   Sharma H K;Thakur M;Brar A S;Rana K (Entomology Dep, Dr Y S Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry Nauni, Solan, Email: mnthakur15@yahoo.com) : First record of blue-bearded bee-eater bird Nyctyornis athertoni (Jardine & selby) attacking Apis mellifera colonies in Himachal Pradesh. Envir Conserv J 2016, 17(3), 129-32.

Bee enter bird identified as Ncctyornis alhertoni (Jardine & Selby) was found attacking Apis mellifera colonies in the apiary maintained in the Department of Kntomology, College of Horticulture, Dr. Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Korestry Nauni. Solan during the year 2016 (February). The bird visited singly or in groups of two to three with maximum visits during day time (direct sunlight). The predations of the bird on .4. mellifera is a first report from foothills of Himalayas.

1 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

006243   Sarkar S K;Saha S;Raychaudhuri D (Zoology Dep, Univ of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal) : Taxonomic studies on Adoretus dejean, 1833 (Rutelinae: Scarabaeidae) of buxa tiger reserve (a forest under biodiversity hotspot zone), dooars, West Bengal, India. J Ent Zool Stud 2016, 4(6), 1-11.

Taxonomy of Adoretus Dejean, 1833 fauna included within the subfamily Rutelinae recorded from Buxa Tiger Reserve, Dooars, West Bengal, India are dealt herewith. The generated data is the outcome of long term faunistic investigations of the authors. Each of the species is redescribed and illustrated, supplemented by digital images. A key for identification of all the species recorded from the study area along with their distribution in India is also provided.

14 illus, 57 ref

006242   Mamedov A T;Mustafayev Q T (NO, Baku State Univ, Baku, Az 1141, Z. Khalilov str., 23, Baku, Azerbaijan) : Long-term dynamics of quality and quantity of populations of birds of prey in forest of mountain Talysh. J Ent Zool Stud 2017, 5(1), 39-43.

The article describes the qualitative and quantitative dynamics of populations of birds of prey at the population level in the forests of Talysh for 1960-2016 years. Information is of comparative chronological character, allowing to install a multi-year trend and prospect of population of birds of prey in the forests of mountain Talysh. A large change in birds of prey in quantitative and qualitative terms in the mountain forests of Talish has been established. This is due to the fact that the forest intensively had been cut from all 4 sides. Unlike other mountain ranges, above the mountain forests of Talysh there are no high mountains but densely populated upland steppe people. Degree of startle of the birds from people was expressed more than in other regions. Settling of studied birds is low. Throughout our studies the reduction of population density took place, but slowly.

4 tables, 22 ref

006241   Chutia B C;Narh C;Kakati L N (Zoology Dep, Nowgong College, Nagaon, Assam-782 001, Email: bhuban78@gmail.com) : Conservation strategies of Actias selene Hubner: a wild silk moth in Nagaland, India. Envir Conserv J 2016, 17(1-2), 41-5.

Actias selene Hubner (Indian moon moth), an indigenous wild silk moth is geographically distributed in tropical moist deciduous forest of South East Asia, mainly Mussourie and North-Eastern region of India, Afghanistan to Borneo, Hongkong, China, Japan and Ceylon. Due to anthropogenic reasons and unabated destruction of natural habitat, the distribution of this sericulturally important species is restricted to highly inacce ssible area. Hence, formulation of certain tangible conservation strategies is need of the hour for sustaining the population structure of Actias selene. The paper highlights on the strategies of ex situ and in situ conservation adopted in natural condition in Nagaland climatic condition. Under ex-situ conservation replicable rearing were conducted in selected isolated patch on their two natural host plants during March-May (Season-I), July-August (Season-II) and October-December (Season-III). Among the seasons, season-I (March-May) emerged as best for rearing of Actias selene with almost equal emphasis to both the host plants followed by season-III (October-December) and season-II (July-August). Under in-situ conservation additional breeding material were introduced in Natural habitat followed by three natural regeneration methods namely, release of seed cocoons, release of dfls in leaf cups and release of chawki worms. Maximum production of cocoon was obtained by release of chawki worms followed by release of eggs and seed cocoons.

3 tables, 35 ref

005180   Thakur A K;Yadav D K;Jhariaya M K (Farm Forestry Dep, Sargujan Univ, Ambikapur-497 001, Email: manu9589@gmail.com ) : Feeding behaviour and pugmark analysis of elephants in Sarguja, Chhattisgarh. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(4), 2060-5.

The pugmark analysis of the elephants offers basic information to track the wild elephant migratory route, identification and census. For its study, four blocks viz, Sitapur, Lundra, Batouli (Sarguja district) and Farsabahar (Jashpur district) of northern Chhattisgarh were selected because these blocks are commonly visited by elephants and a major path route of movement of heard in inter/intra state. The most commonly consumed species belongs to family poaceae (22.58%) followed by fabaceae (19.35%) but their diet was mainly dependent on availability of sea-sonal food round the year and on their migration. Elephants extensively fed on Artocarpus heterophyllus, Syzygium cumini, Acacia nilotica, A. catechu, Dalbergia sissoo, Zizyphus mauritiana, Aegle marmelos and Ficus species, be-sides these elephants also utilized various grasses and shrubs as their food, which mainly included Dendrocalamus strictus, Cynodon dactylon etc. Elephants sometimes spent long time to feed on some particular plant species like D. strictus and Ficus species. Crop raiding, which was sporadic during the rainy season, gradually increased with more area being cultivated with the onset of monsoon. Analysis of pugmark revealed that the circumference varied from 63.80 cm to 172.70 cm whereas length x width varied from 22x20 cm to 60x55 cm, which reflects a substantial variation/differentiation of individual in heard in respect of their age, sex, size etc Therefore, management implications are needed to conserve the corridors for their long term survival and reduction of HEC. The study will be helpful to provide key information and facilitate better understating of the scenario to the forest department, policy maker and conservationist to plan, manage and improve the habitat towards the restoration and afforestation of suitable palatable species preferred by elephants of northern corridors of Chhattisgarh.

3 tables, 29 ref

005179   Ranjith V;Jose B (Zooogy Dep, St. Joseph's College, Devagiri, Calicut-673 008, Email: ranjithvengot@gmail.com) : Habitat preference of Indian peagowl (Pavo cristatus) in selected areas of Palakkad district, Kerala, India. Curr Sci 2016, 110(11), 2177-82.

The Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus), a species of national importance, remains unstudied in major habitats of Kerala as well as the country as a whole. In Kerala, peafowl population is on the increase; they are now becoming an unconventional pest among the farmer community and an indicator species of change in climatic conditions. It has been estimated that peafowl show preference towards some habitats. Identification of their habitat preference by vegetation analysis will be effective in reducing the conflicts between man and bird with proper intervention.

6 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

005178   Anarkkaly M;Cicilykutty A K (Zoology Dep, Mar Ivanios College, Thiruvananthapuram-695 015, Email: anarkkaly@gmail.com) : Habitat loss as an impediment to population growth in water fowl. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2016, 36(2), 135-40.

The population of white-breasted waterhen, Amaurornis phoenicurus phoenicurus has been reported to decline in numbers due to the loss of its habitat. As part of a study on the population structure of this species data on its density was collected from January 2013 to December 2015 from 53 habitats distributed in two sectors in Mannar Village. (9°5' N latitude and 76° 17' & 76° 44" east longitude), Alappuzha District, Kerala state, South India. Total count method for population studies was followed. The mean monthly population of adults showed a decrease of 32.43% in 2013-4 and 44% in 2013-15. Chicks showed a decrease of 40.42% in 2013-14 and 25% in 2014-15. Juveniles showed a decrease of 61.11% in 2013 -14 and 21.42% in 2014-15. ANOVA of the population of adults, chicks and juveniles during the months and in the different sectors were found significant. Study has proved that loss of wetland habitats are responsible for its decline. Hence effective wetland habitat management strategy is crucial for the conservation of this aquatic bird.

9 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

004180   Mathur M (NO, ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur-342 003, Email: ravi_mm2099@yahoo.com) : Spatial distribution of Tephrosia purpurea on different habitats in relation to soil, community and site factors. Range Mgmt Agrofor 2016, 37(2), 148-54.

In natural communities, identification of environmental as well as species intrinsic factors associated with its spatial distribution is crucial one for establishing a more resilient community. Spatial paternities of Tephrosia purpurea were assessed at three different types of habitat, namely older alluvial plain (GAP), younger alluvial plain (YAP) and Piedmonts located (36 sites) with-in semiarid regions of the Indian Thar desert. Distinctive dispersion indices deals with diverse numerical inborn probabilities were quantified. The result revealed a dominant clumped pattern at GAP habitat, while site-specific patterns (random, uniform and clumped and uniform and random) recorded at YAP and at Piedmont. In totality, community parameters don't demonstrate any noteworthy association with the clumped pattern type of this species at GAP and YAP habitats, further at YAP habitat, site quality elements were additionally non-significant for any example sort. Threshold limits of some exploratory parameters also record that possibly would decide the faith of its distribution type.

3 illus, 2 tables, 40 ref

004179   D'Souza E;Mantri J;Surti A (Microbiology Dep, Sophia College for Women, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mumbai-400 026, Email: mantri_jyoti@yahoo.co.in) : Primary screening of multipotent therapeutic properties exhibited by Indian propolis. Indian J nat Prod Resour 2016, 7(2), 135-40.

This study characterizes the antimicrobial, anti-oxidant properties and chemical profile of the propolis collected from the Shahapur region of Maharashtra. Chemical constituents were identified to be flavonoids, alkaloids, phytosterols, triterpenes and glycosides. Total phenolic content was 4.751 mg/g, while the protein content was 1.187 g percent. The anti-oxidant activity accounts to about 4.732 mM of ascorbic units, determined by phospho-molybdenum assay. Antimicrobial activities were tested on selected Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi) bacteria, as well as on pathogenic fungi Candida albicans. Crude extracts in absolute ethanol was tested for in vitro anti-angiogenic activity by the CAM assay on fertilized Leghorn eggs. The anti-inflammatory test in terms of inhibition of hypotonicity-induced HRBC membrane lysis was determined to be 39.13% at 8000 μg/mL. Results indicated that propolis possesses remarkable properties and provide avenues for new chemical entities that could lead to the production of medicine in different therapeutic areas of health science.

1 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref