002073   Joglekar A;Tadwalkar M;Mhaskar M;Chavan B; Ganeshaiah K N;Patwardhan A (NO, Research and Action in Natural Wealth Administration, 16, Swastishree Society, Ganesh Nagar, Pune-41 052, Email: ankurpatwardhan@gmail.com) : Tree species composition in Koyna wildlife sanctuary, northern western ghats of India. Curr Sci 2015, 108(9), 1688-93.

Established belt transects of 1000 m x 5 m in Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary at 12 different localities, to study tree species diversity. A total of 4296 individuals of girth at breast height (GBH) ≥ 15 cm were enumerated belonging to 108 species. A subtype of Memecylon- Syzygium-Olea was identified based on dominance from the area previously ascribed to Memecylon- Syzygium-Actinodaphne floristic series. Out of 41 families, Melastomataceae, Myrtaceae and Moraceae were found to be dominant families according to the Family Importance Value. Shannon index (H') ranged from 1.5 to 3.03. Taxonomic diversity measured for each sampled locality using normalized simple Avalanche index showed variation between 0.104 and 1.00 and positive correlation with H'. Rarity score for identifying unique tree species composition correlated positively with simple avalanche index. Evergreen forest of Navja and Ozarade together showed highest population of lUCN-listed tree species. This study shall pave the way for the subsequent ecological research in this area which has recently been declared as a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO.

5 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

002072   Janardhanan R;Mukherjee S;Karunakaran P V; Athreya R (NO, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), Anaikatty Post, Coimbatore-641 108, Email: jranjini@gmail.com) : On the occurrence of the fishing cat Prionailurus viverrinus Bennet, 1833 (carnivora: felidae) in coastal Kerala, India. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(3), 5569-73.

The Fishing Cat Prionailurus viverrinus is classified as Endangered in the IUCN Red List and yet its distribution range within India is not resolved. In spite of its potential habitat being present in coastal Kerala, there are only a few, unsubstantiated records of the cat. Moreover, its occurrence in Sri Lanka strengthens the possibility of its presence (historical or current population) in southern India, including Kerala. This survey was conducted to assess the occurrence of the Fishing Cat in coastal Kerala through personal informal interviews with local people and molecular analysis of scats. The study failed to find any evidence of the occurrence of Fishing Cat in the coastal areas of Kerala. We discuss two possibilities - one, of the species existing earlier but driven to extinction in recent decades, due to high levels of land conversion through anthropogenic activities in these areas and the other of the Fishing Cat having never occurred in coastal Kerala. A speculative reasoning for its absence from the region could be related to the difference in salinity levels between the eastern and western coasts of India which has already been documented. Moreover, fewer freshwater sources merge into the sea in coastal areas of Kerala as compared to the eastern coast of India. This could limit the distribution of the Fishing Cat. The argument was also supported by the lack of any authentic report till date or of local names for the Fishing Cat in the region.

1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

002071   Hinlo M R P; (Institute for Applied Ecology, Canberra Univ, ACT, 2601, Australia, Email: edlo@omahazoo.com) : Population genetics implications for the conservation of the Philippine crocodile Crocodylus mindorensis Schmidt, 1935 (crocodylia: crocodylidae). J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(3), 5513-33.

Limited information is available on the Philippine Crocodile, Crocodylus mindorensis, concerning levels of genetic diversity either relative to other crocodilian species or among populations of the species itself. With only two known extant populations of C. mindorensis remaining, potentially low levels of genetic diversity are a conservation concern. Here, we evaluated 619 putative Philippine Crocodiles using a suite of 11 microsatellite markers, and compared them to four other crocodilian species sample sets. The two remaining populations from the island of Luzon and the island of Mindanao, representing the extremes of the former species' distribution, appear to be differentiated as a result of genetic drift rather than selection. Both extant populations demonstrate lower genetic diversity and effective population sizes relative to other studied crocodilian species. The 57 C. mindorensis and C. porosus, Saltwater Crocodile, hybrids identified earlier from the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center were revalidated with a suite of 20 microsatellite loci; however, the timing of the event and the prevalence of hybridization in the species had yet to be fully determined. We defined the hybrids as one first cross from a C. porosus female and a C. mindorensis male and 56 C. mindorensis backcross individuals. This hybridization event appears to be confined to the PWRCC collection.

5 illus, 4 tables, 79 ref

002070   Ganesh S R;Ramanujam E (NO, , Chennai Snake Park, Rajbhavan Post, Chennai-600 022, Email: snakeranglerr@gmail.com) : Rediscovery of beddome's coralsnake Calliophis beddomei Smith, 1943 from the type locality. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(3), 5580-2.

Rediscovery of a rare venomous snake after nearly two centuries (since R.H.Beddome's period). Provides revised diagnosis for the species and updates the congener-comparison. Highlights the lack of taxonomic studies in south Indian coral snakes, particularly the striped coral snake sp. Complex.

11 ref

002069   Dey S;Roy U S;Chattopadhyay S (Zoology P.G. Dep, Darjeeling Government College, 19, Lebong Cart Road, Darjeeling, West Bengal-734 101, Email: somenath.prl@gmail.com) : Effect of heat wave on the Indian flying fox Pteropus giganteus (Mammalia: chiroptera: pteropodidae) population from Purulia district of West Bengal, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(3), 7029-33.

The present study was undertaken to examine the effect of heat wave on the behavior and population count of Indian Flying Fox Pteropus giganteus from a roosting colony occupying a Tamarind tree Tamarindus indica at Simla Village of Purulia District of West Bengal, India during the period from March 2010 to July 2010. A total population comprising 250 individuals, recorded in March 2010, came down to 80 by June 2010. Information obtained from local villagers affirmed that the roosting bat colony from the present study location was a century old and had no apparent conflicts with villagers; moreover, it was protected with reverence. However, soaring day temperatures (with a maximum of up to 48°C, recorded during May and June 2010) alongside drought were the major threats that the population faced and mass die-offs caused the population to decline during the hotter months. Continuous fanning and belly-soaking were common behavioural features recorded during the summer months. However, death rate due to hyperthermia and dehydration was uncommonly high.

1 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

002068   Das K C;Gupta A (Environmental Science Dep, PUC, Mizoram Univ, Aizawl, Mizoram-796 001, Email: drkulendra.das@gmail.com) : New distribution records of tortoises (chelonia: testudinidae) from Barak valley, Assam, northeastern India with notes of ecology and vernacular traditional taxonomy. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(3), 7017-23.

India is home to five species of tortoises of which the two endangered species are found in northeastern India. We report for first time new distributional records of Indotestudo elongata and additional site records of Manouria emys phayrei from 17 different locations in the Barak Valley region of Assam.

1 illus, 1 table, 64 ref

002067   Belur R R;Gadadhar S (NO, , 41-A, Cunningham Apts, 5 Edward Road, Vasanthnagar, Bengaluru-560 052, Email: ranabelur@gmail.com) : Sight record of rhesus macaque Macaca mulatta (primates: cercopithecidae) in Karnataka, India. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(3), 5583-4.

The Rhesus Macaque Macaca mulatta is one of the most widely distributed macaques belonging to the order Primates. It is found in northern, central and northeastern India as well as Central and South East Asia. However, there has been no record of this species being found in the state of Karnataka, India. This note presents the first sight record of this species in Karnataka, India.

1 illus, 8 ref

002066   Apte D;Bhave V (NO, , Bombay Natural History Society, Hornbill House, Mumbai, Maharashtra-400 001, Email: spiderconch@gmail.com) : New records of opisthobranchs from Lakshadweep, India (mollusca: heterobranchia. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(3), 5562-8.

All India Coordinated Project on Taxonomy (AICOPTAX), an initiative of Ministry of Environment and Forests allowed the authors to study opisthobranch fauna of the west coast of India. During the present study, nine species of opisthobranchs are reported for the first time from Lakshadweep of which six are new records to India.

32 ref

002065   Ale S B;Shreshta B;Jackson R (Biological Sciences, Univ of Illinois-Chicago, 845 West Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60607, USA, Email: sale1@uic.edu) : On the status of snow leopard Panthera uncia (Schreber, 1775) in Annapurna, Nepal. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(3), 5534-43.

Authors conducted a status-survey on Snow Leopard Panthera uncia and its main prey, the Blue Sheep Pseudois nayaur, in the Mustang District of Nepal's Annapurna Conservation Area, in 2010 and 2011. Sign transects, covering a total linear distance of 19.4km, revealed an average density of 5.8 signs per kilometer, which compares with those from other Snow Leopard range countries. This also roughly corresponded with the minimum number of three adult Snow Leopards we obtained from nine remote cameras, deployed to monitor areas of c. 75km2 in extent. We obtained 42 pictures of Snow Leopards during nine capture events. We conclude that Mustang harbors at least three adult Snow Leopards, and probably more, along with a healthy Blue Sheep population (a total of 528 individuals, along 37.6km of Snow Leopard transect lines). We suggest that people-wildlife conflicts exist but that the local people tolerate Snow Leopards based on their Buddhist socio-religious values.

6 tables, 31 ref

000026   Ramaseshan S (NO, , , Email: iherlekar@gmail.com) : Bats on a budget: use of torpor by bats to conserve energy during migration. Curr Sci 2015, 108(6), 1034.

1 illus, 1 ref

000025   Basha S K M;John Paul M;Savitramma N (NO, NBKR Medicinal Plant Research Centre, Vidyanagar-524 413, Email: drskmbasha@gmail.com) : Phytodiversity and conservation of Bhairavakona sacred grove of Nallamala hill range, Eastern Ghats, Andhra Pradesh. J trop For 2014, 30(3), 54-64.

Sacred groves are climax forests and are the only representatives of natural or near-natural vegetation. These are dedicated to deities or ancestral spirits worshipped by local tribes along with surrounding plants and trees. These are ecosystems by (themselves and perform all the ecological functions. Bhairavakona Sacred grove is one of the important sacred groves of Prakasam. district in Andhra Pradesh (India). The present paper deals with the phytodiversity of the above grove used by local tribes. This paper deals with the 160 species of probable medicinal potential belonging to 138 genera and 71 families.

14 ref

000024    (NO, , ) : Echolocation calls of four species of leaf-nosed bats (genus Hipposideros) from central peninsular India. Curr Sci 2015, 108(6), 1055-7.

2 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

021456   Lone M R;Abbas Z;Siddiqi A H (Mathematical Sciences Dep, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri (J&K), Email: mudassir2lone@gmail.com) : Predictability analysis of meteorological data of Jammu and Kashmir using wavelet based methods. Int J appl Sci Engng Res 2014, 3(3), 630-40.

The future behavior of climate for a particular area is mostly determined by the long term climate variability as it has a large impact on climatic trend. As the climate variability changes from one season to the other, the variability of a given time series is well studied using Fractal Dimension. In this paper we deal with the estimation of Hurst exponent, Fractal Dimension and Predictability Index using wavelet method for each of the meteorological parameters: daily means of temperature, pressure, relative humidity, wind speed and daily totals for precipitation at each station Jammu, Rajouri, Pulwama, Srinagar, Kargil, Leh, Qazigund, Banihal and Doda selected strategically over the State of Jammu and Kashmir. It is observed that for the entire data set temperature, pressure, and wind speed time series show persistence behavior with a strong correlation for the temperature time series however the rainfall time series for the entire data set shows an unpredictable behavior except for the case of Jammu. Also a discrepancy is found to exist between the predictability indices of the entire data set and that of the seasonal data sets due to the diversity in the climate at sub-sub-regional levels.

5 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

021455   Deepak V (Postdoctoral Research Associate Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: deepaksalea@gmail.com) : Nature watch a tale of two turtles. Resonance 2015, 20(1), 47-54.

Turtles are one of the oldest groups of reptiles in the world and India has a large and diverse assemblage of extant turtles. While the North and Northeast parts of India are higher in turtle diversity, peninsular India has all the three endemic turtles. The Cane turtle and the Travancore tortoise are two endemic forest dwelling turtles. Until recently, very little was known about the ecology of these two turtles. I spent five years during my PhD studying their behaviour and ecology in the WesternGhats. In this article, I share general information on evolution of turtles and some of my findings on the behaviour and ecology of these two endemic turtles of India.

5 illus, 4 ref

019446   Stotrabhashyam S;Reddy B;Satla V;Siddiqui I (Zoology Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad, Telangana, 50007, Email: swetha.gym9@gmail.com) : A breeding site record of long-billed vulture Gyps indicus (Aves: accipitriforms: accipitridae) from Bejjur Reserve Forest, Telangana, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6800-4.

The Long-billed Vulture Gyps indicus is, Critically Endangered with few known breeding sites in peninsular India.We present a previously undocumented Long-billed Vulture breeding site in Bejjur Reserve Forest, Adilabad District, northern Telangana.

1 table, 13 ref

019445   Singh A P;Gogoi L;Sebastain J (Ecology & Biodiversity Conservation Div, Rain Forest Research Institute, P.O. Box <35> 136, Jorhat, Email: singhap@icfre.org) : The seasonality of butterflies in a semi-evergreen forest: Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, Northeastern India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6774-87.

A study spanning 3.7 years on the butterflies of Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary GWS (21km²), a semi-evergreen forest, in Jorhat District of Assam, northeastern India revealed 211 species of butterflies belonging to 115 genera including 19 papilionids and seven 'rare' and 'very rare' species as per Evans list of the Indian sub-continent (Great Blue Mime Papilio paradoxa telearchus; Brown Forest BobScobura woolletti; Snowy Angle Darpa pteria dealbatahas; Constable Dichorragia nesimachus; Grey Baron Euthalia anosia anosia; Sylhet Oakblue Arhopala silhetensis; Branded Yamfly Yasoda tripunctata). The butterflies showed a strong seasonality pattern in this forest with only one significant peak during the post monsoon (September-October) when 118 species were in flight inside the forest which slowly declined to 92 species in November-December. Another peak (102 species) was visible after winter from March to April. Species composition showed least similarity between pre-monsoon (March-May) and post-monsoon (October-November) seasons. The number of papilionid species were greater from July to December as compared from January to June. The findings of this study suggest that the pattern of seasonality in a semi-evergreen forest in northeastern India is distinct from that of the sub-tropical lowland forest in the Himalaya. Favourable logistics and rich diversity in GWS points to its rich potential in promoting 'butterfly inclusive ecotourism' in this remnant forest.

5 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

019444   Singh A P (Ecology & Biodiversity Conservation Div, Rain Forest Research Institute, P.O. Box <35> 136, Jorhat-785 001, Email: singhap@icfre.org) : Recent record of a rarely recorded species, the veined palmer Hidari bhawani de Niceville, 1888 (lepidoptera: hesperiidae: aeromachini) from Jorhat, Assam, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6839-40.

The paper reports the occurrence of a 'very rare' species, the Veined Palmer or the Cresentric Skipper, Hidari bhawani from Jorhat, Assam during March and November'2014,after 6 decades in India. The genera Hidari occurs as only three species that are restricted to southeast Asia and H. bhawani being only species for this genera represented in India.

11 ref

019443   Shenoy H S;Krishnakumar G;Marati R (Applied Botany Dep, Mangalore Univ, Mangalagangothri-574 199, Email: suyahosmat@gmail.com) : Rediscovery of Syzygium kanarense (Talbot) Raizada (myrtaceae) - an endemic species of the western ghats, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6833-5.

Syzygium kanarense - a rare and critically endangered species of the Western Ghats has been rediscovered after a gap of 47 years from the evergreen forests of the North Kanara District, Karnataka-India.

^ssp1 illus, 7 ref

019442   Shareef K P M;Kishore L;Girish Kumar P (Zoology P.G. & Research Dep, Malabar Christian College, Calicut Univ, Kozhikode-673 001, Email: kpms326@gmail.com) : A new species of Ropalida guerin-Meneville, 1831 (hymenoptera: vespidae: polistinae) from the southen western ghats, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6836-8.

A new species, Ropalidia narendrani sp. nov. is described from Southern Western Ghats, Kerala, India. The affinities of the new species are also discussed.

4 ref

019441   Quevedo M;Gomez L;Lescano J (NO, Laboratory of Animal Anatomy and Wildlife, School of Veterinary Medic, 2800 Circunvalacion Avenue, Lima 41, Peru, Email: mquevedo@veterinaria-unmsm.edu.pe) : Tick and flea infestation in a captive margay leopardus wiedii (Schinz, 1821) (Carnivora: Felidae: Felinae) in peru. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(2), 5501-2.

10 ref

019440   Prasad K K;Ramakrishna B;Srinivasulu C; Srinivasulu B (Zoology Dep, Wildlife Biology Section, Univ of College of Science, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh-500 007, Email: bharisrini@gmail.com) : Avifaunal diversity of Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh, India. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(2), 5464-77.

Total of 164 bird species belonging to 53 families were recorded in the Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary. Of these 107 species were resident, 55 species were winter migrants and 2 species were summer migrants. The population of the each species in different habitats was estimated. Species richness was observed to be more in agriculture habitat followed by scrubland, grassland and marshy areas, whereas species diversity was observed to be more in scrubland habitat followed by agriculture lands, grasslands and marshy areas. Similarity Index analysis showed that the habitats of agriculture land-scrubland are more similar whereas, habitats of scrubland-marshy area show dissimilarity in the sanctuary.

1 illus, 5 tables, 25 ref

019439   Paripatyadar S V;Riphung S;Ghate H V (Biodiversity Dep, MES's Abasaheb Garware College, Pune, Maharashtra-411 004, Email: shruti.paripatyadar@gmail.com) : First report of the female of Cheirochela assamensis Hope, 1841 (hemiptera: heteroptera: naucoridae) from Northeastern India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6815-20.

This publication reports for the first time the female of a Naucorid Bug Cheirochela assamensis Hope, 1841 from the state of Meghalaya, India. This species has been known so far by only two male specimens.We provide a detailed description of the female and light microscopic images of the habitus and important characters.Habitus photos of type (male) of C. assamensis and a related species, Cheirochela thailandana Polhemus et al. are also provided for comparison.

1 table, 8 ref

019438   Mujaffar S;Kambale S S;Yadav S R (Botany Dep, Government College Bhikangaon, District-Khargone District-451 331, Email: shaikhmujaffar@gmail.com) : An extended distribution of Ceropegia odorata Nimmo ex J. Graham (apocynaceae: asclepiadoideae) to the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6830-2.

Ceropegia odorata, a Critically Endangered species of India is recorded in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Nomenclatural anomaly has been resolved.

^ssp2 illus, 12 ref

019437   Mousavi-Sabet H;Heidari A;Fekrandish H (Fisheries Dep, Faculty of Natural Resources, Guilan Univ, Sowmeh Sara, P.O. Box: 1144, Guilan, Iran, Email: mousavi-sabet@guilan.ac.ir) : Population structure, length-weight and length-length relationships of six populations of the bartail flathead Platycephalus indicus (Scorpaeniforms: platycephalidae) along the Persian Gulf coastal waters. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6810-14.

The size frequency distribution for age structure, length-weight (LWR) and length-length (LLR) relationships of six populations of Platycephalus indicus along the Persian Gulf coastal waters in Iran are reported. A total of 180 P.indicus specimens were studied from six localities including Charak, Bandar-Abbas, Shif, Motaf, Khur-Musa and Bahrekan. The maximum standard length recorded for the studied populations ranged between 300 to 510 mm and the b values of the length-weight relationships ranged between 3.0 and 3.2. The obtained results indicated isometric growth patterns for all these populations with the exception of the Bahrekan population which showed a positive allometric growth pattern. The LLR between the total and standard lengths in these populations were found to be highly significant. The results would be useful for further studies on population assessment and sustainable conservation of the fish along the Persian Gulf coastal waters.

3 tables, 25 ref

019436   Majumder J;Agarwala B K (Ecology and Biodiversity Laboratories, Zoology Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar, Tripura-799 022, Email: jmtugemo@gmail.com) : Notes on the distribution, habitat, and behavior of northern tree shrew Tupaia belangeri (mammalia: scandentia: tupaiidae) ini Tripura, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6841-2.

A preliminary note on the habitat characteristics and the foraging behavior of Northern Tree Shrew, Tupaia belangeri (Wager, 1841), from Tripura is provided.

1 illus, 7 ref

019435   Jha K K (Technical Forestry, Indian Institute of Forest Management, Nehru Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh-462 003, Email: jhakk1959@gmail.com) : Distribution of vultures in Uttar Pradesh, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6750-63.

As carrion feeders vultures play an important ecological role.Counts and qualitative assessments were done over three seasons to assess the richness and abundance of vultures in Uttar Pradesh during 2010-11.Of nine species found in India, Uttar Pradesh has six: Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus (45.9%), Slender-billed Vulture Gyps tenuirostris (25.4%), Indian Vulture (Long-billed Vulture) Gyps indicus (16.8%), White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis (10.3%), Red-headed Vulture (King Vulture) Sarcogyps calvus (0.8%) and Himalayan Griffon Gyps himalayensis (0.7%).We observed a total of 1993 adults and 91 juveniles, with the Tarai region having the greatest species richness and abundance.Nesting tree species included Silk Cotton Bombax ceiba, Teak Tectona grandis, Haldu Haldina cordifolia and Sissoo Dalbergia sissoo. A qualitative assessment indicated that the vulture population had declined in the past 10-15 years, with the main causes being the use of diclofenac, shortage of food and habitat loss.Disposal of dead animals was mainly done by removing carcasses to village outskirts, where dogs, crows and egrets compete with vultures.Such a small number of avian scavengers in a large area like Uttar Pradesh should be protected by ensuring safe and sufficient food, recovery from accidents and rehabilitation, and a protected environment.

5 illus, 56 ref

019434   Jax E;Marin S;Rodriguez-Ferraro A; Isasi-Catala E (Institute of Biology, Lund Univ, SE-221 00 Lund, Sweden, Email: elinorjax@gmail.com) : Habitat use and relative abundance of the spotted paca Cuniculus paca Linnaeus, 1766) (rodentia: cuniculidae) and the red-rumped agouti Dasyprocta leporina (Linnaeus, 1758) (rodentia: dasyproctidae) in Guatopo National Park, Venezuela. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6739-49.

The Spotted Paca Cuniculus paca and the Red-rumped Agouti Dasyprocta leporina are affected by habitat loss and hunting.In Venezuela, their conservation status is unknown, even within protected areas. The objective of this study was to estimate the relative abundance, activity patterns, habitat use, and effect of human activities on these species in Venezuela. To achieve this, 26 camera-trap stations (20.8km²) were established in Guatopo National Park between February and April 2011, characterization of the habitat was undertaken and occupancy models were created. The relative abundance of the Spotted Paca was 1.62 captures/100trap-nights, with a fully nocturnal activity pattern. The relative abundance of the Red-rumped Agouti was 2.32 captures/100trap-nights, with a pronounced diurnal activity pattern. The occupation probability of the Red-rumped Agouti (0.61 SE 0.02) was higher than that of the Spotted Paca (0.27 SE 0.02). Spotted Pacas were mainly found in areas with mature forest and high tree density, whereas the Red-rumped Agoutis were most frequently found in valleys with little disturbed forest. A positive correlation was found between illegal hunting activities and areas occupied by the Spotted Paca.It is important to strengthen the park control measurements to reduce illegal hunting of Spotted Pacas.

2 illus, 2 tables, 66 ref

019433   Farhadinia M S;Valizadegan N (NO, , Iranian Cheetah Society, PO Box 14155-8549, Tehran, Iran, Email: msfarhadinia@wildlife.ir) : A preliminary baseline status of the syrian brown bear Ursus arctos syriacus (Mammalia: crnivora: ursidae) in Golestanak, Northern Iran. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6796-9.

Baseline information is lacking for the Syrian Brown Bear across the sub-species range, making it difficult to assess at any level.In the present investigation, our goal was to illustrate the population status of the Brown Bear in the Golestanak area, northern Iran, based on field surveys we conducted during the summers of 2011 and 2012.We counted a total of 30 and 21 bears in two consecutive years, with family groups consisting of more than half of the identified individuals.Sub-adults had the lowest contribution among the observed individuals, just below 10%, which may be due to their high dispersal behaviour to avoid adults.Our results provide a foundation for future systematic baseline investigations on the population status of the brown bear in northern Iran, which can be used in management programs. Aside from improving monitoring efforts within key habitats of the species, enhancing conservation efforts to secure the population is essential to safeguard this female core area.

1 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

019432   Dow R A;Ngiam R W J;Ahmad R (NO, Naturalis Biodiversity Center, P.O. Box 9517, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands, Email: rory.dow230@yahoo.co.uk) : Odonata of Maludam National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6764-73.

This paper presents records of Odonata collected in July 2012 in Maludam National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia. A total of 48 species from nine families were collected. Three species were new to science, one of which has already been described as Prodasineura yulan Dow & Ngiam, which may be endemic to Maludam. In addition, Maludam is only the second locality recorded in Sarawak for four poorly known species: Pachycypha aurea, Macrogomphus decemlineatus, Brachygonia ophelia and Brachygonia puella. Two of these species, Macrogomphus decemlineatus and Brachygonia ophelia, are recorded for the first time in Sarawak in more than 100 years.

1 illus, 31 ref

019431   de Silva A;Somaweera R (NO, Amphibian and Reptile Research Organisation of Sri Lanka, 15/1, Dolosbage Road, Gampola, Sri Lanka, Email: kalds@sltnet.lk) : Were human babies used as bait in crocodile hunts in colonial Sri Lanka?. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6805-9.

Use of live animals as bait is not an uncommon practice in hunting worldwide.However, some curious accounts of the use of human babies as bait to lure crocodiles in sport hunting exist on the island of Sri Lanka, where sport hunting was common during the British colonial period.Herein we compile the available records, review other records of the practice, and discuss the likelihood of the exercise actually having taken place.

4 illus, 35 ref

019430   Dash P K;Bhattacharjee A;Pankaj Kumar; Mohapatra P (Odisha Biodiversity Board, Regional Plant Resource Centre Campus, Forest & Environment Dep of Government of Odisha, Nayapalli, Bhubaneswar-751 015, Email: prasad.dash2008@gmail.com) : Cheirostylis Blume (orchidaceae), a new generic record for the eastern ghats, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6826-9.

Cheirostylis parvifoliaLindl. (Orchidaceae) has been discovered from the Mahendragiri hills of Gajapati district of Odisha, part of the Eastern Ghats, India growing at an elevation of 900 m constituting a new record of the genus Cheirostylis Blume for Eastern India. The present finding shows an extension of its range of distribution from the Western to the Eastern Ghats of India.

^ssp25 ref

019429   Bawri A;Gajurel P R;Paul A;Khan M L (Forestry Dep, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology, Nirjuli, Arunachal Pradesh-791 109, Email: amalbawri@gmail.com ) : Diversity and distribution of Primula species in Western Arunachal Pradesh, Eastern Himalayan Region, India. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6788-95.

The paper highlights the diversity, distribution and population status of Primula species in western Arunachal Pradesh. The present study has established the rich diversity of Primula species in western Arunachal Pradesh with a record total of 25 species, out of which five species, viz., Primula ioessa W.W.Sm., Primula munroi Lindley, Primula obliqua W.W.Sm., Primula prolifera Wall. and Primula jigmediana Hook. f. & Thomson ex Watt, are new to Arunachal Pradesh.More than 60% of the taxa of Primula of the state occurs in two districts of the western part of the state. A maximum diversity (76%) of Primula species was recorded between 3500m and 4000m and a minimum (4%) was between 1500m and 2000m. This study showed the poor population of some Primula species in the study area. Among the four sampling sites the Panga-Teng-Tso is highly disturbed which is clearly reflected by very poor population density of P. hookeri (1.36 individuals m^-2). Various natural and anthropogenic threats have led to the pressure on the habitat of Primula species. Considering the rich species diversity of Primula and their distributional affinities, western Arunachal Pradesh may be considered as a centre of diversity of Indo-Chinese Primula species and appropriate conservation strategies should be adopted for the conservation of this genus.

1 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

019428   Andrew R J;Verma R R;Thaokar N R (Zoology Post Graduate Dep, Hislop College, Nagpur, Maharashtra-440 001, Email: rajundrew@yahoo.com) : A parasitic association of odonata (insecta) with Arrenurus Duges, 1834 (arachnida: hydrachnida: arrenuridae) water mites. J Threatened Taxa 2015, 7(1), 6821-5.

The parasitic association between water mites (Arrenurus spp.) and Odonata is virtually ubiquitous wherever habitats suitable for both taxa exist.Yet, very little is known about this association within and among the odonate species of India.Here, we present a report on this parasitic relationship in the population of odonates of Wena Dam of Central India observed during the years 2011 and 2012. Of the 376 odonates collected for observation, 35(9.3%) individuals belonging to seven species (Acisoma panorpoides, Brachydiplax sobrina, Ceriagrion coromandelianum, Crocothemis servilia, Diplacodes trivialis, Neurothemis tullia tullia, Trithemis pallidinervis) were found to be parasitized by the Arrenurus spp. mites. The mites were found attached to the undersurface of the thorax and abdomen.In all the cases, the thorax was found infested while only in seven individuals the abdomen as well as the thorax was found infested with mites. A maximum number of mites on an individual dragonfly was in C. servilia (293) followed by T. pallidinervis (134) while the highest parasitic load per individual host species was found in T.pallidinervis (70.25%) followed by C. servilia (32.6%). The average parasitic load per individual female and male was 39.77 and 8.9, respectively.

3 tables, 20 ref

016411   Rajesh N V;Jayathangaraj M G;Raman M;Sridhar R (Wildlife Science Dep, Madras Veterinary College, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences U, Chennai-600 007, Email: mgjayathangaraj@gmail.com) : Designing and application of restraining gadgets-innovative tools to handle poisonous snakes. Indian J vet Anim Sci Res 2015, 44(1), 46-8.

Restraining gadget for Indian poisonous snakes like Indian cobra and Russell's Viper were designed, using available infrastructures. Tongs, collapsible tubes and bags were designed and applied in the poisonous snakes inorder to have better restraining activities. These snakes reared at Guindy Snake Park Trust were successfully restrained, using the gadgets developed. However these gadgets were found not suitable for restraining procedure associated with Saw scaled viper and Common krait. The gadgets developed were useful for zoo veterinarians for control of these serpentines.

^ssc4 illus, 3 ref

014477   Singh R;Nigam P;Qureshi Q;Sankar K;Krausman P R;Goyal S P (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, Post Box <35> 18, Dehradun-248 001, Email: randeep04@rediffmail.com) : Strategy of female tigers to avoid infanticide. Curr Sci 2014, 107(9), 1595-7.

In felids, mortality caused by dominant males can affect life history characteristics, demography and reproductive success. When a dominant male is removed, an incoming male may kill offspring sired by the previous male to induce the resident female into oestrus. We had the opportunity to observe the infanticide avoidance responses of female tigers (Panthera tigris) to incoming males in the core area of Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve (RTR), Rajasthan, during 2008-2010. In one case, following the disappearance of a dominant male tiger (TM-12) from the established territory of a female tiger (TF-13), the female tiger, accompanied by two cubs, immediately moved approximately 20 km away into riverine areas outside the protected area of RTR. In another case, a female (TF-04) died from a battle with a male while defending her cubs. These observations reveal the attempts of female tigers to avoid infanticide. Observations and results from behavioural decisions made by tigers are important to understand the species and the factors that facilitate their conservation.

1 illus, 26 ref

014476   Navya R;Athreya V;Mudappa D;Shankar Raman T R (NO, Nature Conservation Foundation, 3076/5, 4th Cross, Gokulam Park, Mysore-570 002, Email: trsr@ncf-india.org) : Assessing leopard occurrence in the plantation landscape of Valparai, Anamalai Hills. Curr Sci 2014, 107(9), 1381-5.

2 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

014475   Mohapatra K K;Patra A K;Paramanik D S (Zoology PG Dep, Environmental Research Laboratory, Utkal Univ, Bhubaneswar-751 004, Email: kmohapatra7@gmail.com) : Food and feeding behaviour of Asiatic elephant (Elephas maximus Linn.) in Kuldiha wild life sanctuary, Odisha, India. J envir Biol 2013, 34(1), 87-92.

The feeding behaviour of Asiatic elephant (Elephas maximus) with food reference was studied in Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha during 2007 to 2009. Though the study area houses a good number of plant species only 71 species were identified as elephant fodder plants. The food trail of elephant was observed as twig breaking, bark peeling, branch breaking, stem twisting uprooting and flower plucking in different regions of study area during different seasons. Alteration of predominantly browsing strategy with that of grazing around the year was related to seasonal variation of food plants. Consumption of tree species (56%) was highest as compared to shrubs (20%), herbs (14%) and climbers (10%). A high degree of variation in dicot- monocot ratio (61:10)) was marked during identification of elephant fodder plant by direct observation. Microscopic analysis of dung showing a high degree of variation in average dicot- monocot ratio suggested that the food plant selection of elephant was highly opportunistic and seasonal. The elephants extensively fed on the plant species like Careya arborea, Kydia calycina, Helicteres isora, Mallotus philippinensis, Aegle marmelos, Zizyphus mauritiana, Bauhinia racemosa, Bauhinia vahlii, Mimosa pudica, Asparagus racemosus, Smilax zeylanica and Diosporea species. They were fond of Madhuca indica (Mahula) flowers in winter and fruits of Mangifera indica (Mango) in summer. They were never found feeding on Tectona grandis and Eucalyptus maculate inside the study area.

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

014474   Herlekar I;Prakash M (Archives and Publication Cell, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore-560 012, Email: iherlekar@gmail.com) : Android apps to aid wildlife research. Curr Sci 2014, 107(5), 735-7.

3 illus

013439   Royal I;Goyal M K (Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati-781 039, Email: mkgoyal@iitg.ernet.in) : Estimation of soil carbon stocks in Pabitora Sanctuary and Manas National Park in Assam. Curr Sci 2014, 107(1), 94-8.

North East India known for its rich flora and fauna, is covered by the mighty Brahmaputra-Barak river systems and their tributaries and comprises hilly terrain interspersed with valleys and plains. A field study was done to layout the soil carbon stock of Pabi-tora Wildlife Sanctuary and Manas National Park in Assam. Maximum average carbon stock in both was estimated in the upper layer of the soil sample, while least carbon stock was obtained at deepest layer (20-30 cm). The average carbon stock of the Manas National Park was higher than that of Pabitora Wild-life Sanctuary.

4 illus, 25 ref

012473   Ndlovu J;Utete O;Kimaro M E (NO, KwaZulu Natal Univ, School of Social Sciences, Private Bag X54001, Durban, South Africa) : Defying extinction through conservation: benefits of black rhino tracking in the <35>khoadi//hoas conservancy, Namibia. J hum Ecol 2014, 47(3), 229-39.

Direct benefits of biodiversity conservation have been a subject of debate over the past two decades. Despite the accelerated growth of CBNRM initiatives meant to redress the neglected communities and bring socio-economic development to remote areas, the challenge is to develop innovative instruments for channeling conservation investments efforts directly for individual gain and collective wealth and well-being of communities. To appreciate the value of Black rhino tracking, a case study approach was used to measure the benefits accruing to local communities in the <35>Khoadi //Hoas conservancy. Data was collected through participant observations and in-depth interviews with 50 purposively selected key informants. Thematic analyses of local newspapers and NACSO reports were used to interrogate the subject. The findings revealed that black rhino tracking has led to improved stewardship, recovery of the rhino population and sustainable development in the conservancy. However, a more structured approach to benefits sharing and governance is recommended.

3 tables, 35 ref

012472   Mohapatra P P;Palel H S;Hussain S A (Zoology Dep, Government Science College, Chhatarapur, Ganjam-761 020, Email: mohapatrapratyushp@gmail.com) : Occurrence of Asian small clawed otter Aonyx cinereus (Illiger, 1815) in Eastern India. Curr Sci 2014, 107(3), 367-70.

2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

012471   Kaladharan P;Saidkoya K P;Kunhikoya V A; Anasukoya A (NO, Calicut Research Centre of CMFRI, West Hill PO, Kozhikode-673 005, Email: kaladharanep@gmail.com) : Turtle herbivory of seagrass ecosystems in the Lakshadweep atolls: concerns an need for conservation measures. J Mar Biol Ass India 2013, 55(1), 25-9.

Green turtles and turtle grass are interdependent in the atoll ecosystems of Lakshadweep as green turtles are herbivores and the latter are being consumed by the turtles. Since the herbivore is being protected by legislation, their herbivory on turtle grass is uncontrolled and had resulted in near total wiping of seagrass meadows. This case study was made from Agatti atoll in detail and the status of seagrass meadows in three neighboring atolls. The present communication stresses the need for the earliest restoration and to conserve the seagrass meadows from being destroyed by the increasing population of green turtles which is essential for the very existence of turtles itself in Lakshadweep Sea.

3 illus, 3 tables, 37 ref

012470   Gaira K S;Rawal R S;Rawat B;Bhatt I D (NO, G B Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Kosi-Katarmal, Almora-263 643, Email: idbhatt@gbpihed.nic.in) : Impact of climate change on the flowering of Rhododendron arboreum in central Himalaya, India. Curr Sci 2014, 106(12), 1735-8.

Studies from different parts of the world have generated evidences of the effects of climate change on phenology and persistence of species. However, datasets or evidences are lacking for majority of the regions and species, including the climate-sensitive Himalayan biodiversity hotspot. Recognizing this gap in the information and realizing wide-ranging implications of such datasets, the present study generates evidences of changes in flowering phenology of an important trees species, Rhododendron arboreum in Indian central Himalaya. Real-time field observations (2009-2011) showed peak flowering during early February to mid-March. Analysis on long-term temperature data revealed significant (P <60> 0.0,1) increase in seasonal (winter and post-monsoon) and annual mean maximum temperature. Generalized additive model (GAM) using real-time field observations (2009-2011) and herbarium records (1893-2003) predicted 88-97 days early flowering over the last 100 years. Furthermore, GAM using long-term temperature data, real-time field observations and herbarium records depicted annual mean maximum temperature responsible for shifts in flowering dates of the target species. The study provides an important insight of species response to climate change in the Indian central Himalaya and highlights the need for further research on the subject to improve our understanding of the effects of climate change on species and consequently on ecology of the region.

2 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

011425   Nishanth B;Srinivasan S R;Jayathangaraj M G; Sridhar R (Wildlife Science Dep, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai-600 007, Email: nishvet@gmail.com) : Fecal cortisol levels in elephants of Tamil Nadu state. Indian vet J 2013, 90(2), 42-4.

Fecal cortisol levels were estimated using ELISA cortisol kit and ELISA reader in dung samples obtained from elephants reared under captive conditions at Arignar Anna Zoological Park as well as at the temples of this state. Variations were noticed in fecal cortisol levels and the mean fecal cortisol level in temple elephants was 392±24.20ng/g and the mean fecal cortisol level in elephants of Arignar Anna Zoological Park was 126.16±13.32ng/g. The variations might be due to feeding practices, proximity to humans, less sample size, age factor, variations in space availability, movement etc.

5 ref

011424   Karia J P;Vachhrajani K D;Pandya P (NO, Enviro-GIS Services, Makarpura, Vadodara-390 010, Email: pkjessica@yahoo.com) : Systematics of plankton diversity in Thol Bird Sanctuary, inland wetlands, Gujarat. Indian For 2013, 139(5), 435-9.

Thol Bird Sanctuary in Kaditaluka (Mehsana district) of North Gujarat is among eighth national wetland sites in India which has been identified and declared for conservation. Plankton samples collected using 20 nm mesh size nylon plankton net had presence of total 14 phytoplankton and 22 zooplankton taxa identified from six sampling locations. Phytoplankton diversity showed that the Aphanocapsa sp. (fam:Cynophyceae) and Ankistrodesmus sp. (fam: Chlorophyceae) were dominating genera. Among zooplankton Arthropods group had maximum members in all the sites followed by rotifers, protozoans and nematods. These studies showed that the wetlands had the presence of some of the indicative species which categorizes water quality to be slightly polluted to polluted conditions.

1 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

010399   Swain D;Morris P J (NO, , Aranya Bhawan, Chandrasekharpur, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Email: debabrataswain@yahoo.co.in) : Occupancy estimation and modeling in monitoring tigers with implications for conservation and management. Envir Conserv J 2014, 15(1-2), 21-33.

The tiger (Panthera tigris) is highly endangered through out its range and one of the impediments to effective tiger conservation is the lack of simple and cost effective methods for monitoring of wild tiger populations. With an aim to find a rapid. cost effective, and statistically robust methodology to take quick management decisions, observations of tiger and co-predator sign in administrative subunits (beats) of the Similipal Tiger Reserve, located between 20° 28' and 22° 08' North lalitude, and 86° 04' and 86° 37' East longitude in India, were subjected to an occupancy estimation and modeling analysis. Several environmental factors were identified as covariates with explanatory power for the pattern of observations of tiger sign. Most important of these were the proportion of the area of the beat that is classified as disturbed habitat. the distance between the beat and the nearest inhabited place, and the total number of prey observed in the beat in a separate set of surveys for ungulates and other tiger prey species. The results of this analysis have clear management implications for the reserve, with beats classifiable into four categories, each with its own target strategy for increasing tiger abundance. These categories are: highest concern, reduce disturbance, increase prey protection, and maintain current protection. This study suggests that occupancy estimation and modeling from surveys of large mammalian predator sign is a simple cost-effective statistically robust methodology that can be performed by the management staff of a reserve and can be used to engage members of the local population in conservation.

5 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

010398   Das D (Economics Dep, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, Meghalaya, Email: daisy.das@gmail.com) : Effect of wildlife damage on the life of people living around Kaziranga National Park. Envir Conserv J 2014, 15(1-2), 77-82.

The benefit from protected area is enjoyed at international level where as benefit is negligible at local level and often people have to bear losses for living around protected area. Wildlife damage is one such cost of living around protected area. Wild animals often destroys crop, assets, kill livestock and destroy property. Such wildlife damage many times becomes a bone of contention between people living around protected area and the park authority. In developing countries it becomes difficult to control such damage for park authority and giving compensation is not a feasible way. Therefore, the present study tries to assess the extent of wildlife damage in Kaziranga National Park (KNP) which is conflict ridden. It has been found from the survey that damage is enormous and people are dissatisfied with the park authority. This paper suggests that to obtain support of local people emphasis should be given crop protection measures and a1tcrnative livelihood opportunities.

4 tables, 20 ref

008386   Shimelis A;Pinard M;Asefa A (NO, Freelance Consultant, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia) : Impact of forest structure simplification of bird species richness in the Harena forest of the Bale Mountains National Park (BMNP), South Eastern Ethiopia. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2013, 12(2), 321-4.

Human simplification of habitat in the Harenna forest mainly happens by permanently removing woody vegetation. We evaluated the impact of such simplification of habitat on bird species richness. Birds were counted using the point count method at points that were laid out along transect lines, and from their presence/ absence, species richness was worked out. By establishing 50m by 50m quadrats at bird counting stations, we counted the number of basal remnants of cut trees and we measured vegetation structure variables such as % grass, % other herbs, % shrubs, % bush and % canopy (tree cover). Tree, bush and shrub covers did have significant positive correlation with bird species richness. As the magnitude of tree cutting increased species richness of birds declined significantly. Similarly with bird species richness, structural variables such as tree, bush and shrub covers did have significant negative correlation with the tree cutting variable. Due to this, we carried out Principal Component Analysis and the first component that was influenced mainly by tree cover and tree cutting variables significantly explained 84.7% of the variation in bird species richness in a stepwise multiple regression analysis. Bush and shrub cover did also have significant positive contributions towards the explanatory value of the first component, thus, their positive contribution in explaining bird species richness is noteworthy. Results showed habitat simplification through tree cutting has significant negative impact on bird species richness.

4 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

007327   Veeraselvam M;Sridhar R;Senthikumar T M A; Jayathangaraj M G;Rajesh N V (Wildlife Science Dep, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai-600 007, Email: drveeraselva@gmail.com) : Seroprevalence of leptospirosis in captive sloth bears (Melursus ursinus). Indian vet J 2013, 90(4), 113-14.

Study on the seroprevalence of leptospirosis in 15 captive sloth bears in Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad, was carried out using MAT. Amongst the 15 serum samples, Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona antibodies were observed in two sera with titre value of 1:200 and the serovar Pyrogenes antibodies were present in one serum with the titre value of 1:100.

7 ref

007326   Subburaman S;Goutham S;Abdul Raheem C N;Kaul R;Kamboj R D;Trivedi S;Choudhury B C (NO, , Wildlife Trust of India, F-13, Sector - 8, Noida-201 301, Email: subburaman.mb@gmail.com) : Survival status of experimental transportation and transplantation of acropora corals from Lakshadweep to Gujarat, India. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2014, 7(3), 135-40.

As a pioneering feat, Acropora species coral fragments were transported and transplanted from Lakshadweep to Gulf of Kachchh, Gujarat on an experimental basis. Fragments were transported with 81% survival rate, over four days long travel. After acclimatization process, the fragments were transplanted at two sites in and around the Gulf of Kachchh Marine National Park. The survival status was monitored over six month period. Coral fragments survived for four months at Lagu reef and six months at Mithapur reef.

3 illus, 1 table, 27 ref