006756   KOVACIC M, SAMARDZIJA M, DURICIC D, VINCE S, FLEGAR-MESTRIC Z, PERKOV S, GRACNER D, TURK R (Zagreb Univ, Zagreb, Croatia, Email: smarko2002@yahoo.com) : Paraoxonase-1 activity and lipid profile in dairy cows with subclinical and clinical mastitis. J Appl Anim Res 2019, 47(1), 1-4.

The aim of this study was to investigate serum paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity and lipid status in cows with subclinical and clinical mastitis in order to evaluate systemic inflammatory and oxidative stress responses. The study was conducted on a total of 90 Holstein–Friesian dairy cows kept in farms in eastern Croatia. Cows were assigned into three groups: the cows suffering from clinical mastitis (CLM), the cows with subclinical mastitis (SCM) and control (CTL) group. In collected sera, PON1, lipid status and calcium concentration were measured. Total cholesterol (CHOL), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and calcium concentrations were significantly lower in the CLM group of cows compared to the SCM and CTL groups (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the lipid status and calcium level between the CTL and SCM groups. PON1 activity was significantly lower in both the SCM and CLM groups compared with CTL indicating that PON1 could be considered as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of subclinical form of the disease.

2 tables, 45 ref

006743   BORGIA V J F, THATHEYUS A J, MURUGESAN A G (Zoology Dep, J. A. Coll for Women, Periyakulam- 625 601, Email: jthatheyus@yahoo.co.in) : Impact of electroplating industry effluent on the electrophoretic protein pattern of serum in the freshwater fish Cyprinus carpio. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2019, 56(6), 460-5.

The investigation on electrophoretic protein fractions of serum was carried out on the freshwater fish, Cyprinus carpio to determine the sublethal toxic effects of electroplating industrial effluent (EIE) using SDS-PAGE. Fish were exposed to 0.004, 0.007, 0.010 and 0.013% of effluent as well as control for twenty eight days. The results revealed the appearance or disappearance of protein fractions in the serum of C. carpio compared to control fish after seven, fourteen, twenty one and twenty eight days due to stress caused by metals in the effluent. Thus protein electrophoresis can be a sensitive tool for biomonitoring aquatic pollution.

1 table, 36 ref

006735   ADAM G O, KIM G-B, LEE S-J, LEE H, KIM S-J, KIM J-S, KANG H-S (Korea Zoonoses Research Institute, Iksan- 54596, Email: kang-hs@jbnu.ac.kr) : Ultraviolet-C haematogenous oxidation therapy of lipopolysaccharide-induced endotoxemia in a rabbit model: A biochemical study. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2019, 56(6), 445-54.

Systemic inflammatory reaction – due to severe response to toxins of infection associated with immune inhibition – leads to multi-organ dysfunctions and high mortality. Ultraviolet (UV) blood is used for its therapeutic effects when moving across the cells. This study aims to evaluate the impact of UV-C Haematogenous Oxidation Therapy (HOT) in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxemia of rabbit model. A total of 40 rabbits randomly divided into four groups, including normal control (NC). LPS and LPS+UV-C HOT groups received 0.1 mg/kg LPS toxin of E. coli, UV-C HOT and LPS+UV-C HOT groups subjected to UV-C HOT treatments once weekly for five times. Blood collected, perfused with oxygen, UV-C directly irradiated into blood, and then auto-transfused. Rabbits were sacrificed after five weeks; blood and serum were collected for analysis. The survival rate, liver, kidney, lipid profile, and blood ions were assessed in treated rabbits. Mortality was 40% in the LPS group, while other groups showed no death. UV-C HOT enhanced critical pH, base deficit, blood gases, hypomagnesemia, hyperlactatemia, and concurrent acidosis. Besides, TNF-α, nitrite, and nitrate were suppressed in response to UV-C HOT. Moreover, UV-C HOT reduced liver and kidney enzymes, improved lipid metabolism, and ameliorated electrolytes homeostasis. Despite that, UV-C HOT performance in ICU for human and animal endotoxemic or septic patients should be evaluated and considered.

5 illus, 3 tables, 43 ref

006783   UPPAL V, BANSAL N, GUPTA A, PATHAK D (Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: v.uppal@yahoo.com) : Histomorphological and scanning electron microscopic studies on tongue of Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae). Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(12), 1694-7.

The present research was conducted on the tongue of eight dead emu birds (both male and female) collected from poultry farm of GADVASU, Ludhiana to investigate its histological and scanning electron microscopic details. The tissue pieces of tongue were processed for light and scanning electron microscopic studies. The lingual surfaces were lined by stratified squamous non keratinized epithelium. Tongue consisted of connective tissue, mucus glands, blood vessels, Herbst corpuscles, lingual skeleton and striated muscles. SEM indicated desquamating and non-desquamating epithelial cells along with microplicae were observed. Microvilli were very few. The area of papillae was devoid of any glandular openings. 

22 ref

006736   ALLWIN B, KALAIGNAN P A, KANNIAPPAN S, VAIRAMUTHU S, JAYATHANGARAJ M G (Zoo Veterinary Hospital, Chennai- 600 048, Email: boonallwin@gmail.com) : Hematological and serum biochemical indices of captive royal Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris), Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Vandaloor, Chennai. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(12), 1613-8.

The study on Hematological and serum biochemical indices of captive Royal Bengal Tigers (Panthera tigris) was carried out in tigers reared under the captive conditions at Zoo and Rescue centre of Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Vandalur of Tamil Nadu state (12.8781 ° N, 80.0859 °E) from 2015 to April, 2017. Blood samples were collected from 30 tigers from lateral coccygeal vein during the routine clinical examination at squeeze cages in K-EDTA vials .The mean hematological values for Hemoglobin (g %), PCV (%), RBC (106/ µl) and WBC (103/ µl), were found to be 14.43±1.12 (g %), 48.10±0.49 (%)7.37±1.35 (106/ µl) 13.73±0.76 (103/ µl), respectively. Similarly, the mean±S.E. values of erythrocyte indices (MCV in fl, MCH in pg and MCHC in g/dL) were found to be 60.40±0.25 (fl), 32.56±0.34 (pg) and 54.56±0.35 (g/dl), respectively in these tigers investigated. The overall serum biochemical parameters like blood urea nitrogen BUN (mg/dL), creatinine (mg/dL), total protein (g/dL), albumin (g/dL), globulin (g/dL), ALT(IU/L), ALP(IU/L), calcium (mg/dL), phosphorous (mg/dL), cholesterol (mg/dL) and glucose (mg/dL) were estimated to be 43.43±0.55 mg/dL, 2.43±2.11 (mg/dL), 7.45±1.35 (g/dL), 3.08±2.33(g/dL), 2.74±2.28 (g/dL), 103.04±0.30 (IU/L), 78.10±0.40 (IU/L),10.57±1.11 (mg/dL), 8.66±1.30 (mg/dL), 151.83±0.27 (mg/dL)  and 59.66±0.40 (mg/dL) respectively. The geographical and meteorological parameters were also assessed in this study. All other components were maintained as same for the tigers including feed and water.

15 ref

006757   LAKSMI D N D I, TRILAKSANA I G N B, DARMANTA R J, DARWAN M, BEBAS I W, AGUSTINA K K (Animal Reproduction Dep, Udayana Univ, Bali- 80225, Indonesia, Email: k.agustina@unud.ac.id) : Correlation between body condition score and hormone level of Bali cattle with postpartum anestrus. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(12), 1599-1603.

Body Condition Score (BCS) is a simpler and more practical method to evaluate the body’s energy and fat reserves in cows. Nutrition play a direct role both in the hypothalamus by synthesizing and releasing GnRH, as well as on the anterior pituitary by controlling the synthesis and release of Leptin, FSH, LH and Estrogen. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between the body condition score with the activation of hormones in the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis on Bali cattle that experienced postpartum anestrus. This research was an observational analytic study with Cross-Sectional Study design. The samples used were Bali cattle that have given birth and have not shown estrus for more than three months. BCS assessment method is qualitatively conducted through visual and tactile techniques. Measurements of Leptin, FSH, LH and estrogen hormone levels were performed using the ELISA Double Antibody Sandwich method. The results showed a correlation between body condition score to hormone level i.e. Leptin level of 0.861; LH level of 0.960; FSH level of 0.799; and Estrogen level of 0.761. These data demonstrated that BCS significantly affects Leptin hormone concentrations. It takes Leptin with a certain concentration to trigger the release of LH in follicle maturation and ovulation, thus achieving a threshold that causes the activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis.

45 ref

006733   ABBAS S, IQBAL R, BUTT M Z, NIAZ S, ABDEL-SALAM N M, HALEEM S, ULLAH R (Zoology Dep, Government Post graduate Islamia Coll, Gujranwala, Pakistan, Email: afridiriaz@yahoo.com) : Effects of selenium and vitamin E on liver function and food conversion ratio in Rhode Island Red. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(12), 1589-93.

The objective of research work remained to study the effect of Selenium and Vit.E on Liver performance and efficiency in Rhode Island Red chicks to convert food into body mass. This research work was conducted to check the effects of selenium and Vitamin E on Liver function test in Rhode Island Red a day old chicks (n=96) which were set into four treatment groups. Group A was control group, Group B was administered with 1ml/10litre, Group C was administered with 1ml/7.5litre and Group D was given 1ml/5litre of Selenium and Vitamin E respectively. In Rhode Island Red chicks the amount of ALAT and ASAT decreased significantly (p<0.05) after administration of selenium and vitamin E in all treated groups. Samplings were carried out at regular intervals. The value of alkaline phosphatase decreased significantly (p<0.05) on 1st sampling and increased significantly (p>0.05) on 2nd, 3rd and 4th sampling in all treated groups. The amount of Bilirubin decreased significantly (p<0.05) in all treated groups except group B and C where a slight increase was observed on 4th and 3rd sampling respectively. There was significant difference (p<0.05) in feed conversion ratio (FCR) between control group and treated groups. The research suggested that vitamin E acts as immune enhancer by increasing the resistance against diseases and has also a positive effect on the feed conversion ratio and liver function test of the desi layer birds (Rhode Island Red).

20 ref

006738   ARDICLI S, DINCEL D, BALCI F (Genetics Dep, Uludag Univ, Bursa, Turkey, Email: fbalci@uludag.edu.tr) : Beef colour defined based on pH in Holstein bull carcasses. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1533-7.

The present study was carried out on 510 Holstein-Fresian bulls and it aimed to evaluate the effects of season, age at slaughter and pH on meat colour characteristics. An additional aim of this analysis was to determine the impact of environmental factors including season and slaughter age on meat pH. A cluster analysis applied to all the colour coordinates divided the samples into six groups according to their ultimate pH. L*, a*, b*, and C* values were significantly higher in cattle slaughtered in the winter season. Moreover, a significant effect of age at slaughter on colour coordinates was found with the exception of a* value. Meat from bulls slaughtered at 16/17 months of age was characterized by brighter colour. Among the pH groups, the highest value of L* was found in meat with pH<5.40, whereas, the highest a* and C* in pH 5.41-5.50. The present results may be useful and indicative for both beef industry and future studies on meat colour.

21 ref

006767   PARIN U, ERBAS G, SAVASAN S, YUKSEL H T, GURPINAR S, KIRKAN S (Microbiology Dep, Adnan Menderes Univ, Isikli Aydin- 09016, Email: uparin@adu.edu.tr) : Antimicrobial resistance of Vibrio (Listonella) anguillarum isolated from rainbow trouts (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1522-5.

Vibrio (also known as Listonella) species are widely distributed in aquatic environments and are often mentioned as the aquatic equivalent of aeromonads. The aim of this study is to investigate the exposure of rainbow trouts with V. anguillarum, and determination of antimicrobial resistance of the isolated strains. A total of 100 rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) samples were collected from various commercial fish hatcheries in the Aegean Region of Turkey in June 2013. Twelve V. anguillarum were isolated from 100 rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) samples. V. anguillarum isolates were resistant to cloxacillin, ampicillin, sulfamethoxazol-trimethoprime and erythromycin in the ratio of 100 %. High levels of resistance are considered to be the result of random antibiotic therapies in aquaculture, hence the results of this study indicated that identification of etiological agent and the exact chemotherapy must be applied in order to prevent residual water contamination and resistant strains of V. anguillarum.

27 ref

006776   SINGH K, REHMAN A, ULLAH R, REHMAN L, WASIM S, FARHAT F, BEG M A, ABIDI S M A (Zoology Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh- 202 002, Email: a.abidi92@gmail.com) : The anthelmintic activity of 1,10-phenanthroline, a metalloenzyme inhibitor. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1518-21.

Paramphistomosis is a chronic, debilitating parasitic disease of livestock prevalent in the tropical and sub-tropical countries. Globally there is a heavy reliance on anthelmintics but concerns over drug resistance encourage the search for new leads. Metalloproteinases play a significant role in the biology and life cycle of parasitic helminths. The efficacy of metalloproteinase inhibitor, 1,10-Phenanthroline (1,10-phe) which is commonly used as a specific enzyme inhibitor in biochemical assays, was tested in vitro on Gigantocotyle explanatum tegument as a marker of anthelmintic action. The scanning electron microscopy revealed that the tegumental surface exhibited considerable changes in the worms treated with the metalloenzyme inhibitor, 1,10-phe. The untreated control worms appeared normal showing smooth tegumental surface with abundant dome shaped papillae in the anterior to mid region, while their density was less around the acetabulum which serves as a hold-fast organ helping the worms to remain attached in biliary passage. The 1,10-phe produced significant tegumental damage when the liver amphistomes were in vitro exposed to this compound at 12.5 µM concentration. The surface changes appeared in the form of edematous ridges with prominent furrows and erosion of the dome shaped papillae with rosette shaped deep lesions as a result of which deep parenchymatous tissues were exposed. The collapse of sensory bulbs as well as sloughing of tegument, particularly in the anterior-mid region was observed. The nature of damage could be comparable to various anthelmintics used in previous studies. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of direct exposure of amphistome worms to zinc metallo-enzyme inhibitor, however, further in vivo studies are required to ascertain the anthelmintic efficacy of 1,10-phe.

32 ref

006745   CHOUDHARY O P, KALITA P C, RAJKHOWA T K, ARYA R S, KALITA A, DOLEY P J (Veterinary Anatomy and Histology Dep, Central Agricultural Univ, Aizawl- 796 015, Email: dr.om.choudhary@gmail.com) : Gross morphological studies on the sternum of crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela). Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1459-61.

The present study was designed to elucidate the morphological characteristics of sternum of crested serpent eagle. The sternum was a thin, flat bone with a body, rostrum and keel. The body was quadrilateral plate with concave dorsal and convex ventral surfaces and four borders. Numerous pneumatic foramina were present on the dorsal surface. The ventral surface presented a large, boat shaped keel along its median line. The cranial border was convex and thick and two pneumatic foramina were present behind the cranial border on the ventral surface of sternum. The facets for coracoid bones were located just below the cranial border. The lateral border on either side presented six articular facets for sternal ribs. The triangular pointed cranio-lateral process was observed at the junction of cranial and lateral border on either side. The caudal border was convex and caudo-lateral processes were absent. Two distinct oval foramina were seen near the caudal border. The rostrum or sternal spine was smaller and located just below the cranial border of the body of the sternum. The sternum presented a well-developed triangular keel located along the midline of the ventral surface of the body of sternum.

12 ref

006777   SINGH T S, KALITA P C, CHOUDHARY O P, KALITA A, DOLEY P J (Veterinary Anatomy and Histology Dep, Central Agricultural Univ, Aizawl- 796 015, Email: dr.om.choudhary@gmail.com) : Histomorphological studies on the testis of local pig (Zovawk) of Mizoram. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1455-8.

The present study was designed to elucidate the histomorphology of the testis of adult Zovawk. In the present study, the collagen and reticular fibres were abundant in tunica albuginea and interstitial tissue surrounding the seminiferous tubules. However, few elastic fibers occurred in the capsule and only in the blood vessels of both the testis in Zovawk. The different micrometrical values with regard to thickness of testicular capsule, diameter of seminiferous tubule, height of seminiferous tubule, number of leydig cells, spermatogonia, germs cells per mm² were found to be higher in the left testicle as compared to right one. There was no-significant difference observed in the right and left testes of Zovawk.

29 ref

006768   RAJANI C V, H S PATKI, WILSON H M, SURJITH K (Anatomy and Histology Dep, Veterinary and Animal Sciences Coll, Wayanad- 673 576, Email: rajanirag73@gmail.com) : Comparative morphological studies of the pelvic limb bones in ostrich (Struthio camelus), emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae), domestic fowl (Gallus gallus domesticus) and duck (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus). Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1445-9.

Morphological and morphometrical study of pelvic limb bones from adult birds viz., ostrich (n=4), emu (n=6), domestic fowl (n=8) and duck (n=8) were carried out. Pubic symphysis was a distinctive feature of os coxae in ostrich. Medial surface of ilium was united to lumbosacral mass in ostrich and emu, whereas, only medial border made fusion in domestic fowl and duck. Post acetabular ilium was an elongated triangle in ostrich and emu, whereas, quadrilateral plate in domestic fowl and duck. Iliac fossae for kidneys were lacking in ostrich and emu. Ischium was a long rod in ostrich and emu. Ilio-ischiatic notch was present in ostrich and emu, while, ilio-ischiatic foramen was found in domestic fowl and duck. Caudal extremity of pubis was free in all the species studied excluding ostrich. Ostrich and emu exhibited a distinct pneumatic foramen on femur which was lacking in domestic fowl and duck. Length ratio of femur to tibiotarsus was 1:1.75, 1:1.88, 1:1.38 and 1:1.69 in ostrich, emu, domestic fowl and duck correspondingly. Lateral cnemial crest was a large tuberosity in ostrich; whereas, in other species it was a thick curved spine.  Hypotarsus was in the form of spine in ostrich and emu. Bony spur of tarsometatarsus observed in male domestic fowl was lacking in the other species. Distal extremity showed two trochleae in ostrich, whereas, three trochleae, in the other species. Ostrich is the only didactyl bird with two digits. Emu possessed three digits, while, domestic fowl and duck possessed four. Our present study revealed pneumatic femur, longer tibiotarsus and tarsometatarsus and less number of digits in ostrich and emu.  Reduction in number of phalanges also led to reduce the number of muscles and tendons associated to digits. The above mentioned features may aid ostrich and emu for high-speed locomotion.

12 ref

006750   GOMAA H F, HOMAID F A, RHAIM A I A A (Zoology Dep, Ain Shams Univ, Al Qalyubia Governorate, Egypt, Email: shery-yahia2009@hotmail.com) : Accacia Senegel extract ameliorates lead acetate-mediated hepatotoxicity in rats. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1425-30.

Lead is a toxic metal that induces a wide range of physiological and histological changes inhuman and animals. Oxidative damage has been the possible mechanism involved in lead toxicity. The current study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant activities of Accacia senegel extract against leadacetate-induced hepatic injury in rats. Four groups of rats were used in this study, Control, Lead acetate(8 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally), Accacia senegel (7.5g/kg body weight /day orally) and Accacia senegel (7.5g/kg body weight /day orally)followed by lead acetate (8 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally) respectively.All groups received the oral treatment by stomach tube once daily for 4 weeks. Lead intoxication resulted in a significant increase inserum alanine transase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP)activities,serum total cholesterol and triglycerides liver tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), caspase-3, malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) levels and a significantdecline of serum total proteins, liver reduced glutathione (GSH)  level and catalase. The hepatocytes showed degeneration with vacuolated cytoplasm and fibrosis. The administration ofAccacia senegel extractshowed a slight improving in the activities of Catalase, a slight decreasein AST, ALP activities, NO, Triglycerides but resulted in more increase in the levels of Total proteins, MDA, TNF-α and activity of Caspase-3 while did not induce any protection against elevated levels of ALT and Total cholesterol and against damage in hepatocytes including fibrosis and apoptosis.

4 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

006742   BELKHIRI Y, BOUZEBDA-AFRI F, BOUZEBDA Z, MOUFFOK C E, DJAOUT A (Souk-Ahras Univ, Algeria- 41000, Email: belkhiri_vet@yahoo.fr) : Seasonal variations in reproductive parameters of Ouled Djellal rams in the east of Algeria. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(11), 1407-13.

This experiment was carried out on Ouled Djellal rams in order to study the effect of season on testicular size, serum testosterone level and semen characteristics for a period of one year. Blood samples were obtained via jugular vein, and semen was collected by using an electro-ejaculator from six fertile male rams (2-4 years of age) on a monthly basis. In this breed, testis parameters varied seasonally showing the highest average values during autumn. However, the variation of body weight, GSI, serum testosterone levels, mass motility, individual motility and sperm concentration were not significant during the sampling period. The results reported show that the lowest and highest levels of semen volume were recorded in winter (0.62±0.11 ml) and in autumn (1.23±0.09 ml) respectively. The pH value and total number in sperm showed a uniform pattern with low scores during breeding season and high scores in non-breeding season. High percentage of live sperm was recorded during the summer and high percentage of abnormal sperm was recorded during winter.

3 tables, 26 ref

006785   VARSHNEY S, KAPOOR R T (Amity Univ, Noida- 201 313, Email: rkapoor@amity.edu) : Forensic entomology: Opportunities and challenges. Everyman's Sci 2019, 54(4), 228-33.

This article highlights the significance of insects and modern entomological approaches in the crime investigation.

5 ref

006789   WESTBROOK J, FLEISCHER S, JAIRAM S, MEAGHER R, NAGOSHI R (Agriculture Dep, Agricultural Research Service, Texas- 77845, Email: jwestbrook49@gmail.com) : Multigenerational migration of fall armyworm, a pest insect. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02919.

Multigenerational insect migration commonly expands poleward, but meteorological influences are not clearly understood. We coupled biological and physical processes for the agricultural and invasive pest Spodoptera frugiperda (fall armyworm), by modeling its seasonal migration, and comparing simulated migrations to observed captures, and population genetic markers, at a continental scale. Simulations corrobo-rated the spatial distribution and mixing of Texas and Florida source populations defined by genetic haplo-types. Positive relationships were found between first weeks of simulated and observed immigration, and between genetic and simulated metrics. The capacity to project biotic-, migratory-, and meteorology-induced shifts in insect distributions will aid strategic implementation of crop protection measures and economic analyses of host-resistant germplasm deployment in response to a warming climate.

6 illus, 46 ref

006780   SONN J M, UTZ R M, RICHARDS-ZAWACK C L (Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Dep, Tulane Univ, Louisiana, USA, Email: cori.zawacki@pitt.edu) : Effects of latitudinal, seasonal, and daily temperature variations onchytrid fungal infections in a North American frog. Ecosphere 2019, 10(11), e02892.

As human activities alter environmental conditions, the emergence and spread of disease repre-sents an increasing threat to wildlife. Studies that examine how host–pathogen relationships play out across seasons and latitudes can serve as proxies for understanding how natural and anthropogenic changes in climate may influence infection and disease dynamics. Amphibians are ideal host organisms for studying the impacts of climate on disease because they are ectothermic and threatened by chytridiomycosis, a recently emerged and globally important disease caused by fungal pathogens in the genus Batrachochytrium. Previous studies suggest that temperature affects the interaction between amphibians and Batrachochytrium pathogens.However, a clearer understanding of this host–pathogen–environment interaction is needed to predict how the risk of chytridiomycosis will vary in space and time. Here, we investigate how daily, seasonal, and latitudinal variations in temperature affect the incidence and impact of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd) infection in a broadly distributed host, the northern cricket frog (Acris crepitans), using a combination offield and laboratory studies. In a four-year field study conducted at three latitudes, we found that daily maximum air temperature over a 15-d period prior to sampling best predicted patterns of Bd infection and that the lightest infection loads followed periods when these temperatures exceeded 25 °C. In a laboratory exposure experiment, we found pathogen load and mortality to be greater at temperatures that mimic winter temperatures at the southern extent of this host’s range than for scenarios that mimic temperature conditions experienced in other areas and seasons. Taken together, our findings suggest that changes in temperature across time-scales and latitudes interact to influence the dynamics of infection and disease in temperate amphibians.

6 illus, 1 table, 87 ref

006775   SINGH A (Zoology Dep, Swami Vivekanand Subharti Univ, Meerut- 250 005, Email: anamikaanu2011@rediffmail.com) : Infestation and population growth of stored grain pest C. chinensis in two varieties of arhar during different seasons. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2019, 38A(2), 138-43.

Pulses are cheapest source of dietary proteins in developing countries like India where per capital consumption of animal protein is very low. Dietary proteins are important for growth repair and development. Callosobruchus chinensis, pulse beetle, is a serious pest of pulses. The insect pest damages the pulse grain in agriculture field as well as in storage. Present work has been done to assess the population growth of pulse beetle in important pulse whole grains during different seasons, at different temperature and relative humidity. Significant population growth of pulse beetle was observed during different months of the year. Pulse selected for study was Arhar. Population growth was found to be affected by parental population as well as atmospheric temperature and humidity. Infestation was observed from the end of the month of March. Bold variety of pulse was more susceptible for infestation as compared to the smaller one. Significant growth of insect population was observed from end of the month of March to October. Population growth was found to be increased with the increasing temperature and RH %. Average no. of eggs emerged was more at higher parental population. Maximum Average number of eggs laid /female was found to be 78.8-85.4 in pulses of present study at atmospheric temperature Min. 23.6 ⁰C-32 ⁰C Max. 33.6 ⁰C-33.7 ⁰C and RH 62%. Maximum growth of insect population was observed during Rainy season when temperature varies from min23.6 ⁰C-25.9 ⁰C and max 33.6 ⁰C-33.7 ⁰C and RH 62%-71%.

2 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

006773   SHINDE N G, GAIKWAD D M, VEDPATHAK A N (K.J. Somaiya Coll, Maharashtra- 423 601, Email: dr.nitinshinde2012@gmail.com) : Consequences due to injection of cerebral ganglionic extract on neurosecretory cells in freshwater bivalve: Lamellidens Corrianus. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2019, 38A(2), 132-7.

Regarding the effect of neurosecretory cells as compare to marine pelecypodes less data is available on freshwater bivalves, considering this freshwater bivalve molluscs Lamellidens corrianus taken for the present study. This species abundantly distributed along the banks of Godavari river in Jayakwadi backwaters (Nathsagar) at Paithan, Maharashtra. These bivalves were collected, acclimatized and used for experiment. Sets were prepared, one control and another cerebral ganglionic extract injected group. Seasonal study of this revealed that cerebral ganglia play an important role, mostly inhibitory one in the regulation of gonad development and spawning. Neurosecretory cells were studied showed prominent type A and B cells.

1 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

006771   REKHA R, KUMARI U, KUMAR A (Zoology Dep, Mahant Darshan Das Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Bihar- 842 002, Email: asmitvibhu@gmail.com) : Nutritional aspect of type-2 diabetes mellitus. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2019, 38A(2), 126-31.

India is diabetes capital with home to 69.1 million people with DM, the second highest number of cases after china. 425 million people worldwide, or 8.8 % of adults 20-79 years, are estimated to have diabetes. Urgent solution for reducing the predominance of this illness will require particularly the modifiable components including physical action, weight and diet. The role of nutrition for the management and prevention of diabetes is significant. The person suffering from type 2 diabetes are suggested by reasonable drug however dietary rules are frequently ignored and they give least unassuming consideration regarding diet while dietary guidelines are very important to achieve glycemic control. Give dietary guidelines to people who are suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this retrospective study dietary guidelines for diabetic patients are summarized as given by Indian Institute of nutrition and WHO. Help is also taken from various websites and journals to collect relevant information. The study covers the original article of recent seven years i.e. from 2011 to 2017. Variety of different food patterns related to diabetes risk. High consumption of minimally processed plant based foods; consumption of monounsaturated fat; low- tomoderate consumption of dairy products, fish, and poultry; low consumption of red meat; and low-to- moderate consumption of wine with meals have been associated with lower incident of type 2 diabetes.

3 tables, 18 ref

006766   NANWARE S S, BHURE D B, UPADHYAY S K (Biotechnology Dep, Maharishi Markandeshwar Univ, Mullana-Ambala- 133 207, Email: sushil.upadhyay@mmumullana.org) : Diversity of tapeworms in piscean, avian and mammalian hosts from Marathwada region (M.S.) India. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2019, 38A(2), 120-5.

Vertebrates are the important components of the ecosystem. They are very important from the ecological and economical point of view. Man uses many fishes, birds and mammals as delicious and nutritious food. These fishes, birds and mammals are known to harbour a number of parasitic infections i.e. trematodes, cestodes and nematodes which cause deterioration in their health and increase the rate of mortality of hosts. The flesh of fishes, birds and mammals are not properly cooked, therefore, encysted stages are entered inside the body of human and cause dangerous diseases to human beings. The study was undertaken on the status of diversity of piscean, avian and mammalian tapeworms of genus Senga, Gangesia, Proteocephalus, Cotugnia, Davainea, Raillietina, Valipora, Mogheia, Moniezia, Stilesia and Avitellina from Marathwada region (M.S.) India. Tapeworms were collected and studied from different freshwater fishes, birds and mammals; and identified with morphotaxonomical keys and advanced numerical tools.

1 table, 47 ref

006764   MAHAMED-ALLAHOUM R L, KHELFANE-GOUCEM K, LARDJANE N, MEDJDOUB-BENSAAD F (Biological Sciences and Agricultural Sciences Dep, Mouloud Mammeri Univ, Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria, Email: radialamara@gmail.com) : Population dynamics of the potato tuber moth Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) upon different potato varieties grown in Northern Algeria. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2019, 38A(2), 110-9.

Monitoring of population dynamics, varietal resistance and oviposition (depending on the foliar side and plant foliar layer) of the potato tuber moth Phthorimaea operculella Zeller were studied in the field, upon four potato varieties: Spunta, Kenza, Crisper and Désirée cultivated under the same growing conditions. Investigation results showed a positive correlation between flight of P. operculella adults and the increase in temperatures recorded from April to May 2016. A significant difference (P = 0.02) appeared between the four varieties for the number of males caught by pheromone traps; potato tuber moth showed a marked preference for the spunta variety with an average of 6±1.46 adults per trap. Oviposition of potato tuber moth females was significantly higher on the lower sides of potato leaves compared to the upper sides, excepted for the crisper variety where recorded differences were not significant (P = 0, 07) . Egg density laid upon the foliage did not show significant differences between the plant foliar layers (upper, middle and lower) in all the varieties studied. Combined with appropriate cultural practices and the rational use of chemical control, potato varietal resistance to P. operculella could be an essential tool in IPM programs for this pest insect.

3 illus, 4 tables, 40 ref

006787   VIJAY P, SHARMA L, SEHGAL N (Zoology Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi- 110 007, Email: neetasehgal.du@gmail.com) : Protein profiling and precursor-product relationship between vitellogenin and lipovitellin in the African catfish, Clarias gariepinus. Bull Pure Appl Sci-Sect A 2019, 38A(2), 67-81.

Nutrients are deposited in the eggs as yolk to provide energy and to build embryonic structures. Lipovitellin, the major egg-yolk protein was purified from the oocytes of Clarias gariepinus. The amino acid sequences of lipovitellin (Lv) peptides obtained by Mass spectrometry were mapped on its precursor protein, Vitellogenin (Vg). Advanced proteomic tools, PAGE {one dimensional (1-D) and two dimensional (2-D)} and mass spectrometry were employed to characterise Vg. Similarity in sequences of peptidesre-established the precursor-product relationship between Vg and Lv. Partial mRNA transcript of vg gene was translated into amino acid sequence that corresponded to conserved domains of Vitellogenin in NCBI database. Phylogenetic analysis of the nucleotide sequence of African catfish vg gene revealed a close similarity with the fishes of the order Siluriformes.

4 illus, 2 tables, 53 ref

005476   TANCREDO K R, MARTINS M L (Aquaculture Dep, Federal Univ of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil, Email: roberta.tancredo@gmail.com) : Three previous recorded species of dactylogyrus diesing, 1850 (Monogenea: Dactylogyridae) infecting cultured Carassius auratus in southern Brazil. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 522–7.

The present study aimed to contribute to the monogenean dactylogyrids that occur in C. auratus from an ornamental fish farm in southern Brazil. Samples of goldfish were obtained from a fish farm and the gills were removed and analysed to identify the species of Dactylogyrus to determine the levels of infestation. Three species of Dactylogyrus were found in the gills: Dactylogyrus anchoratus, Dactylogyrus baueri and Dactylogyrus formosus. The most prevalent species was D. baueri [prevalence (P) = 70 %, mean intensity (MI) = 2.14 ± 1.21, mean abundance (MA) = 1.5 ± 1.43], followed by D. anchoratus (P = 60 %, MI = 1.67 ± 0.81, MA = 1.00 ± 1.05) and D. formosus (P = 30 %, MI = 1.66 ± 1.15, MA = 0.5 ± 1.64). Dactylogyrus anchoratus shares morphological characteristics with D. arcuatus by the similarity in shape of the haptor parts. Dactylogyrus baueri shows similarity to D. dulkeiti in relation to the pair of anchors and accessory piece of the male copulatory complex. Dactylogyrus formosus presents an accessory piece with branch and total length of the anchors smaller than D. anchoratus. This study reports the occurrence of D. anchoratus, D. baueri and D. formosus in goldfish cultured in southern Brazil. These monogenean species have been described in cyprinid fishes that have a wide geographic distribution with the result of the dissemination of the host in the world.

1 illus, 1 table, 39 ref

005447   KUNDU B, BANDYOPADHYAY P K (Zoology Dep, Kalyani Univ, Kalyani- 741 235, Email: prabir0432@hotmail.com) : An annotated list of aseptate gregarine parasites (Protozoa; Apicomplexa; Sporozoa) infecting oligochaete hosts. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 487–97.

Gregarines are mainly coelozoic parasites belonging to the protozoan phylum Apicomplexa. The present communication deals with 137 species belonging to the genera Aikinetocystis Gates, 1926; Apolocystis Cognetii de Martiis, 1923; Dirhynchocystis Cognetii de Martiis, 1921; Enterocystis Tsvetkov, 1926; Nematocystis Hesse 1909; Rhynchocystis Hesse 1909; and Zygocystis Von Stain, 1848. This study was conducted to explore the diversity of gregarine parasites infecting the oligochaete hosts of the world.

73 ref

005417   ARUSHA K, PRASADAN P K (Zoology Dep, Kannur Univ, Kerala- 670 645, Email: pkprasadan@gmail.com) : A parapleurolophocercous cercaria and a furcocercous cercaria from the freshwater gastropods of the western ghats. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 479–86.

Two cercariae were recorded from freshwater snails, one each from Digoniostoma pulchella and Indoplanorbis exustus and named Cercaria sp. III Western Ghats n.sp. and Cercaria sp. IV Western Ghats n.sp. respectively. Cercaria sp. III Western Ghats n.sp. is distome, ocellate and pharyngeate with peculiar spines on the tail, belongs to the Parapleurolophocerca group. This cercaria has 10 pairs of penetration glands in two groups; thick walled large excretory bladder and 10 pairs of flame cells including a pair arising from the caudal excretory canal. Cercaria sp. III Western Ghats n.sp develops inside the sausage shaped redia. Developed cercariae were found outside the rediae, in the host tissue. The furcocercous cercaria, Cercaria sp. IV Western Ghats n.sp is elongate, non ocellate, pharyngeate and longifurcocercous with three crowns of spines beside mouth, three pairs of penetration glands, small excretory bladder and twenty-two flame cells including four flame cells in the tail stem. Asexual multiplication of the organism occurs inside the sporocyst in the hepatopancreas of I. exustus. The present paper reports two new cercariae with their intra-molluscan stages recovered from the snails of the Wayanad region of the Western Ghats, and their morphological and morphometric comparison with the related species to determine their systematic positions.

2 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

005465   ROY M, SINGHA B, DHAR D, ROYCHOUDHURY S (Zoology Dep, Gurucharan Coll, Silchar, Assam, Email: babysingha@gmail.com) : Prevalence of Giardia intestinalis with other co-infecting parasites in Barak Valley, Assam, India: A molecular approach. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 426–42.

Giardia intestinalis was included in the World Health Organization’s Neglected Disease Initiative in 2004 as it may range from asymptomatic to chronic or severe diarrhoea and chronic disorders post-infection. The present study aimed to find out the rate of sole infection of G. intestinalis and co-infection of this with other protozoan parasites among the inhabitants of Barak Valley region of Southern Assam by conventional and molecular detection. A total of 1168 samples were collected from different groups of individuals, all the collected samples were subjected to microscopy after specific staining by Lugol’s iodine solution, Trichrome staining and modified ZN staining procedures. Microscopically positive samples were further confirmed by PCR using specific primer sets. Of the total no. of samples, 267 (22.85%) were positive by PCR for G. intestinalis with a little higher rate of infection in female (24.06 %) (OR = 1.2192, CI = 0.9262 to 1.6049) than male (21.27 %). The rate of infection is comparatively higher (25.93 %) in the age group of 0-5 years (OR = 1.9149, CI = 1.2558 to 2.9200). In 196 samples G. intestinalis co-existence was observed and detected by PCR with some other protozoan parasites like Entamoeba spp., Cryptosporidium spp. and Blastocystis spp. The rate of infection was higher (31.96 %) among the participants who collected water from river. Least of the participants showed diarrhoeal symptoms (18.18 %) but majority (28.45 %) complained for having abdominal cramps (OR = 1.3402, CI = 0.8815 to 1.7855). Among the human infective assemblages, assemblage specific molecular detection revealed the rate of infection of assemblage B was comparatively higher (60.30 %) than assemblage A.

13 illus, 12 tables, 23 ref

005467   SANIL N K, JANARDANAN K P (Zoology Dep, Calicut Univ, Kerala- 673 635, Email: nksanil@gmail.com) : Four new species of virgulate xiphidiocercariae infecting the freshwater snail, Bithynia (Digoniostoma) pulchella (Benson, 1836) in Malabar, Kerala. J Parasit Dis 2019, 43(3), 368–78.

The present paper describes four new species of virgulate xiphidiocercariae infecting the freshwater gastropod, Bithynia (Digoniostoma) pulchella (Benson, 1836) collected from Malabar, Kerala. Cercaria sp. XXII Malabar n. sp. has a spinose body and tail; four pairs of penetration glands; short, narrow oesophagus; a pair of short, unequal caeca; bicornuate excretory vesicle and 18 pairs of flame cells. Cercaria sp. XXIII Malabar n. sp. is characterized by an oval, spinose body; aspinose tail; daggershaped stylet; medially fused virgula; globular pharynx; short oesophagus; three pairs of penetration glands; bicornuate, ‘V’-shaped excretory bladder, and 18 pairs of flame cells. Cercaria sp. XXIV Malabar n. sp. has a spinose body and tail, medially fused virgula, muscular pharynx, short prepharynx and oesophagus; four pairs of penetration glands; bicornuate, ‘V’-shaped excretory bladder, and 12 pairs of flame cells. Cercaria sp. XXV Malabar n. sp. has a spinose body, aspinose tail, sac-like virgula; globular pharynx, narrow oesophagus; short caeca; four pairs of penetration glands; transversely elongated, bicornuate excretory bladder, and 12 pairs of flame cells. All four cercariae developed in sporocysts within the digestive gland of B. (D.) pulchella. Morphology and morphometry of the cercariae are compared with related species to establish their systematic position.

4 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

005469   SHIMOMURA K, ISHII D, NOJIMA S (Food Dep, Tokyo Univ of Agriculture, Hokkaido, Japan, Email: sn207003@nodai.ac.jp) : Behavioral and morphological studies of the membranous tergal structure of male Blattella germanica (Blattodea: Ectobiidae) during courtship. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 100.

The male German cockroach Blattella germanica (L.) exhibits a characteristic courtship display by raising its wings, turning around, and exposing its tergal glands on the seventh and eighth tergites to the female. The male secretes a courtship pheromone from the tergal glands which induces a strong feeding response in the female, facilitating copulation. Upon multiple, detailed microscopic observations of the courtship display, we found that the male markedly expanded the intersegmental area between the sixth and seventh tergites, but deflated this area as soon as it perceived a tactile stimulus on its back by the female, while continuing to raise its wings and exposing the tergal glands. The intersegmental area is composed of two parts: a membranous posterior part of the sixth tergite, and the regular intertergal membrane. The membranous posterior part was found to be crescentic in shape and clearly separated from the intertergal membrane by traverse tongue-shaped plates. Scanning electron microscopic observation revealed that there were many orifices or pores in the membranous crescentic zone, and its morphological structure was clearly different from that of the intertergal membrane. Our observations suggest that the crescentic zone is likely a secretory gland that may play an important role at the beginning of the male courtship display, different from the tergal glands.

7 illus, 26 ref

005428   BODDEN J M, HAZLEHURST J A, RANKIN E E W (Entomology Dep, California Univ, California, Berkeley, Email: jenny.hazlehurst@csueastbay.edu) : Floral traits predict frequency of defecation on flowers by foraging bumble bees. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 91.

Flowers may become inoculated with pathogens that can infect bees and other critical pollinators, but the mechanisms of inoculation remain unclear. During foraging, bees may regurgitate or defecate directly onto flower parts, which could inoculate flowers with pollinator pathogens and lead to subsequent disease transmission to floral visitors. We tested if captive eastern bumble bees (Bombus impatiens) (Cresson) (Hymenoptera: Apidae) defecate on floral surfaces during foraging and if flower shape played a role in the probability of defecation and the quantity of feces deposited on floral surfaces. Captive Bombus impatiens were fed a solution of fluorescent dye and sucrose, then allowed to forage freely on flowers of a variety of shapes in a flight cage. Flowers were then examined under ultraviolet light for fluorescing fecal matter. We found that bumble bees did defecate on floral surfaces during foraging and that composite flowers with a large area of disk flowers were the most likely to have feces on them. Our results point to defecation by bumble bees during foraging as a potential mechanism for inoculation of flowers with pollinator pathogens and suggest that flower shape could play a significant role in inoculation.

1 table, 29 ref

005452   MCLAUGHLIN G M, DEARDEN P K (Biochemistry Dep, Otago Univ, Dunedin- 9054, New Zealand, Email: mclge271@student.otago.ac.nz) : Invasive insects: Management methods explored. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 85.

Invasive insect species can act as a plague across the globe, capable of vast expansion and rapid, proliferate reproduction. The spread of pathogens of serious diseases such as malaria and Zika virus and damages to agricultural crops number some of the afflictions invasive insects provide to humans alone. Additionally, an escape from predators can fail to keep invasive insects in check, providing potential threats such as extra resource competition to native species when insects invade. A variety of methods are employed to combat these invasive species, each with their own varying levels of success. Here, we explore the more traditional methods of invasive insect pest control, such as pesticides and biological control. In lieu of several unintended consequences resulting from such practices, we suggest some should be abandoned. We evaluate the potential of new techniques, in particular, those with a genetic component, regarding the costs, benefits and possible consequences of implementing them. And finally, we consider which techniques should be the focus of future research, if we truly wish to manage or even eradicate invasive insects in their introduced lands.

2 illus, 1 table, 108 ref

005429   BOPPRE M, FISCHER O W, FREITAG H, KIESEL A (Albert-Ludwigs-Univ, Breisgau, Germany, Email: boppre@fzi.uni-freiburg.de) : Crystal macrosetae: Novel scales and bristles in male arctiine moths (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) filled with crystallizing material. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 99.

Scales, exoskeletal features characteristic of the Lepidoptera, occur in enormous structural and functional diversity. They cover the wing membranes and other body parts and give butterflies and moths their often stunning appearance. Generally, the patterns made by scales are visual signals for intra- and interspecific communication. In males, scales and/or bristles also make up the androconial organs, which emit volatile signals during courtship. Here, a structurally and putative functionally novel type of scales and bristles is reported: ‘crystal macrosetae’. These lack trabeculae and windows, are made up by a very thin and flexible envelope only and contain crystallizing material. In ‘crystal scales’, there is a flat surface ornamentation of modified ridges, while ‘crystal bristles’ often show large protrusions. Crystal macrosetae usually cannot be reliably recognized without destruction. Apparently, they serve as containers for large amounts of material that is viscous in living moths, highly hygroscopic, crystallizes when specimens dry up, and can be visualized by scanning electron microscopy. Crystal macrosetae occur in males only, always associated with or making up androconial organs located on various parts of the body, and have numerous forms with diverse surface ornamentation across many species and genera. The newly identified structures and the discovery of crystallizing material in scales and bristles raise many questions and could shed new light on ontogenetic development of macrosetae, and on the biology and physiology as well as the evolution and systematics of Arctiinae. There is evidence that crystal macrosetae occur in other moths too.

12 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

005478   WANG P, FURLONG M J, WALSH T K, ZALUCKI M P (Queensland Univ, Queensland- 4072, Australia, Email: m.zalucki@uq.edu.au) : Moving to keep fit: feeding behavior and movement of Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on artificial diet with different protein: carbohydrate ratios. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 98.

Insect herbivores can modify their foraging behavior to obtain a balanced food intake, and they tend to move between food sources with different nutrient values. We investigated this movement in early instar larvae of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)  using a putative optimal artificial diet (OP) and high protein (HP) and high carbohydrate (HC) artificial diets based on protein (p) and carbohydrate (c) ratios. Larvae were allowed to choose between the same kind of diet cubes (effectively no-choice), or diet cubes with different p: c ratios. In no-choice tests, we found that first instar larvae remained longest on OP diet and spent the least time on HC diet, while third instar larvae remained longest on HC diet and spent least time on OP diet. First instar larvae moved the most when provided with HC diet, while third instar larvae moved most when provided with OP diet. However, both stages moved the least when allowed to choose between diet cubes with different p: c ratios. The relative growth rate decreased when larvae increased their movement, but this influence was not evident when larvae fed on HC diet. Larvae that fed only on HC diet had the highest relative growth rate, followed by larvae with access to all diets simultaneously, indicating a behavior to mix nutrient intake. We relate these findings to behavior of this major pest species under field conditions.

5 illus, 52 ref

005414   AJAHA A, BOUAYAD N, AARAB A, RHARRABE K (Abdelmalek Essaadi Univ, Larache- 92000, Email: ajaha.ayoub@gmail.com) : Effect of 20-hydroxyecdysone, a phytoecdysteroid, on development, digestive, and detoxification enzyme activities of Tribolium castaneum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 97.

Plants present a delimited reservoir of biologically active compounds. Many plants synthesize several compounds of secondary metabolism, such as alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolics, steroids, etc. Such compounds are generally thought to be involved in plant–insect interactions. Phytoecdysteroids are a class of chemicals that plants synthesize; these compounds are analogues of molting hormones produced by insects. In this work, the effect of the 20-hydroxyecdysone, which is a molecule that belongs to the family of phytoecdysteroids, was tested on an insect pest, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst). Firstly, the effect of this molecule on post-embryonic development parameters was tested after ingestion at 300, 600, 900, and 1,200 ppm. Secondly, the effect of the 20-hydroxyecdysone was also tested on the biological parameters (proteins, alpha-amylase, detoxification enzymes). The results of the post-embryonic parameters test showed an important induction of larval mortality and a significant reduction of pupation and adult emergence rates. On the other hand, the test on the biological parameters showed that the 20-hydroxyecdysone caused a significant decrease in the levels of soluble proteins in treated larvae. In addition, the alpha-amylase activity was significantly inhibited by the ingestion of the phytoecdysteroid. And there was also a disruption of detoxification enzymes. The whole of the disturbances recorded in this work prove that phytoecdysteroids are thought to have potential value on T. castaneum control.

3 illus, 2 tables, 49 ref

005481   ZUKOWSKI J, SU N-Y (Entomology and Nematology Dep, Florida Univ, Gainesville, Florida, Email: jzukows2@ufl.edu) : Cuticular permeability, percent body water loss, and relative humidity equilibria comparisons of four termite species. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 90.

This study compared percentage of total body water (%TBW), water loss rate under desiccative conditions, and cuticular permeability (CP) of four termite species (Order: Blattodea, Infraorder: Isoptera) from different habitats, including one subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae), one dampwood termite, Neotermes jouteli (Banks)  (Blattodea: Kalotermitidae), one ‘wetwood’ termite, Cryptotermes cavifrons Banks (Blattodea: Kalotermitidae), and one drywood termite, Cryptotermes brevis Walker (Blattodea: Kalotermitidae). There was no consistent pattern associated with the habitat relative humidity (RH) levels and the %TBW among the four termite species tested. Because C. formosanus forage for food, its lowest %TBW may be due to its ability to access water sources, and its need to be more mobile than kalotermitids that remain in wood. Body water loss rate and CP were lower for xeric species such as Cr. brevis than hydric species such as N. jouteli. An RH equilibrium represents the capacity of termite water retention mechanisms that may include the physical structure of cuticular layers, behavioral manipulation of natural openings, and physiological means. As with water loss rate and CP data, RH equilibria were lower for xeric species such as Cr. brevis than hydric species such as N. jouteli. Moreover, RH equilibria for dead individuals of the four termite species were significantly higher than those of live individuals, indicating dead termites lost more water after losing their physiological and behavioral means of retaining water. RH equilibria represent termites’ capability in water retention, and there is a strong linear relationship between RH equilibria and CP values. Hence, RH equilibria may offer simpler alternatives to CP estimates.

3 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

005431   CERDA H, CARPIO C, LEDEZMA-CARRIZALEZ A C, SANCHEZ J, RAMOS L, MUNOZ-SHUGULI C, ANDINO M, CHIURATO M (Fujian Agriculture and Forestry Univ, Fujian- 350 002, Email: hugocerda04@gmail.com) : Effects of aqueous extracts from amazon plants on Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) and Brevicoryne brassicae (Homoptera: Aphididae) in laboratory, semifield, and field trials. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 68.

We evaluated the insecticide activities of aqueous extracts of five species of plants from the Ecuadorian Amazon (Deguelia utilis (ACSm.) AMGAZEVEDO (Leguminosae: Papilionoideae), Xanthosoma purpuratum K. Krause (Alismatales: Araceae), Clibadium sp. (Asteracea: Asterales), Witheringia solanacea L'Hér (Solanales: Solanaceae), and Dieffenbachia costata H. Karst. ex Schott (Alismatales: Araceae)) plus Cymbopogon citratus Stapf. (Poales: Poaceae) under laboratory, open-field conditions in Plutella xylostella L. (diamondback moth), and semifield conditions in Brevicoryne brassicae L. Tap water was used as a negative control, and synthetic insecticides were used as positive controls. In a laboratory bioassay, aqueous extracts of D. utilis resulted in P. xylostella larval mortality. In contrast to chlorpyrifos, all botanicals were oviposition deterrents. All extracts except Clibadium sp. decreased leaf consumption by P. xylostella larvae. In semifield experiments, D. utilis, Clibadium sp., D. costata, and X. purpuratum initially controlled the population of B. brassicae, but 7 d after application, all botanicals except the D. utilis lost their ability to control the pest. In field experiments on broccoli crops in both dry and rainy seasons, the extracts did not control the abundance of P. xylostella, where as a mixture of two insecticides (chlorpyrifos + lambda cyhalothrin) did. These results show some incongruences from laboratory to semifield and field conditions, indicating that more studies, including the identification of the chemicals responsible for the biological activity, its stability, and the effects of chemotypes on insecticidal activity, are needed to understand the potential of these plant species as botanical insecticides. 

5 tables, 61 ref

005461   PETERSON M K, APPEL A G, HU X P (Entomology and Plant Pathology Dep, Auburn Univ, Auburn, Alabama, Email: journals.permissions@oup.com) : Instar determination of Blattella asahinai (Blattodea: Ectobiidae) from digital measurements of the pronotum using gaussian mixture modeling and the number of cercal annuli. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 87.

The Asian cockroach, Blattella asahinai Mizukubo, has expanded its range throughout the southeastern United States since its introduction into Florida. Unlike its closest relative, the German cockroach, Blattella germanica (L.), B. asahinai lives outdoors and can fly. There is little information on the biology and development of B. asahinai, including the number of instars during nymphal development. To estimate the number of instars of B. asahinai, nymphs were photographed, sexed, and the lengths and widths of their pronota were measured digitally. The number of instars of B. asahinai was estimated using Gaussian mixture models with the pronotal data. The most probable model and its clusters were selected to assign individuals to an instar. Instars were also determined by counting the number of cercal annuli of nymphs. Both clustering and cercal annuli indicated that B. asahinai most frequently had six instars when reared at 30° C. Growth did not strictly follow the Brooks-Dyar Rule, because nymphs had different numbers of instars and different growth patterns. Although Gaussian mixture models are not efficient for field sampling experiments, digital measurements may provide a way to estimate instars with live specimens in development studies without handling the animals in a way that may alter growth.

7 illus, 6 tables, 71 ref

005458   PAN B-Y, LI G-Y, WU Y, ZHOU Z-S, ZHOU M, LI C (Biology and Engineering of Environment Dep, Guiyang Univ, Guiyang- 550 005, Email: lican790108@163.com) : Glucose utilization in the regulation of chitin synthesis in brown planthopper. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 81.

Glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) and hexokinase (HK) are two key enzymes in the glycolysis and gluconeogenesis pathways, which catalyze the synthesis and degradation of glucose in insects, respectively. G6Pase and HK play an important role in insect growth by regulating the metabolism of glucose, leading to the efficient metabolism of other macromolecules. However, it is unclear whether these genes could be investigated for pest control through their actions on chitin metabolism. We studied the potential functions of G6Pase and HK genes in the regulation of chitin metabolism pathways by RNAi technology. Interference with G6Pase expression did not affect trehalose and chitin metabolism pathways in brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål). However, knockdown of the HK gene resulted in a significant decrease of expression of genes associated with the trehalose metabolic pathway but had no significant effect on trehalase activity, trehalose content, or glucogen content. Additionally, HK knockdown resulting in downregulation of the genes involved in chitin metabolism in the brown planthopper. These insects also showed wing deformities and difficulty in molting to varying degrees. We suggest that the silencing of HK expression directly inhibited the decomposition of glucose, leading to impaired chitin synthesis.

6 illus, 2 tables, 68 ref

005455   MUTIKA G N, PARKER A G, VREYSEN M J B (Vienna International Centre, Vienna, Austria, Email: gratian.mutika@gmail.com) : Tolerance to a combination of low temperature and sterilizing irradiation in male Glossina palpalis gambiensis (Diptera: Glossinidae): Simulated transport and release conditions. J Insect Sci 2019, 19(5), 82.

Recently, aerial delivery of sterilized adult tsetse flies has been developed based on the release of chilled adult sterile males. The long-distance transport of irradiated male tsetse pupae for chilled adult release systems requires exposure of the mature pupae to irradiation and to low temperatures for both the pupae and adults. The effect of these treatments on mating of adult Glossina palpalis gambiensis (Vanderplank, Diptera: Glossinidae) males was investigated. Male G. p. gambiensis pupae were stored at 10°C for 5 d and irradiated with 110 Gy within the first 24 h of cold storage. In addition, to simulate a chilled adult release environment, 6-d-old adult males were stored at 5.1 ± 0.4°C for 6 or 30 h. Mating performance was compared to untreated controls in walk-in field cages. A significantly lower proportion of males that had been irradiated and stored at low temperature succeeded in securing a mating compared to untreated males. Premating time, copulation duration and spermathecal fill were similar. Insemination levels were slightly lower for adult males stored at low temperature for 30 h compared to 6 h or control. Although the mating behavior of the males was affected by the treatments given, the data presented confirm the suitability of using long-distance transport of chilled and irradiated male G. p. gambiensis pupae followed by releasing the emerged adult male flies using a chilled adult release system. However, the data indicate that the chilling duration of the adults should be minimized.

2 illus, 57 ref

005426   BHONSLE O, SHRIVASTAVA C S, JAIN R, GAHERWAL S (Zoology Dep, Govt Holkar Science Coll, Indore- 452 017) : A study on avian fauna at Pipliyapala regional park, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2019, 116, 44-52.

Urban habitats in the form of parks and gardens support a large population of birds, but their presence in cities is usually overlooked. Hence, an attempt was made to record the species diversity at Pipliyapala Regional Park, Indore. This is the first ever avifaunal study carried out at the Park, where a total of 79 species of birds belonging to 15 orders and 40 families were recorded. Of these 79 species, 64 were found to be resident and 15 were winter visitors. Only one species was found to be IUCN-listed, i.e. River Tern in the Near Threatened category (NT). A total of 21 species of birds were recorded breeding inside the Park. The results of Relative Diversity (RD) Index showed that the Family Ardeidae (RD value = 8.8) was dominant in the Park. Interestingly, Bonelli's Eagle was recorded for the first time in this area. Seasonal variation was observed in a few resident bird species, suggesting their local movement. Breeding of some species and the presence of a large number of migratory species in the Park during winter reflects its good ecological health. However, unwanted human interference and the menace of stray animals were also noted.

39 ref

005442   KATWATE U, APTE D (Bombay Natural History Society, Mumbai- 400 001) : Amphibian diversity in two different landscapes of Konkan region, Northern Western Ghats, India. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2019, 116, 9-21.

We present the results of our amphibian species inventory surveys conducted in Konkan region, part of the Western Ghats of Maharashtra. In a three-month study period, a total of 18 species of amphibians (17 anurans and one caecilian) belonging to 13 genera and seven families were recorded. Habitats including lateritic plateaus and forest areas were studied for amphibian diversity and population density. Forest habitat supported the maximum species occurrence, whereas the density of amphibians per unit area was found to be the maximum on plateaus. Rare and endemic species were highly influenced by habitat variables like canopy cover, mode of tadpole development, habitat specificity, stream persistence, humidity, threat status, and endemism. Occurrence of endemic and threatened species like Pseudophilautus amboli, Uperodon mormorata, and records of a lesser known caecilian like Gegeneophis seshachari show the importance of this area for conservation prioritization. Anthropogenic threats listed during the study are also discussed. This baseline data will serve as an asset for further monitoring and determining action plans for amphibian conservation in the Konkan region.

43 ref

005464   ROSHNATH R, SHASHIKUMAR C (Zoology Dep, Central Univ of Kerala, Kerala- 671 320, Email: csashikumar@gmail.com) : Conservation challenges of the Heronries in Kerala. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2019, 116, 63-7.

Sixteen species of colonial waterbirds are known to breed in Kerala, with most of their breeding sites located near human habitations. The proximity of heronries to human habitation areas makes them prone to various anthropogenic disturbances. Urban expansion and infrastructure developments are the major causes leading to the decline and loss of breeding sites in recent years. In general, heronries in human habitation areas do not get public support due to the foul smell from faecal droppings and food waste, and due to the raucous calls made by the breeding birds and their nestlings. Thus, conservation of heronries is a great challenge in Kerala, more so since none of these heronries have protected status. This paper discusses the conservation issues of the heronries of Kerala, based on surveys carried out from July to August 2015 on 188 heronries, spread across 10 districts.

24 ref

005470   SIAL N K, SATAPATHY D, KUND G C, PATRA S K, NANDA S, MISRA S K (Aquaculture P.G. Dep, Fisheries Coll, Berhampur- 760 007, Email: nabakishor12@yahoo.com) : Water quality and fish assemblages in Goalpur creek, East Coast of India. J Appl Zool Res 2019, 30(1), 78-82.

Gopalpur creek is a seasonal tidal inlet receiving seawater from Bay of Bengal and freshwater through a narrow stream, developing estuarine habitat and providing various biota belonging to freshwater, estuarine water and marine water. In the present investigation varied parameters of water qualities were ascertained. Catch per unit effort (CPUE) of dominant fishes were calculated and two groups of fish species were distinguished through cluster analysis. Mystus seenghala, Etroplus suratensis, Scylla serrata and Mugil cephalus formed one group while Penaeus monodon and P. indicus constituted the 2nd group with less similarity level.

2 illus, 18 ref

005473   SUJA S, SHERLY W E (Zoology Dep, Fatima Mata National Coll, Kollam- 691 001, Kerala, Email: sujasschnr@gmail.com) : Poisonous effects of chlorpyrifos on histological variations in the stomach of South Indian fresh water Murrel, Channa striatus (Bloch-1793). J Appl Zool Res 2019, 30(1), 58-63.

The teleost fresh water murrel, Channa striatus was exposed to sub lethal concentration (0.4 ppm) of organophosphate pesticide, chlorpyrifos for duration of 30 days. Several histopathological alterations were observed in the stomach of experimental fishes. Fishes showed severe histopathological changes like degeneration of columnar epithelial cells, degeneration of mucosa, and prominent luminal mucus secretion, degenerative changes as the outer membrane of microvilli are broken, haemorrhage in the serosa region, cells swelling, necrosis and vacuoles are recorded.

4 illus, 27 ref

005460   PAULOSE F, WILLIAMS E S (Zoology Dep, Fatima Mata National Coll, Kollam- 691001, Email: fionapaulose@gmail.com) : Food and feeding habits, and feeding intensity of a Gobiid fish, Oxyurichthys tentacularis (valenciennes, 1837) in the Ashtamudi lake, Kerala. J Appl Zool Res 2019, 30(1), 48- 57.

The importance of the knowledge of food and feeding habits of a fish in understanding its biology has been well established. Analysis of stomach content can reveal the habitat where fish feed. The composition of the diet of O.tentacularis indicated that they feed mainly on diatoms, crustaceans, molluscs, filamentous algae, foraminiferans, blue green algae, ciliophores, polychaetes etc. The present investigation revealed that this species, O. tentacularis is demersal omnivorous, bottom feeders. Inspite of the seasonal changes in diet composition not much difference is seen sex wise except for the slight difference in percentages. The specimens of O. tentacularis were collected from Ashtamudi Lake using a modified gill net (“koozhalivala”), with the help of local fishermen, from February 2016 to January 2018. A total of 720 guts were examined. To estimate the dominant food items, results of occurrence and point method have been combined to yield the Index of Preponderance. The Index of Preponderance indicates that this goby is a generalist feeder and feeds mainly on detritus, followed by diatoms. The fullness indices determined are 10.83 %, 15.55 %, 16.25 %, 19.3 % , 12.5 %, 11.52 % and 14.02 % for gorged, full, ¾ full, ½ full, ¼ full, trace and empty gut, respectively. O. tentacularis is well fed during the monsoon period compared to the other two seasons. The occurrence of empty stomach was found to be more during the peak breeding season.

4 tables, 18 ref

005459   PATIL S R, GANIGER K S, BIRADAR P M (Zoology Dep, Karnatak Univ, Dharwad- 580 003, Email: pulikeshi123@gmail.com) : Studies on growth and reproduction of the epigeic earthworm, Perionyx excavatus in different organic waste foods. J Appl Zool Res 2019, 30(1), 23-32.

The present study was undertaken to know the influence of different organic waste foods [Copper Pod Waste (CPW), Parthenium Waste (PW), Lawn Grass Waste (LGW) and Cattle Manure (CM) as control] on growth and reproduction of the epigeic earthworm, Perionyx excavatus for successful vermicomposting. One week aged five juveniles of P. excavatus were inoculated in primary decomposed all organic waste foods in triplicate. Weekly observations were made with respect to biomass, growth rate, attainment of sexual maturity and cocoon production for a period of 16 weeks. The biomass and growth rate increased slowly during initial weeks (up to 6th week), then it drastically gone up from 7th to 8 th weeks. The biomass trend was maintained up to the end of experiment where as growth rate declined soon after the maturity and commencement of cocoon production (from 9th week onwards) up to the end of the experiment (16 weeks). The mean biomass (mg) and growth rate of worms were 543.62, 543, 548.25 & 554.37 and 8115.05, 8284.85, 8259.96 & 8523.08 in CPW, PW, LGW and CM waste foods, respectively. Early sexual maturity was observed in CM (60 %) followed by CPW (40 %), LGW (40 %) and PW (20 %) on 6th week. 100 % worms get matured on 7th week in CM and on 8th week in all other organic waste foods .The cocoon production started soon after one week of sexual maturity, the trend of cocoon production was multimodal in nature throughout the experiment. The cumulative cocoon number / worm for 16 weeks and mean cocoon rate / worm / week were 12.4, 18, 15.4 and 30.1 and 1.55, 2.25, 1.92 and 3.76 in CPW, PW, LGW and CM, respectively. Based on the analysis of the results, it can be concluded that P. excavatus is efficient epigeic earthworm, voracious feeder and prolific breeder, suitable for processing of variety of non toxic organic wastes for the production of valuable vermicompost as biofertilizer for sustainable agriculture practice and worm biomass as supplementary protein feed for aquaculture and poultry industries.

5 tables, 25 ref

005454   Mumthaz P H, PADMAKUMAR K G, BINDU L (Zoology Dep, M.S.M. Coll, Alappuzha-690 502, Email: bindukylm@gmail.com) : Length-weight relationship of long whiskered catfish, Mystus gulio (HAMILTON 1822) from Vembanad lake, Kerala, India. J Appl Zool Res 2019, 30(1), 17-22.

Based on the length and weight data collected from Vembanad Lake, Kerala, length weight relationship for the ‘long whiskered catfish’ Mystus gulio has been estimated. Length-weight relationship was calculated using the equation W=aL^b , for 1241 fishes collected during July 2015 to June 2017. The values of parameter b ranged 3.002 for male, 3.114 for female and 3.071 for sexes combined. There are no significant differences between the sexes.

2 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

005437   HASAN M N, GHOSH S, MANDAL C K (Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata- 700 016, Email: nhasan.mld@gmail.com) : Perionyx rahuli sp. nov. (Clitellata: Megascolecidae): A new earthworm species from India, reported from West Bengal. J Appl Zool Res 2019, 30(1), 13-6.

Perionyx rahuliis a new species of earthworm collected from Jorpokhri, Darjeeling district (Latitude 27º 2' 9.6252" N and 88º 15' 45.6192" E) reported from the state of West Bengal in India with features of elongated body. This species belongs to Family Megascolecidae (9 genus in India) and genus Perionyx has 43 species in India. Two pairs of midventral spermathecal pores near BC and spermathecal pores at 6-7 and 7-8 segment are present but penial setae are absent. Testes sacs are present. Male pores are found on 1/3 of body circumference. The total length of the body is 9.3cm and breadth 6.5 mm. and anal pore is 2.5 mm in diameter. Mouth is 9 mm in diameter. Colour is pinkish brown in living condition but colour fades up in preserved state. Total number of body rings is 122. Male pores have one pair in a hole on ring 18. It is not found in any other species of the genus. Female pore one situated laterally, line shaped. Perichaetine setal arrangement on the ventral region of the body is seen. Dorsal pores started from 3-4 segments. Racemosal prostate gland is present.

8 ref

005443   KELY M R, KOUAKOU C Y, BENE J-C K, KOFFI A D, N’GUESSAN K A, TIEDOUE M R (Jean Lorougnon Guede Univ, Daloa, Cote d'Ivoire, Email: koyacel7@yahoo.fr) : Spatial distribution and period of activity of the forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) at Taï National Park, South Western Côte d'Ivoire. J Appl Biosci 2019, 133, 13542-51.

This study aims at determining the spatial distribution and period of activities of the forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis) at Taï National Park (TNP) to contribute to its conservation. Observations of elephants at different locations and time periods were recorded by using 87 camera traps with date and time-stamped settings. Cameras were installed following a systematic placement approach, and their geographic coordinates were recorded using a GPS. After 120 days of trapping, we observed a high concentration of activities in the southern areas of the park. For the period of activities, we noted that observations of unit individuals were recurrent during the day while those of elephant groups were more important at night. The south of the park where there is a large distribution of elephants would be more favourable to these animals. The small number and remoteness of large cities on the periphery of this area of the park could explain that pattern. The distribution and activity period information is useful for park surveillance by rangers. In addition, further studies are needed for a better explanation on the distribution pattern of elephants at TNP.

6 illus, 35 ref