023880   Sarkar A (Zoology Dep, Agra College, Agra-282 002) : Ostracod from river yamuna at Agra. (U.P.). J Envir Biosci 2008, 22(1), 127-8.

Study was conducted at Agra, for Yamuna river. Six study sites were selected from where samples of water was collected during 2005-2006. One species of ostracoda is being reported and described from these sites Viz., Strandesia saetosa. This is the first record of this S. Saetosa from river Yamuna at Agra. The species was found in majority from April to June. Reproductive period was from May to June.

^iia5 ref

023879   Sabhyata;Hare Govind (Zoology Dep, Harish Chandra (P.G.) College, Varanasi-221 001, Email: govind.gaurav@rediffmail.com) : Occurrence of trematodes in a fresh water fish, Rita rita (Bloch) from Varanasi, India. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 205-7.

Ocurrence of Opisthorchis pedicellata and Haplorchoides kherai (Trematoda, Digenea) in a fresh water fish, Rita rita (BL) from Varanasi, were carried out for one annual cycle i.e. October, 2003 to September, 2004. Percentage of infection of O. pedicellata was found higher than 13% and of H. kherai higher than 26%. The mean intensity of infection of O. pedicellata was above two worms per infected fish and maximum intensity of its infection was in summer (April - June) while the percentage of infection of H. kherai was below two worms per iafected fish and its infection was maximum during March.

3 illus 1 table, 10 ref

023878   Romsha S;Pasha F;Ahirwar K (Zoolog Dep, Govt M.L.B. Girls P.G. Autonomous College, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh) : Behavioural and histo-biochemical effects of pursuit on fish juveniles. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 139-42.

Carbamate compound pursuit is hazardous for fish juveniles. Fishes and their young ones shows variables colour changes under stress condition. Pursuit toxicity test in study is mainly depend upon biochemical, histochemical and the behaviour patterns of fish juveniles in relation to dose duration toxic effects. Fish fingerlings are delicate but higher categories organisms, which exhibit obvious and definite effects on pollutant. It can be well estimated by carbohydrate and protein contents in gills of fingerlings of Oreochromic mossambius.

6 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

023877   Rekha Rani;Gautam R K;Gautam K;Suneel Kumar (Zoology Dep, School of Life Sciences, Khandari Campus, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Univ, Agra-282 001) : Nuvan intoxication leads protein alteration in kidney of Labeo rohita. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 113-15.

Fish Labeo rohita was treated with sublethal concentrations of nuvan i.e. 0.215 ml/I for 24,48,72,96 hour's and the biochemical changes in total proteins were noticed in kidney. A very significant declined amount of total protein contents was observed in experimental fishes. The maximum decrease was noticed in the tissue of fish after 96 hour's exposure. The observations are very important from biochemical point of view.

1 table, 18 ref

023876   Rathod D S;Shembekar V S (Zoology and Fishery Science Dep, Rajarshi Shahu College, Latur-413 512, Email: dr_dsrathod@rediffmail.com) : Effect of lethal and sublethal concentration of dimethoate on behaviour of fish, Arias dussumieri. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 120-2.

In the investigation effect of dimethoate was observed on the behaviour of fish Arias dussumteri. The fishes were exposed to lethal (5.99 ppm) and sublethal concentration (0.599 ppm) of dimethoate and some behavioural parameters like opercular movements, colour change, secretion of mucous, equilibrium, surface activity, jerkey movements were studied. A gradual decrease in opercular movements, secretion of mucous faint colour surface activity and jerkey movement observed with increase in exposed time of dimethoate i.e. after 24,48,72,96 hour and 60 days of exposure period.

2 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

023875   Ram Babu (Zoology Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Khatima, Udham Singh agar-262 308) : Haematology of Indian fresh water turtle, Kachuga tecta. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 63-5.

Present observations on the haematology of fresh water turtle, Kachuga tecta from river Yamuna at Agra, near Taj, during November 2005 to November 2006. The investigation include erythrocyte count, total leucocyte count, differential leucocyte count, haemoglobin concentration erythrocyte sedimentation rate and clotting time The haematological data observed so far was analysed and properly tabulated after calculating the range, mean and standard error of the mean. The value of erythroeyte counts show an increasing trend from January to April and thereafter gradually decrease upto December. The values of the total leucocyte count was higher during March to August with the maximum in June and lower values were recorded during winter with the minimum in December, The percentage of lymphocytes was higher in June and lower in December. The percentage of neutrophils shows an inverse relationship with that of the lymphocytes. The range of haemoglobin concentration was minimum during December. The clotting time was higher during January.

2 tables, 10 ref

023874   Raje S G;Vivekanandan E (NO, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Cochin-682 018, Email: sgraje@yahoo.co.in) : Vulnerability of catfish to fishing: an investigation based on the landings at Mumbai. Indian J Fish 2008, 55(3), 227-33.

The estimated annual average catch and catch rate of catfish by trawlers at New Ferry Wharf, Mumbai decreased from 2,586 t and 2.2 kg/h during 1991-1994 to 1,548 t and 1.0 kg/h during 1995-2004. Tachysurus tenuispinis, T. serratus and T. thalassinus appear to be susceptible to fishing. T. thalassinus grow slowly, attain large size, mature late, get recruited early to the fishery, and a large majority are exploited before attaining first maturity. The sex ratio of five species of catfish was biased toward male when young, but the number of males substantially decreased in larger group, and at lengths closer to L_max, males were rarely found. The presence of immature and mature ova in the same ovaries indicated that they are fractional spawners. The number of ripe eggs in the oro-buccal cavity of gestating males was always less than the number of eggs recorded in the ovary of females. Due to gestation behaviour, the males are more vulnerable to fishing.

10 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

023873   Pushpanathan T;Jebanesan A;Govindarajan M (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: drjeban@rediffmail.com) : Larvicidal efficacy of certain plant essential oils against Culex quinquefasciatus say (Diptera: culicidae). J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 159-60.

Larvicidal activity of Ocimum basilicum, Thymus vulgaris, Cymbopogan citratus, Mentha arvensis and Pelargonium graveolens essential oils were tested against the late third instar of the mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatm. The larval mortality was observed after 24 hours. The LC₅₀ values of O. basilicum, T. vulgaris, C. citrates, M. arvensis and P. graveolens were 26.98, 30.31, 165.70,178.04 and 226.52 ppm respectively.

1 table, 14 ref

023872   Prabha Swayamprakash;Reddy K R;Chimkod V B (Zoology Dep, Dr. B.A.M. Univ, Aurangabad, Maharashtra) : Environmental hazards to the swarmed alates of the termites Odontotermes wallonensis and Odontotermes brunneus. Life Sci Bull 2008, 5(1), 31-3.

The swarmed alates of the termites Odontotermes wallonensis and Odontotermes brunneus were preyed upon by many vertebrate and invertebrate insectivore predatory animals. Among several thousands of alates (reproductives) issued into a swarms, ultimately only few percent of them escapes from death by predatory animals and also from unfavourable weather conditions. The survivals have to over come various environmental hazards, such as excess rain, unsuitability of soil due to want of sufficient moisture and also non availability of food material as well as infection of pathogenic fungi, nematodes and dipteran larves etc. Even after the survival, pairs started establishing a nest either member of the royal pairs may desert its mate and forego the nest. This desertion happens mostly before the first batch of eggs hatches out. As there are lacunaes regarding the reports on the environmental hazards to swarmed alates of the termites O. wallonensis and O. brunneus, we have tried to report the various environmental hazards to the swarmed alates of O. wallonensis and O. brunneus.

4 illus, 8 ref

023871   Paul N;Ahmad T;Sharma A K (Zoology Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007, Email: draksharma22@yahoo.co.in) : Occurrence of an epibiont ciliate, Epistylis niagarae on the fresh water snail (Lymnaea luteola) collected from pond.. Eco Res J Biosci 2008, 7-8(1-2), 1-5.

The objective of the study was to examine the prevalence of ciliated protozoans in association with aquatic animal: snail (Lymnaea luteola). Of the twelve living snails examined; 85% were infected with ciliated peritrich (Epistylis niagarae). No ciliates were found on the empty shell surface of snails. These ciliated protozoans are ecologically important; since they are an important component of aquatic ecosystem and food chain. They also depict a specific biological associationship which has ecological significance.

4 illus, 24 ref

023870   Pathak D;Nagpal S K;Gurdial Singh (NO, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004) : Scanning electron microscopic studies on uterus of sheep in follicular and luteal phses of estrous cycle. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(12), 1361-4.

The tissue samples from body, horn and cervix of uterus of 5 sheep each during follicular and luteal phases were fixed in Karnovsky's fixative and processed for scanning electron microscopic study. The endometrium showed long ridges and folds. Endometrial surface of body was less folded as compared to the horns. The apical part of luminal epithelial cells of corpus uteri was flat and the cells often formed a pattern of hexagonal structure. The epithelium was composed of prociliated, ciliated and secretory cells. The body contained more ciliated cells than the horn of the uterus. Ciliated and prociliated cells were more in follicular phase as compared to the luteal phase. The secretory cells had microvillous processes and apical blebs. Cervix uteri had complex, deep, narrow folds with small crypts, which were more complex near the internal os. It was also lined with ciliated and secretory cells. The internal os area contained more ciliated cells than the external os area. In the follicular phase the cervix had more of ciliated as compared to that of luteal phase.

7 illus, 15 ref

023869   Parikh P;Sonavane S (Zoology Dep, Entomology Div, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajira, Baroda Univ, Vadodara-390 002) : Diversity of apterygota in Gir PA. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 123-4.

India provides wide range of ecological, climatic and vertical distribution of insect fauna. The forested areas of the country possess varied, colorful and plentiful insect fauna. The present day insects are grouped into two major sub-classes, namely, Apterygota and Pterygota.Our knowledge of Apterygola insect fauna is extremely mearge. ln fact, they have escaped. the attention of:field collectors owing to (heir size, concealed; habits and dull coloration. Apterygbtes are the least studied group of insects in India in general and particularly: rare in the protected areas. The work is an attempt to study the diversity of Apterygotes in Gir PA.

1 table, 11 ref

023868   Pandey S D;Dixit H (Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Christ Church College, Kanpur-208 001) : Evaluation of involvement of main olfactory system in mediation of the oestrus-suppressing pheromone in Indian field mice, Mus booduga Gray. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 117-19.

Role of main olfactory system in transmission of a female-originating primer pheromone that mutually suppresses oestrus in unisexually grouped females was evaluated by destroying the olfactory receptors on nasal epithelium with intranasal spray of zinc sulphate (ZS). Regularly cycling isolated females attained anoestrus following unisexual grouping. The incidence of oestrus block persisted even when the females were made anosmic by infusing 0.05 ml of 1.0% ZS in isotonic saline to the nasal passage before housing them in a group. It is thus suggested that block to olfactory acuity did not alter the sensitivity of females to the oestrus-suppressing pheroraone. Obviously, perception of the causative factor remains effective through some pathway other than the main olfactory system, possibly the accessory olfactory system.

1 table, 27 ref

023867   Paliwal A;Yadav M (NO, , 8/166 Jeoni Mandi, Agra-282 004) : Effect of botanicals and conventional insecticides on total protein of Spodoptera litura FAB.. Mendel int J 2008, 25(1-4), 53.

Investigation the total protein changes caused from IInd instar leavae, which increased from IInd instar larvae to pupa and reduced in adult. It was maximum observed in pupa.

1 table, 6 ref

023866   Paliwal A;Solanki S;Tomer B;Verma R (Zoology Dep, Ganjdundwara P.G. College, Ganjdundwara, Etah, Uttar Pradesh) : Impact of Eichhornia crassipes on physico-chemical parameters in relation to fisheries in river Kali at district Etah. Life Sci Bull 2008, 5(1), 23-6.

Deals with the impact of Eichhornia crassipes on physico-chemical parameters of water with its suitability for aquaculture of river Kali at district Etah (U.P.). The study was carried out from June 2006 to May 2007. The probable causes of fluctuations of various physico-chemical data of water due to impact of Eichhornia crassipes in relation to fisheries have also been analysed in different parameters.

1 table, 19 ref

023865   Navidpour S;Vazirianzadeh B;Baker A S (Arthropoda Research Centre Dep, Razi Research Institute, Ahwaz, Iran) : New record of a parasitic mite, Allothrombium neapolitanum Oudemans, 1910 (Acari: trombidiidae) from Scorpio maurus (scorpionida: scorpionidae) body from booshehr, South Iran. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 141-2.

Scorpio maurus (Scorpionida: Scorpionidae) is one of the six medical importance scorpions in Iran. In the current paper Allothrombium neapolitanum (Acari: Trombidiidae) is reported from the body of Scorpio maurus for the first time from Booshehr, South of Iran.

2 illus, 10 ref

023864   Nambiar V V;Bhatt I Y;Deshmukh P A;Jape R R; Jivani P N;Kavale H R;Prakashkar S S;Ramachandra A V (Developmental and Reproductive Endocrinology Div, Zoology Dep, Faculty, The Maharaja Sayajirao Univerity of Baroda, Vadora-390 002) : Assessment of extracellular matrix remodeling during tail regeneration in the lizard Hemidactylus flaviviridis. J Endocr Reprod 2008, 12(2), 67-72.

Epimorphic regeneration, as exemplified by lizard tail, involves the formation of regeneration blastema as a prerequisite for replacement growth. The formation of blastema is preceded by many regressive changes like tissue demolition, histolysis, inflammation, wound closure, dedifferentiation, cell migration and proliferation. The ECM components of a normal tail help maintain the differentiated state of the constituent heterogeneous tissue and tend to prevent cell migration and proliferation. Since the formation of a regeneration blastema involves many key cellular events like dedifferentiation, migration of dedifferentiated and other nomadic cells and cell proliferation, extensive reorganization of the extracellular matrix is likely to be a major event during post-autotomy period. To this end, total GAG content and gelatinase (MMP-2 & 9) activity were assayed during the first week post-caudal autotomy. The effect of MMP inhibition by doxycycline was also evaluated in terms of the number of days taken for wound closure and blastema formation as well as the length of detail regenerated at the end of twenty days from the time of initiation of growth. Significant progressive decrement in total GAG content up till 96 hours followed by a significant increment at 120 and 144 hours, together with a biphasic increment in gelatinase activity (first during 24-48 hours and second during 96-144 hours) have been recorded. The increased gelatinase activity and the decreased GAG content in the first 96 hours are suggestive of breakdown of proteoglycans and collagens (type IV, V, VII & X). The second phase of increase in GAG content is related with synthesis of hyaluronate, favoring dedifferentiation, proliferation and migration of cells. MMP inhibition by doxycycline significantly retarded tail regeneration. From these results it is concluded that ECM remodeling is crucial in the immediate post-autotomy period for the formation of an effective blastema and that MMPs play a crucial role in the same.

4 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

023863   Nagpure N S;Sharma S;Ravindra Kumar; Srivastava S K;Verma M S;Kapoor D (National bureau of Fish Genetics Resources, , Canal Ring Road, Telibagh, P.O. Dilkusha, Lucknow-226 002, Email: nbfgr@sancharnet.in) : Use of comet assay for genotoxicity assessment in fishes from Gomti river. Indian J Fish 2008, 55(3), 285-8.

Increasing number of genotoxic chemicals are being released into the aquatic environment, posing serious damage to our rich aquatic biodiversity and also indirectly to human health. In view of the above, attempts have been made to explore the feasibility of application of comet assay for biomonitoring of fish from polluted sites of River Gomti in Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh), which has been exposed to heavy pollution during the recent years. For comet assay, blood samples of two fish species found in the river namely Labeo rohita and Puntius puntius, were tested. Blood samples from fishes of the same species collected from the fish ponds of the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR), Lucknow were taken as control for comparison. The samples were then subjected to comet assay for assessing DNA damage. Significant differences were observed with respect to the two important comet parameters viz., percentage tail DNA and tail length as compared to control. The results indicated the sensitivity and suitability of comet assay for 'in situ' biomonitoring programmes to explore genotoxicity of environmental pollutants.

^ssc2 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

023862   Nagabhushana Rao S;Nageswara A R;Prasad V L K;Ravinder Reddy V (NO, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary Univ Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030) : Characteristics of the Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) egg. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(12), 1423-5.

4 tables, 19 ref

023861   Mohanty A K;Dutta S K (Zoology Dep, College of Basic Science and Humanities, Ouat, Bhubaneswar) : Morphometric dynamics of Fejervarya syhadrensis tadpoles (Anura : Ranidae). Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(2), 261-8.

Thirteen morphometric parameters of 22 developmental stages (Gosner stage 25 to 46) comprising of 110 tadpoles, have been measured for morphometric analysis. Mean, Standard Deviation and Standard Error of each morphometric parameter of all the 22 developmental stages have been calculated and graphically analyzed. The species completes its life history (egg laying through metamorphosis) within 33 days and there is continuous growth from eggs through well developed hind limb stage. However, there is gradual decrease in size since the emergence of fore limbs till frog-let stage, when the tail is completely lost. Morphometric analysis of tadpoles indicates maximum size at well developed hind limb stage. A total of 13 morphological characters of tadpoles measured during various stages of development (early external gill through frog-let stage) measured indicate exponential growth of all the parameters till metamorphic climax. At the initiation of metamorphosis, there is decrease in size of some of the morphometric parameters and few other parameters indicate continuous growth till metamorphosis.

9 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

023860   Mohanraj R S;Dhanakkodi B (Zoology Dep, Kongunadu Arta and Science College, Coimbatore-641 029) : Effect of plant derivatives on the ovarian development of Aedes aegypti. J Envir Biosci 2008, 22(1), 43-51.

Neem products were tested for their effect on the ovarian follicle length and protein content of ovary of mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti was studied. A considerable reduction was observed in these parameters of the mosquitoes developed in different concentrations of residual neem seed kernel extract and a neem formulation, compared to that of control.

4 illus, 39 ref

023859   Maurya A K (Zoology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Banaras-221 005) : On some known trematodes from fresh water fishes of Varanasi, India : Part-I. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 209-16.

Genarchopsis (Ophiocorchis) indicus (Gupta, 1951) Yamaguti, 1958; Genarrchopsis (Ophiocorchis) faruquis (Gupta, 1951) Yamagnti,1958, Genarchopsis (Ophiocorchis) dasus (Gupta,1951) Yamaguti, (1958) were obtained from the stomach of fresh water fishes viz. Channa punctatus (Bloch) and Mystus aor (Ham.); Channa punctatus (Bloch.); Channa punctatus (Bloch.) and Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) respectively. Opisthorchis pedicellata minuuta Mehra, 1941 was obtained from gall bladder of fresh water fish Rita rita (Ham.). These were recorded with new host Opisthorchis pedicellata Verma, 1927 was obtained from gall bladder of a fresh water fish Rita rita (Ham.).

5 illus, 4 ref

023858   Manjunatha T;Hari Dass S;Sharma V K (Chronoviology Laboratory, Evolutionary and Organismal Biology Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur P.O., Bangalore-560 064, Email: vsharma@jncasr.ac.in) : Egg-laying rhythm in Drosophila melanogaster. J Genet 2008, 87(5), 495-504.

Extensive research has been carried out to understand how circadian clocks regulate various physiological processes in organisms. The discovery of clock genes and the molecular clockwork has helped researchers to understand the possible role of these genes in regulating various metabolic processes. In Drosophila melanogaster, many studies have shown that the basic architecture of circadian clocks is multi-oscillatory. In nature, different neuronal subgroups in the brain of D. melanogaster have been demonstrated to control different circadian behavioural rhythms or different aspects of the same circadian rhythm. Among the circadian phenomena that have been studied so far in Drosophila, the egg-laying rhythm is unique, and relatively less explored. Unlike most other circadian rhythms, the egg-laying rhythm is rhythmic under constant light conditions, and the endogenous or free-running period of the rhythm is greater than those of most other rhythms. Although the clock genes and neurons required for the persistence of adult emergence and activity/rest rhythms have been studied extensively, those underlying the circadian egg-laying rhythm still remain largely unknown. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of the circadian egg-laying rhythm in D. melanogaster, and the possible molecular and physiological mechanisms that control the rhythmic output of the egg-laying process.

^iia2 illus, 104 ref

023857   Kaimal S G;Ramani N (Acarology Div, Zoology Dep, Calicut Univ, Calicut-673 635, Email: sangeethakaimal@gmail.com) : Embryonic development of Tetranychus neocaledonicus (Andre) (Acari: Tetranychidae) infesting Moringa oleifera Lam. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 25-7.

Studies made on the embryonic development of Tetranychus neocaledonicus, through in situ examination under a stereomicroscope, of eggs in successive days of incubation provided data on the sequence of events involved viz., partial and superficial cleavage, periblastula stage, germ disc formation, germ band formation, appearance of leg primordia, eye spots, development of legs and associated structures before the emergence of larva from the egg. The incubation period was recorded range from 3-4 days at 34 ± 1°C and 50 ± 5% RH.

12 illus, 4 ref

023856   Juwantha M M (Zoology Dep, D.A.V.(Post Graduate) College, Dehradun-248 001) : On a new monogenoidea parasite Paramazocreas barfiyai N. SP. from the gills of a freshwater fish Barilius bendelisis (HAM.) at Dehradun. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 199-203.

New species Paramazocraes barfiyai has been described from fresh water fish Barilius bendelisis (Ham.) collected from river Yamuna at Vikasnagar, Dehradun. The new species is characterized by 6 testes, nature of hooks in genital atrium, vaginal opening tripartite and in the extension of vitelline follicles from intestinal bifurcation upto end of haptor.

1 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

023855   Jha A (NO, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, Majhitar, Rangpo, Sikkim-737 132) : Order testudinidae : first recorded instance in Sikkim. Mendel int J 2008, 25(1-4), 50.

First record of order Testudinidae from Sikkim and the detail characteristics are presented.

4 ref

023854   Jayaramu S C;Hegde S X;Ramesh S R;Krishna M S (Studies in Zoology Dep, University of Mysore, Mysore, Manasa Gongotri, Mysore, Karnataka) : Geographic variation in inversion frequencies, mating behaviour and morphometric traits of Drosophila ananassae. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 1-6.

Drosophila ananassae flies collected from four geographical areas namely, Mysore, Krishnarajanagar, Dharwad and Bellur, were used in the study, Inversion frequencies, mating activities, morphometric traits and fertility were analyzed here. For study of inversion frequencies, 2LA, 3LA, 2LA+ 3LA and those without inversion were used. Variation in the courtship latency, copulation duration, mating latency, fertility and other courtship elements of both males and females were studied. Morphometrie traits analyzed include, head width, wing length, number of sternopleural and scutellar bristles. These studies indicate that D.allallassae carries significant geographic variation in all these traits. The study thus confirms the hypothesis that intra specific variation is inherent in different geographical strains of D.allallassae.

3 tables, 28 ref

023853   Jawale C A;Bhilave M P (Zoology Dep, S.M.P. College, Murum Ta. Omerga, Dist. Osmanabad, Maharashtra) : Enriched conventional feed on haematological parameters of Labeo rohita. Life Sci Bull 2008, 5(1), 55-8.

The various kinds of supplementary feed stuffs have been used in aquaculture. The feed stuffs are often mixed in various combinations and proportions to manufacture the processed food in growth performance of the fish. The feed stuffs used in supplementary feeding of the fish. Fishes were subjected to different levels of activity and change in diet which inturn influenced the haematology. The period of time will stabilize to a some extent the blood parameter. Because of the high variability and other inherent difficulties like getting enough blood for analysis, the endeavor to basic information about interspecific and intraspecifice variations of haematological parameters of fishes in the wild state and to detect the normal under different some haematological parameters and its significance of fish health.

1 table, 14 ref

023852   Jahan M S;Rahman M R (Zoology Dep, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi-6205, Bangladesh) : Biodiversity of the aquatic habitats of Rajshahi metropolitan city. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(1), 7-12.

Studies were conducted in 50 localities belonging to four types of aquatic habitats viz., ponds, canals, ditches and paddy fields within the Rajshahi Metropolitan City, Bangladesh. A cheklist consists of 51 species of aquatic vegetations representing (a) floating or surface weeds, (b) submerged weeds, (c) rooted but with floating leaves, (d) marginal and emergent weed type, was made. The nature of the soil substratum of the different habitats was determined and nine species of snail fauna were also recorded. Interactions among the soil substratum, plants and snail species were disclosed.

4 tables, 31 ref

023851   Jadhav A S;Padgaonkar A S (Zoology Dep, ICLES' M.J. College, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra) : Histology of parathyroid gland of the snake Oligodon arnensis (Shaw). J Endocr Reprod 2008, 12(2), 87-9.

The snake Oligodon arnensis possesses two pairs of parathyroid glands. The rostral parathyroids (rPTG) are located at the bifurcation of the carotid artery, behind the angle of the jaw. The caudal parathyroids (cPTG) are located in the thyro-thymic region. The parathyroid gland is surrounded by a connective tissue capsule, and composed of cell cords of a single type of cell. Oxyphil cells are absent. The gland is profusely supplied with bloodvessels.

2 illus, 18 ref

023850   Gupta S K;Dube K K;Chandra K (Central Regional Station, Zoological Survey of India, , Jobalpur, Madhya Pradesh) : Collection of orthoptera from Achanakmar wildlife sanctuary, Chhattisgarh. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 117-26.

Deals with the collection of Orthoptera of Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh, which includes the study of 18 species pertaining to 18 genera under five families.

11 ref

023849   Ghosh S K;Tiwari S;Raghavendra K; Sathyanarayan T S;Dash A P (National Institute of Malaria Research (ICMR), Epidemic Diseases Hospital, Old Madras Road, Bangalore-560 038, Email: ghoshmrc@vsnl.net) : Observations on sporozoite detection in naturally infected sibling species of the Anopheles culicifacies complex and variant of Anopheles stephensi in India. J Biosci, Bangalore 2008, 33(3), 333-6.

Sporozoites were detected in naturally infected sibling species of the primary rural vector Anopheles culicifacies complex in two primary health centres (PHCs) and a variant of the urban vector Anopheles stephensi in Mangalore city, Karnataka, south India while carrying out malaria outbreak investigations from 1998-2006. Sibling species of An. culicifacies were identified based on the banding patterns on ovarian polytene chromosomes, and variants of An. stephensi were identified based on the number of ridges on the egg floats. Sporozoites were detected in the salivary glands by the dissection method. Of the total 334 salivary glands of An. culicifacies dissected, 17 (5.08%) were found to be positive for Sporozoites. Of the 17 positive samples, 11 were suitable for sibling species analysis; 10 were species A (an efficient vector) and 1 was species B (a poor vector). Out of 46 An. stephensi dissected, one was sporozoite positive and belonged to the type form (an efficient vector). In malaria epidemiology this observation is useful for planning an effective vector control programme, because eachTsiblirig species/variant differs in host specificity, susceptibility to malarial parasites, breeding habitats and response to insecticide.

^ssc1 table, 14 ref

023848   Euphrasia C J;Madhusoodana Kurup B (St Xavier's College for women, , Aluva, Kerala, Email: madhukurup@hotmail.com) : Maturity and spawning of Osteobrama bakeri (Day) - a threatened endemic ornamental fish of Kerala, India. Indian J Fish 2008, 55(3), 273-80.

Maturity and spawning of Osteobrama bakeri were studied during June 2001 to May 2003. O. bakeri of Periyar River breeds twice in a year, during April-June and October-November. Ripe males and gravid females were observed from September to November and February to June. Ripe ovaries showed the presence of a wide size range of mature ova with indistinct minor modes within the group, thus manifesting fractional spawning within the season. Largest oocytes of 966 μm in fully ripe condition appeared in April and October. High gonadosomatic index (GSI) values were encountered in October and April followed by a sudden drop in November and May. The males and females were found to mature at 115 and 118 mm respectively. Sex ratio showed skewness in some of the months. Overall sex ratio showed significant dominance of males and the mean ratio of males to females was 1 :0.58.

6 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

023847   Dineshbabu A P;Shridhara B;Muniyappa Y (NO, Mangalore Research Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institu, Mangalore-575 001, Email: dineshbabuap@yahooo.co.in) : Biology and exploitation of the blue swimmer crab, Portunus pelagicus (Linnaeu, 1758), from south Karnataka coast, India. Indian J Fish 2008, 55(3), 215-20.

Portunus pelagicus supports indigenous as well as mechanised fishery of Kamataka coast. Trawlers accounted for 98% of the landing and the highest landing was observed during 2001-2002 (403 t). The peak fishing season for crabs was during December-June. Size range observed in the fishery was 56 to 165 rum in males and 61 to 170 mm in females. The homogeneity of sex ratio (χ²test) obtained for the years 1998-2005 was 1:1. Peak spawning activity occurred during February-March. Size at maturity (50%) of females was estimated at 96 mm carapace width. Growth was isometric and males were heavier than females of similar size. By von Bertalanffy's growth plot, it was estimated that males and females reach 123 and 128 mm (CW) respectively at the end of one year and reach 156 and 160 rum respectively in two years. Longevity of P. pelagicus is estimated as 3 years in both sexes. The total mortality coefficient (Z), natural mortality coefficient (M) and fishing mortality coefficient (F) values estimated for the species were 6.3, 2.2 and 4.1 respectively. The exploitation ratio (E) was 0.65 and L_c was estimated at 87.7 mm. MSY was estimated as 367 t against the present annual average yield of 333 t. From 'Thompson and Bell yield prediction analysis it is seen that any additional 10% effort from the present level will yield only less than 10% additional catch, indicating that increasing the effort will not be economical. Restricting the catch to MSY level (367 t) is suggested as a suitable management option for the sustainability of P. pelagicus fishery from the coast

5 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

023846   Dalal A;Arora M P (Zoology Dep, M.M.H. College, Ghaziabad-201 001) : Limnological study of Pleumatella species of river hindon. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 99-108.

Collection of various species of Genus Plumatetta was made carefully from submerged stones, aquatic plants and floating objects etc from all four different study sites of river Hindon. The present study was carried out over a period of one complete year. The collected specimen were narcotized with the chloral hydrate and menthol crystal, and last fused in 10% formal alcohol in extended condition and was preserved. Four species of genus Plumatetta have been collected and identified from the samples collected from different study sites of river Hindon. These species are: Plumatetta casmiana, Plumatetta fruticosa, Plumatella emerginata, Plumatella repens. Systematic description of these species have been made and discussed.

16 illus, 2 tables, 55 ref

023845   Chandrasekaran S;Arun Nagendran N;Pandiaraja D;Krishnankutty N;Kamalakannan B (Botany Dep, Thiagarajar College, Madurai-625 009, Email: krishnanasc@yahoo.co.in) : Bioinvasion of Kappaphycus alvarezii on corals in the gulf of Mannar, India. Curr Sci 2008, 94(9), 1167-72.

Kappaphycus alvarezii (Doty) Doty (Rhodophyta: Solie-riaceae) is a Philippine-derived macroalga introduced into the Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve, South India for mariculture in 2000. Here we report its bioinvasion on branching corals (Acropora sp.) in the Kurusadai Island. Qualitative data collected using underwater photography clearly indicated its invasion and establishment on live and dead corals as well as coral rubbles and pavements. It specifically invaded Acropora sp. as monospecific beds with extraordinary phenotypic plasticity in the form of thallus, thickness of its major axis and lateral branching. It shows remarkable shadowing and smothering effects over the coral colonies. The primary and secondary branches are much reduced in the invaded algal colonies. Quantitative data on its live cover on corals and biomass production are also reported. These observations are discussed with available limited information on bioinvasion of K. alvarezii on coral reefs. Our findings disprove all arguments and misapprehensions reported earlier about this species as coral-friendly and as a safe candidate for mariculture for the production of carrageenan under wild conditions in the Gulf of Mannar. Our observations underscore the need for urgent reconsideration of its cultivation in a biologically diverse ecosystem, the Gulf of Mannar.

4 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

023844   Chandra S;Sudhanshu Kumar (NO, , Plot No. - 102, Ashok Puram Colony, Meerapur Basahi, Varanasi-221 002) : Seasonal variation in the population of different phthiraptera infesting cattles at district Jaunpur (U.P.). Mendel int J 2008, 25(1-4), 43-4.

Seasonal variation in the natural population of two host specific lice,Linognathus vituli and Haematopinus tuberculatus (infesting cow and buffalo respectively) have been recorded on cow, steer, heifer, buffalo, sires and calve (one each). Trends of seasonal population fluctuation remained more or less similar on the hosts.

2 illus, 4 ref

023843   Bhatia S;Sharma S (Post Graduate Dep of Zoology, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006) : Diversity of insect fauna associated with aquatic weed Eichhornia crassipes (Pontederiaceae) in Jammu, J & K. J Envir Biosci 2008, 22(1), 15-17.

Eichhornia crassipes (Pontederiaceae) is a perennial weed of National significance in India. It is an invasive aquatic weed which grows and spreads rapidly thereby competing and replacing native plants in water bodies. As a part of biocontrol programme for this weed, the first survey of insect natural enemies was conducted between 2004-2005 in some parts of Jammu and 23 species of insects were reported of which order coleoptera dominated with 9 species.

1 table, 6 ref

023842   Bendangkokba;Ahmed S U (Zoology Dep, Nagaland University, Headguarters : Lumami, Mokokchung, Nagaland) : New nemacheiline fish of the genus schistura Mc. clelland (Cypriniformes : Balitoridae) from Nagaland, India. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 99-102.

A new species of genus Schistura Hamilton is described from the Dikhu River, a tributary of Brahmaputra drainage in Mokokchung district, Nagaland. The species is characterized by 12-14 distinct dark yellowish bands on the side of the body which are same in size and appeared at regular interspaces and absence of a dark spot on the dorsal and at the base of the caudal fin. The dorsal fin supported by eight branched fin rays commence midway between the tip of the snout and base of the caudal fin. The edge of the dorsal fin is also straight and caudal fin is forked. The species is distinct from Schistura prashadi (Hora), S.scaturigina (Meclalland) and S. nagaensis (Menon) in various morphometric and meristic measurements. The re1ative percentage of different body parameters in relation to standard length and head length in Schistura dikhuensis sp.nov. and a compertive morphological account of the specics with its closest congener S. nagaensis are also discussed.

3 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

023841   Baqer D;Ahmed R;Jauhari R K (Computer & GIS Cell, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun-248 001) : Use of remote sensing technology in quantifying and mapping mosquitogenic conditions in the gulf of Cambay, Gujarat. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 49-56.

Malaria remains the most prevalent and devastating health problem. In India nearly 2-3 million cases occur every year causing about 1000 deaths. Knowledge of the ecology of breeding and resting habitats and behaviour of various mosquito species is required for vector control. For developing vector control strategy, periodical surveys are very essential for arriving at meaningful conclusion. The entomological surveys over vast geographic areas are impractical, time consuming and expensive. New tools are needed urgently to support those currently available, for control of the disease. The advent of Remote sensing technology has opened up new vistas in the epidemiology of malaria and other vector borne diseases. An effective vaccine remains elusive.

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023840   Bansal N;Uppal V (NO, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Science Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Histomorphological and histochemical studies on the ductus deferens of guinea pig. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(12), 1387-8.

1 table, 9 ref

023839   Bahuguna S N;Negi R S;Bahuguna P;Upadhyay M K (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, H.N.B. Garhwal Univ, Srinagar Garhwal-246 174) : Ex-situ developmental study of Schizothorax plagiostomus from pre to post hatching. J Envir Biosci 2008, 22(1), 67-76.

The Schizothoraxplagiostamus (Heckel) is a particular valuable fish in Garhwal Himalaya and natural stocks are low mainly because of over fishing, erosion and shrinkage of different tributaries. The main purpose of this study is to describe development of the Schizothorax plagiostamus reared in laboratory, particularly ontogeny of digestive system because this may important for the establishment of an appropriate ontogenetic feeding schedule.

25 ref

023838   Babare M G;Jawale C A;Jadhav H K (Zoology Research Laboratory, A.S.C. College, Naldurg) : Biological contamination of Jakkapur water tank, dist. Osmanabad (M.S.) India. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 105-7.

Work focused on biological contamination and primary nature of physico-chemical parameters Jakkapur water lank observations was mainly concerned. The study period was Jan-Dec 2008. The water temperature ranged between 21°C to 39.95°C. The pH was found to be 7.25 to.8.8, free Co₂ ranging between 7 nig/lit to 28 mg/lit.Alkalinity was ranged between 85 mg/lit. to 131 mg/lit. D.O ranging between 6 mg/Iit to 9.86 mg/lit. Biological parameters tike MPN, protozoa, Helminthes eggs, Rotifers and Arthropods were found during the study period.

1 table, 17 ref

023837   Arvind Kumar;Singh P P;Kaushal Kumar (Zoology Dep, J.V. College, Baraut-250 611) : Seasonal abundance of flea ectoparasites on rats. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 95-7.

Out for the flea ectoparasites on rats in district Baghpat of western Uttar Pradesh, adjoining New Delhi. During two years of the study a total of 967 fleas belonging to two species namely, Xenopsylla cheopis and X. astia, were sampled in rural area and another 1136 fleas from urban area belonging to Xenopsylla cheopis only. The maximum flea index tor Xenopsylla was recorded in the month of April. It was found to be 4.80 and 4.8 in urban areas and 3.73 and 4.54 in rural areas during 2002-03 and 2003-04, respectively. The minimum flea index of 0.91 was recorded in July during 1st year and 0.66 during 2nd year of study in the urban area, while in the rural area it was recorded to be 0.95 and 0.92, respectively. The total flea index for the year 2002-03 and 2003-04 was found to be 1.76 and 1.75 in the urban area and 1.72 and 1.93 in the rural area, respectively. In urban area X. cheopis was the exclusive species while in rural area both species were found, dominated by Xenopsylla cheopis. The X. astia formed 12.78% and 11.28% respectively during the 1st and 2nd year for the study.

1 table, 10 ref

023836   Aher S K;Mane U H;Pawar B A (Zoology Dep, New Arts, Commerce and Science College, Ahmednagar-414 001) : Seasonal variations in the glycogen content of freshwater mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamarck) from kagdipura swamp in relation to reproductive cycle. J expl Zool 2008, 11(1), 155-8.

Seasonal variation in the glycogen content of Lamellidens marginalis from Kagdipura swamp was studied in relation to reproductive cycle. Glycogen content in the gonad increases during maturation (winter and summer) and decreased during spawning (monsoon). During summer season at the time of maturation of the gametes glycogen content increased in the gonad while simultaneous drop was observed in hepatopancreas. Glycogen depleted in the foot during summer, a period of gonad proliferation. During summer marked increase in glycogen content with the highest accumulation in the mantle. Glycogen content increased in various body parts such as mantle, gills, anterior and posterior adductor muscles and siphon during summer and which falls during monsoon, a period of spawning. On an average among different tissues, glycogen content was maximum in the mantle and minimum in gills. Glycogen level was generally high in L. marginalis, pooled glycogen content were 32.611 ± 17.48 mg/ 100 mg dry weight. On an average among different seasons, the pooled glycogen content was maximum during summer which declined to minimum during monsoon. Glycogen values were high during winter and summer coinciding with the non-breeding period, which further decreases to minimum level during monsoon indicated period of spawning.

1 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

023835   Adhikari Bagchi R;Parikh P;Lokwani A;Bagchi A (NO, , 105-1305 Taylor Avenur, Winnipeg, MB, R3M2K6, Canada, Email: rush_6782@yahoo.co.in) : Fish immunotoxicity. Bionano Front 2009, 2(2), 116-19.

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023834   Rohit P;Gupta A (Mangalore Research Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institu, , Mangalore, P. B. No. 244, Bolar, Mangalore-575 001, Email: rohitprathi@yahoo.co.in) : Whitebait fishery of Mangalore - Malpe, Karnataka during 1997-2002. Indian J Fish 2008, 55(3), 211-14.

Whitebaits, with an annual average of 5,152 t formed 4.2% of the total fish catch of Mangalore-Malpe region during 1997-2002. Trawls, purseseine and ranibale contributed to the fishery with peak abundance during October-February. The fishery has registered a steady decline over the years with the lowest catch being observed in 2001-02. Three species dominated the fishery of the region. Growth parameters estimated were Lα = 109 mm and K = 1.5 yr^-1 for Encrasicholina devisi, Lα= 122 mm and K = 1.1 yr ^-1 for Stolephorus waitei and Lα = 118 mm and K = 1.6 yr^-1 for Encrasicholina punctifer. Total mortality estimated was 8.19, 6.18 and 8.97 respectively for the above species and natural mortality was 3.11, 2.46 and 3.18 respectively. The study indicated that the stock is under greater fishing pressure than desired. Biology of E. punctifer and S. insularis is being reported for the first time from this area.

2 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

022731   Sharma M (Zoology Dep, Vidya Bhavan Rural Institute, Udaipur-313 001) : Visual ecology of toad, skink and babbler photoreceptors. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2009, 3(2), 11-15.

Study incorporated the histological studies in the visual cells of retinae of toad (Bufo melenotisticus). skink (Mabuya Carinatus) and babbler (Turdoides striatus) belonging to vertebrate. The photoreceptors of three animal's reveals significant variation in histological organization perhaps concerned with the adaptive features in relation to different habits. The pigmented epithelium (PE) is thick and without protoplasmic extension in nocturnal retina of toad in comparison to that of duplex retina (skink) and diurnal retina (babbler). As a result of scotopic vision in toad the rod types of photoreceptors have exclusive population of the visual cells. In skink both the types of photoreceptors i.e. rods and cones are present, while in babbler only cone type of photoreceptors are present. The outer segments (OS) of toad are long and thin, whereas in skink and babbler, the cones have small OS. The inner segment (IS) is thin in toad, while in skink and babbler the IS is thicker and have paraboloid and ellipsoid bodies.

6 illus, 16 ref

022730   Roy M;Nandi N C (Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053, Email: mousum_iroy@rediffmail.com) : Diversity and distribution of aquatic entomofauna of east Calcutta wetlands. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4C), 2211-14.

In the present paper, insect fauna of four selected wetlands, namely, Ruby bheri, Sukantanagar bh-eri, Nalban jheel and Sukantanagar pond of east Calcutta wetlands, a Ramsar site of West Bengal, differing in sewage intake and management practices, were seasonally surveyed and studied. A total of 34 species of insects belonging to 13 families under four orders were collected and identified, majority of them belonged to the orders Hemiptera and Coleoptera. Among the four selected wetlands the highest diversity of 33 species represented from Ruby bheri. Data on water quality and general ecology suggest that highest aquatic insect diversity is associated with habitat diversity, weed infestation, pisciculture practices and over all water quality of the wetlands.

2 tables, 7 ref

022729   Pramanik M K;Raut S K (Ecology & Ethology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Chironomid larvae reducing the biological control potentiality of Toxorhynchites splendens against vector mosquitoes occurring in the municipality drains of Kolkata, India. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4C), 2319-22.

Follow-up of the biological control program revealed the consumption of third and fourth instar Chironomus stratipenis larvae along with the third and fourth instar Anopheles Stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus by the Toxorhynchites splendens larvae in some municipality drains of Kolkata, India. Laboratory experiments revealed that a third instar Tx. splendens consumed on average 30.2 ± 1.4 or 24.2 ± 2.75 or 18.3 ± 3.16 third instar, and a fourth instar Tx. splendens consumed on average 25.7 ± 2.05 or 16.3 ± 2.97 or 12.5 ± 1.2 fourth instar Ch. stratipenis. An. Stephensi and Cx. quinquefasciatus respectively, daily (24 h period) when supplied separately. On the contrary, in equal opportunity for predation a third and a fourth instar Tx. splendens consumed on average 11 and 20% more over the third and the fourth instar An. stephensi and Cx. quinquefasciatus larvae respectively, daily.

25 ref