020794   Meera B K;Katre S (Zoology and Genetics Dep, Government Science College, Nrupatunga Road, Bangalore-01) : Structure and seasonal changes in the testes of a freshwater bachyuran crab, Barytelphusa jacquemontii (Rathbun). Proc Zool Soc India 2009, 8(1), 99-106.

Barytelphusajacquemontii (Rathbun) is a freshwater brachyuran crab belonging to the family Gecarcinucidae (Sub-family : Gecarcinucinae) of the class Crustacea. The paired ' )-( ' shaped testes of the species showed histomorphological changes during various stages of maturity which can also be correlated with the four relative seasons of an annum, cool-dry, hot-dry, hot-wet and cool-wet. It was learnt that the males show an overt gonadal activity during hot-dry and hot-wet seasons, in time to copulate with the soft post-moult females during the hot-wet/cool-wet seasons. Accordingly, the reproductive indices of the males were also found to be highest during hot-dry and hot-wet seasons, showing declines before and thereafter.

2 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

020793   Mahto B;Pandey P N (P.G. Dep of Zoology, Ranchi College, Ranchi) : Temporal succession of benthic macroinvertebrates in a new reservoir. Proc Zool Soc India 2009, 8(1), 53-64.

A brief report on temporal succession of benthic Marcoinvertebrates studied in a newly flooded reservoir. The invasion and ecessis of benthic community comprising of Oligochaeta, Insecta, and Gastropoda was rapid and attained equilibrium state within 13 to 15 months. Though no well-defined successive communities were noticed, yet reservoir bed was found to be rapidly colonized by insects like Ephemeroptera and Diptera except chironomids followed by Odonata, Plecoptera, Trichoptera and Coleoptera. These groups dominated the benthic fauna for first four months. Chironomids were the late colonizer among insects and registered their arrival with 5 taxa by 5th month. With increase in number of taxa and number of individuals, they dominated the benthic fauna for next 5 months. Oligochaeta invaded the reservoir bed almost simultaneously with chironomids but a bit later. The dominance of chironomids was taken-over by Oligoehaeta by 13th month. Mollusca were found to the latest colonizer which attained equilibrium state by 13th months. Afterwards the benthic community revealed only seasonal succession alternating between chrionomid-dominated benthic fauna and Oligochaete dominated benthic fauna. The results of study is discussed in detail with respect to the finding of other worker from different parts of the world.

2 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

020792   Lal N;Lal M;Nath A (Cytology Laboratory, P.G. Dep of Zoology, Patna Univ, Patna-800 005) : Comparative study of the effect of organophosphourous insecticide on seminal vesicles of mice. Proc Zool Soc India 2009, 8(1), 39-43.

The effect of organophosphorous Insecticide malathion at 10 ppm and 4000 ppm was studied on male Swiss strain white mice Mus musculus. A Comparative study was carried out to observe various changes brought about in the musculature epithelial folds and lumen of seminal vesicles with respect to their control (corn oil fed) values.

1 table, 10 ref

020791   Kungumapriya R;Revathi K;Prabhakaran R (Post Graduate and Research Dep of Zoology, The Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai-600 008) : Compatability reduction due to aflatoxin and toxin binders capacity in counteracting the influence in breeding japanese quails, Coturnix coturnix japonica. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(4), 741-3.

Molds adversely influence performance of animals by altering the nutrient composition of feed ingredients, decreasing the efficiency of nutrient utilization, and by producing toxic secondary metabolites. This work was carried out to study the role of locally available herbal plant extracts such as Azadirachta indica, Cynodon dactylon and Curcuma longa in counteracting the effects of experimental aflatoxicosis in laying Japanese quail by feeding them with diets containing aflatoxin at 1.5 and 3ppm levels for a period of six weeks.

2 tables, 17 ref

020790   Kungumapriya R;Revathi K (Post Graduate and Research Dep of Zoology, The Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai-600 008) : Impact of aflatoxin and toxin binders on the fertile hatchability performance of breeding Japanese quails, Coturnix coturnix japonica. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(4), 737-9.

Mycotoxins play a global role in human and animal health. Aflatoxins cause malperformance, metabolic disorders and pathologic alterations in different species of poultry.Various species of poultry differ in susceptibility to acute and sub-acute aflatoxicosis. This work was carried out to study the role of locally available herbal plant extracts such as Azadirachta indica, Cynodon dactylon and Curcuma longa in counteracting the effects of experimental aflatoxicosis in laying Japanese quail by feeding them with diets containing aflatoxin at 1.5 and 3ppm levels for a period of six weeks.

2 tables, 19 ref

020789   Korad V S;Gaikwad M C;Koratkar A L (Zoology Dep, Fergusson College, Pune) : Assessment of frugivorous bats in northern western ghats around Pune district of Maharashtra. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(4), 809-15.

1 table, 23 ref

020788   Keshri D K;Singh B K;Singh S K (Zoology Dep, T.S. College, Hisua, Nawada, Bihar) : Preliminary observation on the oviposition and incubation of eggs of Spilostethus pandurus (Scopali) heteroptera : insecta. Proc Zool Soc India 2009, 8(1), 49-52.

The female Spilostethus pandurus lays 26-30 eggs which are laid either in one or more catches after 4-6 hours of mating. Eggs are glued together on the surface by means of some adhesive secretion. Most of the females die within 3 to 4 hours after oviposition. The freshly laid eggs are oval, creamy yellow and about 1.2mm in length. The incubation period of eggs varies between 55-75 hours at suitable temperature and humidity. The colour of egg change after 20-24 hours. The temperature and relative humidity have profound effects on the oviposition and incubation period of eggs of spilostethus pandurus.

2 tables, 4 ref

020787   Kesharwani S;Mandloi A K;Dube K K (Zoology Dep, Govt. M.H. College of H.Sc. & Sc. for Women, Jabalpur, Madya Pradesh) : Mathematical analysis of species structure in three biotic communities of Amkhera pond bases on variety indices (d). Bull envir Sci 2006, 24(2), 141-3.

Diversity or variety is generally described as a composite property that reflects both the number of species in a biological community and the evenness with which the species are distributed in the community. Pollution disturbs species diversity and their evenness. Variety Indices are best way to represent this type of relationship. Diversity (d) are mathematical expression of species-importance relationship. Presently, these indices were used to analyse the Amkhera pond habitat.

1 table, 10 ref

020786   Kalse A T;Suryawanshi R B;Patil J R;Kaul S S (Zoology Dep, Rashtriya ASC College, Chalisgaon, Jalgaon-424 101) : New species of Circumoncobothrium, Shinde, 1968 (Cestoda: Pseudophyllidea from a fresh water fish at Chalisgaon, M.S. India. Proc Zool Soc India 2009, 8(1), 29-34.

The communication deals with the morphology of a new species Circumoncobothrium naidui, collected from a fresh water fish Mastacemballus armatus. It differs from all known species of the genus in many characters, in having the scolex cylindrical, rostellum oval, armed; rostellar hooks 40 in number arranged in four quadrants; bothria two; neck absent; mature segments broader than long; testes rounded, 200-210 in number, distributed unevenly; cirrus pouch medium, oval; ovary medium, a single mass, with many rounded acini; vitellaria small, granular from anterior to posterior margin of segment; gravid segment broader than long; uterus large, saccular, with large number of eggs; eggs numerous, oval and operculated.

1 illus, 14 ref

020785   Jayakumari I (Zoology Dep, Sree Ayyappa College for Women, Chunkankadai, Nagercoil-629 807) : Morphological studies on the foregut of Penaeus indicus. Milne Edwards. Proc Zool Soc India 2009, 8(1), 91-7.

The study reveals the structural complexity of the foregut. The stomach has a number of ridges and channels. The gastric armature shows a reduction in the number of gastric ossicles to six. The presence of three midgut filters is also peculiar to P.indicus. The posterior part of the pyloric stomach forms an efficient filtering apparatus. The interampullary ridge in the pyloric stomach divides it into two lateral filter chambers. The musculature of the foregut is well developed with slight disposition from other decapods.

9 illus, 13 ref

020784   Hussain M M (Protozoology and Environmental Biology Lab, Zoology Dep, University College of Science, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: fayak111@yahoo.co.in) : Toxicity evaluation of cypermthrin (cymbush) using a ciliate protozoan Paramecium caudatum. Bull envir Sci 2006, 24(2), 169-74.

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the toxic effects of Cypermethrin on Paramecium caudatum, a ciliate protozoan that is considered as a best object to address new setup of questions on water quality assessment and toxicity evaluation. The intrinsic toxicity of the Cypermethrin pesticide was evident due to morphological and behavioural changes in the acute toxicity experiments. Chronic toxicity experiments showed significant inhibition in growth and population density. Changes in the phagocytic activity were evident and depletion in food vacuole formation occurred in all the concentrations of the pesticides tested against the organism. Food vacuole inhibition was not dose dependent. Pulsatory activity in Paramecium caudatum greatly increased reaching more than double the normal rate at the highest concentration of Cypermethrin exposed. Macronuclear aberrations were significant showing deformities such as fragmentation, vacuolization, rod-shaped deformities and degeneracy of macronucleus. Recent studies have established Ciliates as very good models for gauging water quality fluctuations and ecosystem viability.

4 tables, 8 ref

020783   Dubey S;Mehrotra M;Singh S;Pandey P;Gupta A K (Zoology Dep, U.P Autonomous P.G. College, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) : Study the annual variation in the body and gonadal weight of Indian passeriformes finch, Lonchura punctulata. Pl Archs 2009, 9(1), 473-6.

Seasonal changes in day length have an important role in regulating the annual reproductive cycle of seasonal breeders. Birds are successful animal surviving and reproducing under various environmental conditions on the earth. The gonadal activity shows seasonal variation in birds, and is regulated by the interaction between external environmental and internal hormonal factors. Study has been focused on the observation of the annual body and gonadal weight cycle in Indian Passeriformes finch Lonchura punctulata (Spotted munia). Annual changes in gonadal weight can be used as a parameter for the gonadal activity. The observation shows marked relationship between gonadal weight cycle and seasonal changes. The gonadal weight and histological changes suggest that the seasonal alteration is an effective environmental factor in the regulation of pronounced gonadal development. The effect is manifested by changes in testicular and ovarian weight during annual breeding cycle. The result of annual study suggests parallel increase of body and gonadal weight seasonally. Findings exhibited gonadal regression during winter and the emergent gonadal peak in the reproductive active phase from July to September, 2008.

5 illus, 18 ref

020782   Choudhary S A (Zoology Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir) : Comparative toxicity of plant extract (Nicotine) and synthetic pyrethroid (Fenvalerate) against mutant Drosophila melanogaster. Proc Zool Soc India 2009, 8(1), 35-8.

Different formulations of Nicotine and Fenvalerate were mixed in the culture medium to determine their toxicity against mutant form (Yellow) of Drosophila melanogaster. The LC₅₀ values of these compounds after 48 hours of treatment were found to be 2.95521/100 ml food and 0.05491/100ml food for Nicotine and Fenvalerate respectively.

2 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

020781   Choudhary S (Zoology and Industrial Fish & Fisheries Dep, S.K. Mahila College, Begusarai, Bihar) : Identification of muscle fibre type in fin musculature of Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch). Proc Zool Soc India 2009, 8(1), 19-27.

Specimens of Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) were collected from local market and maintained in the laboratory Comparison of serial sections of muscle tissue reacted for SDH activities has been made with reference to total fibre numbers and area occupied by different types of muscle fibres. The percentage area occupied by each of the three fibre types varies according to their functional activity in different fin muscles. Histochemical analysis revealed that out of the fourpectoral and pelvic fin muscles the abductor series of muscles contain high percentage of red fibres but the adductor series show a negative or weak reaction for SDH. All the muscles connected with the dorsal and anal fins are made up of more than 60% of white fibre and therefore are metabolically less active.

3 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

020780   Chitra G;Thamizharasi A;Krishnaveni N (Zoology and Life Sciences Dep, Avinashilingam Univ, Coimbatore-641 043) : Neem (Azadirachta indica) extract as a immunostimulant in fresh water fish, Catla catla. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(4), 559-60.

The effect of azadirachtin, a triterpenoid derived from neem seed kernel on the immune response was studied in the fresh water fish Cot/a cot/a. Aeromonas hydrophila, fish pathogenic bacteria was used as a antigen to evoke immune response. The immune response in fish was measured by quantifying antibodies produced in control and experimental fishes.Azadirachtin significantly enhanced the antibody response and an inverse relationship was observed between the dose of azadirachtin and the degree of immunostimulation. The observed immunostimulatory property of azadirachtin has an implication in the maintenance of finfish health in fresh water intensive aquaculture practices.

1 table, 10 ref

019772   Yedukondala Rao P;Sudha Rani D;Naga Krishna Veni D (Marine Living Resources Dep, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Length-weight relationship of Apogon quadrafasciates cuvier, 1828 (Perciformes : Apogonidae) off Visakhapatnam, East coast of India. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 77-9.

Analysis of covariance conducted to test the difference between regression coefficients of males and females of Apogon quadrafasciates showed a significant difference between two sexes. A single length-weight relationship log W = -5.21539 + 3.1943. logL is given for both the sexes. Peak values of relative condition factor are associated with accumulation of fat. There is no clear-cut demarcation for peak spawning season of A. quadrafasciates.

4 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

019771   Solanki R;Mandloi A K;Dubey K K (Zoology Dep, Govt M. H. College of H. Sc & Sc. for women, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh) : Length-weight relationship and relative condition in Cyprinus carprio (Common carp) (Ham.) from a pond in Jabalpur. Bull envir Sci 2007, 25(1), 23-7.

Total 45 specimens of Cyprinus carprio (Common carp) (Ham.) were studied during the two years of study period. Total length and body weights were measured. The length and weight relationship was estimated by using the cube-law. The departure from cubic-law has been tested and correªlation coefficient 'r' and kn value condition-factor have also been computed.

1 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

019770   Shukla S;Shrivastava S B (NO, M.R.S.P. Women's P.G. College, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of trace elements on snail population of katratal pond of Jabalpur city. Bull envir Sci 2007, 25(1), 89-91.

Zinc Copper Lead, and Cadmium found in pond water, which effect on flora and fauna. Snail fauna are also affected by these heavy metals, their survivality, and productivity is influenced by these metals. Concentration of Zinc, Copper and some environmental conditions are responsible for servivality of snails and shading of cercaria larva from the snails.

2 tables, 4 ref

019769   Shendge A N;Pawar B A;Mane U H (Zoology Dep, Tuljaram chuturchand College, Pravaranagar, Baramati-413 102) : Status of gonads in relation to total length (TL) and Gonadosomatic index (GSI) in freshwater catfish Clarias batrachus (Linn.). J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 97-100.

In the present investigation study of gonads in relation to Gonado-Somatic Index (GSI) and Total length (TL) of freshwater catfish, Clarias batrachus, from Pune district has been done. The minimum GSI values were found in the months of October, November and December, while the maximum GSI values were recorded in the month of May, June, July, August and September. The highest values of GSI recorded in the month of September could be attributed to the peak period of spawning. The GSI provides an idea regarding the pre-spawning, prolonged spawning and the post-spawning season of the fish from the study area. Similarly, the maximum GSI values were observed in the higher length group of fishes i.e.190-229mm and minimum GSI were recorded in the lower length group i.e. 150-159mm. In the present study GSI is found to have a direct relationship with the spawning season, while an inverse relationship with post-spawning season. Further, there was no correlation between GSI and total length of the fish.

2 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

019768   Shanbhag A B;Fernandes G A;Borges S D (Zoology Dep, Goa University, Goa-403 206, Email: abshanbhag@yahoo.com) : Ecology of Batim wetland, Goa, India - a vibrant waterfowl habittat. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 1-7.

Batim Lake (15° 26' 50" Nand 73° 53' 04" E) is an age-old, man- made water reservoir having a total surface area of 16.96 ha. The wetland attracts a large number of birds throughout the year. Waterfowl both resident and migrant flocked to the area for food and shelter. The avifauna was represented by 73 species, of which 31 were waterfowl species belonging to 6 orders and 9 families. The population was highest during winter with 918 individuals in January, while it was least in monsoon with only 58 individuals in July. Tile cumulative population was dominated by the winter migrants cotton teals Nettapus coromandelianus and lesser whistling teals Dendrocygna javanica. The species diversity was at its peak in October (H' =1.05) coinciding with the favorable post monsoon conditions such as sufficient water and ample food resource. The diversity was low in April (H' = 0.72) probably due to the shrinkage of waterspread of the lake in summer. Species richness (SR = 7.37) was at its best in July while species evenness (J' = 0.93) was highest in September indicating an evenly distributed and rich fauna in the monsoon and post monsoon respectively.

4 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

019767   Prasuna Solomon G;Amanchi N;Hussain M M (Protozoology and Environmental Toxicology Lab., Zoology Dep, College of SAcience University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: prasuna solomion@yahoo.co.in) : Comparative study on bioaccumulation of lead in Chrissia halyi (Ostracod) in laboratory and field studies. Bull envir Sci 2007, 25(2), 155-60.

Accumulation of lead in vitro and in vivo was estimated in an Ostracod Chrissia halyi (Ferguson 1969) and a comparison was made. LC₅₀ for 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours was found to be 36, 20, 15 and 5 ppm respectively. Accumulation in field sample was higher than in the laboratory cultured and exposed sample. Acute and Chronic exposure showed high accumulation in acute exposures, which limited to 400 °g at 96 hours, but in chronic exposures the concentration increased to 470 °g / gm. It is concluded that Chrissia halyi is prone to accumulate lead to a very high concentration and also it has developed some mechanism by which it is able to restrict accumulation to 400 °g / gm under acute exposures.

3 tables, 19 ref

019766   Pejaver M;Gurav M (Zoology Dep, B.N. Bandodkar College of Science, Thane-400 601) : Seasonal variation of zooplankton in Nirmalya (Religious refuges) Enclosure of Kalawa Lake, Thane, Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 22-5.

Seasonal qualitative and quantitative study of zooplankton in Nirmalya enclosure (religious refuges) of Kalawa Lake, Thane, Maharashta was carried out. Such enclosures rich in decaying organic matter are used to control lake pollution from leaves and floral offerings associated with idol immersion in the lakes of Thane city. The number of zooplankton was found to be varying greatly according to season and was noted to be maximum in monsoon (27697 indl/1000 L) and minimum in summer (2423 indl/1000 L). The winter and monsoon seasons were dominated by copepods, which were found to be totally lacking in summer season. The diversity of organisms was noted more in winter than in summer and monsoon. The least variation was noted in summer. The organisms those are pollution tolerant were noted through out the year and those, which are pollution sensitive were observed only during winter and monsoon season.

2 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

019765   Pawar B A;Mane U H;Shendge A N (Zoology Dep, P.V.P. College, Pravaranagar-413 713) : Glycogen content of the gonad, liver and muscle during the maturation cycle in Macrones bleekeri (Bleeker). J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 83-6.

Glycogen content in the gonads, liver and muscles of Macrones bleekeri from Sadatpur lake near Pravaranagar appears to be influenced by breeding and feeding. From preparatory to pre-spawning phase, the glycogen content increased in the gonads and liver and decreased in the muscles indicating the advancement of maturity and subsequent fall of content follows spawning. In the muscles, glycogen content increased during post-spawning period thereby indicating a high feeding intensity. On an average the glycogen content was higher in the gonads and muscles (30.35% and 10.36% respectively) of females than the males, while conversely glycogen content was higher (29.76%) in the liver of males than the females. Among different tissues, glycogen content was maximum in the liver of males and gonad of females while minimum in the muscles of both the sexes.

2 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

019764   Patil G P;Kedar G T;Yeole S M (P.G. Zoology Dep, S.S.S.K.R. Innani Mahavidyalaya, Karanja (led)-444 105) : Zooplankton biodiversity study of two waterbodies in Washim district, Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 13-17.

Zooplankton occupy an important position in the trophic structure and play the major role in the energy transfer in an aquatic ecosystem. An inadequate knowledge of zooplankton biodiversity is a major handicap for better understanding of life processes of fresh waterbodies. Zooplankton survey of Rishi lake of Karanja Lad and Yedshi lake of Yedshi village, District Washim, Maharashtra was carried out from June 2005 to May 2006. In Rishi lake, out of 70 species identified, 34 species (48.57%) were represented by Rotifera, 10 species (14.08%) by Protozoa, 10 (14.08%)by Copepoda, 09 (12.85 %) by Cladocera and 07( 10.00 %) by Ostracoda while in Yedshi lake zooplankton population was represented by 45 species which included 27 species (60.00 %) of Rotifera, 02 species (4.44%)of Protozoa, 08 species (17.77 %) of Cladocera, 05 species (11.11%) of Copepoda and 03 species (06.66%) of Ostracoda. Rotifer dominated both the waterbodies throughout the study period Zooplankton biodiversity of Rishi lake was found dominant over the Yedshi lake.

4 tables, 21 ref

019763   Nagaraja H;Gupta A;Lalitha Y;Mohanraj P; Jalali S K (Project Directorate of Biological Control (ICAR), , P.B. No. 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bangalore-560 024, Email: kdrnagaraja@yahoo.com) : On the true identity of "Trichogramma brasiliensis (Ashmead)" (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) being used in India. J biol Control 2008, 22(2), 255-60.

Investigations were carried out on the true identity of the thelytokous species purported to be Trichogramma brasiliensis (Ashmead) (= T. brasiliense), which is used in India in biological control programmes, as the holotype of Ashmead's species is placed under the genus Tricliogrammutoideu Girault at present. Morphological and molecular studies in combination with crossing experiments conclusively proved that this species was conspecific with T. pretiosiim Riley. Thelytoky in T. brasiliensis auctt. used in India is found to be Wolbachia - induced and reversible by administering antibiotics.

12 illus, 12 tables, 12 ref

019762   Naga Krishna Veni D;Sudha Rani D;Yedukondala Rao P (Marine Living Resources Dep, Andhra university, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Food and feeding behaviour of Apogon quadrafasciates Cuvier, 1828 populations off Visakhapatnam, east cpast of India. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 73-6.

Apogon quadrafasciates is benthic carnivore, feeding on amphipods, fish eggs, squilla, crabs and shrimp in this order of preponderance. The feeding intensity is high during March and June, low feeding intensity was observed during October and January. Nature of food vary with the size, higher length groups preferred fish eggs, crab, and shrimp; smaller length groups preferred squilla. Amphipods were common for all the length groups. There is no marked difference in food composition between males and females.

2 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

019761   Mukherjee P;Shrivastava S B;Mandloi A K (Zoology Dep, Hovt Auto M.H. College of Home Science and Science for Women, Jabalpur) : Quantitative analysis of variableness in a microbial population in relation to fluctuations in relative abundance and species richness in an environment. Bull envir Sci 2006, 24(1), 87-94.

In context of the effects of evironmental pollution a detailed analysis of effects of various natural and man made physico-chemical factors on the seasonal fluctuation of microbial popuªlations in water reservoirs, municipal tanks, croplands, forest soil could be undertaken to quantify the two components of variableness such as relative abundance and the species richness. The statistical analysis is simply based on the monthly or seasonal observations of the fluctuations in the actual number of species which could be called the species richness and also on the study of the differing relative abundance or the equatibility of species in a habitat. The application of both the indices helps to assess the changes in the structural and functional relationship as well as the species diversity of the microbial community in different habitat. The existence of difference in the density values of microbes and the species composition and seasonal variability are usually affected by both abiotic and biotic factors. Among physical factors, temperature usually induces a seasonal succession involving the replacement of one species by another species in a habitat. Thus these quantitative studies aim to intricate the relationship of abiotic and biotic factors and also indicate the abundance of a particular species under pollutional stress in an environment.

4 illus, 6 tables, 18 ref

019760   Malviya M K (Zoology Dep, Pratibha niketan College, Nanded-4312 601) : Ponderal index in the fiswh Macrones leucophasis (Day) and Nemacheilus savona (Gunther). J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 80-2.

Discusses variations in the ponderal index in respect to the size group, maturation, spawning and feeding intensity. M.leucophasis showed comparatively high value of K (1.16) than in N. savona (0.91), suggesting well being of M.leucophasis than N. savona. Peak index was noted at the size group 9-9.9 cm in M.leucophasis while in N. savona high index value recorded at the size group 5.9-6.3 cm. M.leucophasis attains sexual maturity at the length of9 cm and N. savona attains at 5.9 cm showed maximum ponderal index (K = 1.16 and 0.91 respectively). Ponderal index (Pi) increases gradually with size groups up to maturity age (2.9 to 5.8 size group in N. savona) because of better feeding intensity. In older size groups K value again declines (11 to 16.9 size group in M.leucophasis) due to spawning activity. At the time of maturity, fishes feed well showing high index value. Fish spawning declines index value from 1.02 to 0.57 in M.leucophasis and from 0.91 to 0.81 in N. savona. M.leucophasis exhibits high index at the length of 9 to 10.9 cm and further as the length increases, index value decreases. In N. savona high index value was noted at the length of 5.9 cm declines further as the length of fish increases.

2 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

019759   Kundan kumar;Thakur C M (P.G. Zoology Dep, BRABU, Muzaffarpur, Bihar) : Estimation of planktronic rotifers in the ponds of Bidupur, Vaishali (N. Bihar). Bull envir Sci 2007, 25(1), 71-2.

Deals with the estimation of rotifers from the fish pond of Bidupur, Vaishali, (N. Bihar).

12 ref

019758   Kesharwani S;Sharma J (Zoology Dep, Govt M.H. College of H. Sc. & Sc. for Women, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh) : Community organization of rotifers in eutrophic pond of Amkhera village, Jabalpur (M.P.). Bull envir Sci 2007, 25(1), 1-6.

The diversity of a community depends on two things: the number of species and the evenness with which the individuals are apportioned among them (Pielou, 1924). It tends to be low in physically controlled ecosystems and high in biologically controlled ecosystem (Odum, 1971). The widely used Shannon function or H index combines the variety and evenness components as one overall index of diversity. H behaves inversely to the index of Dominance (C). The village ponds, which used to be useful institutions have become a source of nuisance and environmental pollution. Therefore, an effort was made to determine the quality of water stored in village ponds and to develop a strategy for its optimum utilization. The results are based on the quali-quantitative occurrences of the different rotifer forms. A higher density and species diversity of rotifers was found in eutrophic 'Amkhera' lake of village Amkhera of Jabalpur district (M.P.). It is suggested that rotifer dynamics, which is easy to assess and inexpensive tool can be taken as one of the method for assessing the water quality.

3 tables, 19 ref

019757   Kedar G T;Patil G P;Yeole S M (Zoology Dep, Y.C. Arts & Sci Collee, Mangrulpir Dist Washim-444 403) : Comparative study of avifaunal status of two freshwater lakes of Washim district, Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 29-33.

Rishi lake and Yedshi lake of Dist. Washim, Maharashtra are the freshwater bodies containing rich treasure of flora and fauna. Present work deals with the comparative study of avifaunal diversity of two lakes and their surrounding area. Survey of two lakes was done for a period of one year during 2005-2006. Out of total 74 bird species observed in and around both the lakes, 53 species were found at both the lakes while 17 species were observed specific to Yedshi lake and 04 species to Rishi lake. Among 53 observed species at both the lakes, 14 (26.41%) were carnivorous, 15 (28.30%) insectivorous, 09 (16.98%) omnivorous, 5 (09.43%) frugivorous, 04 (07.54%) piscivorous, 03 (05.66%) granivorous, 02 (03.77%) nectar feeder and only one species (01.88%) was herbivorous. Out of 17 species recorded in Yedshi lake, 06 (35.30%) were carnivorous, 05 (29.41%) omnivorous, 02 (9.52%) piscivorous, 03 (14.28 %) granivorous and only one species (4.76 %) was insectivorous. In Rishi lake, out of 4 specific species 03 (75.00%) were omnivorous and only one species (25.00%) was recorded as carnivorous. The birds have been categorized in various groups on the basis of their food preference and feeding habits. In all 36 species was common in both the lakes, while 13 were less common and 4 species were rare in the occurrence.

3 tables, 8 ref

019756   Kedar G T;Patil G P;Yeole S M (Zoology Dep, Y.C. Arts and Science College, Mangrulpir-444 403, Email: gtkedar@rediffmail.com) : Rotifer biodiversity of Yedshi Lake, Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 8-12.

Rotifers are the connecting link between primary producers and consumers of higher orders in aquatic food web. Yedshi lake is a rural lake in Mangrulpir Tahsil, Dist. Washim of Maharashtra and has less human interference. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of rotifer community was done on monthly basis from October 2006 to September 2007 by collecting water samples from five different spots of the lake. During the study period total 25 rotifer species belonging to 14 genera were identified. The Brachionus was recorded as the most diversified genera represented by five species. The seasonal rotifer biodiversity study showed the peak in density and diversity during summer season while lower values were observed in rainy season.

4 tables, 19 ref

019755   Jayabhaye U M;Khedkar G D (Zoology Dep, Adarsh College, Hingoli-431 513, Email: jayabhaye_um@rediffmail.com) : Fish diversity of Sawana dam in Hingoli district of Maharashtra. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 26-8.

Hingoli district of Maharashtra has several small sized reservoirs which are exploited for aquaculture through fishermen co-operative societies supported by the State Fisheries Department. The present study is carried out on one of such water bodies, the Sawana dam. The results of present study confirm the occurrence of 25 fish species belonging to 6 orders. The order cypriniformes was dominant with 15 species to be followed by order siluriformes with three species, while the orders like clupeiformes, channiformes and perciformes were represented by two species and the order mastacembeliformes by single species. Besides identification, the economic importance of fish species is discussed.

2 tables, 14 ref

019754   Jaiswal N R;Kadam M S;Madlapure V R (P.G. Zoology Dep, Yeshwant Mahavidyalay, Nanded-431 602) : Length-weight relationship in Gobius biocellatus. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 69-72.

Total 256 specimens of fish Gobius biocellatus, were examined for length-weight relationship. The size and weight of male Gobius biocellatus ranges from 83.14 mm.-200.16 mm & 6510-93160 mg respectively where as the size and weight of female Gobius biocellatus ranges from 82.83-174.50 mm and 6510-59930 mg respectively. In Gobius biocellatus the value for 'B' is found to be 2.6577 in males and 2.7405 in females which show a good relationship between two parameters.

2 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

019753   Hussain M M;Salahuddin M (Protozoology and Environmental Biology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, University College of Science, Osmania University, Hyderabad-500 007) : Epidemiological studies of Giardia lamblia infection in Hyderabad population. Bull envir Sci 2006, 24(1), 39-42.

Experiments have been designed to understand the epidemiology and aetiology of Giardia infection in the cross section of population in Hyderabad. A total of 675 stool samples were examined and the percent incidences in population were analysed. Among hospital based study group, it is recorded to be 6.07 percent and among community base, it was found to be 9.62 percent. Children have found to be more infected than adults. Comparatively Giardia infection is found to be second highest among intestinal infection in Hyderabad residents.

1 table, 6 ref

019752   Gupta A;Poorani J (Project Directorate of Biological Control (ICAR), , Post Bag No.2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, Bangalore-560 024, Email: pooranij@gmail.com) : New distribution and host records of chalcidoidea *Hymenoptera) from India. J biol Control 2008, 22(2), 261-5.

New distribution and host records of Chalcidoidea from various parts of India are listed. Eupeliiius antipoila Ashniead is recorded for the first time from the Indian subcontinent. Ischiodon scutellaris (F.) is a new host record for Syrphophagus aeruginosus (Dalnian). In all, 14 species including eight pteromalids, viz., Dinarmus busalis (Rondani), Merismoinorpha minuta Sureshan, Mesopolobus minutus Sureshan & Narendran, Oricoruna arcotensis (Mani & Kurian), Pacliyneuron aeiienm Masi, Splmgigaster reticulata Sureshan & Narendran, Syntomopus carinatus Sureshan & Narendran and Tricliomalopsis thekkadiensis Sureshan & Narendran; three encyrtids, viz., Cercltysius laticeps Kcrrich, Homalotylus ferrierei Hayat et al., and Syrphopliagus aeruginosus (Dalman); one eulophid, Eiiderus albitarsis (Zetterstedt); and two eupelmids, viz., Anastatus acherontiae Narayanan et al. and Eupeliiius antipoda Ashmead, are recorded from different parts of India and the details are provided.

29 ref

019751   Gaur A;Devendra Mohan (Zoology Department, J.N. Vyas University, Jodhpur-342 001) : Vertebrate faunal diversity in and around three small wetlands of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 34-42.

Establishing criteria for protecting or restoring wetlands has often focused on physical and chemical factors which seems to present incomplete picture of wetland quality. Study of aquatic biodiversity and biodiversity dependent upon the wetland should also be incorporated along with physio-chemical characteristic of water while classifying the wetlands for their maintenance, conservation and management. An attempt has been made to assess the species richness, abundance, and diversity of vertebrate fauna at three small wetlands namely Barli, Guron ka talab and Jaiiwal wetland around Jodhpur to reveal their significant contribution in maintaining biodiversity. A well diversified vertebrate fauna exist in these small wetlands. A total of 19 fish species belonging to 8 families and 14 genera, 3 species of amphibian belonging to 1 order and 2 families, 7 species of reptiles belonging to 2 orders and 7 Families, 70 species of birds belonging 13 orders and 29 families and 24 species of mammals belonging to 7 orders and 16 Families were reported during the study. The data indicate that small isolated wetlands are focal points of faunal richness and abundance and contribute more to regional biodiversity and support a large number of vertebrate fauna.

1 table, 30 ref

019750   Gandotra R;Ravi Shanker;Hina;Ahmed S (Zoology Dep, University of Jammu, Jammu-180 006, Email: ravishankerzool@rediffmail.com) : Length-weight relationship and condition factor in Schizothorax richardsonii (Grey & Hard) from Rajouri district, Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir). J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 87-91.

Discribes the Length-weight relationship and Condition factor in Schizothorax richardsonii (Grey & Hard) from various streams of Rajouri district, Jammu (J&K). The work was carried out on 200 specimens ranging from 9.0 cm. to 32.0 cm. in length. The value of correlation coefficient was calculated to be 0.991 indicating a high degree of correlation between the length and the weight. The Parabolic and the Regression equations were registered to be W=0.03273L^2.621 and Log W= -1.485+2.621 Log L respectively. Deviation in 'Cube law' was observed. The condition factor showed almost a continuous decrease with the increase in length.

3 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

019749   Gandotra R;Ahmed S;Ravi Shanker;Sagar S (Zoology Dep, University of Jammu, Jammu-180 006, Email: ravishankerzool@rediffmail.com) : Fecundity in a hill stream minor carp Barilius vagra (Ham.) from Jhajjar steam, Jammu (J&K). J Aquatic Biol 2008, 23(1), 92-6.

The present research work was based on 150 specimens of Barilius vagra (Ham.) ranging from a total length of 7.0 cm to 12.5 cm and deals with the reproductive capacity of the fish collected from Jhajjar stream, a tributary of river Tawi. The various parameters selected for the present study include fish length, fish weight, ovary weight, fecundity and fecundity factor, which were put to regression analysis. The higher values of correlation coefficient (r≥0.9) in all the studied parameters indicated a strong correlation between them.

6 illus, 25 ref

019748   Gad S D (NO, , C/o Vedpal Tari, D-3/F, General Pool, Govt Quarters, Altinho-Panaji, Goa-403 001, Email: sumangad@rediffmail.com) : Coral reefs - NIO's repopulating experiments. Curr Sci 2008, 95(2), 169-70.

1 illus, 11 ref

019747   Arunajyothi K;Nasreen (Protozoology and Eco-Toxicology Section, Zoology Dep, Osmania University College for Women (Autonomous),, Koti, Hyderabad-500 001, Email: drarunajyothiraj@yahoo.com) : Comparative studies on the acute toxicities of zinc acetate and zinc sulphate to Oxytricha fallax (stein) a fresh water ciliate protozoa. Bull envir Sci 2007, 25(1), 49-53.

Acute toxicity of zinc acetate and zinc sulphate was investigated with Oxytricha fallax, a fresh water filter feeding ciliate protozoan. Ciliates were cultured in hay infusion and used for the assay. The concentrations of zinc acetate and zinc sulphate ranging from 100mg/l - 1000mg/l proved toxic to the organisms and exerted harmful effects as shown by array of morphological alterations. Spherical shaped deformity was observed among the cells exposed to both the toxicant followed by shortening of longitudinal axis. Change in motility was significant. Such kind of studies will give us a better understanding about the impact of heavy metals on the micro -fauna and also suggest their role in bioremediation and ecosystem viability. A variation was also observed in the range of toxicity. Zinc acetate was found to be exerting more toxic effects than zinc sulphate. The possible causes for the variation in the rate of toxicity have been discussed.

2 tables, 25 ref

019746   Aruna Jyothi K;Nasreen (Protozoology and Eco-toxicology Section, Zoology Dep, Osmania University College for Women (Autonomous) Koti, Hyderabad-500, , Email: drarunajyothiraj@yahoo.com) : Chronic toxicity of zinc acetate and zinc sulphate on the total protein levels of Oxytricha fallax (stein), a ciliate protozoan. Bull envir Sci 2007, 25(3), 165-9.

Quantitative estimation of total proteins, was made in the fresh water ciliate protozoa oxytricha fallax, exposed to 48 hours sub-lethal and LC₅₀ concentrations of zinc acetate and zinc sulphate. The ciliates were cultured in hay infusion and used for assay. A significant reduction in the total protein levels of oxytricha fallax was observed during its exposure to both sub-lethal and LC₅₀ concentrations of zinc acetate and zinc sulphate, when compared to control. The level of total protein depletion was found to be more during exposure to zinc acetate compared to zinc sulphate. The possible causes for the depletion of total proteins and variations in the rate of depletion have been discussed.

1 table, 23 ref

019745   Anuradha P;Amarjit Kaur;Sabita Raja S (Zoology Dep, Osmania University, Hyderabad, Email: Purraa@yahoo.com) : Influence of juvenile hormone mimic, solasodine on the nucleic acid content of the mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori L. Bull envir Sci 2007, 25(1), 43-7.

In the study, a juvenile hormone mimic, Solasodine is tested for growth promoting activity and improvement of silk in the Pure Mysore Race of Bombyx mori. Topical application of Solasodine to the early fifth instar larvae of Bombyx mori resulted in an increase in the shell weight. The increase in the shell weight was accompanied by a increase in the nucleic acid content in the fat body and posterior silk gland of Bombyx mori.

4 illus, 22 ref

018727   Yousuf M;Ehtashamul Hassan M (Forest Entomology Div, Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur-482 021, Email: yousuf_tfri@yahoo.com) : Description of a new species of Trichogramma westwood (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) from central India. Entomon 2008, 33(3), 189-93.

A new species, Trichogmmma latipennis sp. n., is described and illustrated. Diagnostic characters of the genus Trichogramma Westwood are given in brief. The new species T. latipennis is closely related to T. brevicapillum Pinto & Platner in having its antennae with flagellum short and stout, about four times as long as wide; having small and thick hairs with blunt tips. But the former can easily be distinguished from the latter by having male genitalia with the position of chelate structures which are far behind the tips of gonoforeceps, longest fiagellar seta about one and a half times as long as maximum fiagellar width, and ovipositor about as long as hind tibia.

1 illus, 10 ref

018726   Upadhyay R K;Ahmad S (Zoology Dep, Den Dayal Upadhyay Grakhpur Univ, Gorakhpur-273 009, Email: rkupadhaya@yahoo.com) : Isolation, purification and characterization of venom toxins from Indian red scorpion, Mesobuthus tamulus. J Cell Tissue Res 2008, 8(1), 1297-1302.

Venom proteins from the scorpion Msobuthus famulus were extracted. Three major toxin/protein peaks were resolved in continuous fractions at 280 nm, which were also confirmed in the buffer at 640 nm. The molecular weights of three different toxins/proteins were estimated by plotting elution volumes against standard known proteins. From gel filtration chromatogram three protein peaks were obtained each one of them having molecular weights 64kD (Sco I), 42kD (Sco II) and 36kD (Sco III) respectively. The LC₅₀ of the whole venom and purified toxins was determined in insect and in mice. Toxins were also tested for hemotoxicity in mice and human in vitro, which gave an EC₅₀ value of 2.16 μg/ml of blood for mice and 19.4 μg/ml for human blood. Purified toxins were injected into mice after mixing with Freund's adjuvant for production of antiserum. After 7 days animals were bled to obtain antiserum. Anti-serum was partially purified by octanoic acid precipitation and antibody specificity was tested by performing immuno-double diffusion test. A visible bow shaped band of precipitin complex of antigen-antibody was obtained. Serotherapy was also performed to neutralize the effect of venom toxin in albino mice.

5 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

018725   Unnikrishnan G;Shivabalan R;John L (Zoology Dep, Birla College, Kalyan-421 304, Email: geeta_ukrishnan@hotmail.com) : Sub-acute toxicity of fluoxetine hydrochloride on testis of reserpine depressed wistar rats. J Cell Tissue Res 2008, 8(1), 1339-45.

Study was designed to investigate the effect of a commonly used antidepressant drug fluoxetrine hydrochloride (FH) on male reproduction. Reserpine depressed Wlstar male rats were exposed to a sub- acute toxicity analysis using a low (20mg/kg) and a high (80mg/kg) doses of FH. The treatment with FH enhanced the food and water intake in low doses and induced hypoglycemic condition irrespective of the dose levels. Exposure of depressed rats to higher doses of FH also induced hypercholestremia and decreased the serum testosterone, testicular proteins and cholesterol, reduced the number of epididymal sperms and altered the histo-architecture oftestis suggesting its adverse effect on reproduction. Thus, in lower doses can well be tolerated by the animals but higher doses may affect the reproductive system and may interfere with fertility. The data suggest that higher doses for prolonged duration depressed individuals should not be recommended.

14 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

018724   Trigunayat M M;Saxena N (Zoology Dep, Govt. R.D. Girls P.G. College, Bharatpur, Rajasthan, Email: mm_trigunayat@yahoo.com) : Priminary report on the butterflies of Dholpur distt., Rajasthan. Bionotes 2009, 11(2), 65-6.

1 table, 6 ref

018723   Thilak J (NO, , Central Regional Station, Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh) : On the zooplankton diversity in Gandhi Sagar reservoir Mandsaur Distt., Madhya Pradesh. Bionotes 2009, 11(2), 54-5.

14 ref

018722   Sudheendrakumar V V;Sajeev T V;Biji C P (NO, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi-680 653, Email: sudhi@kfri.org ) : Optimization of in vivo mass production of HpNPV in teak defoliator, Hyblaea puera (Cramer) (Lepidoptera: Hyblaeidae). Entomon 2008, 33(3), 171-80.

In vivo mass production technique for HpNPV in the homologous host, Hyblaea puera was optimized. The criteria for optimization included Occlusion Body (OB) yield and harvest percentage with reference to larval stage, dosage, incubation period and incubation temperature. Under optimum condition, fourth instar larvae infected with a dose of 10⁵ OBs larva^-1 and incubated for 72 h at 25 ± 2 °C yielded a mean maximum of 3.3 x 10⁹ OBs. This accounts for a 33,000 fold increase over inoculated dose. The yield obtained is 6.87 times more than the earlier production record Of this NPV in H. puera larvae.

1 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

018721   Srinivasa Murthy K;Rajeshwari R;Jalali S K; Venkatesan T (NO, , Project Directorate of Biological Control, Email: ksm239@rediffmail.com) : Influence of temperature on biological parameters of Goniozus nephantidis Muesebeck, a promising parasitoid of the coconut black headed caterpillar Opisina arenosella Walker. Entomon 2008, 33(3), 195-9.

The influence of temperature on the biological attributes of the parasitoid Goniozus nephantidis (Muesebeck) was studied at various temperature regimes and RH in the laboratory. The fecundity, parasitizing efficiency, percent adult emergence and adult longevity were significantly higher when reared at 32 and 34 °C than when reared at 24, 26 and 36 °C. Temperature had no significant effect on the sex ratio. Temperatures of 32-34°C at 65% RH would be ideal for mass multiplication of the parasitoid under in vitro conditions.

1 table, 14 ref