018720   Patil I;Yadav B E;Jadhav S S;Muley D V (NO, Mahatma Phule Mahavidhyalaya, Pimpri, Pune-411 017) : Occurrence of a rare cyprind fish Osteocheilus (Osteochili-chthys) Nashii in Pauna rives, Maharashtra. Bionotes 2009, 11(2), 53.

3 ref

018719   Kumar N R;Badotra P (Zoology Dep, Punjab Univ, Chandigarh, Punjab, Email: neelimark@yahoo.co.in) : Influence of Varroa jacobsoni Oudemans parasitization on some enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism in Apis mellifera L. worker brood. Entomon 2008, 33(3), 205-7.

Total protein concentration in non-infested pupa of Apis mel-lifera L. infested by the mite parasite, Varroa jacobsoni was 0.26 mg/ml compared to 0.176 mg/ml in infested pupa. Specific activities of the enzymes, glucose 6-phosphatase, hexokinase, and acid and alkaline phos-phatase were higher in V. jacobsoni infested pupa compared to healthy pupa.

1 table, 10 ref

018718   Kirti J S;Birpal Kaur (Zoology Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala, Email: prjagbir2005@gmail.com) : External genitalia of two species of Syngamia moths (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae). Bionotes 2009, 11(2), 59-60.

^ssc3 illus, 3 ref

018717   Dey S;Dey C (NO, Banharishpur High School, Banharishpur, Panchla, Howrah-711 322, Email: chiranjeb123@yahoo.co.in) : Ecological notes on flower thrips of Mimusops elengi. Bionotes 2009, 11(2), 64.

4 ref

018716   Chatterjee S N;Das D;Dangar T K (Microbiology Research Unit, Parasitology Laboratory, Zooogy Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan-713 104, Email: dangartk@rediffmail.com) : Efficacy of Bacillus sphaericus against Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti, Mansonia indiana (Edward) and Culex vishnui under laboratory and field conditions. Entomon 2008, 33(3), 181-7.

Bacillus sphaericus was isolated from the gut of dead Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti larva collected from submerged rice fields at Burdwan, West Bengal, India. The bacterium formed crystals and was sensitive to chloramphenicol, kanamycin, erythromycin, lomefloxacin, tobramycin, gatifloxacin, amikacin, gentamiein, sparfloxacin, amoxycillin and levofloxacin but resistant to tetracycline, ampicillin, penicillin G, ciprofloxacin, nalidixic acid, cefuroxime, cefadroxil, ofloxacin, doxycycline and norfloxacin. In the laboratory, 4.2 x 10⁶ bacteria/ml of Bacillus sphaericus (Bs) killed 97.03% and 69.64% larvae of Mansonia Indiana (Edward) and Aedes aegypti (Linn.), respectively, larvae within 9h, and 100% larvae of Culex vishnui (Theobald) in 6 h. In natural habitats, more than 90% larvae of M. indiana and Cx. vishnui and 65% of Ae. aegypti were infected after 12 h of application of B. sphaericus and no further growth of mosquito was recorded up to seven days. SDS-PAGE of crystal protein revealed that the bacteria contain 42 kDa mosquitocidal protein.

4 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

018715   Batra S;Sharma R K (NO, S.A. Jain College, Ambala City-134 003, Email: soniabatra2dec@rediffmail.com) : Immuno-cytological localization of progesterone in corpus luteum of goat. J Cell Tissue Res 2008, 8(1), 1239-42.

Immunocytochemistry was used to localize progesterone in the steroidogenic cells of corpus luteum of goat. Variations in the relative abundance of immunologically labelled gold particles within the steroidogenic cells were analysed in corpus luteum of small (1-5 days), regressing (16-21 days) and that of pregnancy (< 30 days). In corpora lutea of small category labelled gold particles in granulosa luteal cells were 3.00/cm² and in theca luteal cells were 2.45/cm² of cytoplasm at 19000X. These values were more than those observed in steroidogenic cells of corpora lutea of regressing category. The number of gold particles of both the theca and granulosa luteal cells were maximum during pregnancy. The variations in immuno-labelled particles shall be discussed in relation to their physiological obligations at specific stage of reproductive cycle.

5 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

018714   Ahmad Z;Ahmed Z (Zoology Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002, Email: dzubair@gmail.com) : Description of a new species of the genus Blacus nees (Hymenoptera:Braconidae), along with a key to Indian species. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2008, 105(1), 84-5.

A new species of the genus Blacus Nees, namely Blacus (Ganychorus) hayati sp. nov., is described under the subgenus Ganychorus from India. A key to the Indian species of Blacus is also given.

4 illus, 2 ref

017626   Yousuf M;Ehtashamul Hassan M (Forest entomology Div, Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur-482 021) : First record of Trichogramma thalense Pinto & Oatman (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) from central India. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect A 2008, 27(2), 83-8.

Trichogramma thaleuse Pinto & Oatman is being recorded for the first time from India. T. thaleuse has been re-described and illustrated. Additional diagnostic characters, especially the venations of fore wings have been studied in detail. Male antenna, fore wing, hind tibia, male genitalia & aedeagus; female antenna & ovipositor have been illustrated. Diagnostic characters of the genus Trichogramma Westwood have also been given in brief.

1 illus, 14 ref

017625   Stella C;Raghunathan C (Zoological Survey of India, Andaman and Nicobar Regional Station, Haddo, Port Blair-744 102) : Length-weight and allometric relationship in Chicoreus virgineus and Muricanthus virgineus (Gastropoda: Muricidae) distributed in Cuddalore coast of Bay of Bengal. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(2), 359-64.

Length-weight and various allometric relationships between different morphological parameters in two muricid gastropods of Chicoreus virgineus and Muricanthus virgineus were studied. The correlation coefficient of the two species was found to be significant (P < 0.001). Significant difference was observed in the analysis of variance for various morphological measurements in males and females of Muricanthus virgineux. Highly significant results were also obtained for both the species in allometry and its correlation coefficient.

7 tables, 11 ref

017624   Roy C (Zoology Dep, G.C. College, Silchar-788 004) : Effect of sublethal toxicity of malathion 50 Ec. (.006 Ppm) on the histopathology of ovary of Fejervarya limnocharis. Indian Sci Cruiser 2008, 22(4), 15-19.

Effect of malathion at sub-lethal concentration 50 EC (0.006 ppm) on ovary of Fejervarya limnocharis was studied for 24 hrs to 240 hrs of exposure. Remarkable histopathological alterations were observed in this organ. Histopathological effects such as fragmentation, ruptured wall, karyolysis of ova, ooplasmic vacuolation and atresia of the matured Oocyte were also observed. In most of the follicles oogenesis was not observed but in few follicles there were stages of primary Oocyte and secondary oocyte in the area of germinal epithelium. A coagulative and degenerative change of the Oogonia with a tendency towards cystic transformation was another prominent feature of malathion exposure. The magnitude of changes was time dependent being more prominent after 48 hrs of treatment with malathion 50EC (0.006 ppm).

6 illus, 19 ref

017623   Rao A J;Katchi V I;Venkateshvaran K;Jadhav U; Patil R C;Utekar A (Zoology Dep, Bhavan's College, Andheri (W), Mumbai-400 053) : Effects of extracts of the sponge Halichondria panicea on angiogenesis and immunomodulation. Biosci Res Bull 2008, 24(2), 69-77.

The oceans represent a resource for discovery of novel chemicals with potential as pharmaceuticals. Crude toxins of the sponge, Halichondria panicea were extracted using methanol, chloroform:methanol (2:1) and water. The crude toxins were tested at 40μg and 80μg concentrations on nine day old chick embryos for chorioallantoic membrane assay (CAM). Immunomodulatory activity was analyzed through in vitro phagocytosis of Candida albicans by polymorphonuclear cells. All the extracts from Halchondria panicea exhibited angiogenic activity as compared to controls. The crude extracts showed an immunostimulating effect at lower concentrations and expressed a suppressive activity at higher concentrations. The possibility of obtaining pharmaceuticals from H. panicea helpful in wound healing is discussed.

3 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

017622   Ramesh Kumar T;Merin Emerald D; Selvisabhanayakam (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar, Tamil Nadu) : Impact of heavy metal mercury on the ovary of adult female Odontopus varicornis (Dist.) (Hemiptera : Pyrrhocoridae). Asian J Bio Sci 2009, 3(2), 304-7.

Female reproductive system of the adult female Odontopus varicornis is composed of two ovaries, each consists of five telotrophic type of ovarioles. The ovary during fully mature turn into yellow in colour due to heavy accumulation of yolk spheres in the terminal oocytes. Telotrophic ovarioles contain a single usually huge cluster of germ cells. The cluster consists of several oocytes that are linked to a common, ovarioles located, trophic compartment, usually including numerous trophocytes. The ovary showed some remarkable changes in the insects treated with sublethal concentration of mercury (25 ppm for 48 h). In treated insects the Tunica propria and other epithelial sheath of the terminal filament exhibited disintegration of oogonial cells, nutritive cord, trophocytes and cytoplasmic vacuolization.

4 illus

017621   Prasad J V;Gunneswara Rao S (NO, Central Tobacco Research Institute (ICAR), Rajahmundry-533 105) : Life table studies of the beet army worm, Spodoptera exigua on two host plants, Amaranthus viridis and Cicer arietinum. Indian J Ent 2008, 70(1), 40-3.

A study was conducted to understand the demography of the beet army worm, Spocloptera exigua (Hubner) on two host plants viz., Amaranthus viridls and Cicer arietinum through laboratory life table studies, keeping only the food quality as the limiting factor. S. exigua completed its life cycle on A. viridis in 31 days. Eggs, larvae, pupae and adults constituted 47.64, 50.98, 1.17 and 0.21% of the population of the pest, respectively. Mean generation time was 18.49 days on this host where as intrinsic rate of increase (r_m), doubling time (DT) and annual rate of increase (ARI) were 0.2705 (females/female/day), 2.56 days and 7.57 x 10⁴², respectively. When reared on C. arietinum, the population of S. exigua consisted of 31.95, 53.83, 10.40 and 3.81 per cent of eggs, larvae, pupae and adults, respectively. The pest took 4.67 days to double its population and the ARI was 3.22 x 10²³on this host. A. viridis thus is identified as a better host of S. exigua nutritionally compared to C. arietinum through this study.

2 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

017620   Mitra S (NO, WWF-India, West Bengal State Office, Tata Centre, 1st Floor, 43 J L Nehru Road, Kolkata-700 071, Email: smitra@wwfindia.net) : Insect plant interaction and sharing a common microhabitat. Indian Sci Cruiser 2008, 22(4), 20-2.

Study reveals the total life history of butterf1y, Tirumala limniace (Cramer, 1775) on its host plant Dregea volubilis (L.f) Benth. and its association with two other phytophagous inªsects occupying a similar microhabitat. It is interesting to note that Aphis nerii B.de Fonsc. and Spilostethus pandurus (Scopoili, 1763) are the two hemipterans who can defend themselves by sequestering toxic phytochemicals from their host plants. All these three insects have been studied together from the same host plant.

4 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

017619   Marandi S;Sadhu D N (Environmental Toxicology Laboratory, St. Columba's College, Hazaribag-825 302) : Mortality and behavioural change of Lepidocephalichthys guntea (HAM.) after exposure to monocrotophos (Monocil). Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(1), 155-8.

The toxic effect produced by pesticide, Monocil to hill-stream fish, Lepidocephalichthys guntea (Ham.) and its behavioural responses were studied. The experiment was designed to evaluate the toxicity of Monocil for 96 hours including non-lethal, sublethal (LC50 96 hrs) and lethal (LC50 96 hrs) concentrations. The mortality rate of the test fish was recorded at intervals of 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours. It was recorded that 22 ppm and 25 ppm were LC₅₀ 96 hrs and LC₁₀₀ 96 hours doses respectively. The major behavioural changes were prominent at sublethal (22 ppm) and higher doses while no apparent effect was observed at non-lethal (16ppm) dose. The prominent toxic effects of the pesticide were respiratory distress, paralysis, loss of equilibrium and finally death.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

017618   Laxmi Prasad K;Madhan Mohan B;Vasumathi Reddy K;Ramchander Merugu;Ravinder Reddy T (Zoology Dep, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 009) : Sub-leathal effects of two pesticides, kingdoxa and confidor on ACh and AChE activity of a fresh water mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (Lamark). Bull pure appl Sci-Sect A 2008, 27(2), 89-94.

Effect of sublethal concentration of commonly used pesticides Kingdoxa and Cofidor were studied on the Acetylcholine (ACh) and Acetylcholineserase (AChE) activity in foot, mentale and gill of a fresh water mussel, L. marginalis. When exposed to sublethal concentration of these pestidies, the activity levels of AChE was decreased and ACh content was increased in all the three tissues studied. The inhibition of AChE and elevation of Ach content is higher in mussels exposed to Confidor followed by Kingdoxa.

1 table, 21 ref

017617   Laxmi Prasad K;Madhan Mohan B;Satyaparmeshwar K;Vesumathi Reddy K;Merugu R;Ravinder Reddy T (Zoology Dep, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 009) : Effect of kingdoxa (indoxacarb) on the carobvhydrate metabolism of a fresh water mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (L). Biosci Res Bull 2008, 24(2), 85-9.

Impact of Sublethal concentration of kingdoxa(1.33ppm) on carbohydrate metabolism was studied in selected tissues of fresh water mussel, Lamellidens marginalis (L). Glycogen and pyruvicacid levels were decreased while the lactic acid level showed an increase. Activities of dehydrogenases Lactate dehydrogenase (L:DH), Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH),and Malate dehydrogenase (MDH) were showed a decrease in the investigation.

1 table, 15 ref

017616   Kumar S;Kavita Kumari;Sharma A K (P.G. Zoology Dep, Vinobha Bhave University, Hazaribag, Jharkhand) : Ant fauna - a potential bio control agent in lac ecosystem. Indian J Ent 2007, 69(4), 359-62.

Ants of several species have a close association with the lac insects (Homoptera: Tachardiidae). Preliminary investigation on the potential of ant fauna as a bio control agent revealed that ant fauna harbouring the lac insect colonies in search of honeydew are destroying the eggs of two lepidopteran lac insect predators viz. Eublemma amabilis (Moore) (Noctuidae) and Pseudoltypatopa (Holcocerd) pulverea (Meyr) (Blastbacidae). The population of both the lepidopteran insect predators of lac insect was found to be significantly less in lac encrustation harbouring the ant population. The reduction in predator population was recorded to be to the tune of 78.66% with respect to the lac colonies without any ant infestation. The study has thus revealed the role of ant fauna in biological control of lepidopteran predators of lac insect without any detrimental effect on the lac crop. This simple strategy will be beneficial for the lac ecosystem and the people associated with the natural bio-resource.

2 illus, 2 tables, 3 ref

017615   Kiran Babu;Suryanarayana Murty U;Sugnana Kumari S (Bioinformatics Group, Biology Div, Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad-500 007) : Flight performance studies on Culex gelidus (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquito, a vector of japanese encephalitis. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect A 2008, 27(2), 139-48.

The biophysical characters of the mosquito culeex gelidus, a vector of Japanese encephalitis were investigated. The data represent the system in bio-aerodynamics, which comprise the fly and induced air and constitutes 'action-reaction pair' for the hovering flight. Static and dynamic parameters of the species are determined to describe some selected aspects of flight characteristics. Aerodynamic parameters like aspect ratio, wing leading, wing mass/ body mass are calculated knowing the body parameters of the flier. The influence of these parameters on the frequency of wing beat is elucidated. Further aerodynamicrequirel1 n s in relation to flight performance are discussed. Result of study provides useful information on the hovering behavior of mosquito Culex gelidus.

1 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

017614   Dhakad N K;Shinde D;Choudhary P (Zoology Dep, Govt. Sagar Reservoir of Jhabua district, Madhya Pradesh) : Fish fauna of Mod Sagar reservoir of Jhabua district, M.P.. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(1), 159-61.

The aim of the study was to investigate the species composition of fishes of Mod Sagar reservoir of Jhabua district. A limno-ichthyological study was conducted for one year (May 2006 to April 2007) and various indigenous and commercial fishes of importance were found in this reservoir. The paper deals with the variety and abundance of freshwater fishes of this reservoir.

1 table, 6 ref

017613   Das K;Ghosh D (Insect Physiology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 130) : Histophysiology of spermatheca of Oxya hyla hyla (Orthoptera: Acrididae). Indian J Ent 2008, 70(1), 57-60.

Llight microscopic study of spermatheca of Oxya hyla hyla revealed the presence of distal duct, median narrow tube and spermathecal vesicle. The distal part open below the vagina. The proximal vesicular part contains apical and preapical diverticula where the sperms were stored. The histology of each part was different and the distal part was highly chitinized. The wall of the diverticular and the median part contained three cellular elements of which the glandular cells contained secretory materials. Ductules connected the spermathecal lumen with its cellular components. Bundles of sperm were seen within the lumen of the duct and the spermathecal secretions were found to be muccopolysaccharides in nature.

12 illus, 11 ref

017612   Chauhan R R;Shingadia H U;Sakthivel V (Zoology Dep, S.V.K.M.'s Mithibai College, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai-400 056) : Survey of avifauna of borivali mangroves along the coast of Mumbai. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(2), 229-33.

Mangroves provide breeding and nursery grounds for shrimp, crabs, marine fish, etc. Mangroves are among the world's most productive ecosystems that protect the coastal fisheries and livelihood. They reduce coastal erosion, buffer salinity, intrusion, supply and regenerate nutrients, and retard run-off. As transition habitat between land and sea, mangroves are well adapted to deal with natural stresses like temperature, salinity, lack of oxygen, wave action, wind currents, etc. The past few decades' regions have increased many folds and pose a threat to mangrove forest cover which is about 4460 km² in India. In Mumbai remnants of previously luxuriant mangroves are seen at Vasai, Thane, Bandra and Vashi creek, Versova-Monari beach strip and Gorai regions in Borivali. From March 2004 to July 2005 a survey of avifauna was undertaken to study its richness in Borivali mangroves along the coast of Mumbai. A total of 66 species of birds belonging to twenty four families of 15 Orders were recorded. Shore birds, starlings and warblers predominated the population. Globally threatened lesser flamingo was also sighted. Erratic rainfall, tidal water avability, fruiting seasonality, chemical pollutants, anthropogenic activities like wood cutting, garbage dumping and landfilling, etc. affect the bird population.

1 table, 13 ref

017611   Brijesh Singh;Arun Kumar;Gupta G P (Entomology Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012) : Impact of temperature on development and survival of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner). Indian J Ent 2008, 70(1), 79-83.

A range of constant temperatures (20-30°C) on the development and survival of different stages of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) was studied in laboratory conditions. The duration of the different life stages decreased as temperature increased from 20-30°C. The survival rate was higher at 27°C (84.17%) followed by 20°C(63.33%). The highest growth and developmental indices (5.55 and 2.98) were observed at 27°C. The hatchability exhibited significant positive correlation with temperature (r=0.950). The ecological factor, temperature play an important role in build up of the pest population suddenly to a greater extent.

1 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

016533   Yohannan S T;Chakrabarti P (Zoology Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan-713 101, Email: pcchakraborty_hc@yahoo.co.in) : Toxic effects of carboplatin on bone marrow cells of swiss albino mice. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4), 1579-82.

Cytotoxicity of the anti-tumor agent carboplatin was investigated using Swiss albino mouse in vivo test model. Two separate sets of out bred male mice were treated in different batches of a single dose of carboplatin (7.5 mg/kg body wt) and allowed to pass through two consecutive cell cycles. Carboplatin was seen to induce a quite high frequency of structural chromosome abnormalities and a drastic reduction of metaphase index manifested in the form of myelosuppression.

1 illus, 11 ref

016532   Venkata Reddy M;Radhakrishnaiah K (Zoology Dep, Yogi Vemana Univ, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh) : Protein metabolism and histology of the liver of male and femal albino rates (Rattus norvegicus albinus) on adrenalectomy. Asian J Bio Sci 2009, 4(1), 15-19.

A significant decrease in the levels of total proteins along with an increase in the levels of free amino acid (FAA) and ammonia and activities of protease, alanine aminotransferase(AlAT), aspartate amino transferase (AAT) and glutamate dehydrogenase(GDH) were observed in the liver of male and female rats on adrenalectomy (ADX) at day 15 and day 30 compared with sham operated (SO) rats. These results indicated significant proteolysis and active trans- deamination in the hepatic tissue of rats on adrenalectomy. Increase in protease activity and amino acid levels could be due to the turnover of proteins for metabolic reorganization. The magnitude of those changes were significantly more in the liver of female ADX rats than in the liver of males. It revealed more susceptibility of females to adrenalectomy than the males. Longer the duration of adrenalectomy more is the protein breakdown in both the sexes as noticed from day 15 to day 30. Corresponding to the changes in protein levels some degenerative changes in the histology were observed in the liver of male and female ADX rats at day 15 day 30 compared to normals. A mild degree of destruction of hepatocytes with darkened nuclei and widening of sinusoidal spaces in few regions were observed at day 15 and severe cytoplasmic and nuclear damage at day 30 in the liver of ADX males suggest that adrenalectomy leads to decreased protein synthesis. The female ADX rats showed widening of sinusoidal spaces in few regions at day 15 and on day 30 the nuclei of hepatocytes shrunken, while karyolysis is also observed in few nuclei. These changes support that female rats proved to more vulnerability on ADX stress than the male ADX rats. In conclusion the observations, indicated proteolysis and active trans-deamination to favour to gluconeogenesis for energy producction in the hapatic tissues of rats on adrenalectomy. It could lead to structural disruption and decreased metabolic ability that appeared more in females than in males on ADX, and in both the sexes it increased with the duration of adrenalectomy.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

016531   Venkata Reddy M;Radha Krishnaiah K (Zoology Dep, Sri Krishnadevarya Univ, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh) : Gender dependent effect of adrenaectomy on th energetics in the pididymis of male and uterus of female albino rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus). Asian J Bio Sci 2009, 4(1), 1-4.

A decrease in the levels of glucose, glycogen and the activity of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) along with an increase in the levels of lactate, pyruvate and the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was observed in the epididymis of male and uterus of female rats on adrenalectomy (ADX) when compared with sham operated (SO) rats at days 15 and days 30 of experimentation. These results indicated suppression of oxidative metabolism and elevation of anaerobic glycolysis in the reproductive tissues of the male and female rats on adrenalectomy leading to the decrease in their energy levels. The magnitude of decrease, however, was significantly more in the uterus of female ADX rats than in epididymis of male ADX rats. And in both the animal groups the degree of decrease in the level of energetics was more at days 30 than at days 15. The over all results suggest that the impact of adrenalectomy on energetics was more in females than in males and it increases with the duration of experimentation.

2 tables, 24 ref

016530   Uppal V;Bansal N (Veterinary Anatomy and Histology Dep, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Histomorphological studies on the mandibular salivary gland of tiger. Indian vet J 2008, 85(10), 79-81.

The study was conducted on the mandibular salivary gland of a tiger. The entire gland was enclosed with in a capsule and divided into lobules by connective tissue septa. The gland was classified as compound tubulo-acinar type. It was a mixed salivary gland. However, the existence of mucous acini could be seen whose contractions assisted in expelling the secretory products from the acini. Within the glandular lobules, the intercalated ducts lined by lowcuboidal epithelium and striated ducts lined by simple columnar epithelium were present. The interlobular ducts were seen in the connective tissue septa, which were lined by simple columnar epithelium initially and it changed gradually to stratified columnar epithelium towards the periphery. A moderate to strong reaction of PAS for neutral mucopolysaccharides and alcian blue reaction for acid mucopolysaccharides was observed in the serous and mucous acini of the gland. Serous cells were also strongly positive for basic proteins.

11 ref

016529   Talukdar S R;Bhattacharya M;Sarmah B C (Anatomy and Histology Dep, Assam Agricultural Univ, Khanapara Campus, Guwahati, Assam-781 022) : Histoenzymic study on cervix in prepubertal and induced pubertal local Assam she goat. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(5), 489-92.

Study was conlducted on cervix from 21 Assam local she goats in prepubertal and exogenous hormonally induced pubertal groups. The prepubertal animals meant for induction were administered PMSG after priming, and HCG just after the onset of estrus. Cervical tissues were collected on day 3 following behavioral estrous exhibition by the animals. The histochemical reaction for Malate dehydrogenase, lactic dehydrogenase, glucose-6- phosphate dehydrogenase Δ⁵-3-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehyrogenase and cytohrome oxidase were observed significantly in the cervical epithlium of all goats with minor variation in location of enzymes between age groups. The reaction for succinic dehydrogenase in cervical epithelia was not well pronounced in all animals. The presence of these enzymes were not well marked in lamina propria, tunica sub mucosa and tunica serosa; however, tunica muscularis exhibited weak to strong intensity of reaction at different ages.

^ssc3 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

016528   Suthakar V P;Ushakumary S;Geetha Ramesh (NO, , Alved Pharma & Foods Pvt. Ltd., Chennai-600 078) : Micro anatomical studies on primary and secondary bronchi in the lung of guinea fowl. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(5), 493-6.

Epithelium of the mucous folds of the primary and the secondary bronchi was made up of the pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium. Goblet cells were found in the surface epithelium of secondary bronchi. The epithelium of primary and secondary bronchi showed moderate reaction for acid and alkaline phosphatases. Lymphoid aggregations were seen in the lamina propria of the secondary bronchi. The layer of circularly arranged smooth muscle fibres in the secondary bronchi was apparently thicker than that of the primary bronchus.

^ssc 10 illus, 21 ref

016527   Subaharan K;Murali Mohan (NO, Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kasaragod-671 124, Email: subaharan_70@yahoo.com) : Voltage gated potassium channels in the larval CNS neurons of coconut black headed caterpillar, Opisina arenosella Wlk.. Entomon 2008, 33(1), 25-34.

Primary dissociated cell culture of Opisina arenosella Wlk. larval Central Nervous System (CNS) neurons was established. The acutely dissociated larval CNS neurons could be divided into two categories based on their morphology and size. Type I consisted of rounded cells and type II consisted of cells with processes. Nearly 60 per cent of the cells were alive after 7 days of plating. Whole cell currents were recorded from Type II cells (5-12 μm) of 12-48 h using the patch clamp setup. The outward potassium currents were obtained from the neuronal cells. The absence of potassium currents from the cells when exposed to potassium channel blockers (cocktail of 4-aminopyridine (1 mM), quinidine (0.1 mM) and tetraethylammonium (TEA, 20 mM) in extra cellular bath) confirmed the potassium currents. Three types of potassium currents (non inactivating, slow inactivating, and fast inactivating currents) were observed in whole cell recording of Type II cells.

4 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

016526   Somani V;Gholba M;Pejaver M (Zoology Dep, B.N. Bandodkar College of Science, Chendani, Thane, Maharashtra) : Phytoplankton population in lake Masunda, Thane, employing multivariate analysis. Ecol Envir Conserv 2007, 13(4), 847-8.

Phytoplanton population in lake Masunda, Thane (Maharashtra) was studied. Chlorophyceae was the most dominant class. Its dominant species formed a cluster at very high similarity. Cyanophyceae members dominated during summer where as diatoms constituted 6.7% of total phytoplankton.The valid regression equation supported influence of nutrients on phytoplankton abundance.

1 table, 10 ref

016525   Sharma R K;Batra S (Zoology Dep, Kurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra, Haryana-136 119) : Changes in the steroidogenic cells of the ovaries in small ruminants. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(6), 584-96.

Small ruminant ovary possesses 5 types of steroidogenic cells, namely (i) theca and (ii) granulosa cells in the developing and atretic follicles, (iii) small and (iv) large luteal cells in the corpus luteum, and (v) the interstitial gland cells (transformed cells of theca interna of atretic follicles). Theca cells remain steroidogenically active throughout folliculogenesis, whereas the granulosa cells perform steroidogenic activity only in the antral follicles. The granulosa and theca cells luteinize to form granulosa and theca luteal cells respectively. The theca interna cells of atretic follicles transform themselves into interstitial gland tissue. After performing their steroidogenic functions for a specific time, these cells regress back to somatic cells under an altered hormonal milieu. Much literature is available on specific aspects of ovarian steroidogenic tissues. The present review article was planned to integrate all the information on steroidogenic cells and to pin point the areas of future research. The steroidogenic cells of small ruminants are characterized by common electron microscopic features like an agranular endoplasmic reticulum, presence of diffuse lipoproteins, Golgi complexes, lipid droplets and vesicular mitochondria with tubular cristae. These ultrastructural entities undergo cyclic variations in their structure and function. During regression, the mitochondria become vacuolated and irregular in shape, while the Golgi complexes show heterogenicity in their distribution and vesicles. Vacuoles of different shapes and sizes, with varying electron density, are encountered. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum decreases in size and the nucleus is characterized by degenerative apoptotic changes such as pinching off the pyknotic vesicles, containing condensed nuclear material. Most of these cells degenerate while the remaining cells regress back to normal somatic cells. Somatic cells under the influence of intraovarian and extraovarian endocrine and growth factors differentiated into specific steroidogenic cells. After performing the specified functions for the specific phase of reproduction, these influencing factors are either withdrawn or de novo synthesized factors trigger the regression of these cells back to the somatic tissues. These cells also reveal cyclic ultrastructural variations in different phases of reproduction, which have been discussed in relation to their functions in small ruminants.

^iia11 illus, 91 ref

016524   Sarojini S;Ananthakrishnasamy S;Manimegala G; Prakash M;Gunasekaran G (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: thilagamsekar2003@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of lignite fly ash on the growth and reproduction of earthworm Eisenia fetida. E J Chem 2009, 6(2), 511-17.

Fly ash is an amorphous ferroalumino silicate, an important solid waste around thermal power plants. It creates problems leading to environmental degradation due to improper utilization or disposal. However, fly ash is a useful ameliorant that may improve the physical, chemical and biological properties of soils and is a source of readily available plant macro and micronutrients when it is used with biosolids. Supply of nutrients from fly ash with biosolids may enhance their agricultural use. The growth and reproduction of Eisenia fetida was studied during vermicomposting of fly ash with cowdung and pressmud in four different proportions (T₁,T₂,T₃ & T₄) and one control i.e., cow dung and pressmud alone. The growth, cocoon and hatchlings production were observed at the interval of 15 days over a period of 60 days. The maximum worm growth and reproduction was observed in bedding material alone. Next to that the T₁ was observed as the best mixture for vermiculture.

3 tables, 39 ref

016523   Santhosh Kumar K;Nadarajan L (Agricultural Entomology Dep, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal-609 603, Email: l_nadarajan@yahoo.co.uk) : Evidence of female-produced sex pheromone in red pumpkin beetle, Aulacophora foveicollis Lucas (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Curr Sci 2008, 94(11), 1369-71.

3 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

016522   Sadhotra M (P.G. Dep of Zoology, Jammu Univ, Jammu) : Karyological studies of five species of lepidoptera. Asian J Bio Sci 2009, 4(1), 47-52.

Cytogenetic studies making use of in vitro injection of colchicine and conventional Giemsa staining have been carried out on five species of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) belonging to three different families. Chromosomal preparations were made from brain ganglia and testis by using NaCl-acetic Caraoy-air drying method. The chromosomes bore typical dot like or elongated structures. Karyotype of the mitotic metaphase chromosomes on the basis of size and morphology showed 2n=60 in D. chrysippus (Linn.), 2n=54 in E. merione (Cram.) and 2n=62 in D. obliqua (Wlk.), E. vitella (Stoll.) and 5. mauritia (Boisd.). Moreover, different meiotic stages from testis of these five species also confirmed their diploid number.

24 illus, 11 ref

016521   Ramesh Kumar T;Basker P;Muniyan M;Kowsalya R (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Effect of heavy metal zinc on histological changes in the marg's of adult male laccotrephes ruber (Linn.) (Heteroptera: Nepidae) in relation to reproduction. Ecol Envir Conserv 2007, 13(4), 849-52.

Male accessory reproductive glands are derived either from mesoderm or ectoderm. MARG's are involved in various reproductive functions such as sexual excitement, mating, oviposition, transfer of sperm through seminal fluid and gonadial development.The MARG's showed some marked changes in insects treated with heavy metal mercury (25 ppm median lethal concentration). In treated insects shows necrotic and karyolysed columnar epithelial cells, decreased nuclear size and volume, clumping of chromatids and less amount of secretory substances in the lumen of the MARG's.

4 illus, 26 ref

016520   Pramaniak M K;Raut S K (Ecology & Ethology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Clacutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Talcum power as potential control for larval and pupal mosquitoes. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4), 1595-7.

Talcum powder was added to the surface water of the experimental containers containing larval and pupal Culex quinquefasciatus. Irrespective of containers, by the end of 24 hours of the treatment 85% of first instar, 91% of second instar, 100% of third instar and 99% of fourth instar larvae and 52% of pupae were found dead. It revealed that around 85% of aquatic population of C. quinquefqsciatus could be reduced safely without further environmental hazards by using the talcum powder.

1 table, 20 ref

016519   Pandey J P;Tiwari R K (Animal Sciences Dep, School of Life Sciences, Hyderabad Univ, Hyderabad-500 046) : Stress induced quantitative and structural changes in haemocytes of red cotton bug, Dysdercus koenigii Fabr (Heteroptera: Pyrrhocoridae). Indian J Ent 2007, 69(Pt 3), 298-306.

Haemocytes of Dysdercus koenigii were studied during different developmental and various stress induced physiological conditions along with their total and differential counts. Five main types viz. prohaemocytes, plasmatocytes, granulocytes, adipohaemocytes and oenocytoids were identified in fixed haemolyniph smears. The vermicytes were also seen specific stages. The total haemocyte population varied greatly both in experimental as well as in control groups. Likewise, differential count has also exhibited a great deal of variation. Changes in cell contour after chilling, heating and starvation suggested reduced defence reaction in present insect. Further, decline in cell number following the severance of aorta, a neurohaemal organ, and transection of ovarian nerves indicated the role of both hormonal as well as neural factors in regulation of haemocyte population.

15 illus, 6 tables, 27 ref

016518   Nandi S;Girish Kumar V (Veterinary Physiology Dep, KVAPSU, Bidar) : Effect of laboratory and ovarian factors on quantity and quality of ovine oocyte. Indian vet J 2008, 85(10), 27-9.

Studies were conducted to examine the effects of oocyte retrieval techniques, absence or presence of CL in ovary and follicle size on the number and quality and in vitro maturation of ovine oocytes. More good oocytes were recovered from ovaries without CL and from ovaries with large follicles. Slicing technique resulted in recovery of more oocytes than aspiration technique. The in vitro maturation rates were higher in ovine oocytes aspirated from follicles over 2 mm of diameter.

1 table, 11 ref

016517   Kannan R (Zoology Dep, St. Joseph's College, Cuddalore-607 001, Email: erakannan2002@yahoo.co.in) : Efficacy of vermicompost and microbial population. Ecol Envir Conserv 2007, 13(4), 879-86.

Study reveals that the efficacy of the mono and polyculture species of earthworms on the aspects of microbial population in the different compost such as clay loam soil, cow dung, farmyard manure and vegetable debris. It is observed that the efficacy is noteworthy with the polyculture species. There must be coordination among the species perhaps there is a everlasting phenomenon of competent feeding of organic compost. The total microbial population shows that a high level of microbes in the freshly laid casts of all the samples. The microbial population is every time reduced in the 45 days old samples of all kind. Especially in the polyculture composts, the total microbical population is reduced considerably than monoculture and shows that the worm casts having a potential antimicrobial activity.

24 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

016516   Joshi S (NO, , Project Directorate of Biological Control, Email: sunjoshi_pdbc@rediffmail.com) : Records of aphids and aphidocolous ants (Hymenoptera : Formicidae) from Karnataka. Entomon 2008, 33(1), 15-23.

Total 66 aphid species under 38 genera belonging to seven subfamilies were recorded in Karnataka in an intensive survey for aphids during 2000-2003. The subfamily Chaitophorinae was recorded for the first time from south India. Eighteen species are recorded for the first time from Karnataka, of which six species are new records from south India. Eleven species of ants belonging to eight genera were found associated with 24 species of aphids infesting 42 host plants. The ants belonged to the subfamilies Formicinae (five species), Myrmicinae (four species) and Dolichoderinae (two species). The genera Camponotus, Crematogaster and Monomorium were more abundant with two species under each genus. Camponotus compressus Fabricius was the most common species, attending 15 species of aphids. This was followed by Monomorium sp. and Solenopsis geminata Fabricius, which attended nine and eight species of aphids, respectively. Camponotus rufoglaucus Jerdon, Crematogaster soror Forel and Oecophylla smaragdina Smith attended three aphid species each. This study records 26 new aphid and ant associations.

3 tables, 38 ref

016515   Johal M S;Sandhir R;Ravneet (Zoology Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: ravneet78@yahoo.co.in) : Induced eye lens cataract in Cyprinus carpio communis upon exposure to monocrotophos, an organophosphate. Curr Sci 2008, 94(10), 1252-4.

4 illus, 27 ref

016514   Jayasankar P;Anoop B;Rajagopalan M (NO, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, P.B. No. 1603, Ernakulam North PO, Cochin-682 018, Email: jayasankarp@vsnl.com) : PCR-based sex determination of cetaceans and dugong from the Indian seas. Curr Sci 2008, 94(11), 1513-16.

A sex-determination technique based on PCR amplification of genomic DNA extracted from the skin tissue has been standardized in cetaceans and dugong sampled from the Indian seas. A Y-chromosome-specific region (SRY or Sex-determining Y-chromosome gene) of 210-224 bp size in the genome has been amplified (only in males) using specific PCR primers. A fragment of the ZFX/ZFY (zinc finger protein genes located both on the X and Y chromosomes respectively) region in the size range 442-445 bp is also amplified (in both sexes) using another pair of primers simultaneously as positive controls for confirmation of sex. Molecular sexing was standardized in spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris), bridled dolphin (Stenella attenuata), bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops adiincus), Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphin (Sousa chinensis), Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus), finless porpoise (Neophu-caena phocaenoides), sperm whale (Physeter macro-cephalus), blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus), Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera edeni) and dugong (Dugong du-gon), which are all vulnerable/endangered species protected under the Indian Wildlife Act.

1 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

016513   Jagbir Singh Kirti;Gill N S (Zoology Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala-147 002) : Revival and recharacterization of genus Thyrgorina walker (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae: Arctiinae) and taxonomic studies on four Indian species of this genus from western Ghats of India. Entomon 2008, 33(1), 53-64.

Genus Thyrgorina Walker has been revived from the synonymy of Diacrisia Hubner and recharacterized in detail by including external male and female genitalic structure of its type species. External genitalic structure of Indian species i.e. Thyrgorina indica (Guer), T. angularis (Strand) and T. exima (Swinhoe) have been studied and illustrated for the first time besides reporting of a new species viz. T. coorgensis sp.nov. from Western Ghats of India. The description of new species is discussed in detail.

4 illus, 8 ref

016512   Harjit Kaur;Rajdeep Kaur (Zoology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 001) : Field evaluation of two additives for improving the acceptance of some molluscicide baits by the slug, Filicaulis alte ferussac in vegetable fields at Malerkotla (Punjab). Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4), 1602-6.

For improving the acceptance of poison baits containing 10% carbaryl and 10% nuvan (acting as molluscicide) to control the slug, Filicaulis alte Ferussac mango flavor and apple juice were tested under vegetable field conditions. Three per cent mango flavor and three percent apple juice used to amend 10% carbaryl and 10% nuvan baits in wheat bran, improved significantly the take of and effectiveness of 10% carbaryl (50% WDP) and 10% nuvan (76% EC) in separate field tests. Three percent mango flavor induced, mean percent improvement in 10% carbaryl bait take was 25 and slug mortality 33 in tomato crop while that of 10% nuvan bait take was 19 and slug mortality was S3 in capsicum crop. However, three percent apple juice induced mean percent improvement in 10% carbaryl bait take was 58 and slug mortality 47 while that of 10% nuvan bait take was 62 and slug mortality was 38 in cabbage crop. These flavors might have acted as an attractant in the bait-material to attract a large number of slugs, thus increasing toxic bait consumption and slug mortality.

2 tables, 7 ref

016511   Das K;Ghosh D (Insect Physiology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 130) : Histophysiology of ovariole of Oxya hyla hyla (Orthoptera: acrididae) and differentiation of the oocyte. Indian J Ent 2007, 69(Pt 3), 282-7.

Female reproductive system of Oxya liyla hyla (Orthoptera: Acrididae) has been observed to be panoistic in nature consisting of 24 ovarioles in each side of the body. Basing on histophysiology it has been subdivided in six zones. The most anterior terminal filament and the posterior ripe terminal oocyte. The growing oocytes are covered by follicular epithelium on all sides. The oocytes grow from terminal filament to terminal oocyte in progressive manner. The cell in the terminal filament is observed to be in undifferentiated interphase state. In the germarium part, the differentiation of the eggs start and slight enlargement of the cellular cytoplasm with strong basophilia in association with increase in nuclear volume of the oocyte to form the germinal vesicle occur. In this part the extended meiotic prophase exists and distinct chromosomal condensation is apperent. In the vitellarium part yolk deposition follows. The yolk granules are strongly glyco-lipo-protein in nature and get stained with Hg- Bromophenol blue, Sudan Black B and PAS reaction. The terminal part of the ripe follicle is seen to be connected with the lateral oviduct by a pedicel. The follicular epithelium also undergoes changes in histomorphology along with differentiation of the oocyte.

12 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

016510   Benarjee G;Laxma Reddy B;Rajender G;Swamy M; Rama Rao N J (Fisheries Research Lab, Zoology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009, Email: gbgsss@yahoo.co.in) : Observations on the functional significance of histological and histochemical components in oesophagus of a freshwater fish, Clarias batrachus. Ecol Envir Conserv 2007, 13(4), 873-8.

Study has been made to elucidate the histomorphological and histochemical components in the oesophagus of freshwater cat fish, Clarias batrachus. The histological observations revealed that the oesophagus consists typical four layers i.e., mucosa, submucosa, muscularis layer and serosa. The mucous layer consists of undifferentiated cells. The epithelial cells differ in their structure from anterior to the posterior region of the oesophagus.The circular muscle bundles occupy major part and impart abundant thickness to the oesophagus. Due to this thickness the oesophagus has attained contractile and expansion ability. The histochemical tests applied on the oesophageal sections revealed the presence of elastin, collagen, acid mucopolysaccharides, neutral mucopolysaccharides and hyaluronic acid.The weak and strong acid mucopolysaccharides were also identified in the esophagus.The occurrence of sialomucins and sulphates mucous substances revealed their significance in the physiological function of oesophageal part of digestive tract.

10 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

016509   Beg S;Gupta N;Sandeep Kumar;Khan V;Bhatnagar S;Saxena A K (Zoology Dep, Govt. Raza P.G. College, Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, Email: akscsir@rediffmail.com) : Occurrence of phthiraptera on the house crow, Corvus splendens (Passeriformes: Corvidae). Entomon 2008, 33(1), 75-8.

Prevalence and other population parameters of five phthirapteran species on a sample of 70 house crows in the district Rampur, U.P., India were determined. The most prevalent species was Philopterus lahorensis (51.45% of the population), followed by Allocolpocephalum fregili (34.3%), Corvonirmus saliemi (30.0%), Menacanthus gonophaeus (18.6%) and Myrisidea bakttitar (11.4%). All the five species exhibited aggregated distribution but the distribution did not conform to negative binomial model. Females outnumbered the males in all the five species; the adult to nymph ratio varied among the species.

1 table, 8 ref

015400   Upadhyay K;Singh B K (Cytogenetics Lab, Zoology Dep, Kumaon University, Nainital-263 002, Email: kamla_zoo@yahoo.com) : Report on two new species and three new records of Drosophilidae from Kumaon region, Uttaranchal, India. Entomon 2007, 32(3), 177-87.

Taxonomic account of five species belonging to the genus Leucophenga, Microdrosophila, Dichaetophora and Lordiphosa are given. Leucophenga trispina and Microdrosophila (Microdrosophila) bamanpuriensis are described as new species while Dichaetophora acutissima, Leucophenga argentata and Lordlphosa tripartita are recorded for the first time from India.

2 illus, 16 ref

015399   Singh N P;Vijay Sigh (Zoology Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004, Email: singhnps@yahoo.co.in) : Seasonal variation in spider fauna in different habitats of Jhalana forest range, Jaipur, Rajasthan. Entomon 2007, 32(3), 153-9.

Survey of spiders was undertaken in Jhalana Forest Range, Jaipur, Rajasthan from March 2005 to February 2006. Thirty nine species belonging to 29 genera and 15 families of spiders were collected and identified. Cyrtophora citricola and Stegodyphus sarsinorum were most common.

1 illus, 1 table, 19 ref