004481   Suresh Chandra;Singh S K;Maurya N (NO, , Plot No. 163, Ashokpuram Colony, Meerapur Basahi, Varanasi-221 002) : Distribution pattern (niche specificity) of pigeon body louse Colpocephalum terbinatum (insecta, phthiraptera, amblycera, menoponidae). Mendel int J 2007, 24(1-2), 27-8.

Distribution pattern of Pigeon body louse were studied on the respective host which showed microhabitat in the life cycle.

2 tables, 15 ref

004480   Shrivastava R;Qureshi T A;Manohar S (Zoology Dep, Sarojini Naidu Government Girls P G College, Shivaji Nagar, Bhopal-462 016) : Analysis of fish growth in two different types of water bodies. Indian J appl pure Biol 2008, 23(1), 81-4.

Fishes are excellent indicators of water quality. Their economic value can be estimated through the study of their age and growth relationship. Fishes collected from Kerwan Reservoir and Lower Lake were measured for their length and weight. Cirrhinus mrigala was selected for the study due to its economic value. Only four age classes of Cirrhinus mrigala were observed in both the water bodies. Inspite of the abundance of food material, growth of fishes was poor in both the water bodies, more so in Lower Lake. Heavy pollutional load may be a reason for this.

2 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

004479   Shrivastava R;Qureshi T A;Manohar S (Zoology Dep, Sarojini Naidu Government Girls P G College, Bhopal-462 016) : Comparative evaluation of macrophytes from two ecologically different water bodies. Indian J appl pure Biol 2008, 23(1), 59-61.

Role of macrophytes in nutrient dynamics is very significant. They are also considered to be the indicators of trophic status of water bodies. In the study macrophytes were collected from two sampling stations each, from two different types of water bodies and identified. Abundance of macrophytes was observed in both the water bodies indicating eutrophic status. Abundance of macrophytes was more in Lower lake. However more species were observed in Kerwan Reservoir.

1 table, 13 ref

004478   Saxena A (NO, , Ashirwad, Behind Head Post Office, Sirmour Chauraha, Rewa-486 001) : Relative abundance of assassin bugs, the natural biological control agents of agricultural pests in Rewa (M.P.). Mendel int J 2007, 24(1-2), 63-4.

Assassin bugs are important natural biological control agents for various agricultural pests. Their population is studied at Rewa (M.P.) 10 species were recorded among which Rhinocoris fuscipes Fab. was the dominant species. These Reduviid bugs can be successfully used in future biological control programmes.

1 table, 6 ref

004477   Samiuddin A;Ahmad Z;Shamim M;Ahmed Z (Plant Protection Dep, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002) : New record of subgenus Rhogadopsis with description of a new species from India (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). Bionotes 2008, 10(3), 96-7.

^ssc2 illus, 2 ref

004476   Raje S G (NO, Mumbai Research Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Mumbai-160 061) : Some aspects on the biology of Himantura bleekeri (Blyth) and Amphotistius imbricatus (Schneider) from Mumbai. Indian J Fish 2007, 54(2), 235-8.

Himantura bleekeri and Amphotistius imbricatus are bottom carnivores, with crustaceans ranking first in the food items followed by teleosts, molluscs and polychaetes. Number of poorly fed individuals was high in both the species. These species breed throughout the year. The male : female ratio of H. bleekeri for 1989-'05 and of A. imbricatus for 1997-'05 were 1:0.98 and 1:1.36 respectively. The length-weight relationship was: Log W= -8.7298+2.7297 Log L for H. bleekeri and Log W = - 6.4691+2.3119 Log L for A imbricatus.

^ssc1 table, 9 ref

004475   Rajashrkar S;Venkatesha M G (Studies in Zoology Dep, Bangalore University, Jnana Bharathi Campus, Bangalore-560 056, Email: venkatmelally@gmail.com) : Occurrence of house sparrow, Passer domesticus indicus in and around Bangalore. Curr Sci 2008, 94(4), 446-9.

^ssc1 table, 19 ref

004474   Rai R;Mehra S (Zoology Dep, Sarojini Naidu, Govt P G College, Shivaji Nagar, Bhopal-463 016) : Effect of the seed extract of Daucs carota Linn. and Nigella sativa Linn. on the uterine mast cells of the ovariectomized rats. Indian J appl pure Biol 2008, 23(1), 139-41.

Seed extracts of Daucus carota L. and Nigella sativa Linn. reported to have shown anti implantation, antifertility & abortifacient activities. Petroleum ether, alcholic and aqueous extracts of these seeds are undertaken to study their hormonal activities in regard to mast cell variations in the ovariectomized rat uterus. Statistical results have shown variable distribution of mast cell in endometrium and myomelrial regions of the rat uterus. No major hormonal effects were seen during the experiment.

18 ref

004473   Rabindra Kumar;Ajai Kumar (NO, , MIG-25, Indira Nagar, R.D.A. Colony, Raebareli-229 001, Email: ajaikumarrbl.2002@yahoo.com) : Gene rearrangement in natural population of Drosophila punjabiensis from Gujarat state in India. Mendel int J 2007, 24(1-2), 71-3.

Metaphase chromosomes were observed from neuroblast cells and centromeric heterochromatin by C-banding, polytene chromosomes from salivary glands and gene arrangement in form of inversion polymorphism in four different natural populations viz. Junagarh, Sassan, Tallala and Dewalia in its polytene chromosome from 3rd instar larvae. A total of six paracentric inversion were recorded in different chromosomal arms of polytene chromosomes. The possible relationship between inversions and different environmental conditions is discussed.

3 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

004472   Pillar N G K;Jabbar B;Mallia J V;Muhsin A I (NO, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Ernakulam North P.O., Post Box No. 1603 Kochi-682 018) : Abnormal hermaphroditic skipjack, Katsuwonus pelamis (Linnaeus, 1758) from agatti coast, Lakshadweep, India. Indian J Fish 2007, 54(2), 239-41.

Hermaphroditic specimen of skipjack tuna, Katsuwonus pelamis of forklength (FL) - 56 cm and total weight (TW) - 3.20 kg was caught by pole and line on 21st November 2005 from the Agatti coast, Lakshadweep. Histological studies revealed that both the ovarian and testicular portions had developed a complete series of gametogenic cell lines.

^ssc2 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

004471   Patwardhan A;Platia G;Athalye R P (Zoology Dep, B.N. Bandodkar College of Science, Thane-400 601, Email: amolppatwardhan@gmail.com) : New species of Metriaulacus schwarz, 1901 from Maharashtra, India. Bionano Front 2009, 2(1), 15-17.

New species of Metriaulacus Schwarz, 1901 has been described from Maharashtra. M. bicolor n.sp. is an addition to the two previosuly known species viz. M. gobius Candeze, 1860 and M. badiipennis Candeze, 1860.

2 illus, 7 ref

004470   Patnaik B K;Jena B S (NO, , Plot No. C-2 and 2197, BJB Nagar, Bhubaneswar-751 014) : Age-related changes in lipid peroxidation and some antioxidants in the liver of a teleost fish. Indian J Gerontol 2007, 21(3), 237-43.

Considering the importance of comparative gerontological studies in oxidative stress, attempts have been made to evaluate the extent of oxidative damage as indicated by lipid per oxidation and the status of some antioxidants in the liver of aging teleost fish, Channa punctatus. No significant age-change was observed in the lipid peroxidation of liver. The hepatic ascorbic acid content increased during maturation phase (young to middle-aged) and remained stabilized there after. Neither the uric acid nor the contents of different types of thiols (protein bound-SH, non protein bound - SH and total - SH) exhibited a significant change with advancing age. Since there was no significant change in oxidative damage and no loss of antioxidants, it appears that oxidative stress is of minor importance during the aging of this fish.

2 tables, 21 ref

004469   Parikh P H;Sonawane S;Adhikari Bagchi R (Zoology Dep, Entomology Div, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002) : Preliminary survey and abundance grading of odonates in Gir National Park and Sanctuary, India. Bionano Front 2009, 2(1), 18-21.

In a preliminary survey conducted in Gir National Park & Sanctuary 30 species of order Odonata were recorded. Odonates are considered to be one of those insect groups that are easily identifiable in nature and have high fidelity to narrow range of environmental conditions. Thus they serve as useful rapid assessment indicators of ecological integrity. Their distribution pattern and habitat preference showed a distinct difference. Baseline data thus collected helps us to facilitate preservation of the protected areas as well as the biota present therein.

2 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

004468   Ojha P;Thilak J (NO, Central Regional Station, Zoological Survey of India, Jabalpur-482 002) : Checklist of the fishes of Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh. Bionotes 2008, 10(3), 78-80.

15 ref

004467   Mustafa Shah G;Ulfat Jan;Kausar N (P G Dep of Zoology, Univ of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006, Email: mustafa_shah@yahoo.com) : Observation on food and feeding habits of an endemic fish Schizotharax curvifrons Heckel. Indian J appl pure Biol 2008, 23(1), 89-90.

Detailed study of the food and feeding habits of Schizotharax curvi frons Heckel based on gut analysis was undertaken from fresh water bodies of Kashmir valley. Index of preponderance adopted for determing the percentage occurrence and volume of food items indicated that fish is an omnivorous. Gut analysis indicated that algae are the main food items followed by zooplanktons. A variety of smaller crustaceans, polycheates and fish eggs occurred in minor quantities.

6 ref

004466   Mohite S A;Singh H;Mohite A S (College of Fisheries, (Dr B S Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth), Ratnagiri-415 629, Email: sa_mohite@yahoo.co.in) : Culture of the shortneck clam Paphia malabarica in Kalbadevi estuary (Ratnagiri) west coast of India. Indian J appl pure Biol 2008, 23(1), 153-60.

Rich beds Paphia malabarica are found along the Kalbadevi estuary (Shirgaon creek) of Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. The culture (transplantation) of Paphia malabarica was undertaken to assess the soil parameters and growth of P. malabarica along the Kalbadevi estuary. The calms were transplanted at 10 meters and at 30 meters zone away from the creek shore, in the intertidal zones of the Shirgaon creek of the estuary at the stocking density of 100 individuals/m² from February 2005 to January, 2006. Clams attained maximum average find length of 39.91 ± 3.79 mm, maximum average final weight of 19.2 ± 4.06 g and maximum average final meat weight of 3.4 ± 0.26 g in the experiment I while, in experiment II, clams attained maximum average final length of 37.76 ± 3.75 mm, maximum average final weight of 18.45 ± 3.06 g and maximum average final meat weight observed was 2.45 ± 0.39 g in one year.

10 table, 24 ref

004465   Mir S H;Baqui A;Bhagat R C;Darzi M M;Mir M S (Postgraduate Dep of Zoology, Univ of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006, Email: sajad20031@yahoo.co.in) : Histopathological study of lung in prolonged alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus in rabbit. Indian J appl pure Biol 2008, 23(1), 147-51.

Study was undertaken to investigate the histomorphological abnormality of lungs in rabbits after prolonged alloxan-induced diabetes. Twelve New Zealand male rabbits of uniform age were divided into two groups. Groups I was made diabetic by intraperitoneal administration of four doses of alloxan @ 80 mg/kg.b.w. at weekly intervals following twelve hours fasting where as Group II served as control and received normal saline in the similar manner. The study revealed significant increase in blood sugar level upto six months in Group I rabbits in comparison to Groups I I rabbits. Further, histomorphological changes in the lungs of Group I rabbits included edema, haemorrhage, bronchial hyperplasia and emphysema (breakdown of alveoli). It is concluded that with the progress of untreated diabetes mellitus induced by alloxan there are disturbances in blood sugar that subsequently lead to lung damage in rabbits.

4 illus, 25 ref

004464   Mir R A;Chishti M Z;Zarger M A;Ganie S A (P G Dep of Zoology, Kashmir Univ, Srinagar-190 006, Email: mz_chishti@yahoo.co.in) : Susceptibility of sheep to gastrointestinal nematode as assessed by faecal egg counts. Indian J appl pure Biol 2008, 23(1), 85-8.

Study on the susceptibility of sheep to gastrointestinal nematode was conducted in Kashmir valley for two years (Jan. 2005 to Dec. 2006). Significant variation in mean faecal egg counts was observed in different age groups of sheep. Animals with age group below one year tended to have high faecal egg counts followed by 1 -2 years of age group. High faecal egg counts were observed in the months of May and August. Decreased trend of faecal egg counts was observed in second grazing year which was statistically significant (p<0.05). The results revealed that animals show natural resistance to gastrointestinal nematodes when exposed second time.

2 illus, 15 ref

004463   Mahesh R;Hazeena Begum V (Siddha Medicine Dep, Faculty of Science, Tamil Univ, Vakaiyur, Thanjavur-613 005) : Effect of terminalia chebula on oxidative stress in the liver of young and aged rats. Indian J Gerontol 2007, 21(3), 244-56.

Free radical damage has been postulated to play a role in the changes that occur both during the normal aging process and related degenerative diseases. Increased free radical production leads to devastation of normal cell functions. The present study was aimed to evaluate the effect of Terminalia chebula on normal age-related changes. In the liver of aged rats, an increased level of oxidation products and decreased enzymatic, and non-enzymatic antioxidants were noted. However, their levels were reverted to normal after administration of Terminalia chebula extract at the dose rate of 200 mg/kg body weight for 4 weeks. The present result shows that the administration of Terminalia chebula acts as a free radical scavenger with potential antioxidant effects in the liver of aged rats.

3 tables, 49 ref

004462   Karthikeyan R;Vijayalakshmi S;Balasubramanian T (Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Annamalai University, Parangipettai-608 502) : Feeding and paturition of female annulated sea snake Hydrophis cyanocinctus in captivity. Curr Sci 2008, 94(5), 660-64.

The most abundant annulated sea snake (Hydrophis cyanocinctus) of the Coromandel coast was captured alive, unhurt using a gill-net deployed from a fibre boat at Kalpakkam and brought to Protonovo within 5 h after capture. Twenty-five snakes were maintained in sea water filled cement tanks (10,000 1) and water exchange (80%) was done everyday. The snakes lived peacefully in captivity for a period of 5 months. Snakes located their prey by cutaneous mechano reception, after which they swam close to the prey, struck laterally and swallowed the prey from head to tail. For an inªcrease of 1 cm in body length of the snake, the maximum prey size consumed increased by 0.08 cm. Parturition occurred in captivity during January-February 2004 when a single female released 3-5 neonates. Smaller mothers (116-131 cm) released three neonates and larger ones (>144 cm) released five neonates. The female neonates were larger than the males.

^ssc7 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

004461   Jagadis J;Rajagopal S (NO, , Tuticorin Research Centre of CMFRI, South Beach Road Extn, Tuticorin-628 001) : Age and growth of the venus clam Gafrarium tumidum (roding) from south-east coast of India. Indian J Fish 2007, 54(4), 351-6.

Age and growth of the Venus clam Gafrarium tumidum was studied in detail employing four conventional methods and an electronic package ELEFAN - 1. The growth rate obtained by all the methods was more or less similar and comparable with one another. The clam reached a length of 24.4, 31.9 and 37.7 mm at the end of 1st, 2nd and 3rd year of its life. Growth rates of male and female clams were similar and observed to be faster in the first year and then tended to slow down with age. The life span of Gafrarium tumidum was estimated to be 3 years.

5 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

004460   Gupta S K (NO, Zoological Survey of India, Central Regional Station, 168-169 Vijay Nagar, Jabalpur-482 002) : New records of two short-horned grasshoppers from Central India. Bionotes 2008, 10(3), 89.

^ssc6 ref

004459   Gaikwad S M;Bhawane G P (Zoology Dep, Bhogawati Mahavidyalaya, Kurukali, Tal-Kavir, Kolhapur-416 001) : Observations on emergence of butterfly, Papilio polytes polytes (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae). Bionotes 2008, 10(3), 100.

^ssc6 ref

004458   Gadzama I M K (Biological Sciences Dep, Ahmadu Bello Univ, Zaria, Nigeria, Email: ibsmandu@yahoo.com) : Ectoparasites, haemoparasite and associated abnormal blood cells, of the bat Epomophorus gambianus (suborder: megachiroptera) in Zaria, Nigeria. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect A 2008, 27(1), 23-30.

Thirty Gambian epaulet bats (Epomophorus gambianus) trapped from the wild in Zaria, were examined for ectoparasites, haemoparasites and abnormal blood cells. A toothbrush was used to brush off ectoparasites from the flight membrane and body surfaces. Blood samples from the bats were screened using the thin smear method. Two ectoparasites, a wingless dipteran Cyclopodia greeffi and an arachnid mite, were isolated from the bats. All the bats were found to be infected with either of the two ectoparasites or both. Seven bats (23.33%) harboured Plasmodium parasite, A total of 13 bats (43.33%) showed single symptoms of blood abnormalities, with polychromasia in 9 bats (30.00%), anistocytosis in 6 bats (20.00%), lymphocytosis in 4 bats (13.33) and poikilocytosis in 1 bat (3.33%). Mixed conditions of abnormal blood cells with Plasmodium parasite occurred in 5 bats (16.67%). No relationship was established between the ectoparasites and blood parasite observed. This study has shown Epomophorus gambiamus to be a probable definitive or reservoir vertebrate host of Plasmodium species, which may be of public health significance and for consideration in the phytogeny of the genus Plasmodium.

2 tables, 24 ref

004457   Chembian A J (NO, , Cochin Base of Fishery Survey of India, Cochin-682 005, Email: johnchembian@yahoo.co.in) : New record of Rhinochimaera atlantica (chimaeriformes: rhinochimaeridae) spawning ground in the gulf of mannar along the siuth-east coast of India. Indian J Fish 2007, 54(4), 345-50.

The egg capsules and one embryo of Rhinochimaera atlantica were collected from the Gulf of Mannar while conducting fishery resource survey by bottom trawling. In total, 89 egg capsules were collected from the surveyed area (Latitude 08°51'N to 08°53"N and Longitude 78°47'E to 78°53'E ) at a depth range of 281-301 m, which indicated that this area is the probable spawning ground of the species in the Gulf of Mannar. The egg capsule measured 257 mm in total length and weighed 28 g. It was ovoid in structure with a central longitudinal hollow core surrounded on both sides with a wing-like ribbed lateral web. Embryo was spindle shaped and perfectly placed in the tubular structure of the egg capsule. The ratio of the number of unhatched egg capsules to the empty capsules indicated that, March / April may be the terminal period of incubation. The embryo observed was in the advanced stage of release as the embryo nearly occupied the full length of central hollow core.

3 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

004456   Channa A;Yousuf M;Ganie B A;Ganie S A (P G Dep of Zoology, Univ of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006) : Qualitative estimation and activity of digestive enzyme in the digestive tract of Schizothorax esocinus (Heckel). Indian J appl pure Biol 2008, 23(1), 99-101.

Qualitative estimation of the Digestive Enzymes viz, protease, amylase and lipase was carried out in the digestive tract of Schizothorax esocinus. The over all activity of protease, amylase and lipase was well pronounced in the entire length of the intestinal tract. Whereas, in buccopharynx the protease and. lipase activity was absent.

1 table, 7 ref

004455   Ananthakrishnan T N (Flat No. 6, `Dwaraka', 22(42) Kamdar Nagar, Nungambakkam, Chennai-600, , , Email: ananththrips@yahoo.com) : Social biology and adaptability in mycophagous tubuliferan thrips. Curr Sci 2008, 94(6), 708-9.

Mycophagous tubuliferous thrips provide adequate instances of social behaviour. Sex limited polymorphism, with structural diversity in the extreme males in populations, temporal and spatial structure combined with the mode of development have been the principal causes leading to social behaviour of these thrips. Inter-generational stability of feeding sites, with the availability of adequate fungal spores, beside their uniform distribution are additional factors favouring sociality. Sex-limited polymorphism, the diversity of structural adaptation as well as functional dynamism are discussed in relation to sociality.

^iia17 ref

004454   Akhter Choudhary S (Zoology Dep, Agra Univ, Agra-282 002) : Some observations on egg laying capacity of Drosophila melanogaster due to fluctuation of temperature and humidity in laboratory conditions. Mendel int J 2007, 24(1-2), 16.

During jhe investigation, affempts have been to assess the effecf of fluctuation of Temperature and Humidity on egg laying capacity of Drosophila melanogasfer.

2 illus, 2 tables, 2 ref

004453   Akhter Choudhary S (NO, , Shop No.3, Sector-A, Block-D, Green Belt Park, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu-180 004) : Effect of sublethal concentration of synthetic pyrethroid, fenvalerate to the vineger fly, Drosophila melanogaster. Mendel int J 2007, 24(1-2), 15.

The effect of sublethal concentration (0.007 μl/700 ml food) of Synthetic Pyrethroid, Fenvalerate on development and viability of mutant form (Yellow) of Drosophila melanogaster has been studied. Developmental time and population decreased in treated flies.

1 table, 5 ref

004452   Adang K L;Oniye S J;Ezealor A U;Abdu P A; Ajanusi O J;Yoriyo K P (Biological Sciences Dep, Gombe State University, Nigeria) : Helminths of the gastro intestinal tract of laughing dove, Stretopelia senegalensis Linnaeus 1766 (Aves: Columbidae) in Zaria, Nigeria. Biosci Res Bull 2008, 24(1), 49-60.

Gastro-intestinal tracts of 382 Streptopelia senegalensis Linnaeus 1766 trapped within Zaria were examined for helminths. The study was aimed at providing information on the helminths of Laughing Doves in Zaria area, Nigeria. Two hundred and twenty-one doves (57.9%) were infected by nine species of helminths. The prevalence of cestodes in the birds were Raillietina tetragona 75 (19.6%), R. echinobothrida 69 (18.1%), Raillietina cesticillus 16 (4.2%), R. magninumida 11(2.9%), Amoebotaenia cuneata 10 (2.6%), Hymenolepis carioca 28 (7.3%) and Hymenolepis cantaniana 40 (10.5%). The two nematodes were Ascaridia galli 2 (0.5%) and Heterakis gallinarum 3 (0.8%). One hundred and Ninety one (50.0%) of the birds had single infection, 27 (7.1%) had double infection and 03 (0.8%) had triple infection. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the infection rates between the sexes. Helminths were collected in all the months of the year with highest prevalence (83.3%) in August and lowest (27.5%) in November. The implications of the findings to the doves are discussed.

2 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

004451   Adang K L;Ezealor A U;Abdu P A;Oniye S J; Yoriyo K P (Biological Sciences Dep, Gombe State Univ, Gombe, Nigeria, Email: ladang20@yahoo.com) : Feeding, behaviour and survivorship of columbids in captivity in Zaria, Nigeria. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect A 2008, 27(1), 43-51.

The feeding, behaviour and survivorship of four Columbids were studied and examined. The feeding of the birds in captivity was determined through a trail-and-error approach to feeding by using Maize, Guinea corn, Millet, Cowpea, Amaranthus sp. and Spathodea sp. The birds consumed more of Maize (23.2%) and Guinea corn (21.9%), thus showing preference for these two seeds than others. The behaviour and survivorship of the birds in captivity were also observed and documented within 72 days. The percentage of survivorship was 90% and the probability of survivorship was 0.9. The birds manifested some breeding behaviours exhibited in the wild such as advertising and bowing coos, bowing and territorial displays, thus indicating the possibility of breeding them in captivity. Two of 20 birds kept in captivity died from aspergillosis and ascaridiasis respectively. This shows that infectious and parasitic diseases can be a problem to Columbids in captivity.

3 tables, 16 ref

002369   Thripathi G;Kachhwaha N (Zoology Dep, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: drgst@rediffmail.com) : Mitochondrial malate deydrogenase from three ecologically different earthworm species. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 67-70.

The kinetic properties of mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase (mMDH) from three species of tropical earthworms (Metaphire posthuma, Perionyx sansibaricus, Lampito mauritii) were studied. The apparent V_max (specific activity) and K_m (kinetic constant) of mMDH for oxaloacetate (OAA) and NADH were calculated using both Michaelis-Menten (MM) and Lineweaver-Burk (LB) plots. The apparent maximum velocity (V ) of mMDH of Perionyx sansibaricus was higher than that of Lampito mauritii and Metaphire posthuma with oxaloacetate or NADH as variable substrates. This indicates higher efficiency of Krebs cycle for energy production in P. sansibaricus being an epigeic earthworm and low efficiency in the endo-anecic earthworm, M. posthuma. However, among the three earthworm species, M. posthuma showed highest and P. sansibaricus presented the lowest values of K_m of mMDH K_m of mMDH of the earthworms with oxaloacetate as substrate was higher than that obtained with NADH showing higher affinity of the enzyme for NADH.

6 illus, 5 ref

002368   Thakare V G;Zade V S;Sirdeshmukh Y D (Zoology Dep, Government Vidarbha Institute of Science & Humanities, Amravati-444 604, Email: Vaibhaothakare@gmail.com) : Coleopteran biodiversity of government Vidarbha institute of science and humanities, (G.V.I.S.H.) campus in Amravati, Maharashtra. Vidarbha J Sci 2008, 3(2), 8-11.

A total of 50 specimens were collected from October 2007 to July 2008 from various localities of G.V.I.S.H. campus and examined. A total of 33 species belonging to 11 families of beetles (Coleoptera) were identified.

1 table, 6 ref

002367   Sukumaran S;George R M;Kasinathan C (NO, Mandapam Regional Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institu, Marine Fisheries P.O., Mandapam Camp-623 520) : Biodiversity and community structure of coral reefs around Krusadai Island, Gulf of Mannar, India. Indian J Fish 2007, 54(3), 275-82.

Gives the results of the surveys conducted in the Krusadai Reef for the assessment of the coral cover and biodiversity during March-May 2005, following the Line Intercept Transect Method. A total of 35 hard coral species were recorded in this reef. The total live, dead and bleached coral cover for the reef as a whole was estimated as 54.9, 18.7 and 15.4% respectively and the remaining part was covered with soft corals, sponges, seagrasses, sand and rubble. Dead coral cover was dominated by porites. Further, relative abundance values were derived for each species and they were assigned the status dominant/ abundant/ common/ uncommon/ rare. Although, no species was assigned "dominant" status, Acropora formosa belonged to the category "abundant" and all other species were either of "common" or "uncommon" status only. Fisher a and Shannon diversity indices were highest (3.68 and 2.14 respectively ) in 8th site. Pielou's evenness was highest in 7th site. SIMPER analysis revealed that Acropora formosa (33.95%) along with Acropora humilis (15.85%), Porites mannarensis (12.97%) and Montipora digitata (12.07%) were responsible for dissimilarity among various sites in the island. The average similarity in species composition was 20.5%.

2 illus, 4 tables, 31 ref

002366   Singh R;Chaturvedi S K;Srivastava S J (Zoology Dep, Satiah Chandra P G College, Balli-277 001) : Seasonal changes in the prolactin cells in relation to the ovarian cycle in Channa punctatus (Bloch). Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 55-8.

Channa punctatus show marked seasonal changes in prolactin cells in relation to the ovarian cycle. These cells show minimum activity during the prespawning phase which gradually increases during spawning and postspawning periods and reaches at its maximum during resting period. Thus, there is an inverse correlation between the prolactin cells and the annual ovarian cycle.

5 illus, 1 tables, 30 ref

002365   Shukla V;Abusaria S;Dhankhar M (Biosciences Dep, M D Univ, Rohtak-124 001) : Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in tissues of fish, cyprinus carpio. Geobios 2008, 35(2-3), 191-5.

Present communication deals with the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in Cyprinus carpio exposed to sublethal concentration of effluents of a bicycle manufacturing industry. Levels of metals were estimated in gill, liver, kidney, blood and muscles. Chromium and nickel were significantly higher than control fish and progressively increased in different tissues except liver in which increase was maximum after 15 days. Thereafter, the pattern was reversed after 30 days of exposure.

2 tables, 10 ref

002364   Sharma V;Singh D P;Bhatnagar M C (Zoology Dep, Meerut College, Meerut-250 001, Email: drmcbhatnagar@yahoo.com) : Acetylcholinesterase-a biomarker of profenofos toxicity in Labeo rohita. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 89-91.

The activity of ACl:E has been) investigated in the brain of a fresh wafer fish, Labeo rohita as a result of long term exposure to Profenofos, an organophosphate pesticide. The fish was exposed chronically for 15 and 30 days to sublethal concentration of Profenofos i.e. 0.0548 ing/1. The activity of AChE was found to be inhibited significantly (P<0.01). The inhibition was 61.14% and 69,85% at the end of 15 and 30 days of exposures, respectively. This alteration in the activity of AChE was marked by the loss of equilibrium in the fish.

2 illus, 1 tables, 18 ref

002363   Selvaraj J J;Biradar R S;Somavanshi V S (NO, Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai-400 061) : Spatial and temporal patterns of demersal fish distribution in the northwest coast of India : a study using geographic information system (GIS). Indian J Fish 2007, 54(3), 243-9.

Study illustrates a Geographic Information System (GIS) developed to analyze and visualize spatio-temporal patterns of demersal fish distribution in the northwest coast of India, extending between 17°45' and 23°00' N. Main functions of this GIS are catch and effort estimation and visualisation of their spatio-temporal variation. Catch per unit effort (CPUE) of threadfin breams (Nemipterus spp.), carangids (Decapterus spp.), lizardfish (Saurida spp.), catfish (Tachysurus spp.) and dhoma (Johnius spp. and Otolithes spp.) were mapped seasonally by pooling data from the year 1997 to 2000. Maps displaying CPUE distribution were produced for three seasons; pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon. Spatial maps indicated occurrence of these five species predominantly in deeper waters of the Gujarat coast. GIS is found to be useful in visualizing spatial and temporal distribution and abundance pattern of these key species.

2 ref

002362   Sahu P;Sethy P G S;Siddiqi S Z (Zoological Survey of India, Estuarine Biological Station, Hill Top of Main Road, Gopalpur-on-Sea-760 002) : Distribution and abundance of benthic macrofauna in Nalaban Island, Chilika, Orissa. Indian J Fish 2007, 54(3), 251-8.

Deals with the distribution and abundance of macrobenthic community in Nalaban Island, Chilika Lagoon. Five macro-invertebrate groups viz., gastropods, pelecypods, isopods, amphipods and polychaetes were recorded. Gastropods (75.7%) comprised the most abundant group of macrobenthos followed by pelecypods (16.9%), isopods (4.9%), polychaetes (0.35%) and amphipods (0.07%). The species diversity index showed a wide range of higher H values indicating a stable benthic community with absence of environmental stress. Further, the community structure did not show any significant spatial variation in species composition. Interestingly, significant correlation was noticed between gastropods and isopods. Further, the statistical analysis confirmed that there exists significant variation within the molluscan species rather than variation within stations.

2 illus, 6 tables, 17 ref

002361   Renugadevi J;Kumar T R;Prabu S M (Biochemical Toxicology Div, Zoology Dep, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Protective role of vitamins C and E against cadmium induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 71-6.

The purpose of the study has to evaluate the nephroprotective effect of vitamins C and E against cadmium induced toxicity in rats. Oral administration of cadmium chloride (5 mg/kg body wt./day) for 30 days resulted in significant elevation of ALP, LDH, urea, creatinine and the levels of lipid peroxidation markers (TBARS) in kidney. Cadmium also caused a significant reduction in the activities of SOD, CAT, GPx and GSH level in kidney. Prior oral administration of vitamins C and E (50 mg/kg body wt./day) along with cadmium significantly decreased the levels of serum ALP, LDH, urea and creatinine along with significant decrease in the level of lipid peroxidation in the kidney. In addition to that combined treatment of vitamins C and E along with cadmium significantly increased the glutathione level together with other hepatic antioxidant enzymes than the individual treatments with vitamins our results suggests that combined treatment of vitamins C and E exhibited better antioxidant property and decrease the level of lipid peroxidation against cadmium induced oxidative stress in kidney.

2 tables, 48 ref

002360   Ramesh Kumar T;Emerald D M;Prabhu S M (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Effect of phytopesticide neem gold on prottein metabolism in the fat body, Testes, seminal vesicl and margs of the adult male Odontopus varicornis (dist.) (hemiptera:pyrrhocoridae). Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 97-100.

The effects of phytopesticide neem gold on protein and amino acid contents in fat body, testes, seminal vesicle and MARGs of the insect Odontopus varicornis were investigated. After exposure of median lethal concentration of neem gold (25 pprn for 48 hour) significant changes in the content of protein and amino acid were observed. This suggests that the neem gold appears to interfere with protein metabolism.

2 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

002359   Rajyasree M;Neeraja P;Sreedhar S (Zoology Dep, Vivek Vardhini College of Arts, Commerce and P G Stuies, Hyderabad-500 095) : Effect of ammonium sulphate on histopathological aspects of fish, Oreochromis Mossambicus tissues. Geobios 2008, 35(2-3), 211-13.

Acute toxicity of 0.1 g^-1 ammonium sulphate on renal and hepatic tissue of Oreochromis mossambicus exposed for 60 days, showed vacuolar degeneration in hepatic tissue, and proliferation of fibroblasts in renal tissue when compared to control.

4 illus, 10 ref

002358   Prabhat Kumar;Mathur A K (Zoology Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007, Email: dr_anil_mathur@yahoo.co.in) : Holocene himalayan bug-a new heteropteran insect. J Palaeont Soc India 2007, 52(2), 163-74.

A very well-preserved unique fossil apterous heteropteran insect whose thorax is the largest (dorsal: 1.04; ventral :0.80 mm) part of body, compared to head (0.11 mm) and abdomen (dorsal: 0.47; ventral 0.71 mm), is considered here to be a true bug recovered from the Holocene sediments exposed near Uttarkashi, Uttaranchal, India. It has been studied systematically based on the characters of antennae and rostrum or beak (both consisting of 3 segments), lamellate extension of head and thorax as well as other morphological features which distinguish ihis Himalayan hug as an insect. It could belong to a new family. The surface features of the body and sensilla of the fossilized insect have been studied by scanning electron microscopy.

1 illus, 32 ref

002357   Kumar T R;Prabu S M (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Impact of heavy metal mercury on biochemical changes in the adult female Laccotrephes ruber (Linn.) (heteroptera:nepidae). Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 81-4.

The median lethal effects of heavy metal mercury on fat body and ovary were estimated in Laccotrephes ruber. The effects of median-lethal concentration of heavy metal mercury (25 ppm for48h) exhibited a significant decline on the contents of glucose and glycogen in the fat body and ovary. The toxicity impact of mercury on Laccotrephes ruber was appropriate to be comparatively higher than other insects.

2 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

002356   Kavitha P;Rajandran K (Zoology Dep, A V V M Sri Pushpum College, Poondi-613 503) : Isolation of bacteria from various tissues of ice stired marine shrimp Penaeus monodon (Fabricius). Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 63-5.

The ice stored marine shrimps Penaeus monodon were used for bacteriological examinations. Tissues of carapace, alimentary canal and muscles were cultured in Nutrient Agar [NA] plate after homogenization and existence of bacterial population were observed. Results showed that there was a significant variation in bacterial flora among the tissues. The predominantly isolated and identified bacterial flora were Pseudomonas (Gram-ve), Streptococcus (Gram-ve), Staphylococcus (Gram -ve), Bacillus (Gram +ve), Streptobacillus (Gram +ve), and E. coli (Grain +ve). All these six isolates were found to be isolated in alimentary canal. In carapace out of six species, only five species except Streptococcus (Gram -ve) were dominant species. In muscles only three species such us Streptococcus (Gram -ve), Staphylococcrs (Gram -ve) and E. coli (Grain +ve) were isolated. The existence of large number of bacteria in alimentary canal and carapace is due to the decomposition of food and environmental contamination respectively during ice storage.

2 tables, 12 ref

002355   Joshi S C;Bisht I;Aggarwal S K (Zoology Dep, Kumaun Univ, S S J Campus, Almora-263 601) : Surface architecture of the lip epidermis of a hill-stream fish, Garra gotyla (cyprinidae, cypriniforms) of Kumaon Himalays: a sem investigation. Biochem Cell Archs 2008, 8(1), 29-33.

Surface architecture of the epidermis covering the lips of a hill-stream fish, Garra gotyla was examined by scanning electron microscopy, in an attempt to understand the structural and functional modifications in epithelia, in relation to life in torrential streams. The epidermis is provided with papillae separated by interpapillary regions in anterior lip and is composed of mainly the epithelial cells, surface cells at papilla form unculi. Unculi prevent fish from slipping and protect it from being washed away in fast flowing streams. Each polygonal unculus appears much like a tooth that has a characteristic edge at the margin. These may also be regarded as an adaptation to browsing or scraping food materials from the substrate. Papillae and unculi, however, either regress or poorly develope in posterior lip. The boundaries of uncular epithelial cells are characterized by the presence of well developed microridges. These microridges have been correlated to provide reserve surface area for stretching, when manoeuvreing of unculi. The surfaces of the epithelial cells of interpapillary region are visualized to have developed a dense network of irregularly interwoven microridges which could be interpreted as a means to retain maximum possible mucus at the surface of the epithelia in G gotyla in order to protect against physical abrasions.

6 illus, 32 ref

002354   Jayasankar P;Anoop B;Peter R;Afsal V V; Rajagopalan M (NO, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Cochin-682 018, Email: jayasankarp@vsnl.com) : Species of a whale and an unknown fish sample identified using molecular taxonomy. Indian J Fish 2007, 54(3), 339-43.

Molecular genetics provides a powerful tool for conservation of species protected by international regulations or threatened by overexploitation. The present communication is the first report from India on the application of molecular tools for the accurate identification of a stranded whale in putrefied condition as it was impossible to identify the species status using conventional taxonomy and the carcass of an unknown animal devoid of its head and tail, collected from a fish market. Partial sequences of mtDNA control region and cytochrome b gene of the whale were generated and tested with BLAST search and DNA surveillance for molecular identification. It was identified as Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera edeni). Partial sequence of mtDNA cytochrome b gene of the unknown fish from the market was generated, tested with BLAST search and was identified as sword fish Xiphias gladius.

^ssc4 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

002353   Goosem M (School of Earth and Environmental Studies, James Cook Univ, Cairns PO Box 6811, Cairns, Queensland, Australia, 4870, Email: miriam.goosem1@jcu.edu.au) : Fragmentation impacts caused by roads through rainforests. Curr Sci 2007, 93(11), 1587-95.

Fragmentation is a severe threat to tropical rainforests. However the habitat loss and less extensive fragmentation caused by roads can also be a threat, not only through allowing access to remote areas, but also through a suite of insidious associated impacts. These include abiotic and biotic edge effects adjacent to road clearings, the disturbance impacts caused by vehicle operation, invasions by weeds, feral and alien fauna and disease, and faunal mortality from vehicle collisions. In combination, these can create a significant barrier to movements of rainforest biota. Impacts can be ameliorated through clever road design and sustainable vehicle operation.

2 illus, 83 ref

002352   Deoray B M;Bhamre P R;Desai A E;Shelke G S (Zoology Dep, KTHM College, Nashik-422 002) : Trehalase activity in Sphinx convolvuli(Lepidoptera:Sphingidae). Geobios 2008, 35(2-3), 188-90.

Assay of trehalase activity in adult moth of Sphinx convolvuli revealed an optimum pH 5.6, optinum temperature 40°C, Km value 5.2 to 5.88 x 10⁶ M. Testing of enzyme activity with chemical substances showed 0.05 M chloride ions as activator and 0.01 M HgCI₂ as inhibitor.

10 ref

002351   Biju Kumar A;Sushil Kumar M;Raffi S M;Ajmal Khan S (CAS in Marine Biology, Annamalai University, Parangipettai-608 502) : Diversity of brachyuran crabs associated with trawl by-catch in Kerala coast, India. Indian J Fish 2007, 54(3), 283-90.

The by-catch landed by trawlers in Kerala coast was studied during April 2005 to May 2006 to estimate the diversity of brachyuran crabs. Forty three species of brachyuran crabs represented under 11 families and 22 genera were recorded from the trawl by-catch, including eight commercially exploited species. One species each was recorded under the crab families such as Dromidae, Dorippidae, Graspidae and Corystidae while Portunidae was represented by 16 species. The species diversity and abundance was more at Neendakara and results of cluster analysis showed that Neendakara and Munambam fishing harbours were similar in species composition. The species composition was also found to vary with seasons with more species diversity during the monsoon.

1 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref