018305   Saikia J;Roy T C;Naskar S;Das B;Ferdoci A M (Animal Genetics and Breeding Dep, College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati-781 022, Email: gsaikia123@gmail.com) : Molecular characterization of Cytochrome B gene in indigenous pig. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(2), 196-8.

In pigs, genetic variability at the Cytochrome B (Cyt B) gene of mitochondrial DNA (mt DNA) has been widely used as a tool to determine genetic relationships between different breeds and population. The present study was carried out with the objectives to find out SNPs in Cyt B gene and decipher evolutionary relationship among the indigenous pigs based on it. Blood samples of 104 indigenous pigs viz.Ghungroo, Meghalaya local and Nagaland local, were collected and mt DNA was isolated. PCR-SSCP was carried out revealing monomorphic pattern comprising four similar bands. Representative samples of 3 different breeds were subsequently sequenced. Sequence analyses revealed presence of 4 SNPs at position 47(C), 49(A), 52(T) and 56(A) which corresponds to 15036, 15038, 15041 and 15045 nucleotide positions of mitochondrial genome, respectively. This particular combination of SNPs of CytB gene denoted Asiatic origin of indigenous pigs-further pointing to A1 haplotype.

3 illus, 9 ref

018304   Roy S;Vikash Kumar;Manna R K;Suresh V R (NO, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), (Barrackpore-700 120), Email: suvrar6@gmail.com) : Sundarbans mangrove deltaic system- An overview of its biodiversity with special reference to fish diversity. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(2), 1090-9.

World heritage site-Sundarbans were declared as the world's 560th Ramsar Wetlands site in 1992. Sundarbans ecosystem supports rich fisheries diversity and also natural biodiversity hot spot, because it is natural habitat of many endangered species. The Sundarbans is a home to a variety of faunal species, the total of 1586 species has been recorded which includes 481 Vertebrate species (30%), 1104 Invertebrate species (70%). Mangroves are the nursery and breeding grounds for several commercially important species of aquatic fauna like fish, shrimps and prawns etc. Mangrove ecosystems are of great ecological significance in the tropical and sub-tropical coast. Sundarbans mangrove provides a variety of ecosystem services. However, the Sundarban mangrove forest is the most threatened habitats in the world, increased population with few alternative livelihood opportunities poses a serious threat as it is the main cause of mangrove destruction. The total value of Sundarbans is not recognized and therefore often neglected in development planning. As a result Sundarbans conservation issue is getting less importance at the national level. The study reveals that major ecosystem services of Sundarbans are timber, fuel wood, fish, ecotourism, cyclone and storm protection, biodiversity, and habitat for flora and fauna. Timber, fuel wood and fish are more economical provisioning services in Sundarbans. It is noticed that there is decreasing tendency of overall revenue collection from the mangrove over the period of 2001-02 to 2009-10. The attention from national and international communities is needed for sustainable management and conservation of the Sundarbans. The study suggests that further research on total economic value of Sundarbans is needed for providing comprehensive scientific information for policy as well as for decision makers.

4 illus, 4 tables, 90 ref

018303   Rajoriya J S;Prasad J K;Ghosh S K;Anuj Kumar; Ramteke S S;Singh M;Sandeep Kumar (Germ Plasm Centre, Animal Reproduction Div, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243 122, Email: anujduvasu@rediffmail.com) : Effect of peak winter and summer season on quality and freezability of Tharparkar bull semen. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(2), 265-8.

Present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of season on quality and freezability of Tharparkar bull semen. A total of 60 semen ejaculates (30 winter and 30 summer) of Tharparkar bulls were collected. Physico-morphological characteristics of semen viz. volume (ml), mass activity (0-5 scale), progressive motility (%), sperm concentration (million/ml), sperm livability (%), HOST (%), sperm abnormal morphology (%) and acrosomal integrity (%) were estimated at different stage in the different seasons. The volume of ejaculate was significantly (p <60>0.01) higher in summer than winter season. HOST positive spermatozoa were significantly (p<60>0.05) higher in summer than winter season at both pre-freeze and post-thaw stage. In general, Tharparkar bulls' semen has better feezability. The study geneated basic information regarding physico-morphological characteristic of Tharparkar bull semen in two different seasons. However, no significant effect of season was observed on these seminal attribtes and its freezability in Tharparkar bull semen.

2 tables, 20 ref

018302   Rajesh M;Rajesh K M;Panda K (Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University, College of Fisheries, Mangalore-575 002, Email: mridularajesh789@yahoo.co.in) : Reproductive biology of mullet, Valamugil buchanani from Mulky estuary off Arabian sea, Dakshina Kannada, India. Indian J Anim Res 2014, 48(4), 336-43.

Present investigation was carried out on reproductive biology of commercially important mullet (Valamugil buchanani) from the Mulky estuary of Dakshina Kannada coast during the period November, 2008 to October, 2009. The species spawned only once a year over a prolonged period extending from August to January with a peak in November to December. The female attained first maturity at 177 cm while the male at 181 cm. Male always recorded lower values of Gonado - Somatic Index (G.S.I.) and is significantly (P <60>0.5) different from that of female owing to the greater ovary weight. The G.S.I. values were high during August to January with peaks in November to December implying prolonged spawning. Overall predominance of female in the population was noticed with the sex ration of female to male was 1: 0.65.

4 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

018301   Rahman W;Deka R;Kalita B;Deka P (Zoology Dep, Pandu College, Guwahati-12, Assam) : Comparative study on ichthyofaunal resource of Charan and Manaha Beel of Morigaon District of Assam, India. Int J Fish aqua Stud 2016, 4(4), 43-51.

Study relates to the ichthyofaunal resource of two Beels of Morigaon District, Assam, India. Altogether 65 fish species including 5 exotic species belonging to 43 genera under 21 families from 7 orders is recorded from two Beels where 64 species are recorded from Charan Beel and 53 from Manaha Beel. In both the beels 1 species is recorded as endangered as well as data deficient. However, 51 species are recognised as LRlc, 6 as LRnt and other 5 are not evaluated in Charan Beel whereas in Manaha Beel, 44 species has been recorded as LRlc, 4 as LRnt and other 3 species are not evaluated. The taxonomic study shows that Cyprinidae is the dominant family with 23 species contributing 35.94% in Charan and 18 species (33.96%) in Manaha followed by Bagridae (10.94% and 11.32% in Charan and Manaha Beel respectively) and Channidae (7.81% in Charan and 9.43% in Manaha).

2 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

018300   Prakash C;Kohli M P S;Dube K;Babitha Rani A M;Roy S D;Raju K D;Pawar N A (Central Institute of Fisheries Education (Deemed University), , Versova, Andheri (W), Mumbai-400 061, Email: cprakash1956@gmail.com) : Captive breeding and larval rearing of Danio aequipinnatus (Mcclelland, 1839). Indian J Anim Res 2014, 48(4), 3789-83.

Danio aequipinnatus (30 to 40 mm size) were collected from their natural habitats in an around Guwahati, Tejpur and Itanagar (North- East India) and brought to Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai. The acclimatized and matured fishes were reared in 50x25x25 cm glass aquaria. Overall six different sets were arranged for captive breeding. Altogether three trials were carried out for standardization of breeding technique with varying degree of three environmental parameters like water hardness, pH and temperature. The study revealed that critical parameters viz., hardness: 50 mg l^-1, pH: 7.0 and temperature: 22.5°C played key role in breeding performance of Danio aequipinnatus. The breeding trials were not successful when both the water hardness at the level of 480 mg l^-1 and temperature (33°C) combined or temperature alone at the mark of 32°C was taken into consideration. Three trials (trial A, B and C were conducted), trials-A and B could result with very poor percentage of hatchlings as 3 and 5 respectively while, the trial-C results well expressed the higher percentage of hatching as 82.85 where the environmental parameters were controlled at the level of hardness 50 mg l^-1, pH 7.0 and temperature 22.5°C.

1 illus, 6 tables, 10 ref

018299   Perumal P;Rajkhowa C (NO, ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Jharnapani, Nagaland-797 106) : Effect of addition of pomegranate (Punica granatum) juice on the liquid storage (5°c) of mithun (Bos frontalis) semen. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(4), 470-3.

A total 50 ejaculates from eight mithun bulls were collected twice a week over 8 months and semen pooled to eliminate individual differences and was split into four equal aliquots, diluted with the TEYC extender. Group 1: diluted 1:2 with TEYC extender (control), group 2 to 4: semen diluted with 1:2 TEYC extender supplemented with 6, 8 and 10 ml of PJ/100 ml of diluent, respectively. The seminal parameters and biochemical profiles were assessed at 5°C for 0, 6, 12, 24 and 30 h of incubation. Inclusion of PJ into diluent resulted in significant (p <60> 0.05) decrease in percentages of dead spermatozoa, abnormal spermatozoa and acrosomal abnormalities at different hours of storage periods. Additionally, PJ at 6 and 10 ml were inferior to PJ 8 ml treatments as regards to these characteristics. It was concluded that the possible protective effects of PJ on sperm parameters are enhancing the function of antioxidant enzymes and prevent efflux of cholesterol and phospholipids from cell membrane during preservation.

8 tables, 7 ref

018298   Patel V;Bhushan B;Vishnu Kumar;Panigrahi M; Ranjan S;Pushpendra Kumar (Animal Genetics Div, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243 122, Email: bb@ivri.up.nic.in) : Molecular characterization of lactoferrin gene and its association with mastitis in crossbred cattle. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(6), 757-60.

Genomic DNA was isolated from the blood of 100 crossbred cattle (HF, Jersey, Brown Swiss x Hariana cattle). Exon 4 and intron 6 of lactoferrin (Lf) gene was characterized by PCR-SSCP. Two alleles of exon 4, namely E & F showing two genotypes EE and EF and two alleles of intron 6, namely A and B showing two genotypes AA and AB were found in studied population. Cloning and sequencing results revealed that in exon 4, there was one SNP in allele E and two SNPs in allele F, which changed amino acid isoleucine to valine. In intron 6 there was one SNP in allele A and three SNPs in allele B. Least square analysis for SCC and FLMY revealed that genotype AA was significantly associated with low SCC, while genotype AB was significantly associated with high SCC. However, genotype EE was significantly associated with FLMY as compared to genotype EF.

2 illus, 3 tables, 7 ref

018297   Panat N A;Amrute B K;Bhattu S;Haram S K; Sharma G K;Ghaskadbi S S (Zoology Dep, SPPU, Pune-411 007, Email: ssg@unipune.ac.in) : Antioxidant profiling of C3 quercetin glycosides: Quercitrin, Quercetin 3-β-D-glucoside and Quercetin 3-O-(6"-O-malonyl)-β-Dglucoside in cell free environment. Free Radical Antioxidant 2015, 5(2), 90-100.

Free radical scavenging ability of quercetin glycosides was assessed by UV-VIS spectrophotometry, pulse radiolysis and cyclic voltammetry. Their protective effects in Fenton radical induced DNA strand breaks and mitigating oxidative stress in subcellular organelles such as mitochondria were also examined. Unlike earlier reports we found that C3 glycosides of quercetin exhibited better free radical scavenging in cell free environment. These glycosides effectively protected pBR322 DNA against Fenton radical induced-DNA strand breaks and this could be attributed to their interaction with 2 deoxy guanosine base transient. However, amongst these glycosides, Quercetin 3-O-(6"-O-malonyl)-β-D-glucoside which exhibited excellent antioxidant ability in cell-free environment, could not effectively protect mitochondria from lipid peroxidation but conferred protection against protein sulphydryl depletion at lower concentrations. All quercetin glycosides exhibited excellent antioxidant activities in cell free environment but did not exert comparable protective effects in biological systems. Varied responses of these derivatives can be attributed to their C3 glycosylation and the derivatizations at C3 sugars.

7 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

018296   Onsuaso I C;Neba C P;Bello U M (Veterinary Anatomy Dep, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nigeria Univ, Nsukka, Nigeria, Email: casmir.igbokwe@unn.edu.ng) : Comparative histology and histochemistry of the major salivary glands in the giant pouched-rats (Cricetomys gambianus) and greater cane rats(Thryonomys swinderianus). Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(4), 451-60.

The comparative morphometry, histology and histochemistry of the submandibular, parotid and sublingual glands were studied in the wild adult African giant pouched rat (Cricetomys gambianus) and greater cane rats (Thryonomys swinderianus). The submandibular was purely serous in the giant pouched rats, but sero-mucous in the cane rats with serous acini predominating. Serous demilunes were common in the submandibular gland of cane rats but not in that of giant rats. The parotid contained serous acini in both species, in addition intermingled copious globular fat tissue was observed in the cane rats. The sublingual gland showed sero-mucous acini with mucous predominating in both rodents. Large striated (intralobular) ducts were present in the parenchyma of both rats. Strong activity of neutral mucins was observed in submandibular and parotid gland of both rodents, however acidic mucins were absent. The sublingual gland showed reactivity for neutral and acidic mucins in both rats. Gross morphometry indicated significant differences (p<60>0.05) in the weights of the three glands in between the rodents. Micrometry showed significant differences between the rats in the diameter of striated ducts of submandibular gland, but such significant differences did not exist in the striated ducts of parotid and sublingual glands.

12 illus, 4 tables, 42 ref

018295   Nirban L K;Joshi R K;Narula H K;Singh H; Bhakar S (College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner-334 001, Email: lknirban@gmail.com) : Estimates of heritability for growth and wool traits in Marwari sheep at arid region of Rajasthan. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(6), 872-4.

Data on 4201 records of Marwari sheep maintained at Arid Region Campus of Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Bikaner (Rajasthan) distributed over a period of 15 years (1996-2010) were analyzed for estimation of heritability of growth and wool traits. Traits studied were body weights from birth to yearling, average daily gains between adjacent stages of growth and greasy fleece yield of first and second clip. Heritability estimates from paternal half sib method were 0.23 ± 0.040, 0.65 ± 0.073, 0.83 ± 0.085, 0.72 ± 0.083 and 0.67 ± 0.085 for body weight at birth, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of ages, respectively, 0.72 ± 0.074, 0.41 ± 0.056 and 0.88 ± 0.093 for average daily gains during 0-3, 3-6 and 6-12 months of ages, respectively and 0.98 ± 0.090 and 0.37 ± 0.065 for greasy fleece yield of first and second clip, respectively. Moderate to high heritability estimates indicated the presence of high genetic variance and low environmental variance. Hence, individual selection maybe done effectively for improvement in these traits.

12 ref

018294   Narayan A (NO, , No. 48, Ayodhya Nagar, Gaulkhed Road, Shegaon, District Buldhana-444 203, Email: abhishek@wti.org.in) : Variation in allometric shell growth and relationship with sexual size dimorphism in repatriated Indian star tortoises (Geochelone elegans) (Reptilia: Testudinidae). Curr Sci 2016, 110(2), 206-13.

This study assesses the rate and pattern of variation of allometric shell growth in Indian star tortoise Geochelone elegans. Morphometric measurements of 83 Indian star tortoises were taken over 6 months. The anal notch measurements correctly classified the sex of the individuals based on the results of multiple regression analysis and chi-square test. Discriminant analysis clustered the growth rates into three age groups. The shell growth across sexes varied with age and morphometric measurements of the shell characters (length in males; width in females). The increase in straight carapace width and plastron length (PL) was significantly different across sexes (females <62> males and males <62> females respectively) in 5-7 years age class only. A pronounced increase in PL in males and overall width in females only in the age class of 7-9 years may indicate the influence of sexual selection. The difference in allometric shell growth (in males and females) may thus lead to sexually dimorphic adults.

9 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

018293   Nahar S;Rahman M M;Ahmed G U;Faruk M A R (Environmental Education and Science Dep, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 540-742, Republic of Korea) : Isolation, identification, and characterization of Aeromonas hydrophila from juvenile farmed pangasius (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus). Int J Fish aqua Stud 2016, 4(4), 52-60.

Bacterial samples had been isolated from clinically detected diseased juvenile Pangasius, collected from Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Primarily, the isolates were found as Gram-negative, motile, oxidase-positive, fermentative, and O/129 resistant Aeromonas bacteria. The species was exposed as Aeromonas hydrophila from esculin hydrolysis test. Ten isolates of A. hydrophila were identified from eye lesions, kidney, and liver of the infected fishes. Further characterization of A. hydrophila was accomplished using API-20E and antibiotic sensitivity test. Isolates were highly resistant to amoxyclav among ten different antibiotics. All isolates were found as immensely pathogenic to healthy fishes while intraperitoneal injection. Histopathologically, necrotic hematopoietic tissues with pyknotic nuclei, mild hemorrhage, and wide vacuolation in kidney, liver, and muscle were principally noticed due to Aeromonad infection. So far, this is the first full note on characterizing A. hydrophila from diseased farmed Pangasius in Bangladesh. The present findings will provide further direction to develop theranostic strategies of A. hydrophila infection.

5 illus, 3 tables, 37 ref

018292   Mogalekar H S; Jawahar P (Fisheries Biology and Resource Management Dep, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries Univers, Thoothukudi-628 008) : Freshwater ornamental fish diversity of Tamil Nadu. J Inld Fish Soc India 2015, 47(2), 27-37.

Freshwater bodies of Tamil Nadu are endowed with diverse ornamental fish fauna comprises of 156 species (including three subspecies) belonging to 68 generas, 27 families and eight orders. Of these, 131 species are endemic to Indian sub-continent, 14 species are endemic to Tamil Nadu and 11 are exotic species. The conservation status of ornamental fish shows that two species belongs to critically endangered category, 16 species endangered, seven species vulnerable, three species near threatened, 102 species least concern, five species data deficient and 21 species have not been evaluated against IUCN criteria. Captive breeding and massive seed ranching are necessary for restoration and replenishment of threatened ornamental fishes, as 16.0 % of ornamental fishes facing the threat.

2 tables, 34 ref

018291   Mitra D;Saha R K;Kamilya D;Saha H (Fish Health and Environment Dep, College of Fisheries, Central Agricultural University, Lembucherra, Tripura-799 210, Email: ratankumarsaha123@rediffmail.com) : Effects of waterborne iron on fry of Catla catla (Ham.), Labeo rohita (Ham.) and Cirrhinus mrigala (Ham.). Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(2), 210-17.

Effects of waterborne iron on Indian major carps (Catla catla, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala) fry was evaluated in the present study. In short-term definitive test a concentration series of 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 and 24 mg l^-1 of iron were selected. In long-term partial life cycle test 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 5.0 and 6.0 mg l^-1 of iron were selected to observe the behavioural changes, feeding rate, growth rate and bioaccumulation of iron in different organs of fishes. Supplement of iron was done by adding FeSO4 to get the test concentrations. Rohu showed highest tolerance to iron toxicity. The lowest 96 h LC50 value was found for mrigal as 11.21 ± 0.53 mg l^-1 whereas the highest was observed in rohu as 16.75 ± 0.96 mg l^-1. Among the organs tested, comparatively gill showed higher iron accumulation and muscle showed the lowest. However, rate of change of iron accumulation in gills w.r.t toxicant concentration was lowest as compared to other tissues. Histopathological study of gill showed the evidence of iron accumulation and erosion of secondary gill lamellae. In long-term partial life cycle test reduction in feeding rate, behavioural changes and reduced weight gain was observed. Mrigal showed highest accumulation and catla showed the lowest.

2 illus, 8 tables, 27 ref

018290   Mehta R K;Ojha S N;Yadav V;Rai S C;Kumar S (Fisheries Economics, Extension and Statistics Div, Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai-400 061) : Innovativeness and regulating conflicts between the fishers and farmers in the Balua wetland. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(2), 951-9.

Wetlands store ground and surface water even when the rainfall is erratic. However, the rising demand for water and land to sustain the ever increasing population has manifested in many kinds of conflicts in wetlands. In the study area, Balua Chaur (wetland) in Bihar state of India, 16 conflicts emerged when the flooded lands of farmers was accessed by the fishers to fish. Such conflicts had further marginalized the already indigent fishers. Factor analysis, to reduce the socioeconomic and psychological variables of the fishers that were associated with innovativeness and further analysis of ANOVA and regression was used. In case of fishers, two major groups of interrelated variables that accounted for 60.6% of the total variance were identified through this method. Factor 1 accounted for 34.8% of the total variance that included innovativeness, income, education, mass media exposure, extension contact, livestock ownership, land ownership, mobile use collaborating and competing style of conflict management and named as innovative factors. The ANOVA table and stepwise multiple regression model exhibited that the nuclear family type and livestock have significant impact on the innovativeness of fishers with R2 value 0.255. In this paper, peace and prosperity model based upon the analysis of primary information collected from the fishers, farmers and key informants is proposed to foster innovativeness to enhance the productivity of wetland and resolve conflict to mobilize the resources in efficient and judicial manner.

6 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

018289   Mehta K S;Khati A;Danish M;Singh V K;Bisht H C S (NO, Afro Asian Development Consorium, New Delhi, Email: akanshakhati@gmail.com) : Development of carp fish culture practice under different stocking densities in mid hills of Uttarkhand, India. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(2), 812-16.

The present study was undertaken in order to standardise the stocking density values of carps fishes for sustainable fisheries development in mid hills and enhancing the fish production. The paper deals with growth performance of 3 exotic fish species in low stocking density i.e. 3 fish/m³ over high stocking density of 5 fish/m³ and 10 fish/m³ in the control pond. The net production was 12.6% higher with stocking density of 3 fish/m³. Among the both tested density, the combination of 30: 40: 30 was superior (45.6%) in terms of growth and production in comparison to the other combinations and control. In present study, the highest production as 57.13kg/100m2 (5713 kg/ha.) was achieved in the stocking ratio of 30:40:30 with stocking density of 3 fish/m³. It is 4.7% higher of the combination of 40:30:30 and 4% higher than the combination of 30: 30: 40. It is 12.6% higher than the stocking density of 5 fish/m³ and 48.5% higher than the stocking density of 10 fish /m³. The growth pattern reflected the slow growth during the winter months, reflected the direct negative effect of water temperature on the growth. The production level of existing practice of the farmers may be enhanced up to 1.5 times with proper stocking density i.e. 3 fish/m³ and perfect species combination i.e. 30: 40: 30 for silver carp, grass carp and common carp respectively.

3 tables, 23 ref

018288   Marathe A;Priyadarsanan D R (Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, , Royal Enclave, Srirampura, Jakkur Post, Bengaluru-560 064, Email: priyan@atree.org) : New ant species of the genus Anochetus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from India with a remarkable nest entrance architecture. Curr Sci 2016, 110(6), 1105-7.

New ant species, Anochetus daedalus, is described based on worker caste collected from a nest in secondary tropical semi-evergreen forest from Sirsi, Karnataka, India, part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. It is very similar to Anochetus nietneri Roger, but is distinctly different in shape of the petiole. The species is notable for constructing elaborate nest entrance which resembles `fort nests' constructed by some Pheidole spp.

2 illus, 8 ref

018287   Kulkarni A N;Blakhane J V;Bhowate C S (Fishery Science Dep, N.E.S. Science College, Nanaded-431 605) : Prevention of urea toxicity on Na<. Asian J biochem pharm Res 2015, 5(3), 33-7.

The objective of the present study was to investigate the prevention of toxicity of urea on Na⁺ and K⁺ ions of a fresh water field crab, Barytelphusa guerini by using sulphur containing amino acid Methionine as an additive. If fertilizer (urea) are used in high concentration than the concentration of urea above the tolerance limit is toxic to the aquatic animal including crab. It was concluded that sulphur containing amino acid Methionine an additive is useful to prevention of urea toxicity to a fresh water crab Barytelphusa guerini. This study can be useful to reduce the toxicity of urea.

2 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

018286   Khongwir S;Hooroo R N K;Dutta S K (Zoology Dep, Shillong College, Shillong-793 003, Email: shanwell_k@yahoo.co.in) : Breeding and nesting behaviour of Rhacophorus maximus (Anura: Rhacophoridae) in Meghalaya, North East India. Curr Sci 2016, 110(6), 1102-5.

Present study deals with the breeding and nesting behaviour of Rhacophorus maximus at Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram, Meghalaya, North East India. Breeding activity of R.maximus occurred after the first few showers of rain and an increase in air temperature. The species breeds sporadically for a short period, which lasts for about 6-8 weeks during March and April. Amplexus took place on land as well as in water and lasted for several hours. Aggregations of male frogs making advertisement call at the breeding sites have been observed. Competition among the males to mate with the female frogs and at the same time trying to dislodge the amplecting pairs have also been observed. Multiple amplecting pairs are seen in the temporary rainfed pond at Mawsynram, which appeared to be a congenial breeding habitat during the peak of the breeding period. Both male and female frogs took active part in nest construction. The species constructs foam nests on diverse substrata such as aquatic vegetation about 2-3 cm above the water surface, on bare rocks near the water bodies and on earthen banks. The water temperature recorded during oviposition ranged from 20°C to 22.5°C, air temperature from 21.5°C to 26°C and relative humidity from 65% to 99%. The eggs are large, measuring 2 mm in diameter, unpigmented, white in colour and clutch size varies between 809 and 2059 with a mean of 1351.96±83.07.

4 illus, 20 ref

018285   Karabacak A (Animal Science Dep, Faculty of Agriculture University of Selcuk-42075, Konya, Turkey, , Email: akarabacak@selcuk.edu.tr) : Fatty acid composition and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) content in different carcass parts of Akkaraman lambs. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(2), 191-5.

This study was conducted to compare fatty acid composition and content of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in different carcass parts of Akkaraman lambs finished with a concentrate diet. As a result of a 68-day intensive fattening, fatty acids in tissue samples taken from the leg, shoulder, breast, and rib parts of the lamb carcasses were examined. According to our analysis, the total saturated fatty acid (SFA) in the leg, shoulder, rib, and breast, were found to be 46.33%, 45.18%, 44.56%, and 40.93%, Monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) were 45.44%, 47.04%, 48.21%, and 52.72%, polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) were 4.74%, 4.10%, 3.79%, and 3.62%, and CLA were 0.89%, 0.84%, 0.81%, and 0.91%, respectively. The results show that the breast has the lowest value of SFA and the highest value of MUFA compared to other carcass parts.

2 tables, 30 ref

018284   Kadiri H E (Biochemistry Dep, Delta State University Abraka, Nigeria) : Comparative study on the distribution of cyanide in sections of the digestive tracts and other organs in the domestic chicken (Gallus domesticus L.) exposed to varying levels of cyanide. Ann Biol Res 2015, 6(3), 1-5.

Distribution of cyanide in the domestic chicken (Gallus domesticus) given different doses (1, 2 and 3 mg kg^-1 body weight of cyanide) directly (by gavage) and in the diet for a period of 12 weeks was investigated in this study. A total of eighty four-day old birds were used for this experiment. The chicks were divided into seven groups of twelve birds each: Group I- normal control, Group II, III and IV - received 1, 2 and 3 mg CN kg^-1 b.w. as Sodium cyanide (NaCN) directly respectively, while Group V, VI and VII received 1, 2 and 3 mg CN kg^-1 b.w. as NaCN in their feed respectively. The study revealed that the accumulation and distribution of CN in the organs and sections of the digestive tract as influenced by time and mode of exposure. Irrespective of the duration of exposure, the duodenum had the highest concentration of cyanide, in birds offered cyanide in their diet; conversely after 12weeks, while the ileum had the highest concentration in birds treated with CN-directly also irrespective of the mode or dose of exposure the kidney had the highest CN-level. Cyanide concentration was also found to be significantly higher in the serum, sections of the digestive tract and organs of birds given cyanide directly compared with those given cyanide contaminated feed.

1 illus, 2 tables, 41 ref

018283   Imran S;Jha D N;Thakur S;Dwivedi A C (Biological Sciences Dep, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences(Deeme, Allahabad-211 007) : Age structure of Labeo calbasu (Hamilton 1822) from river Yamuna. J Inld Fish Soc India 2015, 47(2), 81-5.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

018282   Hussain J F;Bordoloi S (Resource Management and Environment Section, Life Sciences Div, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Vigyan Path, Paschin Boragaon, Garchuk, Guwahati-781 035, Email: jafrinfarhahussain@gmail.com) : Breeding tubercles in scales of male Barilius bendelisis (Hamilton, 1807) identified as sexual dimorphic character. Curr Sci 2016, 110(6), 985-6.

2 illus, 12 ref

018281   Hajalshaikh A;Al-Hassan M J;Mohamed H E (Animal Production Dep, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saudi University, Saudi Arabia, Email: helkhider@bu.edu.sa) : Influence of injectable sodium selenite on semen characteristics and testosterone concentration in Aardi goats. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(6), 793-7.

Objective of this study was to test the effects of sodium selenite (SS) injection on semen characteristics and testosterone plasma concentrations in male Aardi goats. Fifteen animals were assigned into three groups; control (group I, with no supplemental SS); group II; injected intramuscular with 0.1 mg/kg SS body weight; group III injected 0.05 mg/kg SS body weight. Blood samples were collected once weekly (week 0 and four weeks after treatment) in the morning (at 8 am). Semen was collected by electro-ejaculator on a weekly basis post SS supplementation. Sperm count, motility %, progressive motility characteristic; average path velocity (VAP), straight line velocity (VSL), curvilinear velocity (VCL), straightness (STR) and linearity (LIN) were analyzed. Significant differences were found between the two treated-groups and control after week four for motility and progressive motility. After five weeks, significant differences were found between groups, for motility and progressive motility. The live % showed significant differences after five weeks between treated and control groups. After five weeks, significant differences were found between the three groups, for motility and progressive motility. The live % showed significant differences after 5 weeks between different treatments. However, VAP, VSL, VCL, STR, and LIN showed non-significant differences, suggesting that bucks might already have a good motility characteristic. No significant effects of SS supplementation on testosterone plasma levels, and the reported values were 1.28; 1.35, and 1.36 ng/ml for control; group 1, and group 2; respectively. In conclusion, SS improved reproduction in goats via the enhancement of semen quality in Aardi goats.

2 tables, 35 ref

018280   Guliyev S M;Huseynzade G A (Institute of Zoology, Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, , Baku. Passage 1128/504, Az1073, Azerbaijan) : Mammals and arthropod fauna of the Samur Yalama National Park and Khachmaz coastal state sanctuary. Ann Biol Res 2015, 6(3), 41-7.

SYNP was established in 2012. The total area of the site is 18 thousand hectares. The natural potential of the forest ecosystems of the Samur Yalama National Park is seriously affected by human activities and its self-recovery is not possible. The aim of our study was to examine the current state of the fauna of mammals and arthropods in the National Park, to identify the causes of rundown and make recommendations to eliminate the consequences of human-induced disturbance. According to the results of field research and processing data in the literature on the territory SYNP revealed, 50 species of mammals belonging to 14 families and 7 orders, 237 species of arthropods belonging to 3 classes, 20 orders, 39 families. 4 species of mammals and 8 species of arthropods included in the Red Book of Azerbaijan. The results of the research revealed the main causes of disappearance and to reduce the number of rare species and provides some recommendations for the primary protection.

3 tables, 21 ref

018279   Guang Xin E;Huang Y F;Zhao Y J;Na R S;Zhao Z Q;Sun Y W;Chen L P;Qiu X Y (Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Animal Science and Technology, Chongqing Engineering Resear, Chongqing, 400716, China, Email: H67738337@swu.edu.cn) : Comparative analysis of the variability of a complete mitochondrial genome of polledness intersexual goat (PIS--) from China. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(6), 761-3.

Polledness intersexual goat (PIS--) (Capra hircus), deformed individuals, could have malformed reproductive organs and loss of reproductive function. Here, we first determined the complete mitochondrial genome of Chinese native polledness intersexual goat (PIS--) is 16, 640 nt in length, consisting of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes and a non-coding control region. As in other mammals and intrastrains, most mitochondrial genes are encoded on the heavy strand, except for ND6 and eight tRNA genes, which are encoded on the light strand. Its overall base composition is A: 33.5%, T: 27.3%, C: 26.1% and G: 13.1%. The complete mitogenome of the Chinese indigenous breed of goat could provide a basic data for further understanding the contribution of mitochondria in the sex-developmental mechanism, tissue and organ cell deformity of polledness intersexual goat via genomic compare.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

018278   Frydrychova S;Lustykova A;Vaclavkova E; Lipensky J;Rozkot M (Pig Breeding Dep, Praha-Uhrineves, Workplace Kostelec nad Orlici, Komenskeho 1239, 517 41 Kostelec nad Orlici, Czech Republic, Email: frydrychova.sona@vuzv.cz) : Effect of different extenders on quality of frozen-thawed boar semen. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(6), 851-4.

Objective of this study was to investigate the effect of using different extenders viz. Androhep, Safecell Plus and SUS during cryopreservation on quality of frozen-thawed boar semen. Semen volume, sperm motility, sperm concentration, percentage of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa, total number of spermatozoa per ejaculate and activity of the enzyme aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were assessed in fresh semen collected from 39 fertile AI boars. Semen from each boar was divided into three portions and diluted 1: 1.5 in extender Androhep, Safecell Plus and SUS and keep at 17°C for 15-h holding time before cryopreservation. Then sperm was cryopreserved. Straws were thawed in a water bath at 38°C for 40s and post-thaw sperm motility with AST activity was assessed. Significant difference in post-thaw sperm motility was found between extender Androhep and Safecell Plus (P<60>0.05). AST activity did not differ significantly between tested extenders (P<62>0.05). In conclusion, the results of the study indicate that using Safecell Plus extender during holding period before cryopreservation significantly affected post-thaw sperm motility.

2 tables, 20 ref

018277   Francis Y A;Antonette Y C C C;Felix Y H; Maximin A K;Philippe B A D;David N J;Joseph D (Pharmacodynamics Biochemical Lab, UFR Biosciences, Felix Houphouet-Boigny Univ, PO Box 582 Abidjan 22-Cote d'Ivoire) : Assessment of hepatic, cardiac and renal biotolerance of aqueous extract of erigeron floribundus leaf Sch. bip. (Asteraceae) in rabbit.. Asian J biochem pharm Res 2015, 5(3), 111-9.

The leaves of Erigeron floribundus (Asteraceae) are used in drink by some traditional healers in West Africa in HIV/AIDS therapy. The aim of our study is to avoid intoxication of consumers. Five batches of six rabbits each received a single dose of Ef (25, 50, 75 and 100mg/kg BW) and 0.9% NaCl. Rabbit whole blood collected on the first day before injection (D0) and other three weeks, was centrifuged. The serum obtained was used for assay of heart; liver and kidney biomarkers on automate Cobas Integra 400 Plus. Compared to D0, the doses of Ef 50 to 100mg/kg of BW induced significant diminution (p <60> 0.001) of hepatic biomarkers. To the heart and the renal biomarkers, some are diminished (p <60> 0.0001) by the doses of Ef and others biochemical parameters are augmented (p <60> 0.0001). Aqueous extract doses of leaf of Erigeron floribundus upon 25 mg/kg BW could disturb heart, liver and kidney biomarkers level.

3 tables, 29 ref

018276   Fan Y;Zhan H;Zhao Y X (School of Basic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, , Xinxiang-453 003, Henan, China, Email: yangf77@163.com) : Isolation and identification of a novel Staphylococcus from benzalkonium chloride solution. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(6), 808-13.

Bacterium was isolated from benzalkonium chloride solution (5%) stored in an uncovered bottle. The strain was identified as Staphylococcus aureas named SA-RBC through the test of its morphology, biochemical and physiological characterization. The isolated strain SA-RBC has important symbol of pathogenic Staphylococcus by producing coagulase, phosphatase and thermonuclease. Resistance of SA-RBC to disinfectants or antibiotics was tested. The results showed that the strain was highly resistant to benzalkonium chloride, benzalkonium bromide, glutaraldehyde and sodium hypochlorite, but susceptive to phenylic acid. SA-RBC was highly resistant to oxacillin, cefoperazone, cefoxitin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, and tetracycline. The tolerable growth concentration of SA-RBC on various surfactants was examined. The results indicated that the strain SA-RBC could grow in a higher concentration of cationic surfactants up to 5%, compared with the control strains (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, S.epidermidis ATCC12228 and S.aureus ATCC 29213) which were unable to grow in 0.1% cationic surfactants. The strain SA-RBC could not utilize benzalkonium chloride as the sole source of carbon and/or nitrogen. The findings in this study suggested that Staphylococcus aureas might be an original contaminant in the quaternary ammonium disinfectant and has potential risk for public health.

2 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

018275   Dzakpasu M F A;Yankson K;Jnr J B (Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences Dep, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast) : Comparative study of the benthic macroinvertebrate communities of two estuaries on the Southwestern Coast of Ghana. Ann Biol Res 2015, 6(3), 19-29.

This paper on benthic macroinvertebrates of Kakum and Nyan estuaries is meant as baseline information in the wake of offshore oil drilling, mining and land use due to growing human population on the southwestern coast of Ghana. Ekman grab (0.0225 m²) was used to sample benthic macroinvertebrates monthly from August 2011 to July 2012. Crustacea (58.96%) and Annelida (35.23%) dominated the 40 species encountered in the Kakum estuary while Annelida (88.15%) alone dominated the 45 species found in the Nyan estuary. The annelids Nereissp., Capitella capitata and Cossura sp. and the dipteran Chironomus sp.were the main pollution tolerant species recorded while the annelids Scoloplos sp. and Amphiglenasp. were the known pollution sensitive ones found. An unknown amphithoid (Amphithoid 'A') andaGammarussp. dominated the Kakum estuary community with mean densities ranging between 67.27± 30.94 ind./m² to 535.49 ± 275.50 ind./m² and 26.91 ± 10.71 ind./m² to 398.25 ± 143.90 ind./m² respectively while in the Nyan estuary, Scoloplos sp. and Cossura sp. were dominant in densities (248.91 ± 152.05 ind./m² to 270.44 ± 177.39 ind./m² and 6.73 ± 3.66 ind./m² to 131.85 ± 67.28 ind./m² respectively). Lower species diversity, richness and densities of organisms were found at the mouth of the two estuaries than stations farther from the sea. Benthic macroinvertebrate communities of the two estuaries were highly similar (Sorensen's index, C_s= 0.706). Periodic monitoring is encouraged as a means of checking the possible impacts of human activities on these water bodies.

4 illus, 3 tables, 40 ref

018274   Chopda M K;Mahajan N;Bhat J;Bhirud M;Mahajan R (Post Graduate Zoology Dep, Animal Physiology, Moolji Jaitha College, North Maharashtra Univ, Jalgaon-425 002, Email: mzczoo@yahoo.co.in) : Potential of methanolic extract of leaves of Hamiltonia suaveolens Roxb as the wound healer in rat. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(4), 491-7.

Wound healing activity of methanolic extract of leaves of Hamiltonia suaveolens Roxb was assessed by using excision, incision and dead space wound model in Wistar rat. The animals were divided into five groups (n=6) and labeled as control; placebo; standard and experimental groups. Ointment of the methanolic extract at a dose 2.5% and 5% w/w were prepared and applied topically. The healing of the wound was assessed by the rate of wound contraction, period of epithelialization, skin breaking strength, biochemical profile and histopathology of granuloma tissue and Wound Image Analysis Software - WITA used for the first time. Animals were treated with the methanolic extract at a dose 5% exhibited 98.04% reduction in wound area 20th day, compared to control (93.82%). In incision wound model, tensile strength of healing tissue after treatment was found to be significantly higher compared to control group. The hydroxyproline (108.7 mg/g of tissue), ascorbic acid (50.69 mg/g of tissue) and glucosamine (33.22 mg/g of tissue) content from the wound area found significantly increased in treated animals at 5% concentration of methanolic extract as compared to control group of animals. Histological analysis revealed swift restoration of wound healing.

5 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

018273   Bhattacharya T K;Chatterjee R N;Raj Kumar U; Rajaravindra K S;Niranjan M (Project Directorate on Poultry India, , Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030, Email: bhattacharyatk@gmail.com ) : Genetic polymorphism in the promoter of prolactin gene in layer chicken. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(6), 875-7.

Genetic polymorphism of promoter (Fragment 1, 2 and 3) of prolactin gene in four strains of White Leghorn chicken layers i.e. IWH, IWI, IWK and layer control was identified. Two alleles (A and B) were found in all the promoter fragments of the gene. In above mentioned layer populations, A allele was predominant. The genotypic and allelic distribution was significantly differed among the populations. Different demographic and divergent parameters were estimated in all the lines. It is concluded that all 3 fragments of promoter of prolactin gene was polymorphic in four strains of White Leghorn layer populations.

1 table, 10 ref

018272   Bhatnagar A;Yadav A S;Neeru (Zoology Dep, Krurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra, Haryana-136 119, Email: anitabhatnagar@gmail.com) : Fish diversity of Haryana and its conservation status. J appl nat Sci 2016, 8(2), 1022-7.

The present study on fish biodiversity of Haryana state was carried out during 2011 to 2014. A total number of 59 fish species inhabits the freshwaters of this state. Maximum number of fish species belonged to the order Cypriniformes (35) followed by the order Siluriformes (12) and Perciformes (8). The orders Beloniformes, Clupeiformes, Osteoglossiformes and Synbranchiformes were represented by only one species each. Out of 59 fish species, 2 are endangered, 11 vulnerable, 28 have lower risk of threat, 8 exotic and 4 fish species have lower risk least concern. The conservation status of six fish species has not been evaluated so far, hence they cannot be included in any of the IUCN categories at this moment. Family Cyprinidae alone contributed 32 fish species followed by Bagridae family. Fish species Parapsilorhynchus discophorus was observed for the first time in Haryana waters. This species is the native of Kaveri river basin, the occurrence of this species in river Yamuna may be attributed to some religious activity of people. A decline in fish diversity has been recorded from 82 species in 2004 to 59 species in the present study in the year 2014. The main causes for decrease in fish biodiversity are habitat destruction and fragmentation, changing practices of land use, exotic species introduction, fishing, irrigation needs, pollution and global climate change impacts. It is essential to prevent further decline of fish resources by devising all possible measures of conservation and rehabilitation.

1 table, 35 ref

018271   Barakat I A H;Al-Himaidi A R;Abd-Elkader O H (Zoology Dep, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arab, Email: ibarakat@ksu.edu.sa) : Characterization of immature sheep oocytes and zona pellucida morphology using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Indian J Anim Res 2014, 48(4), 370-4.

Aim of the present work was to study the differences among different categories of immature sheep oocytes. Oocytes were divided into three categories: excellent, good and fair oocytes. Results showed that cumulus cells were close to each other and zona pellucida in all the three oocytes categories. All oocytes categories with cumulus cells exhibited an irregular shape, mucous material inter-granular cells, low number of small droplets and minutes tapes on the cell surface. Good oocytes category was characterized by the presence of a belt surrounding the oocytes. Moreover, there are large numbers of small holes on the ZP surface in all categories. The good oocytes also contained a large number of big holes. In contrast, fair and excellent oocytes have low number of large holes in the ZP surface. In conclusion, there are several differences between oocytes categories in the morphology of oocytes and ZP characteristics. This study recommends using excellent and good oocytes in the in vitro embryo production for quality of the outer surface and integrity of zona pellucida than fair oocytes.

3 illus, 13 ref

018270   Bandyopadhyay M K;Saha K;Paul S K;Sharma A P; Mohanty B P (NO, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata-700 120) : Beta diversity of cyprinids as indicator of shifting fishery zonations in Damodar river. J Inld Fish Soc India 2015, 47(2), 20-6.

Alpha, beta and gamma diversities are used for measuring biodiversity of an ecosystem. Damodar river in India receives wastes and effluents from coal mines, coke oven plants, steel plants, thermal power station, fertilizer and cement factories, chemical industries etc. in its flowing path in the states of Jharkhand and West Bengal over the years. As a result of which alternation in environment and fish species diversity occurred in the river system. The present study aimed to measure cyprinid species diversity in a selected stretch of Damodar river to find out shifting in fishery zonations due to entry of industrial and domestic effluent in it and presented here.

3 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

018269   Baishya R A;Nasumatary S;Kalita H K;Talukdar B;Dutta A;Sarma D (Zoology Dep, Gauhati University, Guwahati-781 014) : Status and diversity of indigenous ornamental fishes of the upper reaches of river Brahmaputra Assam. J Inld Fish Soc India 2015, 47(2), 70-7.

Total of 60 indigenous ornamental fish species was recorded. Cyprinidae was the dominant group representing 20 species followed by Bagridae, Channidae and Cobitidae. The statistical relationship between ornamental fish abundance and important physico-chemical attributes showed strong and positive correlation. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index indicates richness of ornamental fish species with an overall index of 3.65.

3 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

018268   Aswin B;Binu Kumari S;Ravisankar S;Mohan Kumar M;Ambikadevi A P;Drishya M K (PG and Research Zoology Dep, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore-641 029, ) : Effect of quinalphos on histopathological changes in the Kidney of fresh water fish, Anabas testudineus. Int J Fish aqua Stud 2016, 4(4), 1-3.

Present study investigates histology of kidney of fresh water fish, Anabas testudineus on exposed to 0.5 ppm of quinalphos pesticide. Quinalphos for short term duration (24, 48, 72 and 96 hours) lead to the formation of histopathological lesions of varying intensities on the kidney tissues. Quinalphos is one of the organophosphate insecticides represent one of the most widely used classes of pesticide with high potential for human exposure in both rural and residential environments. The fresh water fish, Anabas testudineus was selected as the test species. 1/10th of 96 hrs LC₅₀ was taken as sublethal concentration of Quinalphos pesticide. After the stipulated period of exposure (24, 48, 72 and 96 hrs) fishes were sacrificed and kidney tissue was isolated and analysed histological changes. Histology of kidney showed pyknosis, vacuolization, nuclear hypertrophy, vacuole formation and defect in renal tubule. The study described the histological structures of kidney of Anabas testudineus during short term exposure period of quinalphos showed occlusion of tubular lumen, cloudy swelling, edema and disorganization of glomerulus were seen in the fish on exposed to quinalphos for short term period.

5 tables, 12 ref

018267   Asokan S;Kanakasabai R (PG and Research Zoology and Wildlife biology Dep, AVC College (Autonomous), Mannampandal-609 305, Email: beeasokan@gmail.com) : Resource partitioning among three insectivorous birds in a portion of Cauvery deltaic region, Tamil Nadu. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2015, 8(4), 189-94.

Present work describes the pattern of resource partitioning among three insectivorous birds namely small Green Bee-eater (Merops orientalis), Black Drongo (Dicrurus adsimilis) and Blue jay (Coracias ben ghalensis). Analysis of 10 perch variables indicated that each species got separated from the other by one or two variables as supported by Principal component analysis.

9 tables, 22 ref

018266   Ansari S;Ansari B A (Zebrafish Lab, Zoology Dep, D.D.U. Gorakhpur Univ, Gorakhpur-273 009) : Effect of zinc, nickel and chromium on reproductive ability of zebrafish, Danio rerio. Asian J biochem pharm Res 2015, 5(3), 65-70.

The present study was based to evaluate the toxic effect of zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni) and chromium (Cr) on the reproductive ability of zebrafish. For this male and female zebrafish, were exposed to 96-h LC10 value of zinc (68.68 mg/l), nickel (115.03 mg/l), and chromium (37.96 mg/l) for three months (as calculated earlier). The fish were returned to normal water and allowed to breed. There was a significant decrease in fecundity. It was reduced to 66% in the fish treated with Zn, 85% by Ni and 47% by Cr in comparison to the control group. Moreover there was a reduction of 63% in hatchability in the Zn treated group, 84% in Ni group and 45% in Cr treated fish. Survival of larvae after 7 days was reduced to 71%, 92%, 57% treated with Zn, Ni and Cr respectively. The study demonstrated that toxic heavy metals can cause reproductive defect in fishes. Chromium was observed to be more toxic for the reproductive ability of the zebrafish. These observations can be considered to monitor the quality of water contaminated with heavy metals.

1 ilus, 28 ref

018265   Anandh M A;Jagatheesan P N R (Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Regional Researc, , Pudukkottai-622 004, Email: drmaatnvasu@yahoo.com) : Reproductive performance of Beltsville small White and Broad Breasted Bronze Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) under hot humid climatic condition. Indian J Anim Res 2015, 49(6), 847-50.

Study was conducted to compare the reproductive performance of Beltsville Small White and Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) under the hot humid climatic condition. Beltsville Small White and Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys were raised in an intensive production system under standard management practices. A total of 560 Beltsville Small White turkey eggs and 520 Broad Breasted Bronze turkey eggs were used for this study. Average egg weight (g), infertile eggs (%), early embryonic mortality (%), late embryonic mortality (%), dead in shell (%) and poults hatched weight (g) were significantly (P<62>0.01) higher in Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys as compared to Beltsville Small White turkeys. The total hatchability (%), fertile egg hatchability (%) and poults survivability (%) were (P<62>0.01) significantly higher in Beltsville Small White turkeys as compared to Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys. Non significantly higher fertility percentage was observed in Beltsville Small White turkeys as compared to Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys. It is concluded that Beltsville Small White turkeys are more suitable to obtain better reproductive performance under hot humid climate condition followed by Broad Breasted Bronze turkeys.

2 tables, 14 ref

018264   Agarwala B K;Majumder J (Ecology and Biodiversity Lab, Zoology Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar, Tripura-799 022, Email: bagarwala00@gmail.com) : Life history fitness of giant ladybird predator (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) of woolly aphids (Hemiptera: Aphidiadae) in varying prey densities from northeast India. Curr Sci 2016, 110(3), 434-8.

Quantity of natural prey available to insect predators varies in time and space and it influences the fitness of individual predators. This was examined for Anisolemnia dilatata (Fab.) which is a specialist predator of woolly aphids of bamboo plants and sugarcanes, and endemic to south Asia and Asia-Pacific regions. Results of a laboratory study using 45 larvae and 10 adult females showed that individual A. dilatata larvae performed best at an optimal density of 250 live aphids per larva per day, and adult females from these larvae matured faster and produced higher number of viable eggs than the larvae that grew and developed at sub-optimal prey density of 200 or less aphids. About 73-80% of the larvae that survived at the density of 50 or 100 or 150 aphids per day took significantly longer time to complete development and to reach the age at maturity. Such females were significantly smaller in size and produced fewer viable eggs. Results showed that larvae and adults of A. dilatata required high density of aphid prey to support its optimal life history fitness. Results hold promise in the application of this predator in the control of waxy aphid pest of cultivated bamboos and sugarcanes.

1 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

017285   Zareen S;Rehman H U;Yasim N;Mahmood Khattak N;Rehman A U;Raqeebullah;Khan M I (Zoology Dep, Kohat Univ of Science and Technology, 26000, KPK, Pakistan) : Malaria infirmity among neonates of rural and urban areas of district Kohat, KPK, Pakistan. J Ent Zool Stud 2016, 4(4), 33-7.

Malaria is serious blood infection caused by Plasmodium species transmitted by vector i.e. female Anopheles mosquito. Malaria-infected pregnant mother is always at higher risk of fetal abortion, low birth weight and premature birth which may even leads to death of neonate. A total of 500 blood samples were collected randomly from different locations of district Kohat. About 290 (58.00%) were male while 210 (42%) were female neonates. Total 8(1.60%) neonates were found positive for the malaria infection. Out of which 1(0.02%) was positive for the infection of Plasmodium falciparum while 7 (1.4%) were positive for the infection of vivax. Neonates from rural areas are at higher risk of Malaria infection particularly those whose mother is malaria positive at the time of pregnancy. Those people who do not protect their newly born babies from mosquitoes were at higher risk of malaria infection. Mother should be properly diagnosed and treated prior to get pregnant. During pregnancy mother should take preventive measures i.e. use of mosquito repellents and anti-mosquito nets. Newly born babies should be handled very carefully to protect him from the bite of mosquitos.

1 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

017284   Wani A A;Sikdar Bar M (Zoology Dep, Dr. Harisingh Gour Univ, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh) : Efficacy of taurine and garlic extract in modulation the alterations in haematological parameters induced by long-term exposure to copper sulphate in Clarias gariepinus. GERF Bull Biosci 2013, 4(2), 1-10.

Experiment was conducted to evaluate the changes in haematological parameters from copper sulphate (CuSO₄.5H₂O) exposed African catfish, Clarias gariepinus with or without simultaneous treatment of water with taurine or garlic extract. Fishes of average weight 98.43 ± 24.09 g and length 20.5±2.5 cm were selected as test organisms in this study. Fishes were divided into seven groups (I to VII) containing 20 fishes in each group. Significant decrease was reported in the values of Hb concentration, RBC count and PCV in the copper sulphate (4 and 8 ppm) exposed fishes both in respect to con-centration and exposure. The erythrocyte indices MCV, MCH showed significant increase in their values by copper sulphate concentrations when compared to the control group, while MCHC decreased non-significantly (P<62>0.05) throughout the experimental period. Prevalence of slightly higher values of Hb content, RBC count and PCV and minimum alterations in erythrocyte indices were reported in the blood of copper sulphate treated fish along with 5 ppm each of taurine or garlic extract in comparison to groups treated with copper sulphate alone, however values were still altered when compared with control group I. The reduction in copper induced toxicity on haematological parameters was highest in taurine treated groups followed by garlic extract treatment. The results suggest that taurine and garlic extract have potential to partly mitigate the copper induced stress by modulating the deranged haematological parameters.

6 tables, 79 ref

017283   Summarwar S;Pandey J;Lall D (Zoology Dep, S.D. Government College Beawar M.D.S. Univ Ajmer, Rajasthan) : Morphological abnormalities induced by plant extracts on development stages of Spodoptera litura. J Ent Zool Stud 2016, 4(4), 15-17.

Present work was intended to evaluate the Morphological abnormalities induced by plant extracts on development stages of Spodoptera litura which develops on cabbage plant. Second instar larvae of S. litura were treated with the leaf and seed extracts of Azadirachta indica, Catharanthus roseus and Ocimum sanctum at the concentrations of 0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5% and their development was observed till the emergence of adults. Larvae were observed daily and data pertaining to any morphological abnormality induced in developing larvae, pupae and emerging adults was recorded. Larval body became dark and spotted loosing its usual characteristic pattern. It became thin and stretched and was ruptured at various regions of larval body. Most of the abnormalities were due to abortive moultings. Adult emerged from treated larvae showed several deformaties like short body, deformed wings, legs, mouth parts and genitalia. Strong growth regulating effect was shown by A. indica and C. roseus. The growth was significantly retarded at all the concentrations however at higher concentrations development was abnormally prolonged. O. sanctum showed very little growth disrupting property.

9 ref

017282   Sonawane S S;Laxmi;Marbate K T;Sanap B N; Sapkale P H (NO, College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri-415 629, Email: sonawanesshivam@gmail.com) : Embryonic development of commercially important estuarine crab, Scylla tranquebarica (Fabricius, 1897) along Ratnagiri coas, Maharashtra. Ecol Envir Conserv 2015, 21(4), 1971-5.

Embryonic development and morphological changes in the embryos, egg size and development, incubation period of mud crab, Scylla tranquebarica were studied. The incubation period reported to be 6-7 days. Developing embryos were removed from a female crab at various intervals, digitally photographed under a microscope of Lieca system and analyzed using Image-Pro Plus. Five embryonic stages, viz., Blastula, Gastrula, Eye placode, Pigment and Heart beat were identified and described in detail. The size of the developing egg increased at every stage and yolk mass decreased in size and changed colour. The colour of the egg was initially yellow changed to orange, brown and then black colours. The implications of this are discussed.

2 illus, 13 ref

017281   Singla M;Goyal N;Sharma R;Singla N;Chaudhuri A;Sobti R C;Sharma V L (Zoology Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 011) : Reconstructing phylogenetic relationship among Indian termite species inferred from COII gene sequences (Blattodea: Isoptera: Termitidae). J Ent Zool Stud 2016, 4(4), 1-7.

To analyze the phylogenetic relationship among nine species of Indian termites, 675 base pairs fragment of complete COII gene was utilized. Neighbor-joining (NJ) and Maximum Likelihood (ML) methods were used in Molecular Evolutionary Genetic Analysis (MEGA 5.2) software to define the molecular phylogeny. Both the trees revealed almost identical topology among the species and paraphyly of Microcerotermes and monophyly of the species belonging to subfamily Macrotermitinae of family Termitidae were strongly supported by two reconstruction methods.

3 illus, 4 tables, 71 ref

017280   Singh U;Sushil Kumar;Ganguly I;Gaur G K; Jagadeesan K;Sunil Kumar;Mann S;Singh R (Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut Cantt-250 001, Email: usinghas@gmail.com) : Identification of genetic polymorphism in two exonic coding region of leptin gene among indigenous and crossbred cattle. Indian J Anim Res 2014, 48(5), 403-7.

Leptin gene has its role in appetite, metabolism, growth and milk production in cattle. PCR-RFLP method was carried out to detect the polymorphism in leptin gene among Frieswal, Ongole and Sahiwal cattle. Frieswal population under study revealed that 11%, 51% and 38% are TT, CT, and CC respectively genotypes with respect to exon 2. But the same population had 22% TT, 51% CT and 27% CC genotype for first SNP in exon 3; 4% TT, 38% C Tand 58% CC genotype for second SNP in exon 3. Ongole population revealed only CT genotype with respect to exon 2, but it showed TT genotype for first SNP and CC genotype for second SNP in exon3. Sahiwal population had 4% TT, 88% CT and 8% CC genotype (exon 2), respectively. Whereas the same population revealed 4% TT, 55% CT and 41% CC genotype for first SNP in exon 3 and 4% CT and 96% CC genotype for second SNP in exon 3. Sahiwal population had no TT genotype for second SNP in exon 3.

2 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

017279   Savic R;Petrovic M;Radojkovic D;Radovic C; Parunovic N (Univ of Belgrade, Faculty of Agriculture, 11080 Belgrade-Zemun, Republic of Serbia, Email: savic@agrif.bg.ac.rs) : Variability of libido and properties of boar ejaculate. Indian J Anim Res 2014, 48(5), 422-31.

Main objective of this study was to assess the variability of libido (duration of preparing to jump, T), the duration of ejaculation (E) and the properties of ejaculate: ejaculate volume (VOL), evaluation of density of ejaculate (DEN), evaluation of native sperm motility (NAT), evaluation of diluted sperm motility (DIL), as well as the number of doses produced per ejaculate (NPD) of boars reared under production conditions. The study included 8127 ejaculates of boars of the three breeds. Ejaculates were analysed during four annual seasons. Evaluation of variance was performed using mixed model. Average values of T, E, VOL, DEN, NAT, DIL and NPD were: 3.56 min, 6.09 min, 235.82 ml, 2.03, 3.98, 3.95 and 9.90 doses. Libido, ejaculation duration and characteristics of ejaculates varied under the influence of season, year, breed. All studied traits depended on the age of the boar when taking the ejaculate (P<60> 0.001) except T and DEN (P<62> 0.05). Differences in phenotypic property values were present between boars and between ejaculates and repeatability coefficient values for all studied traits ranged from 0.08± 0.01 to 0.32± 0.05. The association of the investigated boar traits was weak to strong (from -0.14 to 0.81; P<60> 0.01 and P<60> 0.001), with the exception of the association between T and NPD (P<62> 0.05).

8 tables, 23 ref

017278   Sabha Nissar K K;Rashid F;Phadke G G;Desai A Y (Fish Resource Management Dep, College of Fisheries, Veraval-362 265, Gujarat, Email: girija_cof@yahoo.com) : Reproductive biology of little tuna (Euthynnus affinis) in the Arabian sea. Ecol Envir Conserv 2015, 21(4), 1739-42.

Reproductive biology of little tuna in the Arabian Sea was conducted from January 2010 - December 2010 which collected the data with the help of drift gill nets that unloaded their catch at Veraval landing centre, Gujarat. Spawning season of female and male of E. affinis occurred round the year with peak during December - March. The size at first maturity and age of female and male was observed to be 55-60 cm. The overall sex ratio was 0.82. Sex ratio by length class indicated small size of E. affinis (468.21 mm - 60.8 mm) comprise of male more than female while large size of E affinis (545.05-520.4mm) found proportion of female less than those size. The highest length of E. affinis was found to be 579.5mm during January, 2010.

6 illus, 18 ref