020621   Bambroo P;Sharma K (Zoology Dep, Govt. College of Women Gandhinagar, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir) : Prey selection in carp (Cyprinus carpio L. 1758) larvae. J Inld Fish Soc India 2014, 46(2), 34-40.

Prey selectivity pattern was tested in carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) larvae from the initiation of exogenous feeding up to the age of 40 days (25mm) using Ivlev's Electivity Index 'E' and Bartell's Size Selection Index 'S'. The larvae were found to be particulate planktivores from day first of exogenous feeding. Strong foraging preference was shown by larvae for slow moving cladocerans during: very early days of life, while evasive copepods were included in the diet from 10th day of age. Ceriodaphnia reticulata was found to be the most preferred food organism of larvae at the commencement of exogenous feeding up to the age of 18 days. The first feeding larvae are gape-limited and show preference for smaller prey than the average size available. The advanced stages of larvae through fry have shown active preference for large prey. However, this preference is dynamic as range of prey size increased with age.

4 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

020620   Antony J;Natarajan P (NO, , GFVHSS Kaipamangalam, Thrissur-680 681) : Effect of human chorionic gonadotropin on growth and food conversion in Noemacheilus triangularis (day). J Inld Fish Soc India 2014, 46(2), 11-16.

Juveniles of Noemacheilus triangularis of average size 1.31 ± 0.31g were stocked in the experimental tanks of size 90 cmx45 cmx45 cm. The different levels of HCG tested were 2.5 ppm, 5 ppm, 7.5 ppm, 10ppm, 12.5 ppm and 15 ppm. The results of the study were subjected to ANOVA using statistical package SPSS version 10.1. Feed incorporated with 12.5 ppm HCG showed the best value in percentage gain in length, weight and SGR. The FCE values, FAE values, PER and protein digestibility values were highest in fishes given feed incorporated with 12.5 ppm HCG.

5 tables, 14 ref

020619   Aland S R;Bijapure T M (Zoology Dep, Walchand College of Arts and Science, Solapur-413 006) : Incidence of a parasitoid, Blepharipa zebina on the larva of a moth, Archips rosana, in Solapur, Maharashtra. Bionotes 2015, 17(2), 45.

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020618   Agniwanshi S;Shedpure M;Jain N (Zoology Dep, Govt. D.B. Girls' P.G. College, Raipur-492 001) : Effect of sodium fluoride on body weight gain and gonadosomatic index in freshwater catfishes. J Ind Pollut Control 2014, 30(2), 327-31.

Present investigation was undertaken to examine the toxic effects of different doses of sodium fluoride on body weight gain and gonadosomatic index (GSI) in freshwater catfishes Heteropneustes fossilis and Clarias batrachus during different phases of their annual reproductive cycle. Following acclimation 40 fishes of both species were divided into four groups i.e., Group I (control), Group II (1.5mg/L NaF), Group III (2.5mg/L NaF) and Group IV (3.5mg/L NaF). Experiment was continued for 30 days. After completion of experiment body weight gain and gonadosomatic index were computed. Results of ANOVA revealed a statistically significant effect of different doses of sodium fluoride on body weight gain and gonadosomatic index in both species, i.e., Clarias batrachus and Heteropneustes fossilis, irrespective of phase of annual reproductive cycle. It has also been noticed that as the concentration of sodium fluoride increases body weight gain was decreased. Further, in both Clarias batrachus and Heteropneustes fossilis male and female GSI were found to decline in most of the groups maintained in different concentrations of sodium fluoride as compared to control group.

4 illus, 21 ref

020617   Abujam S S;Singh S J;Dakua S;Paswan G;Saikia A K;Biswas S P (Life Sciences Dep, Dibrugarh Univ, Assam-786 004) : Food and feeding habit of spiny eel Macrognathus pancalus (Ham-buch) from upper Assam. J Inld Fish Soc India 2014, 46(2), 23-33.

Lowest value (0.57±0.06) of relative length of gut (RLG) of M. pancalus was found in 15-20 cm whereas the highest values (0.60±0.08) in 7-11 cm group. Gastro somatic index (GSI) ranged from 0.68 ±0.20 (January) to 2.47±0.89 (July) for males while from 0.54 ±0.19 (December) to 2.89 ± 1.05 (August) for female. Fullness of gut was recorded as 21.27% (full); 9.92% (3/4 full); 15.72% (1/2 full); 13.27% (1/4 full); 19.77% (nearly empty) and 23% (empty). The active feeding (full & % full) was recorded during monsoon, moderate (1/2 full) during pre-monsoon, poor (1/4 full and nearly full) during post monsoon and negligible during winter seasons. Gut content analysis revealed that insects were annually contributing to an average of 45.65%; miscellaneous items including algal and fish eggs were 22.16%; zooplankton (15.58%); sand and mud (8.44%); crustacean (3.99%); annelids (2.69%), and molluscs (1.49%) of the total intake of food. In juveniles, most preferred food item was zooplanktonic organism (49.25%), followed by insect larvae (27.94%). Similarly, in adults, the insect larvae (36.48%) were consumed heavily followed by zooplankton (22.53%). The highest index of pre-ponderance was claimed by insect larvae followed by zooplankton, miscellaneous included unidentified matter, algal and fish egg, sand and mud, crustaceans, annelids, and molluscs.

2 illus, 8 tables, 41 ref

019717   Wani A A;Sikdar-Bar M;Khan H A (Zoology Dep, Dr. Harisingh Gour Univ, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, Email: waniadil@rocketmail.com) : Acute toxicity of copper sulphate to African catfish, (Clarias gariepinus). GERF Bull Biosci 2013, 4(1), 14-8.

In this study, 96 hrs LC₅₀ values of copper sulphate (CuSO₄.5H₂O), a highly toxicant heavy metal, on African catfish, Clarias gariepinus of average weight 98.43 ± 24.09 g and length 20.5 ± 2.5 cm was determined. The acute toxicity tests were performed according to the static non-renewable bioassay procedure. The experimental design consisted of a control and six concentrations (24,31,38,44,50 and 55 ppm) of copper sulphate, with two replicates per group and twenty fishes in each replicate. The 96 hour LC₅₀ value based on probit analysis was found to be 40.86 ppm; the lower and upper lethal confidence limit for copper sulphate indicated a wide range between 37.47 to 44.58 ppm. Susceptibility of catfish, Clarias gariepinus to lethal effect of copper sulphate was found to be duration and concentration dependent as mortality was increased with an increase in its concentration. Results indicated that copper sulphate is toxic to fish, to moderate extent even at lower concentrations. Therefore, the present investigation may provide useful guidance that can be exploited by the aquaculturists to formulate the safety levels of copper sulphate in water bodies.

^iia1 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

019716   Wani A A;Sikdar-Bar M;Khan H A (Zoology Dep, Dr. Harisingh Gour Univ, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, Email: waniadil@rocketmail.com) : Hepatoprotective role of taurine andgarlic extract in minimizing the histopathological changes in liver induced by long-term exposure to copper sulphate in Clarias gariepinus. GERF Bull Biosci 2013, 4(1), 1-13.

Study was undertaken to elucidate whether sulphur containing antioxidants such as taurine and garlic extract could ameliorate copper sulphate induced histopathological alterations in liver of African catfish, Clorias gariepinus. To carry out this investigation, experiment was setup in seven groups (I to VII) containing 20 fishes in each group. The histopathological investigation of liver of fishes subjected to copper sulphate at 4 ppm and 8 ppm levels and sampled at 15th, 30th, 60th and 90th day revealed, severe alterations in dose and time dependent manner. Moreover, addition of 5 ppm each of taurine and garlic extract was found partly to minimize the histopathological changes in liver throughout the course of experimental duration. In conclusion, it appears that taurine and garlic extracts have beneficial effect in protecting against copper sulphate induced hepatotoxicity to some extent by minimized histopathological changes. So, taurine and garlic extracts have a promising role and these are worth to be considered as natural antidotes for copper intoxication.

26 illus, 2 tables, 71 ref

019715   Tiwari P;Ansari B A (Zebrafish Laboratory, Zoology Dep, D.D.U. Gorakhpur Univ, Gorakhpur-273 009) : Responses of biochemical markers in gill, muscle and brain of zebrafish, Danio rerio, exposed to endosulfan. Asian J biochem pharm Res 2014, 5(1), 78-92.

Endosulfan, an organochlorine pesticide, is a persistent organic pollutant which may induce oxidative stress by the generation of free radicals and alteration in antioxidant or oxygen free radical scavenging enzyme system in living organisms. Present study explores the effects of endosulfan on the stress biomarkers, Catalase (CAT) and lipid peroxidation (LPO), in the gill, muscle and brain of zebrafish. For this study, adult fishes were exposed to four different concentrations viz, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06 and 0.08μg/l (20%, 40%, 60% and 80% of 96-h LC₅₀) of endosulfan, continuously for 28 days. A remarkable reduction was observed in CAT activity in all the tested tissues. The CAT activity was lowest at highest concentration and exposure time of endosulfan. On the other hand, there was an enhancement in LPO levels in the brain, gill and muscle, for all the concentrations. The influence of endosulfan in all the three tissues was found to be concentration and exposure time dependent. Thus, reduction in CAT activity and increase in LPO level in the gill, muscle and brain, indicate that the pollutants in water bodies exert their effects through oxidative stress leading to changes at molecular level in zebrafish, which may ultimately affect their survival.

6 tables, 38 ref

019714   Sivaperuman C;Ravichandran K;Dinesh J; Gokulakrishnan G;Venkataraman K (NO, Zoological Survey of India Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre, Port Blair-744 102, Email: c_sivaperuman@yahoo.co.in) : Status and distribution of raptors in andaman & nicobar islands. Ann For 2014, 22(1), 91-103.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, popularly known as 'Bay Islands', are situated in the Bay of Bengal, mid way between peninsular India and Mayanmar, spreading like a broken necklace in the North-South direction. There are 572 islands, islets & rocky outcrops and these islands are come under the tropical rain forest zone of the world. The A & N Islands constitute a globally important biodiversity hotspot and endemism is very high in all taxa. Avifaunal diversity is high in these islands and 19 Important Bird Areas (IBA) have been identified. A total of two hundred and eighty four species of birds were recorded from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, belonging 56 families under 17 orders. Thirty eight species of raptors (diurnal & nocturnal) are found, these belongs to six families and two orders. Of these, thirteen species are endemic to these islands and ten species are listed under threatened category of IUCN. This study has been carried out between 2008 and 2013 by road side survey to assess the present status and distribution of raptors in Ritchie's archipelago, South, Middle & North Andaman, Nancowry group of Islands, Great Nicobar Island including the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve.

4 tables, 72 ref

019713   Sharma N;Kumar P;Tak P C (NO, Zoological Survey of India, Northern Regional Centre, 218 Kaulagarh Road, Dehradun-248 195, Email: narendersharma70@gmail.com) : Occurrence of Elymnias hypermnestra undularis (Drury) (Lepidoptera: Satyridae) at Ropar wetland, Punjab, India. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(2), 5499-5500.

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019712   Sharma M;Mattu V K (NO, , Zoology Dep, G.C. Shimla-171 006, Email: srijanmeena@gmail.com) : Diversity and seasonal variation in population of a phytophagous and predatory mites associated with apple trees in district Kullu (H.P.). Asian J Adv Basic Sci 2014, 2(3), 130-7.

Studies on population dynamics of some mites found associated with apple plants were conducted in orchards located at Nirmand (1450 m) in Kullu area. Panonychus ulmi Koch, a phytophagous mite and Amblyseius (Euseios) pruni Gupta, a predatory mite were investigated during March, 2005 to February, 2006 in the leaf samples collected from Nirmand area of Kullu hills. Studies on seasonal variations in population dynamics of Panonychus ulmi and Amblyseius (Euseius) pruni revealed that both these species appeared in the month of March on apple crop. Thereafter, their population started increasing till it attained a maximum during the month of June (27.83% and 26.93% respectively). Afterwards, there was a considerable decline till the month of August. A minor peak was again observed during the month of September (0.71% and 0.43% respectively) and then there was a constant decline in population of both Panonychus ulmi and Amblyseius (Euseius) pruni till December (0.71% and 0.43% respectively) and afterwards no infestation was observed. These variations in mite populations may be due to the fluctuations in temperature, relative humidity and sunshine hours.

6 illus, 25 ref

019711   Sagar T P;Baghel S;Deheriya R;Ahirwar B;Saket S;Tiwari A K;Shakiya S;Singh S;Khamriya P (Zoology Dep, Govt S G S P G College, Sidhi, Madhya Pradesh) : Limnological studies of coka dam, papara, satna (Madhya Pradesh) with special reference to phytoplankton. Int J Pharm Life Sci 2014, 5(3), 3408-12.

Limnological studies is very important in Rural areas, Coka Dam. This Dam was constructed in 1950 by Central scheme, the Dam is upgrade significant for pisculture, agriculture and domestic usages. About 25 villages are using the water of this Dam for domestic animals, irrigation and other proposes this paper deals with the limnological studies of Coka Dam, Papara Satna with special reference to phytoplankton.

2 tables, 24 ref

019710   Rajeev Kumar;Mattu V K (Zoology Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Sarkaghat, District Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, Email: rajeevrana78@gmail.com) : Diversity of butterflies (lepidoptera: insecta) from balh valley (district Mandi in Himchal Pradesh), India. Asian J Adv Basic Sci 2014, 2(3), 66-70.

Butterflies are important bio indicators which should be protected to conserve the biodiversity and environment. Butterflies diversity in Himachal Pradesh is very rich and diversified, primarily due to varied climatic conditions ranging from tropical in the foothill to arctic environment in the Trans-Himalayan region. The Balh Valley, also Known as Sunder Nagar Valley, lies in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, situated in the lap of North Western Himalaya at an altitude of 800 m above sea level in lower Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh has been explored during the course of present investigation. Different species of plants and habitats of Balh Valley attract wide variety of butterfly fauna, which play a vital role in pollination of various flowering plants besides a key component of food chain. Butterflies studies carried out in Balh valley, during different seasons of the year 2012-2013 revealed the presence of 40 butterfly species belonging to 31 genera and 8 families of order Lepidoptera viz., Nymphalidae, Pieridae, Satyridae, Papilionidae, Danaidae, Lycaenidae, Hesperidae and Erycinidae. During the course of present studies it was observed that the family Pieridae represented by 9 species was the most dominant followed by Nymphalidae and Satyridae (8 species each), Papilionidae and Danaidae (5 species each), Lycaenidae (2 species), Hesperidae (1) species) and Erycinidae (1species) respectively. These findings have been based on one year of field work. Such studies on monitoring the species diversity of butterflies can give valuable information on their population dynamics.

1 table, 22 ref

019709   Puvaneswari S;Jiyavudeen M (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Histological alterations of gill and liver of fish mugil cephalus inhabiting Uppanar river, Cuddalore districts, Tamil Nadu. Asian J biochem pharm Res 2014, 5(1), 160-71.

Histopathological alterations can be used as an indicator for the effects of various anthropogenic pollutants on organisms and are a reflection of the overall health of the entire population in the ecosystem. Hence, the aim of the present investigation is to observe the histopathological changes of gill and liver of fish Mugil cephalus inhabiting Uppanar River in Cuddalore, as an indicator of water pollution. Fish samples were collected from three distinct stations in Uppanar river during Monsoon (August 2013) and summer (May 2014) seasons. Several histopathological changes were observed in gill and liver of studied fish from the three stations. The results revealed the station wise as well as the seasonal variations in the observed organs. The gills showed destructive changes in both primary and secondary lamellae, vacuolisation, hyperplasia of epithelial cells, mucous cells proliferation, lifting of secondary lamellae from primary lamella, thickening of secondary lamellae, curling and shortening of secondary lamellae, fusioning of secondary lamellae, hyperplasia and hypertrophy of mucous and chloride cells. These changes were mild, moderate and severe, in station I, II and III respectively. The observed pathological changes in the liver of the selected fish were hypertrophy in hepatocytes and nucleus, hepatic necrosis, irregular shaped hepatocytes, pyknotic nucleus, destructed blood vessels, shrinked hepatocytes and vacuolated cytoplasm. These changes were mild, moderate and more pronounced in the liver of fish from station I, II and III respectively. These results revealed that the Station I is less polluted, Station II is moderately polluted and station III is more polluted.

13 illus, 47 ref

019708   Mukherjee S;Sainis K B;Deobagkar D D (Zoology Dep, Pune Univ, Pune-411 007, Email: deepti@bioinfo.net.in) : F₁ hybrids of BALB/c and C57BL/6 mouse strains respond differently to low-dose ionizing radiation exposure. J Genet 2014, 93(3), 667-82.

There are evidences to show that response to ionizing radiations have genetic influence. To investigate this further, reciprocal F₁ hybrids were genereted by crossbreeding the radiation-susceptible BALB/c mouse strain with resistant C57BL/6 in a sex-specific manner. These hybrids were compared with each other and to the parental strains with respect to transcriptional responses to low-dose ionizing radiation exposure (LDIR). The two F₁ hybrids showed drastic differences in their gene expression profiles to ionizing radiation exposure particularly in case of the genes involved in DNA damage response and repair process. Also, the inheritance pattern of the gene expression was found to be complex and could not be explained solely on the basis of parental expression pattern. It was concluded that there is a differential transmission of susceptible trait alleles from the parents to F₁ progeny which is dependent on the sex of the parent mouse strain used to set up the crosses and other environmental factors.

7 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

019707   Marcus Knight J D;Rai A;Souza R K P D (NO, , Flat L', Sri Balaji Apartments, 7th Main Road, Dhandeeswaram, Velachery, Chennai, Tamil Nadu-600 042, Email: jdmarcusknight@yahoo.co.in) : Identity of hypselobarbus pulchellus (Day, 1870)-an addendum to knight et (2013 a&b). J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(2), 5512.

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019706   Mamlayya A B;Bhawane G P;Ghate H V (Zoology Dep, Rayat Shikshan Sanstha's Balwant College, Vita Sangli District, Maharashtra-415 311, Email: mamlayya@rediffmail.com) : First Record of the long horned beetle apiocephalus licheneus Gahan from Western India [Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: Lepturinae]. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(2), 5494-98.

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019705   Haque M M;Salam M A;Alam M (Zoology Dep, Jahangirnagar Univ, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh) : Association of pathogenic Vibrio cholerae O1 and O139 with zooplankton. Ann Biol Res 2015, 6(2), 15-22.

Vibrio cholerae O1 was found to be associated with six groups of zooplanktons during the study period. The study revealed that V. cholerae O1 had maximum association with rotifer (60.4%) and nauplii (76%) and minimum association with cladocera (3.39%). Vibrio cholerae O139 was also found to be associated with six groups of zooplanktons in three studied sites during the study period. The data revealed that V. cholerae O139 had highest association with rotifera in all sites (79.5%, 76% and 77.7% respectively) and lowest with copepod (2.46%) and ostracoda (2.69%). Zooplankton had more or less two peaks of swarm or bloom like from February to April (postwinter or spring) and September to November (pre-winter or autumn) which coincides with two seasonal cholera epidemics in Bangladesh. The findings therefore suggest a correlation between cholera epidemics and zooplankton bloom.

1 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

019704   Gogoi R;Goswami U C (Zoology Dep, Fish Biology and Fisheries Sciences, Gauhati Univ, Guwahati, Assam) : Morphometric and meristic study of Amblypharyngodon mola (Ham-Buch) from different habitats of Assam. Ann Biol Res 2015, 6(2), 10-4.

Morphometric and meristic characters of Amblypharyngodon mola collected from culture pond and wetland of Jorhat district of Assam, was studied during the period from September 2011 to August 2013. The morphometric characters of different body parts of male and female were recorded. The correlation and regression analysis was carried out for some important characters in relation to total length and head length. The coefficients of correlation (r) for various characters ranged from 0.216 - 0.947 in males and 0.396 - 0.9524 in females. There was significant (p<60>0.05) difference between morphometric characters of mature male and female A.mola while there was no change in meristic counts with increase in body length.

3 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

019703   Contreras MacBeath T;Rodriguez M B;Sorani V; Goldspink C;Reid G M (NO, Centro de investigaciones Biologicas Universidad Autonoma del Estado d, Mexico, Email: cgoldspink@aol.com) : Richness and endemism of the freshwater fishes of Mexico. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(2), 5421-33.

Study of richness and endemism of the freshwater fishes of Mexico, was carried out in order to identify hotspots and inform conservation efforts. This was done by mapping and overlaying individual species distributions by means of geographical information systems based on museum data. The study was able to confirm several previously proposed centres of freshwater fish richness (Southeastern Mexico, the Mesa Central, the Bravo-Conchos river system and the Panuco and Tuxpan-Nautla rivers). Seven areas with high 'Corrected Weighted Endemism' Index values were identified, with the valley of Cuatrocienegas recognized as a true centre. An alarming result was the identification of a "Ghost" centre of endemism (Llanos El Salado) in southwestern Nuevo Leon, where six endemic cyprinodont species are all 'extinct' or 'extinct in the wild'. Forty-nine single site endemics that are distributed all over Mexico were identified. The Chichancanab lagoon in the border between Yucatan and Quintana Roo, where a flock composed of six endemic cyprinodonts is present needs special mention. Three hotspots of richness plus endemism were found in Mexico, the most important of which is the Mesa Central where impacts by human activities have had a detrimental effect on fish populations.

6 illus, 58 ref

019702   Chandra K (NO, Zoological Survey of India, Prani Vigyan Bhawan, M Block, New Alipore, Kolkatta-700 053) : Orthopera diversity of bhoramdev wildlife sanctuary, kabirdham, Chhattisgarh, India. Ann For 2014, 22(1), 111-25.

Paper deals with the study of faunal diversity of Orthoptera of Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary in the state of Chhattisgarh. Altogether 50 species pertaining to 42 genera under 7 families are reported for the first time from the sanctuary, of which three species are new addition to the state fauna.

1 illus, 6 ref

019701   Banik S;Banik A D;Shrivastava V K (Zoology Dep, Regional Institute of Education, NCERT, Bhopal, Email: arunimadattabanik@gmail.com) : Anovulatory follicle development in adult albino mice due to prolonged exposures to genistein. Int J pharm Sci Res 2014, 5(9), 3752-7.

Genistein is a soy phytoestrogen that mediates its functions by interacting with the endogenous estrogen receptor β. To investigate the effect of 10mg/kg body weight/ day genistein administration up to 90 days on the ovarian folliculogenesis and its correlation with serum gonadotropins and estrogen, adult Mus musculus were either administered with 1:4 DMSO : PBS (vehicle) or with 10mg genistein/kg body weight dissolved in vehicle for 30, 60 and 90 days. Post sacrifice on 31st, 61st and 91st day, blood serum was separated and the gonadotropins (LH and FSH) and estrogen hormone was estimated by ELISA and Bouin's fixed ovaries of control and treated mice were used for histology after H&E staining. Comparison of the ovarian sections revealed increased number of arrested anovulatory follicles along the treatment groups i.e., 30 60 and 90 days and chronological decrease in the serum concentrations of LH, FSH as well as estrogens (two way ANOVA, at P<60>0.05 to P<60>0.001). Together these results suggested for delayed folliculogenesis and reduced number of mature oocytes, which could be correlated with less to nil offspring production signifying lesser fertility or sometimes severity may end up in sterility.

40 ref

019700   Babu S;Kalaimani A (NO, Salim All Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, Anaikatty, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu-641 108, Email: sanbabs@gmail.com) : New site record of grizzled giant squirrel Ratufa macroura from Thiruvannamalai forest division, Eastern Ghats, Tamil Nadu. J Threatened Taxa 2014, 6(2), 5492-93.

1 illus, 14 ref

019699   Anil Kumar (High Altitude Regional Centre, Zoological Survey of India, Solan-173 211, Email: anilsonta@gmail.com) : Acoustical features of some vocalizations in western Hoolock gibbon, Hoolock hoolock (primates: hylobatidae). Ann For 2014, 22(1), 104-10.

In the present investigation, physical characteristics of some vocalizations of Western Hoolock Gibbon Hoolock hoolock have been described. Vocal signals were recorded during July 2009 and January 2010 at Itanagar Zoo, Arunachal Pradesh. Behavioural observations and bio-acoustic analysis of the signals revealed that both male and female individuals produced loud resonating vocalizations in discrete bouts (average duration: 15.52±3.36 sec; n=8) further comprised of frequency/ amplitude modulated, wide band elements/ notes. These signals were in the form of chorus, duet and occasional sole, having frequency range from 0.34±0.02 to 3.21±0.41 kHz. Often 2 or 3 individuals called together. It seems that these signals were produced for territory advertisement.

6 illus, 27 ref

018638   Vijaya Kumar A;Madhusudhana C;Kishore S (Toxicology Div, Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, Email: vijayspj1985@gmail.com) : Hematological alterations induced by sodium arsenate toxicity in Albino mice. Int J Pharm Life Sci 2015, 6(1), 4166-70.

Arsenic is one of the most dangerous occupational and environmental toxins. Arsenic (As) is a toxic and carcinogenic metalloid. For the general population, arsenic In drinking water is the main exposure source, and more harmful than arsenic in food, because the bioavailability (actual amount absorbed into the bloodstream) of arsenic from water is greater than that from grains or vegetable. Arsenic exists in the trivalent and pentavalent forms and is widely distributed in nature. The drastic adverse changes in the various hematological parameters were observed in treated mice when compared control animals. Haematological parameters are used as sensitive indicators of toxicity due to different pollutant. First group exposed to tap water maintained as control where as second and third groups were treated with different doses of Sodium arsenate. Blood samples were collected after 7 days and 14 days. The lymphocytes were severely damaged by arsenic toxicity. White Blood Cells (WBCs), Red Blood Cells (RBCs) and hemoglobin level in control groups were in normal range whereas level were significantly decreased with the increase dose of arsenic in the respective treatmental groups. The data was analyzed statistically and was found that significant was found among the group (p <60> 0.05).

7 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

018637   Vaisakh S;Sanal Kumar M G;Nanda Kumar S (Zoology Post Graduate and Research Dep, N.S.S. College, Pandalam-689 501, Email: vaisakhsadananadan@gmail.com) : Purity assessment of pallickal river water using microbial indicator organisms. J Ecobiol 2014, 33(1), 57-60.

Pallickal River is one of the 44 rivers of Kerala. The study incorporated identification and enumeration of indicator bacteria in three selected segments of the Pallickal river from August 2012 to July 2013, for the purpose of bioassessment. Mean counts of bacteria showed that the upstream segment has high density of organisms in terms of total coliform count (32.50 cfu/ml x 10^{-1), faecal coliform count (8.50 cfu/ml x 10-1) and total heterotrophic bacteria count (85.0 cfu/ml x 10-1) during post monsoon season. Significant variations in bacteria counts were noted between seasons among which post monsoon and summer season were characterized by higher microbial density (Coliform F_season : 5.37; Heterotrophic bacteria F_season:4.19). Results of the study indicated that the upstream segments of Pallickal River are affected due to microbial contamination during post monsoon and summer seasons. Water from this zone is needed to be properly treated before using for any domestic purpose.}

3 tables, 5 ref

018636   Sanyal A K;Uniyal V P;Chandra K (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, P.O. Box-18, Chandrabani, Dehradun-248 001, Email: uiyalvp@wii.gov.in) : Life history of Chionaema coccinae recorded from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Indian For 2013, 139(7), 645-7.

Life history stages of the Arctiid moth Chionaema coccinae, Moore, 1878 (Subfamily Lithosiinae) were recorded in Wildlife Institute of India campus, Dehradun. Larva, pupa and cocoon structure along with male female dimorphism were described. The cocoon along with the pupa were kept upto emergence of the adult to confirm species identification.

1 illus, 9 ref

018635   Sambath S;Chandra K (Zoological Survey of India, Central Zone Regional Centre Vijay Nagar, Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), Email: sambath63@gmail.com) : Moth diversity of Chhattisgarh state, India. Indian For 2013, 139(7), 626-32.

The present work was an attempt to document diversity of moth fauna of Chhattisgarh for assessing the ecological stability of the areas, which are highly susceptible due to various anthropogenic activities and coal mines in particular. A total of 90 species of moths belonging to 79 genera, 15 families, 26 subfamilies under 10 superfamilies were identified and recorded.

3 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

018634   Saha B (NO, , C/O.'Hamadryad' 230, Green Park, Narendrapur, Kolkata-700 103) : Occurrence of red coral kukri snake in Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. J envir Sociobiol 2013, 10(2), 227-8.

1 illus, 1 ref

018633   Saghir A (Zoology Dep, Gujrat Univ, Pakistan) : Formation of neural crest and organogenesis in mammals. Int J pharm Res Biosci 2014, 3(1), 34-46.

Neural crest cells are actually multi-potential stem cells that contribute extensively to vertebrate development and give rise to different cell and tissue types. Determination of the fate of mammalian neural crest has been inhibited by the lack of markers. Here, we make use of a two-component genetic system for indelibly marking the offspring's of the cranial neural crest during tooth and mandible formation. This paper briefly describes the formation of different parts from neural crest.

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018632   Roy M K D (NO, , Zoological Survey of India, 27 Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Kolkata-700 016, Email: malay_7@rediffmail.com) : Marine and estuarine isopod fauna (Crustacea: Isopoda) of India. J envir Sociobiol 2013, 10(2), 147-78.

Isopods are found in diverse habitats. In this communication, marine and estuarine isopods of India are dealt. A total of 232 species under 101 genera and 25 families have been recorded from different maritime states of India including Andaman and Nicobar islands and Lakshadweep. Maximum diversity has been noted in the family Cymothoidae (62 species), which is followed by Bopyridae (52 species) and Sphaeromatidae (22 species). The distribution of these species indicates highest diversity in Kerala (79 species), which is followed by Tamil Nadu (64 species) and Andaman and Nicobar slands (46 species). Five isopod families are recorded only from the state of Kerala and a single family each from Andhra Pradesh and Andaman Islands respectively. Introduction of species in Indian water by ballast water is also discussed.

1 table, 168 ref

018631   Ramakrishna M K;Lingaiah K;Ramachandra N B; Ramesh S R (Drosophila Stock Centre, Unit on Evolution and Genetics, Studies in Zo, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: rameshuom@gmail.com) : Isozyme analysis in type 2 cytoraces of the Nasuta-albomicans complex of Drosophila. J Cytol Genet 2014, 15(1-2), 23-7.

Cytoraces are obtained from hybridization between Drosophila nasuta nasuta and D. n. albomicans and constitute the members of the nasuta-albomicans complex of Drosophila along with their parents. The members of type 2 cytoraces consist of karyotypically identical members (Cytoraces 2, 9, 11, 12 and 13). The isozyme analysis in these members was carried out to understand the degree of genetic differentiation among type 2 cytoraces. The present investigation at 4 isozymal loci revealed the existence of 40 alleles, with 19 alleles being shared across all the members indicating 75% polymorphic alleles, 22.5% rare alleles and 2.5% monomorphic alleles. In comparison between the parental races, significant genetic differentiation was evident in cytoraces indicating the accelerated genome introgression in the evolution of cytoraces. Thus, cytoraces and its members are evolving independently and so also the gene pool confined to them.

6 illus, 5 tables, 43 ref

018630   Peter M C S;Mini V S;Bindulekha D S;Peter V S (Zoology Dep, Kerala Univ, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram-695 581, Email: subashpeter@yahoo.com) : Short-term in situ effects of prolactin and insulin on ion transport in liver and intestine of freshwater climbing perch (Anabas testudineus Bloch). J Endocr Reprod 2014, 18(1), 47-58.

The short-term in situ effects of prolactin and insulin on the transport of monovalent and divalent cations were examined in climbing perch Anabas testudineus to infer upon how these hormones regulate ion transport in the metabolic and osmoregualtory tissues of freshwater fish. Varied doses (10^{-9, 10-8 and 10-7 M) of ovine prolactin (oPRL) and insulin were infused in these fish for 20 min and the specific activities of ion-specific ATPases were analyzed. The Na+, K+-ATPase activity in the intestine and liver showed significant increase after oPRL infusion. Infusion of oPRL significantly decreased the cytosolic H+-ATPase activity in the intestine and liver, but increased the cytosolic Ca2+-ATPase activity in these tissues. Infusion of oPRL decreased the mitochondrial Mg2+-ATPase and H+-ATPase activities in the liver but the activities of these transporters increased in the intestine. Similar to oPRL, insulin infusion produced dose-dependent effects on the transporter activities in the liver and intestinal tissues. The mitochondrial Mg2+-ATPase activity in the liver significantly decreased at 10-9 and 10-7 M insulin infusion whereas its activity increased significantly in intestine at 10-8 M insulin. Likewise, insulin infusion produced significant increases in the activities of all tested transporters except the cytosolic H+-ATPase activity in the intestine. A direct action of insulin on ion transport was found in both liver and intestinal tissues, as evident in the activity patterns of ion-specific ATPases. Taken together the results point to vital roles of PRL and insulin in ion transport in both liver and intestinal tissues of climbing perch.}

4 illus, 67 ref

018629   Nayak L;Baliarsingh B K;Swain S K;Kosygin L (Marine Sciences Dep, Berhampur Univ, Berhampur-760 007) : Fish diversity of Balasore district, Odisha. J envir Sociobiol 2013, 10(2), 101-8.

A systematic checklist of freshwater fishes of Balasore district of Odisha, India was provided. A total number of 66 species of fishes under 47 genera, 25 families and 8 orders has been recorded. Highest species diversity was observed in the Cyprinidae (42.4%), followed by Siluridae (22.7%). The fish fauna includes 2 vulnerable (VU), 2 near threatened (NT), 46 least concern (LC), 3 data deficient (DD) and 13 not assessed (NA) species as per IUCN. The present fish fauna is a composite of primary freshwater fishes, estuarine fishes and widely distributed forms. The present finding shows that Balasore district is blessed with diverse fish fauna including numerous economically important food fishes. The water quality of the rivers and streams of the district are not contaminated as the value of pH and DO are within the tolerance limit of class 'D' water prescribed for fish culture and wild life propagation.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

018628   Mitra S;Dev Roy M K (NO, , Crustacea Section, Zoologuical Survey of India F.P.S. Building, 27 J.L. Nehru Road, Kolkata-700 016, Email: santanuzsi@gmail.com) : On first record of the hillstream leech Myxobdella annandalei Oka, 1917 (Annelida: Hirudinidae) from Himachal Pradesh, India. J envir Sociobiol 2013, 10(2), 221-2.

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018627   Mitra S (NO, , Zoological Survey of India, 27, J.L. Nehru Road, Kolkta-700 016, Email: santanuzsi@gmail.com) : Malacofauna of Subarnarekha estuary (Balasore: Odisha): their economical importance and conservation. J envir Sociobiol 2013, 10(2), 191-200.

Several faunastic surveys were undertaken in Subarnarekha estuary (Balasore : V Odisha) from 2006-2010. During these surveys 82 species of phylum Mollusca were found there, of which Gastropoda comprises the major portion by 46 species whereas Pelecypoda or bivalves consist of only 36 species. Molluscs are being exploited as food from ancient times. Apart from this, shells of molluscs are utilized for preparation of decorative materials, preparation of lime and for fish and poultry feed, Some gastropod shells, namely, Pugilina cochlidium, Bursa spinosa, Tonna sp, Cerithidea sp., Telescopium telescopium, Murex tribulus and Umbonium vestiarum are used as ornamental or decorative article. Among the bivalves, Meretrix meretrix, M. casta, Andara granosa, Gluconoma sculpta, Paphia textiles, Macoma sp. and Saccostrea cucullta are exploited to makings of lime and dust for fishery food. The present study aimed at documenting the molluscan fauna of the Subarnarekha estuary, as well as highlighting the socio-economic aspect of the trade on molluscs from this estuary. The need for conservation of these molluscs is also discussed.

8 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

018626   Manickavel A;Shanmugavel S;Sakthivel M (Zoology P.G. Dep, V.O. Chidabaram College, Tuticorin-628 008, Email: paulmanickam2009@gmail.com) : Evaluation of the efficiency of polyanhydride microspheres containing gonadotropin releasing hormone (GNRH) for inducing ovulation and spermiation in the fish Amphiprion sebae. J Ecobiol 2014, 33(1), 39-46.

Dose effect of gonadotropic hormone - releasing hormone analogue (GnRH-A) on ovulation by GnRH-A injection in Amphiprion sebae was studied. Females were injected with 25, 50 and 75 μg of GnRH-A / kg body weight. All GnRH-A treated females had ovulation within 12 days whereas no ovulatory response occurred in fish under A. sebae. The optimum dose for better results was found to be 50 μg of GnRH-A / kg body weight. When the test A.sebae were treated with the optimum dose of GnRH-A, the spawning interval was reduced to 11 days, the fecundity rate was about 753 eggs / spawning and the hatching rate was 94%. Sexually matured males 15±1g were injected with GnRHA loaded microspheres at a dose of 1.6 mg microspheres / kg of body weight. The sperms were collected from test fish once in a week after post treatment by stripping. Two days after treatment with the GnRH-A loaded microspheres was found to increase the same production 2 times when compared to control. Similarly the males treated for 14 days the sperm production was 4 times higher than the control.

4 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

018625   Mandal S;Ray R (NO, , Vill + P. O.-Sherpur, P.S.-Usthi, Dist.-24 Pargans-743 513, Email: mondalsudip72@gmail.com) : Studies on a new family of septate gregarine acephalidae N. Fam. and a new genus and new species Acephalus sundarbanensis N. Gen. N. Sp. from in orthopteran insect of Sundarban region of West Bengal, India. J envir Sociobiol 2013, 10(2), 113-20.

New family, Acephalidae n. fam. and a new genus Acephalus n. gen. are proposed in this communication to accommodate a new septate gregarine (Apicomplexa: Conoidasida) Acephalus sundarbanensis n. sp. collected from the midgut of an orthopteran insect host, Euconocephalus incertus from Sundarban region of West Bengal, India. The characteristics of this new family and its affinity with the closely related families are discussed.

22 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

018624   Makesh Kumar C;Jebanesan A;Senthamarai Selvan P (Vector Biology, Div Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Diversity and distribution of tree hole mosquitoes in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu, India. Envir Ecol 2014, 32(2A), 794-6.

A survey was conducted to evaluate the number of tree- hole breeding mosquito species and their distribution from August to October 2013 in Neyveli. It has been assumed that in India Ae. aegypti (L.)the well- known vector of chikungunya and dengue viruses, it usually breed in natural water containers, such as tree holes, plant axils, cut bamboos. Both immature and adult forms of mosquitoes were collected from tree holes. The immature forms were reared in the laboratory and the emerged adults were identified. A total of 137 mosquitoes were collected during the survey. Among them 102 (0.1103) were Ae. albopictus 82 (0.0713) were Ae. aegypti and 70 (0.0519) were Cx. quinquefasciatus and 53 (0.0298) Arimigeres subalbatus. In addition the numbers of male and female among them was counted in August (49) September (39) and October (49) respectively. One of the purposes of this study, therefore, was to properly identify types of mosquitoes that breed in tree-holes and evaluate status of this tree -hole breeding mosquitoes in Neyveli. India.

1 table, 12 ref

018623   Ghosh A;Mukhopadhyay A (NO, , Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053) : New record of Pisania (Jeannea) gracilis (Sowerby) (mollusca : gatropoda) from India. J envir Sociobiol 2013, 10(2), 217-18.

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018622   Dubey S;Verma R;Rastogi S;Haldar C (Zoology Dep, Udai Pratap Autonomous Degree College, Bhojubir, Varanasi-221 002, Email: chaldar2001@yahoo.com) : Effect of gonadotropins and gonadal steroids (17β-estradiol and testosterone) on harderian gland porphyrin content and circulatory hormones in Indian palm squirrel Funambulus pennanti. J Endocr Reprod 2014, 18(1), 1-6.

Mostly studied in the hamster, the Harderian gland (HG, an extra-orbital gland) has been shown to be capable of melatonin (MEL) synthesis and to possess steroid receptor binding sites. Sexual dimorphism and ability to respond to steroid hormones have been reported for HG of some temperate zone mammals. However, to date there is no report on functional relation of HG with pineal, pituitary and gonad in any rodent. Hence, we tested the effect of gonadotropins [FSH (10 μg) + LH (10 μg)] and steroids [testosterone (100 μg) and 17-β estradiol (50 μg)] on HG function in relation to the activities of the pineal gland and gonad in both sexes of Indian palm squirrel Funambulus pennanti during the sexually quiescent phase. In general, squirrels treated with gonadotropins and gonadal steroids showed a significant increase in gonadal weight and decrease in pineal weight and plasma melatonin level in LH- and testosterone-treated groups only. There was no change in the weight of HG on FSH treatment. Porphyrin content of HG decreased after testosterone and estradiol treatment. Pineal gland weight invariably decreased after treatment with gonadotropins and testosterone. Plasma testosterone and estradiol levels increased but melatonin level decreased in all treated groups. Our data suggest that in this tropical rodent gonadotropins have an indirect effect on HG and that gonadal steroids have significant effect on HG through the influence on gonadal and pineal functions.

5 illus, 22 ref

018621   Dubey S;Verma R;Haldar C (Zoology Dep, Udai Pratap Autonomous Degree College, Bhojubir, Varanasi-221 002, Email: chaldar2001@yahoo.com) : Electron microscopic study of harderian gland of tropical bird Indian jungle bush quail Perdicula asiatica. J Endocr Reprod 2014, 18(1), 41-6.

Structure of Harderian gland (HG) of tropical avian species has never been studied in detail. In the present study we investigated the structure of HG of a tropical avian species adopting light- and transmission electron microscopy. HG from both male and female adult birds, P. asiatica (N = 5 each sex) were studied from light microscopic (hematoxylin-eosin staining) and transmission electron microscopic perspectives. The tubulo-alveolar HG of P. asiatica did not reveal any sexual dimorphism as reported in other birds. The HG of this bird is encapsulated by thick connective tissue consisting of collagen fibers, nerve fibers and blood vessels. HG lobules are lined with columnar epithelial cells. Plasma cells are found in interlobular spaces. The columnar epithelial cells are secretory in nature and have both rough and smooth endoplasmic reticula surrounding the nucleus when observed in transmission electron microscope. There is active Golgi apparatus with dilated cisternae. Mitochondria are well developed, with elongated cristae, and are scattered throughout the cytoplasm along with abundant free ribosomes. Lipid droplets are present in the cytoplasm along with two types of materials, electron-luscent and electron-dense. We could trace the various stages of synthesis of the secretory material for merocrine release. Thus, the light microscopic and ultrastructural organization of HG of P. asiatica have been elucidated.

2 illus, 24 ref

018620   Dev Roy M K (NO, , Crustacea Section, Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata-700 016, Email: malay_7@rediffmail.com) : New record of a leucosid crab Arcania cornuta from west coast of India along with notes on its morphometric measurements. J envir Sociobiol 2013, 10(2), 219-20.

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018619   Dalui S;Bhattacharyya A (Immunology Lab, Zoology Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019, Email: arindam19@yahoo.com) : Herbicide paraquat induces sex-specific variation of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in Drosophila melanogaster. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2014, 51(6), 567-73.

There are several reports on herbicide paraquat (PQ)-induced Parkinsonian-like pathology in different animal models, including Drosophila melanogaster. Also, the role of some inflammatory factors, such as nitric oxide is reported in PQ-induced neuroinflammation of Drosophila. Although invertebrate model is valuable to study the conserved inflammatory pathway at the time of neurodegeneration, but neuroinflammation during PQ-mediated neurodegeneration has not been studied explicitly in Drosophila. In this study, the inflammatory response was examined in Drosophila model during PQ-induced neurodegeneration. We found that after exposure to PQ, survivability and locomotion ability were affected in both sexes of Drosophila. Behavioural symptoms indicated similar physiological features of Parkinson's disease (PD) in different animal models, as well as in humans. Our study revealed alteration in proinflamatory factor, TNF-α and Eiger (the Drosophila homologue in TNF superfamily) was changed in PQ-treated Drosophila both at protein and mRNA level during neurodegeneration. To ensure the occurrence of neurodegeneration, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) positive neuronal cell loss was considered as a hallmark of PD in the fly brain. Thus, our result revealed the conserved inflammatory events in terms of expression of TNF-α and Eiger present during a sublethal dose of PQ-administered neurodegeneration in male and female Drosophila with significant variation in proinflamatory factor level among both the sexes.

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018618   Chaudhuri P;Acharya S;Dey C (Zoology Postgraduate Dep, Rishi Bankim Chandra College, Naihati-743 165, Email: chiranjeeb123@yahoo.co.in) : Avifaunal diversity of Chandannagar suburban area of West Bengal. J envir Sociobiol 2013, 10(2), 137-42.

Attempt has been made to present a comprehensive data of 76 avian species comprising of resident (69 species) and winter migrant (7 species) birds, observed in and around 5 km radius of Chandannagar (a suburban area in Hooghly district in the state of West Bengal in India) over a period of three years between January 2010 and December 2012.

1 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

018617   Chamundaiah R M;Shivabasavaiah;Shivanandappa T (Studies in Zoology Dep, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: tshivanandappa@yahoo.com) : Fertility suppression by the fruit extract of Opuntia elatior in the male rat: possible extragonadal action. J Endocr Reprod 2014, 18(1), 7-16.

Plant - derived male antifertility agents need to address the basic requirements of reversibility and fertility suppression without affecting libido. This study was undertaken to evaluate the male antifertility potential of the fruit extract of Opuntia elatior in the male rat and its reversibility. The methanolic extract was administered through oral route (300,900 mg/kg bw) to male rats for 30 and 60 days, and fertility was assessed by analysing spermatogenesis, sperm count and testosterone levels. Reversibility of fertility suppression was studied by withdrawal of treatment for two weeks and mating with normally cycling virgin females. Sperm count and motility were markedly reduced in both the groups of treated rats, without commensurate decline in serum testosterone levels and testicular hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSDH) activity. Fertility of the treated rats was suppressed when mated with normally cycling virgin female rats without affecting libido. Withdrawal of treatment for two weeks restored the sperm count, testicular HSDH activity, serum testosterone levels and fertility. The methanolic extract of the fruit of O. elatior produces reversible male antifertility effect without affecting the testosterone levels and libido.

6 illus, 1 table, 38 ref

018616   Arora S;Singh P;Basu P;Haldar C (NO, Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: chaldar2001@yahoo.com) : Effect of exogenous gonadal steroids on reproductive functions of the Indian pygmy field mouse Mus terricolor. J Endocr Reprod 2014, 18(1), 29-36.

Different thresholds of gonadal steroids exert stimulatory or inhibitory effects on GnRH and gonadotropin release. During the reproductively active phase (RAP), the concentration of endogenous gonadal steroids remains high while, during reproductively inactive phase (RIP), it remains low. During RIP the HPG axis is sensitive to gonadal steroids but the circulatory levels of testosterone and estradiol remain low. During this phase one can observe conveniently the effects of gonadal steroids on the HPG axis in male or female rodents. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to find the effects of testosterone and estradiol on the reproductive functions of male and female Indian pygmy field mouse, Mus terricolor, during RIP. The male mice were injected aquaviron (commercially available testosterone, 1 mg/100 g body weight) while the female mice received estradiol-benzoate (25 μg/100g body weight) for 15 consecutive days during the RIP. After completion of the treatment, a significant increase in the weights of gonads and accessory sex organs was noted in both the sexes. The biochemical constituents of accessory sex organs such as epididymal sialic acid, seminal vesicular fructose and uterine protein content reflected significant elevation accompanied by increased levels of plasma testosterone, estradiol and progesterone. Histologically, the gonads and accessory sex organs exhibited increased cellular activity. However, the gonadal cholesterol was significantly decreased in both the sexes. Over all, administration of gonadal steroids to both male and female mice accelerated the gonadal recrudescence but did not inhibit the reproductive functions when administered during the RIP. Therefore, it can be inferred from the present study that during the RIP the HPG axis is sensitive to gonadal steroids and, hence, exogenous gonadal steroids induce gonadal activity.

17 illus, 24 ref

018615   Anupriya S;Peter V S;Peter M C S (Zoology Dep, Kerala Univ, Kariavattom, Thiruvanathapuram-695 581, Email: subashpeter@yahoo.com) : Effect of L-tryptophan feeding on brain mitochondrial ion transport in net-confined climbing perch (Anabas testudineus Bloch). J Endocr Reprod 2014, 18(1), 17-28.

Serotonin (5-HT), a neurohormone with many physiological actions, is synthesized from the dietary essential amino acid tryptophan (TRP). However, the effects of TRP on neuronal ion transporters and its role in stress response have not yet been identified in the teleost fish. The effects of varied doses of TRP on the activities of mitochondrial (m) and cytosolic (c) ion transporters were examined in the forebrain (FB), midbrain (MB) and hindbrain (HB) segments of an air-breathing fish Anabas testudineus Bloch kept either in non-stressed or in stressed condition. Feeding the fish with varied doses of TRP (1, 2 and 4 mg g^{-1 feed) for seven days produced dose-dependent effects on Na+, K+-ATPase and H+-ATPase activities in different regions of fish brain. A decrease (P <60> 0.001) in Na+, K+-ATPase activity was found in FB and MB after seven days of TRP treatment. TRP decreased (P<60> 0.001) H+-ATPase activity in the FB but increased Na+, K+ATPase activity in all the three regions of the brain. In non-stressed fish, feeding 20 mg g-1 TRP for two days produced a substantial rise (P<60>0.001) in cH+-ATPase activity in the FB and HB of the fish. But mH+-ATPase showed a reversed response to TRP feeding. On the contrary, TRP treatment in net-confined fish showed a decrease (P<60>0.001) in the cH+-ATPase activity in the FB and HB, whereas it produced an increase (P<60> 0.01) in the MB. In non-stressed fish, cytosolic and mitochondrial Ca2+-ATPase activities in FB and MB decreased (P<60>0.001) after TRP feeding. Feeding TRP in stressed fish reduced (P<60> 0.001) cCa2+ ATPase activity in the MB but produced an increase (P<60>0.001) in its activity in mitochondria. In non-stressed fish, TRP feeding decreased (P<60> 0.001) mMg2+ ATPase activity in the FB and MB segments. TRP treatment, in stressed fish, however decreased (P<60> 0.001) Mg2+ -ATPase activity in the MB but not in other brain segments. The data indicate that TRP can regulate brain mitochondrial ion transport, and induction of stress may modify the TRP-induced mitochondrial ion transport response of air-breathing fish.}

4 illus, 57 ref

018614   Akhtar N;Bargali H S;Chauhan N P S;Hilaluddin (National Rainfed Area Authority, Planning Commission, Govt. of India, NASC Complex, D.P. Shastri Marg, New Delhi-110 012, Email: hilaluddin@yahoo.com) : Habitat utilization patterns of sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) in North Bilaspur forest division, India. Indian For 2013, 139(7), 594-8.

Sloth bears inhabits different habitat types across Indian subcontinent and lives in varied sized dens made up of big boulders. The present survey recorded 109 active denning sites in Pendra and Marwahi ranges of North Bilaspur Forest Division. Most of the bear denning sites were located around Ficus virens, F. tinctoria, Bauhinia sp., Diospyros melanoxylon, Boswellia serrata and Lannea coromandelica trees. All dens were recorded from degraded forests. Water availability for bears was plentiful and most of the denning sites had accessibility to water at a short distance. Similarly, most of the denning sites were located at a reasonable distance from the nearest human habitation. Majority of recorded dens faced south followed by southeast and northeast directions. Interestingly, other animals were also observed sharing bear denning sites. Occasionally sloth bears were seen shifting their sites. The sloth bear preferred to come out from their dens early in the evening but seen waiting until dark to commence before going for foraging. Sloth bear also relax for 30-45 minutes outside the dens before entering into it. Majority of observed bears entered into their dens early in the morning much before human starts entering into forests. Annual outside mean temperature as well as inside mean temperature of dens varied significantly during day time.

6 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

017614   Tripathi P;Bajpai P K (Zoology Dep, D.A.V. College, Kanpur-208 001) : The biodiversity and its conservation: certain examples from ancient Indian literature. Agric biol Res 2014, 30(2), 187-95.

Ancient Indian literature begins with four Vedic texts (generally agreed to date back 3000 to 1000 BC) and the Post Vedic ones largely comprise of the texts from 1000 BC to 2nd Century A.D. Here certain records on diversity of fauna are briefly reviewed as groups of animals with the related authorities like Panini, Patanjali, Carak, Susrut, Amar Singh and others. Besides this the classifications given in different texts are given from simpler to extensive ones such as those from Candogyopnishad, Atharv-Ved, Taittariya samhita, in context with the selected important chapters, in brief. Generally these classifications are either based on the basis of reproductive type or the habitat. Approximately twenty five habitats (and microhabitats) have been mentioned with emphatic expression of honour to their inhabitants in sixteenth chapter of Yajur-Ved (XVI/31/33/34/37-39/42/43-45/ and 54th verse tells uncountable numbers of beings) and 12 kind of cereals (XII/12). The inhabitants have been addressed as Rudras, which in the same chapter is apparent to be a synonym of Shiv, and Shiv has been explained to be the energy in the smallest among smalls in Shiv-kavac. Thus the concept of Rudra and its Raudra form is analyzed and explained. Lastly the ethical values attached to respect components of biota, the reasonable usage of natural resources and obligations towards environmental conservation have been quoted from Vedic resources specifically from 18th and 40th chapter of Yajur-Ved and also from Bhagvadgita with reference to sustenance cycle and contribution and significance of Yajna in a coherent manner as part of discussion.

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