013662   Chakrabarti S (Ecology & Aquaculture Research Unit, Zoology Dep, Ramkrishna Mahavidyalaya, Kailashahar-799 277, Email: drsaumen@gmail.com) : Seasonal succession of cladocerans in a perennial pond ecosystem of Tripura. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2014, 34(1), 17-22.

Study was undertaken on a perennial pond ecosystem of Tripura to study the seasonal density and abundance of cladoceran fauna during a period from March 2012 to February 2013. A total of 10 species of cladoceran fauna viz., Daphnia magna. Daphnia similis, Ceriodaphnia cornula, Ceriodaphnia reticulata, Moina micrura, Macrolhrix goeldi , Macrolhrix rosea , Chydorus sphaericus , Leygidia acanlhocercoides and Alona sp.were recorded. Amongst cladoceran fauna, Ceriodaphnia reliclllaia was the most predominant species both quantitatively as well as qualitatively. The percentage composition of each cladoceran species as well as their belonging families were also noted. Cladoceran population followed a definite rhythm of seasonal abundance showing highest density in the summer (102 No/ m^{3) and lowest in the monsoon (38 No/ m3) during the study period. Numerical abundance of cladoceran fauna was observed in the peripheral zone of aquatic macrophytes. Physico-chemical parameters of the studied pond water were also observed during the study period. The density of cladoceran zooplankton showed significant positive correlation with water temperature (r = 0.812, P <60> 0.05) and pH (r = 0.827, P <60>0.01) whilst negative correlation was observed with free carbon dioxide (r = - 0.503, P <60>0.01).}

3 illus, 11 tables, 26 ref

013661   Brahmane V T;Temkar G S;Metar S Y;Sikotaria K M;Desai A Y (Marine Biological Research Station (Dr. B. S. K. K. V., Dapoli), , Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, Email: santoshmetar@rediffmail.com) : Ichthyofounal diversity in the vicinity of marine protected areas, Jamnagar, Gulf of Kachchh, India. Asian J Adv Basic Sci 2014, 3(1), 78-88.

Study reports ichthyofaunal diversity form four different landing centers namely, Sikka bander, Bed (Rasulnagar), Bedibander and Vadinar located in the vicinity of Marine National Park (MNP), Jamnagar with the help of different fishing gears. Sampling was carried out at monthly interval from September 2012 to May 2013. A total of 109 fish species belongs to 19 orders, 58 families and 93 genus were enumerated during present study. 33 number of IUCN listed species were enlisted in this study. Carangidae and Sciaenidae were two families which recorded highest number of species diversity (8 species) followed by Mugilidae (5 species), Clupeidae (4 species), Haemulidae (4 species), Serranidae (4 species) and Sparidae (4 species).

2 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

013660   Biswas S;Lahiri P;Das S (Zoology Dep, Bangabasi Morning College, 19, Rajkumar Chakraborty Sarani, Kolkata-700 009, Email: sreejata26@yahoo.com) : Isolation of predominant bacterium from gut of earthworm Lampito mauritii for effective use in soil fertility. Curr Sci 2014, 107(1), 105-9.

Lampito mauritii is an anecic earthworm living in the topsoil and it is geophytophagous in nature. This earthworm is an important soil macrofauna as it has the dual role of an `ecosystem engineer' due to the ability to build burrows as well as `keystone species' in soil food webs because of its function in degradation of organic wastes. The present study investigates the gut of this earthworm to find the most predominant bacterium harboured therein. Gut contents were regularly extracted and streaked on bacteriological media. The predominant type of colony was identified, isolated and streaked separately to get pure colonies. The microbe was subjected to several biochemical tests and also 16S rRNA sequencing for identification. On the basis of these tests, the bacterium was identified as Bacillus cereus. The microbe was used as a composting agent on solid wastes as a result of which good amount of plant nutrients, specially nitrogen (20.3kg/acre), phosphate (27.4kg/acre) and potassium (52.1kg/acre) were found in the resultant manure. The compost thus obtained was then utilized for the production of vegetables with an attempt to protect soil environment, thus reducing the deleterious effects of chemical fertilizers.

2 illus, 4 tables, 42 ref

013659   Bhoje P M;Shilpa K;Sathe T V (Zoology Dep, Y C, Warna College, Warnanagar-416) : Diversity of ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from Kolhapur District of Maharashtra, India. Uttar Pradesh J Zool 2014, 34(1), 23-5.

Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are social insects and found in all terrestrial habitats. Their morphology is varied as their habitat preference and the size ranged from less than 1 mm to 10 mm. They are docile to extremely pungnacious. Ants feed on plant seed, nector, honey dew secreted by sap sucking insects and fungi. They may be carnivores, scavengers, necrophages or predators and play important role in food web and crop protection. Therefore, diversity of ants has been studied both from rural and urban areas. In all, 36 species of ants belonging to the genera Componotus, Monomorium, Crematogaster, Dolichoderus, Dorylus, Formica, Murmica and Pheidole have been reported from Kolhapur district. Their seasonal abundance and distribution have also been discussed in the paper.

1 table, 5 ref

013658   Bhinder P;Chaudhry A (Zoology Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: preety.bhinder@yahoo.com) : Mutagenicity assessment of organophosphates using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. Toxic int 2013, 20(3), 254-60.

In this study authors have evaluated the mutagenicity of organophosphate pesticides acephate, chlorpyrifos, and profenofos using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay with the mosquito Culex quinguefasciatus taken as an experimental model. Second instar larvae were treated with LC₂₀ of each pesticide for 24 h and mutations induced in the sequence of mitochondrial COII gene (690bp) were studied from restriction patterns generated with Alul, Pad, and Psil restriction endonucleases. Variations in the number and size of digested fragments were recorded from treated individuals compared with controls showing that the restriction enzymes created a cut at different locations. In addition, sequences of COII gene from control and treated individuals were also used to confirm the RFLP patterns. From the sequence alignment data, it was found that mutations caused the destruction and generation of restriction sites in the gene sequence of treated individuals. This study indicates that all the three pesticides had potential to induce mutations in the normal sequence of COll gene and also advocates the use of PCR-RFLP assay as an efficient, rapid, and sensitive technique to detect mutagenicity of pesticides.

4 illus, 20 ref

013657   Basha M P;Shabana Begum;Mir B A (Zoology Dep, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore-560 056, Email: pmbashabub@rediffmail.com) : Neuroprotective actions of clinoptilolite and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid against lead-induced toxicity in mice Mus musculus. Toxic int 2013, 20(3), 201-7.

Oxidative stress is considered as a possible molecular mechanism involved in lead (Pb^{2+) neurotoxicity. Very few studies have been investigated on the occurrence of oxidative stress in developing animals due to Pb2+ exposure. Considering the vulnerability of the developing brain to Pb2+, this study was carried out to investigate the effects of Pb2+ exposure in brain regions especially on antioxidant enzyme activities along with ameliorative effects of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and clinoptilolite. Three-week old developing Swiss mice Mus musculus were intraperitoneally administered with Pb2+ acetate in water (w/v) (100 mg/kg body weight/day) for 21 days and control group was given distilled water. Further Pb2+-toxicated mice were made into two subgroups and separately supplemented with EDTA and clinoptilolite (100 mg/kg body weight) for 2 weeks. In Pb2+-exposed mice, in addition to increased lipid peroxidation, the activity levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione (GSH) found to decrease in all regions of brain indicating, existence of severe oxidative stress clue to decreased antioxidant function. Treatment of Pb2+-exposed mice with EDTA and clinoptilolite lowered the lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels revealing their antioxidant potential to prevent oxidative stress. Similarly their administration led to recover the level of catalase, SOD, and GPx enzymes affected during Pb2+ toxicity in different regions of brain. The protection of brain tissue against Pb2+-induced toxicity by clinoptilolite and EDTA in the present experiment might be due to their ability to react faster with peroxyl radicals there by reducing the severity of biochemical variable indicative of oxidative damage. Thus, the results of present study indicate the neuroprotective potential of clinoptilolite and EDTA against Pb2+ toxicity.}

3 tables, 38 ref

012700   Trivedi J N;Vachhrajani K D (Marine Biodiversity and Ecology Lab, Div of Environment and Toxicology, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao Univ of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002, Email: kauresh@gmail.com) : First record of two porcellanid crabs from Gujarat state, India (Crustacea: Decapoda: Porcellanidae). J Mar Biol Ass India 2013, 55(1), 55-8.

Gujarat state of India harbors longest coastline in the country which supports rich marine diversity but the marine crab fauna of the state is poorly studied. In the present study two species of Porcellanid crabs, Petrolisthes boscii (Audouin, 1826) and Petrolisthes lamarckii (Leach, 1820) were reported for the first time from Gujarat state, India. The taxonomic description of the two species is given in detail.

5 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

012699   Srivastava A K;Rawat S;Purwar A (Zoology Dep, Dayanand Vedic College, Orai, Distt. Jalaun Uttar Pradesh-285 001) : Ichthyodiversity of betwa river at district Jalaun (U.P.) India. Flora Fauna 2014, 20(1), 91-4.

The fresh water fish fauna of Betwa river was studied for a period of two and half years. 21 species were recorded belonging to 5 orders, 9 families and 16 genera. Among the collected species, the order cypriniformes was found to be most dominated group represented by 16 species belonging to 12 genera followed by order ophiocephaliformes with 2 species from 1 genera, order clupeiformes with 1 species belonging to 1 genera, order perciformes with 1 species from 1 genera and order tetrodontiformes with 1 species from 1 genera.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

012698   Singh A;Singh B N (Zoology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Genetics Laboratory, Varanasi-221 005, Email: bashisthsingh2004@rediffmail.com) : Studies on remating behaviour in the drosophila bipectinata species complex: evidence for sperm displacement. Curr Sci 2014, 107(3), 511-15.

In Drosophila bipectinata female remating with respect to productivity and sperm displacement was studied by employing two mutant strains and a wild-type strain. The comparison of productivity between once-mated (control) and remated females revealed that the productivity of remated females is significantly higher than that of once-mated females in all the crosses showing increased productivity after remating. The P2' values (proportion of second male progeny produced after remating) were calculated to test sperm displacement in each cross of remated females, which range from 0.60 to 0.67 extending the evidence for sperm displacement in D. bipectinata.

3 tables, 35 ref

012697   Sengar V S;Saxena K K;Babu Dixit Y (Zoology P.G. Dep, Janta Mahavidyalay, Ajitmal (Auraiya) : Seasonal fluctuation of different zooplanktonic groups of river Sengar in district Etawah (U.P.) India. Flora Fauna 2014, 20(1), 116-18.

This paper deals with the identification of the seasonal fluctuation of different Zooplanktonic groups of the river Sengar. The Zooplanktonic community of river Sengar was represented by Protozoa, Rotifers, Nematodes, Crustacean and Larvae. The protozoan included ciliates and flagellates and the maximum and minimum abundance were 20 ind/litre and 14 ind/litre respectively. Crustaceans and larvae, the largest group, comprised a minimum of 15 ind/litre and a maximum of 27 ind/litre. Rotifers the second largest group were represented by a minimum of 16 ind/litre and a maximum of 22 ind/litre. In other groups mematodes were found to be in lower profile which showed no definite pattern of their seasonal fluctuations.

1 table, 12 ref

012696   Saurabh Kumar;Pandey R K;Das S;Das V K (Zoology Dep, Ganpat Sahai P.G. College, Sultanpur-228 001, Email: dasvkster@yahoo.com) : Temperature dependent mortality and behavioral changes in a freshwater mussel Lamellidens marginalis to dimethoate exposure. J envir Biol 2013, 34(2), 165-70.

Temperature is a crucial determinant of biogeography, directly affecting the behavioral responses of the organisms. An acute static bioassay was conducted to evaluate the effect of temperature on dimethoate toxicity in a freshwater mussel Lamellidens marginalis. The mussel, were exposed for 96 hr at different concentrations of dimethoate (155.00, 160.00, 165.00, 170.00, 175.00, 180.00, 185.00, 190.00, 195.00, and 200.00 mgl^{-1) in the month of January when water temperature was 14.9±1.2°C and at concentration 35.00, 37.00, 39.00, 41.00, 43.00, 45.00, 47.00, and 49.00 mgl-1 in the month of August when the water temperature was 28.0±0.5°C. The LC₅₀ values were calculated from the mortality data obtained (using EPA-Probit analysis version 1.5, statistical software). The 96 hr LC₅₀ value recorded at higher temperature was 36.34mgl-1 and at low temperature was 163.59 mgl-1. The mussel exposed at higher temperature showed more sensitive behavioral responses like huge mucus secretion, sudden closure of shell valves, quick post-mortem changes and increased oxygen consumption in comparison to exposure at low temperature. Therefore, the increasing threat of global warming increases the risk of pesticide toxicity in the exposed organisms}

4 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

012695   Santhanam P;Jeyaraj N;Jothiraj K (Marine Science Dep, Bharathidasan Univ, Tiruchirappalli-620 024, Email: sanplankton@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of temperature and algal food on egg production and hatching of copepod, Paracalanus parvus. J envir Biol 2013, 34(2), 243-6.

There are relatively few reports on the influence of environmental factors on the development and reproduction of calanoid copepods. In this study, we establish over the 12 days culture experiment at different temperature (18, 20, 25, 30 °C) and different algal cell densities 1000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000 cells ml^{-1. The results revealed that the high egg production (42.33 eggs female day) and hatching rate (92.65%) was reported in the temperature of 25 °C. It is understood that the egg production of P. parvus clearly affected by temperature was supported by ANOVA value (F= 4.792909) while the egg production and hatching rate was found to be high as 53.5±4.94 eggs female day, 96.26% respectively with 20,000 cells ml-1. The temperature of 25 °C and algal concentration was positively supported by ANOVA. The present study concluded that the temperature of 25 °C and food concentration of 20,000 cells ml-1 was found to be favorable water temperature and algal food concentration to obtain high fecundity and hatching success in copepod, P. parvus.}

2 tables, 32 ref

012694   Ray K;Lakhotia S C (Biological Sciences Dep, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai-400 005, Email: krishanu@tifr.res.in) : Drosophila melanogaster: a tiny fruit fly is invigorating research in India. Curr Sci 2014, 106(11), 1469.

2 ref

012693   Pradhan P K;Rathore G;Sood N;Swaminathan T R; Yadav M K;Verma D K;Chaudhary D K;Abidi R;Punia P;Jena J K (NO, National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Canal Ring Road, P O Dilkusha, Lucknow-226 002, Email: pradhanpk1@gmail.com) : Emergence of epizootic ulcerative syndrome: large-scale mortalities of cultured and wild fish species in Uttar Pradesh, India. Curr Sci 2014, 106(12), 1711-18.

Epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS), a disease listed by World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has been reported in 26 countries across 4 continents. Till date, 94 fish species have been found to be naturally infected with EUS and its host range is gradually expanding. In the year 2010-11, outbreaks resulting in heavy fish mortality were recorded in wetland districts of Uttar Pradesh, India, and EUS was confirmed as the cause of mortality on the basis of histopathol-ogy, isolation of Aphanomyces invadans, bioassay and PCR. A prevalence of <126>69% (371/540) was recorded and 13 fish species were found to be infected. Interestingly, EUS was observed in seven new species (Ari-stichthys nobilis, Channa punctatus, Wallago attu, Mastacembelus armatus, Mystus cavasius, Anabas testudineus and Puntius conchonius) for the first time in natural outbreaks. Furthermore, the disease was observed even in the month of May when the mean water temperature was 31.6 ± 0.65°C. This suggests that the disease can result in severe losses even after two decades of its emergence.

6 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

012692   Pawar B A;Pandarkar A K;Shendge A N (Zoology Dep, P.V.P. College, Pravaranagar, Ahmednagar-413 713) : Assessment of zooplankton population of Kotmara lake, with reference to pisciculture, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra. Flora Fauna 2014, 20(1), 95-100.

Qualitative and quantitative studies on zooplankton of Kotmara lake, Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra were made in order to assess suitability of this lake for pisciculture. During the study period a total of 68 species of zooplankton were recorded: 1 protozoan, 28 rotifers, 13 cladocerans, 9 copepods, 6 ostracods and 11 other micro invertebrates. Qualitatively rotifers formed the largest group over others. The total population density of zooplankton was observed to be maximum (63.2 No/I) in November and minimum (9.6 No/I) in December and March. The annual mean population density of zooplankton was observed to be 34.32 No/I. Among different groups of zooplankton, quantitatively rotifers formed the dominant group over others. On seasonal average, the maximum density of total zooplankton was recorded during rainy season (51.8 No/I), whereas minimum during summer season (25.44 No/I). The density during winter was moderate (25.86 No/I). The present study revealed that the qualitative and quantitative abundance of zooplankton supported high population of natural fish food. The observations confirmed that the Kotmara lake was productive and capable of supporting intensive fish culture.

2 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

012691   Narayan A;Singh L;Singh A R;Srivastav A K (Zoology Dep, Bundelkhand Univ, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, Email: aditya.narayan21@gmail.com) : Morpho-taxonomic study of a new tapeworm, Pseudobatrachus ramdeviensis N. SP. from Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) from Bundelkhand region, Uttar Pradesh. Flora Fauna 2014, 20(1), 83-90.

Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) was collected from Betwa river, district Jhansi (U.P.) for tapeworm parasites. Single tapeworm parasite was collected from its intestine which shows "H" shaped ovary with small neck.

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

012690   Meenakshi M;Pillai S M;Gopal C;Ravichandran P (Crustacean Culture Div, Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture, Chennai-600 028, Email: meenuu_mani@hotmail.com) : Trace mineral (copper, zinc, manganese and iron) concentration in tissues during ovarian development of wild and captive reared banana shrimp, Fenneropenaeus merguiensis (Decapoda:Penaeidae). Biochem Cell Archs 2014, 14(1), 161-70.

Copper, zinc, manganese and iron were examined in wild and captive (pond, indoor reinforced polypropylene tank (IFT) and outdoor concrete tank (ICT)) reared banana shrimp, Fenneropenaeus merguiensis females at different stages of ovarian maturation. All the shrimps were eyestalk ablated and sacrificed during the first stage of maturation. The females were visually examined as without ovarian development and then grouped according to the stage of sexual maturation: stage I (early mature); stage II (mid-mature); stage III (late mature); stage IV (fully mature); stage V (ovaries are indistinguishable from immature stage) and without ovarian development. Levels of copper, zinc, iron and manganese in muscle, hepatopancreas and ovary significantly varied (p <60> 0.01) between stages and rearing systems. Overall, the highest level of copper was obtained at stage IV in the ovary; zinc at stage II in the ovary, iron at immature stage in muscle and hepatopancreas and manganese at stage V in the spent ovary. Our findings revealed that crustaceans accumulate these minerals during ovarian development.

4 tables, 56 ref

012689   Mahananda H B;Behera R;Behera M K (NO, Kuchinda College, Kuchinda-768 222) : Effect of starvation and over-crowding on some hematological parameters of the fish, Channa punctatus (Bloch). Envir Ecol 2014, 32(1A), 344-7.

When the fishes were starved for a period of 8 days, a number of significant changes in some blood parameters occurred. The total erythrocyte count (TEC), hemoglobin (Hb) percentage, the hema-tocrit (Ht) percentage, the mean cellular volume (MCV) values and the mean cellular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) progressively decreased. Whereas the total leucocyte count (TLC) steadily increased with an increase in the days of starvation. Likewise a number of significant alterations in various blood parameters occurred due to over-crowding of fishes in the experimental media. The TEC, Hb%, PCV and TLC values increased progressively and significantly, whereas the MCV. MCH and MCHC values decreased steadily and significantly with an increase in the duration of crowding stress.

2 tables, 18 ref

012688   Mahananda H B;Behera R;Behera M K (NO, Kuchinda College, Kuchinda-768 222, Email: himansub.mahananda@yahoo.com) : Alterations in some hematological parameters of a freshwater fish Channa punctatus (Bloch) with reference to sex and season. Envir Ecol 2014, 32(1A), 340-3.

There was a synchronised pattern of changes in some blood values of Channa punctatus in relation to seasonal changes, which may be due to endogenous physiological mechanism associated with temperature, humidity. The TEC in rainy season was higher than that of summer and winter seasons in both the sexes. The Hb% in summer season was higher than that of rainy and winter seasons in both the sexes. There was not much difference in MCV, MCH value and MCHC% in both the sexes in all the three different seasons. The TLC of female fishes was higher during rainy season, whereas there was not much difference in TLC of male fishes in different seasons. The eosinophil and large lymphocyte percentages were higher during winter season in both the sexes. The throumbocyte percentages in both the sexes were higher during rainy season. There was not much difference in neutrophil and small lymphocyte percentages in both the sexes in all the three seasons.

2 tables, 20 ref

012687   Mahananda H B;Behera R;Behera M K (NO, Kuchinda College, Kuchinda-768 222, Email: himansub.mahananda@yahoo.com) : Changes in some blood parameters of a freshwater fish, Channa punctatus (Bloch) with reference to length, weight and sex. Envir Ecol 2014, 32(1A), 335-9.

The fishes Channa punctatus were divided into 5 groups as follows. Group-A (length 6-8 cm ; weight 20-25 g); Group-B (length 8-10 cm; weight 25-30 g); Group-C (length 10- 12 cm: weight 30-35 g); Group-D (length 12-14cm; weight 35- 40 g) and Group-E (length 14-16 cm: weight 40 g and above). A unique and synchronized inter-relationship between length (size), weight and different blood parameters was noted. The TEC, TLC, Hb%, PCV and MCHC exhibited an increase upto Group-D and thereafter showed a decrease in Group-E fishes whereas the MCH and MCV exhibited a gradual decrease upto Group-E fishes. The percentages of neu-trophil, eosinophil and small lymphocyte exhibited a gradual increase upto Group-E and the percentages of large lymphocyte and thrombocyte showed a gradual decrease upto Group -E fishes. All the parameters of blood except the differential count of WBC under investigation showed a similar trend as described above in both the sexes. The percentages of neutrophil and large and small lymphocytes were slightly higher in males whereas, the percentage of thrombocyte was highest in females. The percentage of eosinophil was higher in female upto Group-C fishes and it was almost equal in both sexes in Group-D and E fishes.

2 tables, 27 ref

012686   Magare S R;Giri N R (Zoology Dep, A.S. Mandal, C.H.C. Arts, S.G.P. Comm, & B.B.J.P. Sci College, Taloda, Dist-Nandurbar-425 413, Email: drsrmagare@yahoo.co.in) : Ecology and reproduction in a land snail, Macrochlamys indica (Godwin-austin). Flora Fauna 2014, 20(1), 122-4.

The snails, Macrochlamys indica were hermaphrodite and showed cross fertilization. Reproductive activities were cyclic through three different phases in a year. The pre-reproductive phase was a preparatory phase occurred before monsoon Macrochlamys indica bred during July to October. Breeding was highly influenced by weather factors and moisture in the habitat. The rainfall was the most apparent of all the factors that might cause fluctuations in reproductive activities. Breeding behavior was also recorded. From the experimental data it is possible to correlate the ecological changes with breeding cycle of: Macrochlamys indica throughout the year.

2 illus, 8 ref

012685   Khatri T C (NO, J.N. Government College, Port Blair-744 104, Email: tikamtulsi@rediffmail.com) : Immature stages of an exotic butterfly of andamans: the leopard lacewing Cethosia cyane (Insecta: lepidoptera: rhopalocera. Flora Fauna 2014, 20(1), 119-21.

The Leopard Lacewing Cethocia cynae (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera) is an exotic species of Andamans. To confirm the exotic status, the butterfly was reared under normal environmental conditions in the laboratory on its food plant Passiflora foetida, Family:Passifloaraceae and the details of immature stages of the butterfly are described.

7 illus, 2 ref

012684   Gaikwad A M;Chavan R J;Gunjal A V;Khaire B S (Zoology Dep, Dr. Babasheb Ambedkar Marathawad Univ, Aurangabad, Maharashtra) : Description of Polypedilum larvae (Chironominae: Chronomidae) from Khari Dindi of Kille Dharur (M.S.) India. Flora Fauna 2014, 20(1), 111-15.

Present investigation deals with taxonomic description of larva Polypedilum genus belonging to subfamily Chironominae and family Chironomidae. Chironomidae is a cosmopolitan family of order Diptera. Though high abundance and distribution of this group of insects is taxonomically little known from Maharashtra. Present work illustrates the taxonomic features larva Polypedilum. Larvae were collected from Khari dindi situated in Kille Dharur district Beed (M. S.). Taxonomically significant features of P. illinoense, P. tritum, and P. scalaenum group are described during this research work.

7 illus, 10 ref

012683   Das S;Ghazi R R;Bushra G (Zoology Dep, Sindh Univ, Jamshoro, Pakistan) : Stictodora (Stictodora) alykhani sp. nov. (Trematoda: Heterophyidae from the bird Ardea grayii in jamshoro sindh, Pakistan. Flora Fauna 2014, 20(1), 151-5.

During an investigation on helminth parasites of birds, a new species of trematode genus Stictodora (Stictodora) alykhani sp, nov. was recorded from the intestine of Ardea grayii collected from Jamshoro, Sindh, Pakistan. The new species is characterized by having: small body, flattened, Oral sucker subterminal, Prepharynx short, Pharynx long, Testes symmetrical in mid hind body and equal in size, larger submedian ovary, eggs small, oval and numerous vitellaria clustered in posterior most, region of the body. This is first record of the genus in Pakistan.

3 illus, 15 ref

012682   Butchiram M S;Vijaya Kumar A;Tilak K S (Zoology Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Nagarjunanagar-522 510, Email: profkstilak@gmail.com) : Studies on the histopathological changes in selected tissues of fish Labeo rohita exposed to phenol. J envir Biol 2013, 34(2), 247-51.

Histopathological changes in vital tissues like gills, liver and kidney in the fish Labeo rohito exposed for 8 days to sublethal (5.2 mgl^{-1) and lethal concentration (25.09 mgl-1) of phenol were studied. The observed histopathological changes in the gills were epithelial hyperplasia with lamellar fusion, epithelial hypertrophy, edema, general necrosis, increased mucous production and degeneration of primary and secondary gill lamellae at sublethal (5.2 mg I-1) and degenerated primary and secondary gill lamellae, lamellar fusion and lamellar disorganization at lethal (25.09 mg I-1) concentration. In the liver, the changes include as: formation of number of vacuoles, enlargement of nuclei of some cells, enlarged sinusoids with numerous blood cells and atrophic areas at sublethal (5.2 mg I-1) concentration and nuclear and cytoplasmic degeneration and melanomacrophages aggregates at lethal (25.09 mg I-1) concentration. In case of kidney, the changes were: degeneration of proximal and distal convoluted tubule, vacuolation of renal interstitial tissue and deformation of the nuclear membrane of some cells at sublethal (5.2 mg I-1) and occlusion of tubular lumen, cloudy swelling degeneration and hyaline droplets, degeneration at lethal (25.09 mg I-1) concentration.}

3 illus, 20 ref

012681   Barot J;Bahadur A (Biosciences Dep, Veer Narmad South Gujarat Univ, Surat-395 007, Email: anita26p@gmail.com) : Behavioural and histopathological effects of azodye on kidney and gills of Labeo rohita fingerlings. J envir Biol 2013, 34(2), 147-52.

The present paper emphasizes on the histopathological effects of an azo dye, Direct Green 6 on the kidney and gills of Labeo rohita by light microscopy. Fingerlings were exposed to sublethal concentrations (2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 ppm) of dye for 5, 10 and 15 days to study histopathological changes. No histopathological changes were seen in the kidney and gills of control fingerlings. Unlike control fingerlings, both the target organs showed some histopathological changes. Fingerlings exposed to 2.5 ppm concentration of the dye showed shrinkage of glomerulus, increased peritubular space, decreased lumen while 5.0 ppm produced haemorrhage in the interstitial tissue and mild degeneration in the kidney. Necrosis in the tubular epithelium, distruction of cell membrane and loss of cellular cytoplasm were observed in kidney of fingerlings exposed to 10 ppm dye concentration. Gills of fingerlings exposed to 2.5 ppm of dye showed aneurism and mild degenerated central axis. 5 ppm of dye concentration produced remarkable changes like epithelial lifting, hyperplasia, enlarged and vacuolated cartilage cells. Haemorrhagic tip, fusion and curling of secondary gill lamellae and at some places complete removal of them were also observed in gills of fingerlings exposed to 10 ppm.

1 illus, 45 ref

012680   Baheerathi C G;Revathi K (NO, Sathyabama Univ, Chennai, Tamil Nadu) : Comparative study on the presence of halophilic vibrios in edible oyster, Crassostrea madrasensis from the backwaters of Chennai coast. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2013, 12(3), 439-42.

Vibrios contribute the major part among water and foodborne pathogens in coastal ecosystems. The members of the family Vibrionaceae contribute 60% of the total bacterial population. The current work is aimed at the analysis of the presences of Vibrio species in edible oyster Crassostrea madrasensis along the coastal line of Chennai in Ennore, Royapuram and Muttukadu. The oysters were collected, and total heterotrophic bacteria were analysed using selective non-selective agar medium and further confirmed by biochemical tests. The predominant pathogenic halophilic Vibrio species were identified to generic level according to Bergey's Manual of Systematic Bacteriology. Among the Vibrios, Vibrio alginolyticus, V. parahaemolyticus and V. harveyi were the dominant species identified in Crassostrea madrasensis.

2 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

012679   Baghel C L;Srivastav A K (Office of Additional Director, Medical Health and Family wlfare, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, Email: baghelc@yaoo.co.in) : Haematological study of asymptomatic and symptomatic filaria (microfilaria and disease) positive cases in Jalaun district of U.P., India. Flora Fauna 2014, 20(1), 105-10.

Filariasis is a major potential burden for the human beings global distribution and significance. During the study period, a total 50 samples of filarial case were examined and evaluated. The samples were categorised in three groups, as asymptomatic, acute and severe stages as elephantiasis and scrotal affected patients. The study was undertaken to compare certain haematological parameters viz. Hb. content, total blood cell count. Differential leucocytes count has been made in this study to compare with the normal values of polymorph, eosinophils and lymphocytes. The major haematological findings were seen in microfilariamic positive and severe elephantiasis patients. Most of the above positive cases were mild to moderate anaemic and they showed that the leucocytes count was increased. The parasitic infection led to the impairment of the haematological status in the infected persons. In microfilaria positive cases, the number of polymorph increased due to excess formation of protein which affects the metabolic rate of kidneys. The study of the different leucocytes count has a great significance for the detection of filarial patients. The number of eosinophil increased in occult filarial patients, while the number of lymphocytes increased in the old elephantiasis or scrotal patients of filaria which showed the clear symptoms of disease.

3 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

011686   Yadav S K;Singh B B (Zoology Dep, Harish Chandra Post Graduate College, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) : Morphological and histochemical study of digestive system in relation to feeding habbit of Chanda ranga. Asian J Anim Sci 2013, 8(2), 125-33.

The body of Chanda ranga is transparent translucent except the body cavity which is lined by a thin silvery connective tissue screen, that makes it opaque. Digestive system has been described taking mouth, bucco-pharynx. oesophagus, stomach, duodenum, intestine, rectum and hepatopancreas. The upwardly directed and protrusible mouth; presence of premaxillary, maxillary, vomarine, palatine, mandibular, lingual, supra and infra pharyngeal, gill raker and gill arch teeth; long spiny gill rakers and relative gut length 0.8 are the carnivorous features. Contrary to other carnivorous fishes, pyloric caecum is absent in Chanda ranga. The stomach is divided into cardiac and pyloric part, duodenum, intestine and rectum are present. Single layered mucosa with goblets and smaller villi, were observed. The longitudinal muscle layer is external to circular muscles. Gastric glands are present in cardiac stomach and only pancreatic islets are present in between hepatic tissues. Well developed three lobed liver, attached to gut is present on t' e left side.

11 illus, 87 ref

011685   Verma K K;Saxena R (NO, (M. P. Govt. P.G. Colleges), HIG 1/327, Housing Board Colony, Borsi, Durg, Chhattisgarh-491 001, Email: kkverma.sheel@gmail.com) : Insect navigation. Bionotes 2013, 15(4), 99-101.

3 illus, 11 ref

011684   Sivaleela G (NO, Zoological Survey of India, Marine Biology Regional Centre, Chennai-600 028) : Check list of the meiofauna of Tamil Nadu coast. Bionotes 2013, 15(4), 106-10.

A systematic list of meiofauna, including endemic species, with their distribution in the Tamilnadu coastal localities is presented. It covered an area of 12 stations. A total of 98 species representing 64 families and 83 genera are included in a tabular distribution.

1 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

011683   Sathe T V;Patil S S (Zoology Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur Maharashtra, Email: proftvsathe@rediffmail.com) : Chromosomes in a lady bird beetle Menochilus sexmaculatus Fab. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). Asian J Anim Sci 2013, 8(2), 109-11.

A lady bird beetle, Menochilus sexmaculatus Fab. (Coleoptera:Coccinellidae) is biocontrol agent of several homopterous insect pests. Therefore, karyological investigations were carried out in adult male of M sexmaculatus. The diploid number of 12 chromosomes was depicted by the spermatogonial metaphase. The karyotypes comprised of 10 pair of autosomes and X and Y sex chromosomes.

5 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

011682   Mishra P;Gupta S (Zoology Dep, Government N.P.G. College of Science, Raipur Chattisgarh, Email: pmishra26463@gmail.com) : Effect of leaf extract of Eclipta alba on haematology of Clarias batrachus. Asian J Anim Sci 2013, 8(2), 73-80.

A study was undertaken to monitor the effect of aqueous and alcoholic extract of leaf of Eclipta alba on haematological parameters of Clarias batrachus. Fishes of average weight of 70-80 g were treated with the dose of 10 and 20 ppm of extract. Blood sample was collected on day 7,14,21 and 28 after treatment for analysis of RBC, Hb, PCV and WBC. Application of 10 and 20 ppm of both the extracts showed significant effect at various sampling points on RBC and hemoglobin. PCV was not affected significantly by the aqueous extract however; alcoholic extract could show significant alteration with treatment and duration. Two doses of aqueous and alcoholic extracts significantly altered the WBC at different sampling points although their interaction had no consistent effect with aqueous extract. Statistically significant results were noticed with aqueous extract on MCV and alcoholic extract on MCH and MCHC.

3 illus, 2 tables, 59 ref

011681   Mayank P;Tyagi R K (Zoology Dep, Nehru Gram Bharti Univ, Kotwa-Jamunipur, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, Email: priyankamayank82@rediffmail.com) : Population structure of Cirrhinus mrigala from the Yamuna river at Allahabad. Asian J Anim Sci 2013, 8(2), 118-20.

Random samples of Cirrhinus mrigala were collected from August 2011 to July 2012 in the lower stretch of the Yamuna river at Allahabad. The samples varied from 0 to 10+- age groups. According to the percentage occurrence age group 2+ was dominant, male (41.72%) and female (37.21%) of the population. Male population was dominated in 0 and 1+ age groups which contributed 6.13% and 23.31 per cent, respectively while female population was dominated in 3+ to 10+ age groups. In the stock, female population was greater than male. Male fishes were recorded only 7+ age groups while female fishes recorded 10+ age groups. The present study indicated dominance of female population of C. mrigala in the Yamuna river.

1 table, 14 ref

011680   Jamal K (Zoology Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002, Email: drkhowajajamal@gmail.com) : Effect of host plant on survivability, development and reproductive potential of cotton stainer bug Dysdercus koenigii (Hemiptera: Pyrrhocoridae). J funct envir Bot 2014, 4(2), 100-5.

Red cotton bug Dysdercus koenigii F. (Hemiptera: Pyrrhocoridae) is a serious destructive pest of a large number of economically important crops including cotton. Being pest of many important crops, the present study was intended to investigate the comparative survivability, developmental rates, weight gain and reproductive potential of D. koenigii on five different host plant species, namely, okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), ground nut (Arachis hypogaea) yellow corn, (Zea mays) castor (Ricinus communis) and cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) under laboratory conditions. Maximum nymphal survivability, high nymphal weight, maximum egg production and egg hatching as well as shortest nymphal duration were observed on cotton as compared to okra, ground nut and yellow corn; however, castor was recorded as very poor host plant that could not support the survival and development of D. koenigii beyond 3rd instar. The adults emerged from the cotton and okra fed nymphs mates 3-4 times in their total life span, whereas only 1-2 time mating was observed in those adults that emerged from ground nut and yellow cord-fed nymphs. On the basis of nymphal and adult survivability, weight gain, egg production, egg hatching and longevity, the cotton (G. hirsutum) was regarded as a best host plant followed by okra (A. esculentus), ground nut (A. hypogaea) and yellow corn (Z. mays). The knowledge obtained during this study regarding food preference of D. koenigii may help in devising IPM strategies in cotton fields adjacent to or near vegetative fields containing alternative host plant.

33 ref

011679   Hazra A K;Mandal G P (NO, Zoological Survey of India, M Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053, Email: gpmandal.zsi@gmail.com) : Soil fauna for the soil fertility. Bionotes 2013, 15(4), 113-15.

2 illus, 11 ref

011678   Gupta S K;Kailash Chandra (NO, Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053, Email: kailash611@rediffmail.com) : Annotated list of orthopteran insect pests in India. Bionotes 2013, 15(4), 117-22.

The information on Orthopteran crop pests and their host records have been compiled with listing of 79 species belonging to 6 families viz. Acrididae (45 spp.), Pyrgomorphidae (11 spp.), Gryllotalpidae (1 sp.), Gryllidae (10 spp.), Trigonidiidae (3 spp.), and Tettigoniidae (9 spp.).

1 table, 22 ref

011677   Dev Roy M K;Mitra S (Crustacea Section, Zoological Survey of India, 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Kolkata-700 016, Email: malay_7@rediffmail.com) : New host record for Nerocila sigani (isopoda: cymothoidae) from Odisha coast, India. Curr Sci 2013, 104(9), 1134-5.

3 ref

011676   Bindu L (Marine Biology Regional Centre, Zoological Survey of India, Chennai-600 028, Email: bindushaji6@gmail.com ) : Records of some foraminifera from sea grasses of palk bay, Tamil Nadu. Bionotes 2013, 15(4), 128-9.

2 ref

011675   Basha K K;Sivasankar R;Subahan M;Chennaiah K; Reddy K S (Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, Email: chenniahk@gmail.com) : Effect of red grape extract on nicotine induced oxidative stress on antioxidants enzymes in the kidney tissue of male albino rat with reference to aging. Asian J Anim Sci 2013, 8(2), 63-72.

The grape (Vitis vinifera) commercial juice products from Concord grapes have been applied in medical research studies, showing potential benefits against the diseases. Nicotine is most biologically active chemical in tobacco smoke. Nicotine has been reported to induce changes both in vivo and in vitro. Pathogen free, Wistar strain male albino rats were used in the present study, rats were divided into 4 groups of six in each group (i) Normal control (NC) (Control rats received 0.9% saline); (ii) Nicotine treated (Nt) (at a dose of 0.6 mg/ kg body weight by subcutaneous injection for a period of 2 months); (iii) Red Grape extract treated (RGEt) (red grape extract 50mg/kg body weight (after the standardization) via orogastric tube for a period of 2 months.); (IV) Nicotine + Red Grape (Nt+RGEt) (Rats were received the nicotine with a dose as mentioned for Group II through subcutaneous injection and red grape extract as mentioned for group III via orogastric tube for a period of 2 months). The animals were sacrificed after 24 hrs after the last treatment by cervical dislocation and isolated the kidney tissue such as the activites of the levels of Superoxidedismutase(SOD), Catalase (CAT), Glutathione (GSH) and Glutathioneperoxidase (GPx), were decreased in nicotine treated rats in the kidney tissue and increase was observed in the combination (Nt+RGEt),but at 50 mg/kg body weight found to be more effective. This results stating that red grape extract treated rats are beneficial, especially for the nicotine subjects to improve the antioxidants enzymes and thereby to improve the health status and life span.

4 tables, 75 ref

010692   Zinadah O A;Al-Wesabi E (Biological Sciences Dep, Faculty of Science, King Abdul Aziz Univ, Jeddah, KSA) : Investigation of some serum biochemical factors in sohal surgeonfish (Acanthurussohal) as indicators of aquatic pollution. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2014, 11(2), 821-7.

The present study was carried out on theSohal surgeon fish Acanthurussohal (family, Acanthuridae).Weight and length of each sample were recorded (Mean length 19.08 cm ± 1.69 SD and Mean weight 152.50 g± 12.94 SD). Transferase enzyme activities of fishA. sohalwere determined to establish possible environmental impact of toxic effect on anthropogenic pollution on Red Sea. and Activities of aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphates (ALP)in the blood of fish were chosen as bioindicators. Fish were sampled between December 2013 and April 2014 from locality Jeddah (Red Sea). After sacrificing the fishes freshly blood samples were collected and transported on ice. The all Serum samples were analyzed in laboratory. The results show that mean values of ALP, AST andALT in this fishes were equaled to198.07, 75.15 and 23.24 (IU/L) respectively. The relation between serumparameters value with biometric factor (TL) of fishes were also studied. The results showed statistical difference in factors between weight and length(P<60>0.01).Fish have been proposed as indicators for monitoring land-based pollution because they may concentrate indicative pollutants in their tissue, directly from water through respiration and also through their diet. Fish are frequently subjected to prooxidant effects of different pollutants often present in the aquatic environment.

2 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

010691   Srivastava P K (Zoology Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi, Email: praveen2ku28@gmail.com) : Achyranthes aspera: a potent immunostimulating plant for traditional medicine. Int J pharm Sci Res 2014, 5(5), 1601-11.

Achyranthes aspera L. (family: Amaranthaceae), an erect and much branched diffuse herb is a medicinal plant, frequently found in tropical and warmer regions as weed. The plants are reported to contain following major classes of compounds: fatty acids, a number of oleonic acid, bisdesmosidic, triterpenoid based saponins, ecdysterone, n-hexacos-14- enoic, oleanolic acid, triacontanol, spinasterol,dihydroxy ketones, spathulenol, alkaloids, D-glucuronic, Betaine, Achyranthine and various amino acids. This acrid, bitter plant has been used as indigenous medicine and commonly used by traditional healers for the treatment of various diseases. Though almost all of its parts are used in traditional systems of medicines, seeds, roots and shoots are the most important parts which are used medicinally. The present article gives an account of updated information on its classification, morphology, geographical sources, phytochemical and pharmacological properties. The review reveals that wide numbers of phytochemical constituents have been isolated from the plant which possesses activities like antiperiodic, antiasthmatic, hepatoprotective, anti-allergic, expectorant, stomach tonic, laxative, antihelmintic, diuretic, linthontriptic, sudorific, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, anticataract, antifungal, antibacterial, hypoglycemic, antihyperlipidemic and haematinic and various other important medicinal properties. For the last few decades or so, extensive research work has been done to prove its biological activities and pharmacology of its extracts.

95 ref

010690   Singh G;Agarwal N K (Fish Reproduction and Conservation Biology Research Lab., Zoology Dep,, H.N.B. Garhwal University, Campus Badshshithaul-249 199, Email: agarwalnareshk3@rediffmail.com) : Fish diversity of Laster stream, a major tributary of river Mandakini in Central Himalaya (India) with regard to altitude and habitat specificity of fishes. J appl nat Sci 2013, 5(2), 369-74.

Laster stream is a major tributary of river Mandakini, which in turn is a major tributary of river Alaknanda. Stream traverses a distance of ~40 km before joining with river Mandakini at Suryaprayag (Tilwara) in Rudraprayag district (Uttarakhand), India. Present study reports existence of twenty one indigenous fish species belonging to eight genera, three families and two orders from the Laster stream. Schizothorax richardsonii (Cyprinidae family) was the dominating species followed by S. plagiostomus, Bariliussp., Tor sp., Noemacheilus sp., Pseudecheneis sp., Glyptothorax sp. The distribution pattern (diversity and abundance) of these species had negative co-relation with the increase in stream altitude. Habitat conditions in the stream varied considerably from headwater to main stream. Present study also describes the habitat specificity of fish assemblage. Maximum species diversity (18 species) was recorded from pool habitat and was the most preferred habitat. Least species diversity (09 species) was recorded from cascade habitat. Riffle and rapid habitat recorded no difference in species diversity.

010689   Shelly M;Biswas S;Reddy M S;Lal S (NO, , NCDC, NTI Campus, 8 Bellary Road, Bangalore-560 003, Email: shelly1mandal@gmail.com) : Biodiversity of rodent fleas in plague endemic areas of India. J appl nat Sci 2013, 5(2), 288-93.

Rodent fleas have been considered as the main vector for plague transmission in the rodent population and human plague outbreak usually occur due to the close association of infected rodent fleas with the human being. A total of 910 fleas were retrieved from the 2128 rodents collected from the different areas like Kolar, Palamner, Pune, Surat, Rohru and Chennai. Mainly two types of rodent fleas i.e. Xenopsyalla astia and X. cheopis were found in these areas except the Dodra Kawar area of H.P. state. In Dodra Kawar area Neopsylla kawar species were found and it was very sensitive to the temperature variation. Dodra kawar area usually remains under snow for about nine months and even in the rest of period the maximum temperature does not go more than 20°C. The distribution of X. astia and X. cheopis were found uneven. In surat of Gujarat state X. cheopis was predominantly high, whereas in rest of the area X. astia were found more. In Chennai the main species found was X. astia only. The female percent of rodent flea may be considered as a good indicator for the fast propagation of rodent flea. The breading season for the fleas mostly depends on the climatic condition like temperature below 22°C-25°C, humidity more than 70% even if the outside temperature is more still the shady area the favorable and do help in the survival of fleas. The rapid urbanization and mass use of pesticide in agriculture sector has got significant impact on the rodent flea population and development of resistance to pesticides.

010688   Sarkar A;Biswa R;Das A P (Aravalli Biodiversity Park, Center for Environmental Management of Deg, University of Delhi, Delhi-110 007, Email: ajitasarkar2007@rediffmail.) : Zootherapeutic uses of animals by Mech tribe living in Duars of West Bengal, India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2014, 13(3), 557-63.

Ethnobiological study in West Bengal is mostly confined to the use of plants in Ethnomedicine, however, there is a dearth of ethnozoogical works; thus, there is an urgent need to take up such studies. Recent survey among the Mech tribe living in the Duars of West Bengal, India, has recorded the uses of 20 different species of animals along with 11 species of plants in traditional medicines to cure different ailments. However, more efforts need to be exercised to explore and document the traditional ethnozoological knowledge accumulated by Mech and other tribes living in this region, so that, it can be put to the human welfare.

3 tables, 47 ref

010687   Ranibala T;Shomorendra M;Devashish Kar (Wetlands Div, Fishery Science and Aquaculture, Assam (Central) University, Silchar-11, Email: ranithoudam@yahoo.in) : Seasonal variation of the nematode Camallanus anabantis in the fish Anabas testudineus in Loktak Lake, Manipur, India. J appl nat Sci 2013, 5(2), 397-9.

Deals with the study of the seasonal variation on the occurrence of the Nematode Camallanus anabantis from the fish host Anabas testudineusfrom Loktak Lake, Manipur during May 2010- April 2011. A total of 460 number of A. testudineus has been sampled for the parasite infection and 335 fishes (71 %) has been found to be infected with the nematode thereby indicating high prevalence of infection of the nematode parasites in the fish.

010686   Pathak S;Goswami M M;Sharma N N (Zoology Dep, Bijni College, Bijni, Chirang-783 390, Email: sewalip@gmail.com) : Fishes of the genus Olyra McClelland (Teleostei: Bagridae) from Indo-Bhutan hill streams of Assam, Indin. J appl nat Sci 2013, 5(2), 503-9.

Type specimens described in this communication are collected from two hill streams, Kanamakra and Langkhar flowing from the Bhutan foothills of the Himalaya through Amguri and Amteka respectively in the Indo-Bhutan border of Chirang district (26015' 0" - 2700' 0" N and 90030' 0" - 90045' 0" E) of Assam. The occurrence of three catfishes species of the genus Olyra, of which Olyra horae is recorded as a new report from the type locality of Assam. The taxonomic variables of O. horae are compared with other two species namely, O. kempi and O. longicaudata. The O. horae is distinguished from the other two congeners in having the caudal fin forked but not high, upper lobe slightly elongated with 10 rays and lower lobe with 9 rays. It can also be distinguished in having the higher range of the caudal peduncle length (16.9 - 20.0 % SL), pre-anal length (60.1 - 71.4 % SL), head width (81.3 - 81.6 % HL) and the lower range of snout length (21.7 - 24.3 % HL), outer mandibular barbel length (55.7 - 57.3 % HL) in comparison to the other two congeners.

010685   Echi P C;Iyaji F O;Ejere V C;Abuh S J (Rajiv Gandhi Center for Biotechnology, , Trivandrum, Email: paul_echi@yahoo.com) : Dynamics of synchronized clinostomatids infections in Cichlids. Envir Conserv J 2014, 15(1-2), 49-54.

Histopathology of fish in a concomitant infection of three different species of c1inostomatld metacercariae: Clinostomum tilapiaewpult. Clinostomum complanatum, and Euclinoslomum heterostomum has become necessary due to its want of knowledge. Description of enormous debilitating skin damages, occasional deaths, unilateral exophthalmus, and degeneration of skin, myositis, haemorrhages, eosinophils, necrosis and economic destruction of Tilapia zillii values by these metacercariae were studied. These parasites dry body weights (mg); C. complallotum (0.0071 ± 0.0023^{b) and E. heterostomum (0.0067 ± 0.0023b) did not show any significant difference (P <60> 0.05 %), whereas C. complanatum and E. heterostomum showed significant difference with C. tilapiae (0.0050 ± 0.0015a). The effects of hydrological regime showed that reduced rains (153.54 ± 109.42 cm3) and floodplain influenced the occurrence of these digenean parasites which peaked during dry season months (Nov 2007 - March 2008) when the habitat contracted.}

1 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

010684   Das R K;Barat S (Aquaculture and Limnology Research Unit, Zoology Dep, University of North Bengal, Siliguri-734 013, Email: sudipbarat@rediffmail.com) : Fishing gears operated in lentic and lotic water bodies of Cooch Behar district, West Bengal, India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2014, 13(3), 619-25.

Study was carried out to investigate different types of existing fishing gears employed by fishermen in lentic and lotic water bodies namely beels, ponds and rivers of Cooch Behar district of West Bengal, India. Observations revealed that various fishing gears are based on one or more factor such as behavior of fishes, microhabitat of fishes, physiography of water body, seasons of a year and so on. In the district of Cooch Behar about 22 types of fishing gears were documented, amongst them 8 are categorized as Net fishing gears, 2 as Tackles and 12 as Miscellaneous gears. Most of the fishing gears are fabricated by local people and fishermen with the help of locally available materials. The very small mesh size, of some fishing nets, catches all size groups of fishes and in turn results in depletion of fish diversity in the beels, ponds and rivers of Cooch Behar district.

8 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

010683   Chowdhary A K;Bahuguna S N (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, , P B 70, HNB Garhwal University, Email: profsnbahuguna@rediffmail.com) : Development of primary cell culture from the caudal fin region of snow trout Schizothorax plagiostomus (Heckel). Envir Conserv J 2014, 15(1-2), 149-52.

A primary cell culture has been established from the Snow trout Schizothorax plagiostomus. Primary cultures have developed from caudal fin tissues by explant culture technique. Cell outgrowth has been obtained from the caudal fin explant after S-7 days of explant culture. The culture medium used for the experiment was Leibovitz-15 supplemented with 20% Fetal Bovine Serum. Radiation of cells from the explants started after 2 to 3 days. Both fibroblast like and epithelial like cells were noticed but fibroblast like cells dominated as the growth progressed.

1 illus, 16 ref