022440   Kaleka A S (Zoology & Environmental Sciences Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala-147 002, Email: apskaleka@gmail.com) : Genitalic studies of Alphaea impleta (Walker) (lepidoptera: arctiidae) from India. Bionotes 2014, 16(2), 63-4.

^ssc5 illus, 3 ref

022439   Kailash Chandra;Jitendra Kumar;Sambath S; Mitra B (NO, Zoological Survey of India, 'M' Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053) : Catalogue of the hawk-moths of India (lepidoptera: sphingidae). Bionotes 2014, 16(2), 37-47.

38 ref

022438   Gijare S S;Raja I A;Tantarpale V T;Kulkarni K M (NO, Vidyabharati Mahavidyalaya, Camp, Amravati, Email: shruti_pande17@rediffmail.com) : Influence of cypermethrin on liver of the freshwater fish Ophiocephalus punctatus. Pollut Res 2012, 31(1), 37-40.

Agriculture pesticides due to its indiscriminate use in field create pollution problems in water bodies. In this present investigation effect of cypermethrin on histophysiology of liver of freshwater fish Ophiocephalus punctatus was studied. The freshwater fish Ophiocephalus punctatus were exposed to sub lethal concentration 0.0007 μ/L of cypermethrin. At different time intervals there was hydropic degeneration in liver. The loosening of tissue, distension of cell, hypertrophy of hepatocytes, significant increase of kupffer cell, pycnotic nuclei, vacuolation of cytoplasm was also observed.

2 illus, 20 ref

022437   Ghosh S K;Mitra B (NO, Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053) : Further records of aquatic beetles from Sunderban Biosphere Reserve, West Bengal. Bionotes 2014, 16(2), 67-8.

7 ref

022436   Dutta Bhuyan D;Gogoi M (Zoology Dep, Sibsagar Girls' College, Sivasagar, Assam, Email: deepshikhaduttabhuyan22@gmail.com) : Ethno-zoological aspects of certain endangered animals in Assam. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(2), 131-4.

Assam is bestowed with vast and rich biodiversity and is a part of Eastern Himalayan region. It is a land of multi- ethnic identity since time immemorial. Ethnic communities have a historical continuity of resource use practices and they still rely on animals for various purposes. Habitat degradation, loss of wild stock in association with the loss of local traditional knowledge specially ethno-zoological knowledge led to rapid degradation of biological resources all over the world. Human activities, both directly and indirectly are responsible for high rate of species losses leading to extinction of certain IUCN designated endangered and threatened species. In the present survey, ethno-zoological aspects of certain endangered species have been studied to ensure their conservation measure and also to document the unexplored, degraded traditional knowledge of the ethnic communities for the future generation.

2 tables, 7 ref

022435   Dubey A;Mishra S;Khune V;Sahu B K (Livestock Production and Management Dep, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh) : Estimation of milk yield on the basis of linear type traits in Sahiwal cattle. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(2), 103-7.

The linear type traits are the body parts of a cow which makes her capable to produce milk. The milk producing ability of animals can be determined on the basis of their linear type traits. Thus, to predict the first lactation milk yield of Sahiwal cattle, a total of 101 lactating animals were randomly selected, out of which, only 37 were in first lactation, hence the linear type traits of 37 animals were used to develop the prediction equation. The type traits considered for present investigation were stature, chest width, body depth, rump angle, rump width, rear leg set (side view), rear leg set (rear view), foot angle, udder depth, rear udder height, udder balance, udder cleft, fore udder attachment, teat length, fore teat placement, rear teat placement and teat thickness. These traits were scaled and scored as per the guidelines of International Committee for Animal Recording, 2001. The multiple regression of first lactation milk yield on different linear type traits, taking each trait alone and in different combinations of step up and step down were fitted. The R² values (co-efficient of determination) were calculated to compare the accuracy of different prediction equations. The results showed that, the prediction equations developed on the basis of single variable, the R² values varied from 0.01 per cent to 28.9 per cent. In step up regression method, the R² value varied from 2.8 per cent to 85.2 per cent, while in step down regression method, the R² value varied from 85.2 per cent to 28.9 per cent. The highest accuracy of 85.2 percent was obtained when - 96 - all the traits were combined.

2 tables, 3 ref

022434   Dhondge R M;Nanware S S;Bhure D B (Zoology Dep, S.S.G.M.M., Loha, Nanded, Maharashtra, Email: snanware@rediffmail.com) : Cestode genus Mogheia Lopez-Neyra in 1944 (cestoda: thysanosomidae) from Passer domesticus. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(2), 145-50.

Present communication deals with a new species of the genus Mogheia domestica Sp. Nov. from Passer domesticus at District Nanded (M.S.) India. The wormcomes closer to all the known species of the genus Mogheia in general topography of organs but differs due to scolex large, oval to rounded in shape. The suckers are large, four in numbers, rounded to oval. Scolex is followed by long neck, followed by indistinct segmentation. Mature segments broader than long, testes 08 in numbers, cirrus pouch small, elongated, marginally placed cirrus straight protrusible and forms vas deferens reaches up to the middle of the segment. Vagina, thin tube, runs transversely, posterior to cirrus pouch, genital pores small, oval in shape. Seminal receptacle is thin tube, open into ootype, ovary medium, bean or fan shaped, situated towards middle of the segment in the poral half, ootype small, compact, oval in shape.

1 illus, 21 ref

022433   Chennaiah K;Khalindarbasha K;Subahan M; Sivasankar R;Lakshmi Narasimhamurthy N;Sesupani P (Zoology Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, Email: chennaiahk@gmail.com) : Interaction of alcohol and nicotine on antioxidant enzymes in the skeletal muscle fibres of male albino rat. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(2), 72-7.

Alcoholic beverages are fermented from the sugars in fruits, berries, grains, and such other ingredients' as plant saps, tubers, honey and milk and may be distilled to reduce the original watery liquid to a liquid of much greater alcoholic strength. Nicotine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in many plants. The principal sources of nicotine exposure are through the use of tobacco, nicotine containing gum and nicotine replacement therapies. Nicotine is most biologically active chemical in tobacco smoke. Nicotine has been reported to induce changes both in vivo and in vitro. Wistar strain male albino rats were used in the present study. Rats were be divided into 4 groups of six in each group and treated as: (i) Normal control, (ii) Nicotine treated (Nt), (iii) Alcohol, (iv) Nicotine +Alcohol (Nt+ Alcohol). Control rats received 0.9 per cent saline. The second group of rats received the nicotine at a dose of 0.6 mg/kg body weight by subcutaneous injection for a period of 2 months. The third group of rats received the Alcohol at a dose of 2.0 g/kg body weight via orogastric tube for a period of 2 months. The forth group of rats received the nicotine + Alcohol as followed by the second and third group. The animals were sacrificed after 24 hrs after the last treatment by cervical dislocation and isolated the skeletal muscle fibres from the hind limbs such as, Soleus (SOL), Red vastus (RV) and - 95 - White vastus (WV), washed with ice-cold saline, immediately immersed in liquid nitrogen and stored at -80°Enzymatic assays. Assyed the selected parameters such as Glutathione (GSH) Superoxidedismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Glutathioneperoxidase (GPx). Hence the present study was carried out to evaluate the interaction of alcohal and nicotine on antioxidante enzymes in the skeletal muscle fibres of male albino rat.

3 tables, 39 ref

022432   Binukumari S;Vasanthi J (PG and Research Zoology Dep, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore-641 029, Email: dr.vasanthi1984@rediffmail.com) : Changes in cholesterol content of the freshwater fish, Labeo rohita due to the effect of an insecticide 'encounter' (herbal plant extract). Int J pharm Sci Res 2014, 5(2), 397-9.

Recent evidence indicates that fish, an extremely valuable resource, are quickly becoming scarce. One consequence of this scarcity is the increasing concern for fish survival and a growing interest in identifying the levels of various chemical pollutants, which are safe for fish and other aquatic life. Pesticides are among the most hazardous chemicals to men and ambient. Insecticides are extensively used to protect agricultural crops against the damages caused by pests. However, these chemicals may reach other ecological compartments as lakes and rivers through rains and wind affecting many other organisms away from the primary target. Biochemical and physiological variables show specific responses to certain type of environmental stress. The insecticide Encounter (Herbal plant extract) is used for the present study. The fishes were exposed to different concentrations of insecticide 'Encounter' to calculate the LC₅₀ value. The LC₅₀ value is 0.11ppm. Four groups of fishes were exposed for 24, 48, 72 &96 hours respectively. At the end of each exposure period, fishes were sacrificed and tissues such as liver, kidney, muscle and gills were removed and analysed for Cholesterol content. It showed decreased value of Cholesterol content in all the tissues when compared to control.

1 table, 8 ref

022431   Bhure D B;Nanware S S (Zoology Dep, Yeshwant Mahavidyalaya, Nanded, Maharashtra, Email: drajbhure82@gmail.com ) : Taxometric observation of Gangesia (G.) Striatusii sp. Nov. (eucestoda-proteocephalidae) from Channastriatus. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(2), 151-4.

The present study deals with the new species of the genus Gangesia Woodland, 1924 i.e. Gangesia (G.) striatusii Sp.NdV. were collected from freshwater fish, Channastriatus from Omerga Dist. Osmanabad (M.S.) India. It is differs from all the known species of the genus in having scolex rounded, muscular, hooks 120-130 in numbers, neck absent, mature - 94 - proglottids broader than long, testes 70-80 in numbers, ovary distinctly bilobed and vitellaria granular.

2 illus, 21 ref

022430   Bhowmik B;Bhadra K;Mitra B (Zoology Dep, Kalyani Univ, Kalyani-741 235, Email: kakadi_bhadra2004@yahoo.com) : Flower visiting insects and their role in pollination of the maize crop (Zea mays) in West Bengal. Bionotes 2014, 16(2), 60-2.

1 table, 8 ref

022429   Bhinder P;Chaudhry A (Zoology Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: preety.bhinder@yahoo.com) : Genotoxicity evaluation of acephate and profenofis by the PCR-RFLP assay. Toxic int 2014, 21(1), 84-8.

In this study we have evaluated the genotoxic potential of pesticides acephate and profenofos by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay with the mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus taken as experimental model. Second instar larvae were treated with LC₂₀ of each pesticide for 24 h and induced mutations in the sequence of mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene were studied from restriction patterns generated with 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 the 16S 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 both the pesticides had significant potential to induce mutations in the 165 gene of Culex quinquefasciatus.

3 illus, 19 ref

022428   Acharya S;Basu P (NO, Zoological Survey of India, M Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053, Email: acharya.shelley@gmail.com) : On a collection of soil oribatid mites (Acari: Oribatida) from Sinhagad fort, Pune, Maharashtra. Bionotes 2014, 16(2), 71.

1 ref

022427   Abdul N M;Dikshit N;Sivaraj N (NO, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources Regional Station, Akola, Maharashtra-444 104, Email: nbpgrnizar@yahoo.co.in) : DIVA- geographic information system approaches for assessment of diversity and distribution pattern of Abelmoschus species from Maharashtra, India. Adv appl Res 2014, 6(1), 28-34.

Existence of diversity in the native flora assumes importance, in terms of crop improvement, which has led to germplasm exploration and collection missions of the same. A. manihot and A. tetraphyllus, wild relatives of Abelmoschus species possess resistance genes for Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (YVMV) and powdery mildew; A. moschatus for jassids; A. tuberculatus for fruit borer and A. caillei for drought tolerance with YVMV resistance. Between 2003 and 2009, germplasm exploration - 93 - and collection missions for Abelmoschus sp., were carried out in the state of Maharashtra, India. A total of 100 accessions consisting of Abelmoschus caillei (1), A. ficulneus (41), A. manihot (25), A. tetraphyllus (9) and A. tuberculatus (24) were collected and conserved. Occurrences of wild Abelmoschus species in different districts along with indigenous collection numbers (IC) were recorded. DIVA-Geographical Information System (GIS) based on the data from spatial objects and their attributes for species richness and diversity index were used for germplasm of wild Abelmoschus species. DIVA-GIS grid maps, generated for species richness and Shannon Diversity Index for Abelmoschus species identified central Maharashtra for collection of diversity on wild okra.

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021404   Parvathi S;Rao M;Vinod Kumar;Umapathy G (NO, , Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad-500 064, Email: guma@ccmb.res.in) : Observations on reproductive performance of Indian mouse deer (Moschiola indica) in captivity. Curr Sci 2014, 106(3), 439-41.

Study reports some observations on reproductive biology of mouse deer (Moschiola indica) maintained under the conservation breeding programme at the Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad. The conservation breeding programme was initiated with 6 individuals that bred in captivity reaching a total of 36 individuals within a three-year period. A total of 50 oestrus episodes were recorded from 11 females that resulted in 31 births. Females first gave birth at age of 304 days (mean = 318.6 ± 15.3 days, n = 5) and had an average gestation period of 154.1 ± 3.7 days. Females showed post-partum oestrus within 6 h of fawning, which resulted in successful mating. The present observations would help in enhancing knowledge on biology and behaviour of the species that can form the basis for its effective management.

1 illus, 19 ref

021403   Marepally L;Benarjee G (Zoology Dep, Kakatiya University, Warangal-506 009, Email: lakshmi.velide@gmail.com) : Metabolic alterations in pebrinised fifth instar larvae of tropical Tasar Silkworm Antheraea mylitta Drury (DABA TV). J biol Engng Res Rev 2014, 1(1), 23-7.

Pebrine is one of the dreadful diseases seen in Anthereae mylitta drury - a tropical tasar silkworm causes significant yield loss. The present research has been carried out on pebrinised fifth instar larvae of 3rd and fifth day samplings to analyse the effect of pebrine disease on biochemical components like aminoacids, proteins and enzymes like alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase of haemolymph, silkgland and fatbody. The results revealed that aminoacids of fifth day sampling have shown 4% increase in haemolymph and decrease in fatbody (15%) and silkgland (18%) whereas third day shown 2% increase (Haemolymph), 9% and 6% reduction in fatbody and silkgland .. Proteins of fifth day and third day samplings have shown a drastic reduction in the range of 17-21% and 13-16% in comparison with respective controls and corresponding tissues. Enzymes like alanine aminotransferase have shown significant increase in its activity in the range of 33.3-36% in fifth day sample whereas third day sample had shown 9-32%. Aspartate aminotransferase activity levels found increased in the range of 25-41% in fifth day sample and 15.4-39% in third day of respective tissues.

4 tables, 23 ref

021402   Gupta P;Gupta A;Monica (Biology Dep, DAV College, Abohar-152 116, Email: drakhilupta@yahoo.com) : Effect of fish and chicken viscera incorporated diets on growth, feed utilization and body composition of Asian catfish, Clarias batrachus fry. Anim Nutr Feed Technol 2013, 13(2), 195-203.

Feeding trial was conducted to study the effect of dried fish and chicken viscera, and a combination of plant protein incorporated diet as complete substitutes for fish meal in the diet of catfish Clarias batrachus (Linn.) fry. Four isonitrogenous (35% CP) experimental diets (D1, D2, D3 and D4 containing fish meal, dried fish viscera, dried chicken viscera and plant protein alone, respectively) were prepared using locally available ingredients. Triplicate groups of fry with a mean initial BW of 0.23 ± 0.02 g were reared in plastic troughs (15 L capacity) in indoor rearing system and fed diets at 7% of wet BW for 30 days. A significant increase (P<60>0.05) in survival, BW gain, protein efficiency ratio and a decreased apparent feed conversion ratio (P<60>0.05) was observed in fish fed on fish meal (D1), followed by chicken viscera (D3), fish viscera (D2) and only plant protein (D4) incorporated diets. Although inferior to fish meal, growth and feed utilization responses of fry fed on dried fish and chicken viscera were similar and superior to plant protein diets. The fish accumulated a significantly greater (P<60>0.05) amount of lipid (4.26%) in the body carcass when fish viscera was incorporated in the diet (D2). The results of our study revealed that appreciable growth and feed utilization responses could be achieved through replacement of fish meal by dried fish and chicken viscera in the diet of catfish fry.

4 tables, 24 ref

020418   Sajeevan M K;Sanadi R B (Fishery Survey of India, Botawala Cambers, Sir P.M. Road, Mumbai-400 001) : Effect of lunar cycle and monsoon on abundance of pelagic sharks around Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Fish Technol 2014, 51(1), 19-24.

High demand and lucrative value of shark products like shark fin has resulted in an increase in the number of sharks caught worldwide. Pelagic sharks form a major bycatch of tuna longline fishery. The present study attempts to understand the abundance of pelagic sharks in time and space scale around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The exploratory tuna longline survey data are fitted using the generalised linear model. The results indicate a significant effect of lunar cycle as well as monsoon on the catch rate of pelagic sharks. The highest catch rates were recorded during new moon peridd.

5 tables, 26 ref

020417   Ray S D;Homechaudhuri S (Aquatic Bioresource Research Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019, Email: sumithomec@yahoo.com) : Morphological and functional characterization of hepatic cells in Indian major carp, Cirrhinus mrigala against Aeromonas hydrophila infection. J envir Biol 2014, 35(1), 253-8.

Indian major carp, mrigala (Cirrhinus mrigala) was exposed to sub-lethal doses of Aeromonas hydrophila to study the innate immune responses. Hepatic morphology characterized by light microscopy and flow cytometry revealed production of oxygen radicals, hepatic catalase and significant (p<60>0.05) increase of super oxide dismutase activity in liver of treated fish. Condition factor and hepatosomatic index were calculated as indices of energy status. Results showed significant (p<60>0.05) increase in hepatosomatic index while condition factor significantly (p<60>0.05) decreased in the treated fishes. Histopathological studies revealed changes including focal necrosis, haemorrhage, hyperplasia and early stages of granulomatous formation in hepatocytes of infected fishes. Cytolysis due to bacterial toxin was also observed. Flow cytometric study confirmed the presence of apoptotic cells among treated fish. Thus distinctive immune responses were recorded in mrigala due to bacterial infection. This work presents an insight into the innate immune response in conjunction with the identification of potential fish biomarkers which can be screened for timely application of proper preventive measures.

2 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

020416   Rajbir Kaur;Dua A (Aquatic Biology Laboratory, Zoology Dep, Guru Nanak Dev Univ, Amritsar-143 005, Email: anishdua@gmail.com) : Adverse effects on histology of liver and kidney in fish Channa punctatus exposed to wastewater from Tung Dhab drain in Amritsar, India. J envir Biol 2014, 35(1), 265-72.

Wastewater from two different sites of Tung Dhab Drain was evaluated for its histopathological effects in Channa punctatus. Fish were exposed to five different concentrations (60-100%) for 15 and 30 days. The results showed that the histopathological changes induced in liver were mainly represented by single cell necrosis, presence of pyknotic nuclei, dilation of hepatic sinusoids, vacuolated hepatocytes and sinusoids congested with blood cells, individualization of hepatocytes, melano-macrophage centres and fatty degeneration. The histopathological alterations found in the kidney of the fish subjected to wastewater for duration of 15 and 30 days revealed hephronic and tubular damage. Tubular damage was characterised by vacuolated (V), degenerated (D) and hypertrophied tubular epithelial cells and occlusion of tubular lumen. At nephronic level, alterations were: expansion of space inside Bowman's capsules, glomerular expansion, dilation of glomerular capillaries, glomerular contraction, blood cell invasion, glomerular and tubular necrosis. It is revealed that marked histopathological changes were seen both in liver and kidney at 15 and 30 days at higher concentration of wastrewater of Tung Dhab drain.

4 illus, 17 ref

020415   Pawar N;Jena J K;Das P C (NO, Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar-751 002) : Influence of aeration timings on growth, survival and production of Labeo rohita (Hamilton) fingerlings during high density seed rearing. Fish Technol 2014, 51(1), 1-7.

Sixty day study was conducted to evaluate the impact of different timings of aeration during night hours between 18.00-24.00 h, 21.00-03.00 h and 24.00-06.00 h on growth, survival and production performance of rohu (Labeo rohita) fingerlings against a control with no aeration, in 50 m² outdoor concrete tanks (10 mx5 mx 1.3 m). L. rohita fry were stocked at a density of 0.5 million ha^-1. Compared to control, aeration caused significant increase in survival, harvested size, specific growth rate and net biomass production while the feed conversion ratio significantly reduced. However, varied timing of the night aeration could not yield any significant difference in these yield attributes among the aerated treatments. Further, comparison of night aeration between 21.00-03.00 h and 24.00-06.00 h revealed relatively better performances of the fingerlings in the later treatment, indicating effectiveness of aerating the tanks after midnight (24.00-06.00 h).

3 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

020414   Patil S J;Banagar S R;Banagar R R;Venkatesh S;Vishwanatha T;Patil S B (Post-Graduate Studies and Research in Zoology Dep, Gulbarga Univ, Gulbarga-585 106, Email: shajapatil@gmail.com ) : Withdrawal antifertility effect of petroleum ether extract of Citrus medica seeds in female albino rats. Med Pl 2013, 5(2), 75-81.

Petroleum ether extract of Citrus medica seeds, administered orally (400 mg/kg body weight) for 30 days to induce infertility and changes in various female reproductive activities were evaluated in Wistar strain Albino rats. The treatment results were analysed on the gravimetric, histological, histometric and biochemical parameters and based on these changes the fertility indices were assessed. Histologically, ovary and uterus in extract treated rats showed reduced number of healthy follicles, regressing follicles and also elevation in corpora lutea in the Group I and II. For the study of withdrawal effects of this extract in Group III, after the changes in ovarian and uterine parameters, the results indicated that the animals returned to normalcy and regained gonadotrophin secretion similar to that of control rats.

6 illus, 5 tables, 39 ref

020413   Padodara R J;Arya J S (Physiology and Biochemistry Dep, Veterinary College, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh (Gujarat), Email: rameshpadodara3@gmail.com) : Serum trace mineral profile at different stages of gestation in triple cross-bred cattle. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(1), 23-6.

Study conducted on forty four triple cross-bred (1/2 Kankrej X % Jersey X 1/4 Holstein Friesian) pregnant heifers (20) and cows (24) on days 90,150,210 and 275 of gestation for serum trace minerals like copper, ferrous, manganese, zinc and cobalt revealed that the values of copper, manganese and cobalt increased significantly during advanced pregnancy and zinc values increased significantly up to day 210 and then fell on day 275. But serum ferrous showed non-definitive trend during the various stages of gestation.

1 table, 21 ref

020412   Narasimhaiah N;Rekha K;Singh Y T (Applied Zoology Dep, Mangalore Univ, Mangalagangothri-574 199, Email: nsimha4@yahoo.co.in) : Icthyofaunal diversity of selected centres of Nandini river of Western Ghats, Karnataka, India. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2013, 6(3), 146-50.

Mangalore (Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka) is a sensitive area for the wildlife particularly aquatic organisms, since there are many industries which discharge lot of wastes, a large fishery business, which affects the abundance and reproduction of fishes. In addition, a new Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is coming up which is suspected to disturb the overall quality of the environment. So, there is a great human interference and threat to aquatic organisms. In perspective of this, it is very much essential to checklist the icthyofuana in this region. Therefore, a preliminary study was undertaken for ichthyofaunal diversity by selecting an important river, Nandini, which runs adjacent to Mangalore coast. From the present survey, the fish diversity recorded was 23 species belonging to 6 orders, 19 families and 21 genera. Fish fauna of Nandini river is dominated by order Perciformes (73.91%) with 17 species followed by Pleuronectiformes (8.70%) with two species. Order Clupeiformes (4.34%) is represented by one species, while Gonorhynchyformes, Siluriformes and Scorpaniformes are represented by one species each (4.34%). The commercially by important species of fishes from our collection sites include, Chanos chanos, Etroplus surantensis, Etroplus maculates and Silago sihama and Lutjanus johni is a representative species enlisted under threatened species.

1 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

020411   Najar A M;Bhat F A;Balkhi M H;Samoon M H;Dar S A;Wani G B (Faculty of Fisheries, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir-180 009) : Induced breeding and larval rearing of snow trout (Schizothorax niger Heckel) in Kashmir Himalaya with the application of ovatide. Fish Technol 2014, 51(1), 8-12.

Induced breeding was carried out successfully in V Schizothorax niger with the application of synthetic hormone, ovatide. This is the first report of induced breeding of snow trout from Kashmir waters through use of any hormone preparation. The male and female brooders were injected with calculated doses of ovatide at the rate of 0.5 ml kg^-1 body weight of female brooders and 0.3 ml kg^-1 body weight of male respectively. The brooders responded well to the hormone arid spawned within the breeding pool. A fertilization rate of 85% was achieved. Hatchability rate was around 65%. The juveniles were initially fed with skimmed milk powder and emulsified hen egg yolk in the ratio of 1:1, supplemented later with live zooplankton. On rearing, the fry attained a size of 25 mm and average body weight of 130 mg during a period of 90 days with a cumulative survival rate of 60% from fertilized eggs to swim up fry.

2 tables, 33 ref

020410   Muthuselvi R;Vigneswari K (Chemistry Dep, Sri Meenakshi Government College for Women, Madurai-625 002, Email: muthuselvi03@yahoo.co.in) : Spectrophotometric determination of copper(II) using nicotinohydroxamic acid. Asian J Chem 2012, 24(4), 1579-82.

A simple, direct, highly sensitive and selective spectrophotometric method has been developed for the determination of copper(II). It is based on the reaction at pH 9.2 between nicotinohydroxamic acid and Cu(II) forming a stable green coloured complex. It exhibits a constant and maximum absorption at 800 nm. The system obeys Beer's law over a wide range of concentration. The proposed method can be applied for the determination of Cu(II) without interference from a variety of ions. The proposed procedure has been successfully applied to the analysis of Cu(II) in natural samples, industrial effluents and alloys.

6 tables, 38 ref

020409   Mohite S A;Mohite A S (Fisheries Biology Dep, College of Fisheries, (Dr. B.S. Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth), Shirgaon, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, Email: sa_mohite@yahoo.co.in) : Resource analysis of venerid clams along the South-West coast of Maharashtra. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(1), 27-35.

Clams belonging to Genus Paphia, Katelysia and Meretrix represent the Family Veneridae along the north - west coast of Maharshtra. To assess the resources of these clams, the Kalbadevi and Kajali estuaries as well as Purnagad and Jaitapur creeks were selected along this coast. Fortnightly sampling was done at four main stations along these estuaries from May 2008 to April 2010. During the present study, Meretrix sp. was found to be dominant at all the stations. P. malabarica was not reported in the catch at Sakhartar-Shirgaon, Purnagad and Sakharinate - Dhaulvalli except Karla- Juve from May 2008 to August 2008, May 2008 to March 2009 and May 2008 to December 2009, respectively. Stocks of P. malabarica were seen to be increasing at all the four stations in the following months, but clams of very small sizes were recorded in the catch, indicating harvesting of recruits. Recruitment of P. malabarica occurred during September, K. opima during December- January and Meretrix sp. during September. Highest catch of P. malabarica was during April 2010 at all stations, K. opima during May - July (all stations) and Meretrix sp. during May 2008 (Sakhartar-Shirgaon), August 2008 (Karla -Juve), November 2008 (Purnagad- Gavkhadi) and October 2008 (Sakharinate-Dhaulvalli). The abundance of the clams can be associated with the wide fluctuations in salinity, as they showed progressive delay in the time of opening of valves, thereby isolating themselves from the outside environment. Alternation of dominance was seen between P. malabarica and Meretrix spp.

6 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

020408   Mathialagan R;Sivakumar R (P.G. and Research Zoology Dep, Govt. Arts College, Kumbakonam-612 001, Email: sivaera@gmail.com) : Food and feeding habits of reba carp Cirrhinus reba (Hamilton-1822) from lower anicut, Tamil Nadu. Scient Trans Envir Technovation 2012, 6(2), 99-103.

Food and feeding habits of freshwater reba carp Cirrhinus reba of Vadavar river at Lower Anicut, were studied during the period of April 2010-March 2011. Food items comprised of blue green algae (36.2%) and diatoms (25.9%) was a major food items of this species. Other food items are green algae (16.7%), non-motile green algae (11.3%), plant matter (2.5%), detritus (1.6%), zooplankton (1.3%), unidentified (0.8%) and animal derivatives (0.6%). The percentage of feeding intensity as fullness of stomach were (22.4%), 3/4 full (12.1%), 1/2 full (9.7%), 1/4 full (4.1%). The feeding intensity was very poor in mature fishes. The sequence of feeding intensity can be correlated with the reproductive biology of this species, in that the intensity of feeding declined in the month of July in both sexes. During the period of July declined feeding activity coincided with the spawning period of this species. It was concluded that the analysis of gut contents of C. reba indicated the omnivorous and bottom feeding tendency of this species.

2 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

020407   Lall D;Summerwar S;Sharma S;Pandey J (Post Graduate Zoology Dep, S.D. Government College, Beawar-305 901) : Effect of selected biopesticide Calotropis procera and Argimone maxicana against 4th instar larvae of Helicoverpa armigera. J Ecobiol 2013, 32(1-2), 39-44.

Effect of bio pesticids Calotropis procera and Argimone maxicana against 4th instar larvae of Helicoverpa armigera has been studied. Leaf and flower of the plants A. mexicana and C. procera is prepared and different doses of these plant extracts was given to the fourth instar stages of H. armigera through feeding methods. On treatment to larvae the effective doses were determined based on parameters mortality, abnormalities and reproductive potentiality of the emerged adults. Treated fourth instar larvae became sluggish at higher dose level. The body became very dark, they become very lethargic. Food intake capacity become slow down, the average pupal period increases at higher dose levels. To find their efficacy the experimental findings will be put under analysis using various perameters.

2 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

020406   Kazi T G;Mohite A S;Jadhav R R (Fisheries Engineering Dep, College of Fisheries, (Dr. B.S. Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth), Shirgaon, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra) : Design characteristics of mackerel drift gill nets of Ratnagiri (Maharashtra). Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(1), 15-18.

Study on design characteristics of mackerel drift gill nets of Ratnagiri, Maharashtra showed that, main webbing of the nets were fabricated with polyamide (PA) monofilament of diameter 0.20 to 0.23 mm, the mesh size ranged between 52 to 56 mm and the hanging coefficient varied from 0.41 to 0.54. It was observed that hung length and hung depth varied from 60.35 to 84.67 m and 4.50 to 5.69 m, respectively. The total fleet length ranged from 320 to 618 m. The depth of operation for drift mackerel gill net ranged from 10 to 18 m.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

020405   Jain R;Ahi J (Zoology Dep, Dr. H.S. Gour Univ, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh) : Biochemical profile and histological effects of N-nitroso-N methylurea on fat body of Periplaneta americana. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(1), 58-64.

N-nitroso-N-methylurea, a chemical carcinogen was injected in the abdomen at an effective dose of 100 μg/g body weight on alternate days to Periplaneta americana and the insects were vivisected after 4,8,12,16 and 20 days of treatment. Control insects received similar quantity of saline. Histological changes observed in fat body were: the cell boundaries of most of the fat cells had lost their identity and their cytoplasm was vacuolated. The peripheral and central globules had lost their architecture. Nuclei were small and pycnotic. Some of the nuclei were aggregated and were degenerated. The entire adipose tissue was seen to be degenerated and obliterated. Marked biochemical changes were also observed in the fatbody. A significant decline of protein, carbohydrate and lipid profile of the fat body was observed in 5, 10, 15 and 20 days of N-nitroso-N-methylurea treated insects.

6 illus, 1 table, 43 ref

020404   Jagadeesh T D;Shivananda Murthy H;Swain S H; Chethan N;Manjunatha A R;Baglodi V (College of Fisheries, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences Univ, Mangalore-575 002) : Effect of marigold oleoresin on growth, survival and pigmentation in orange chromide, Etroplus maculatus (Bloch, 1795). Fish Technol 2014, 51(1), 25-30.

Study was conducted to evaluate the effect of marigold oleoresin on growth, survival and total carotenoid content in muscle tissue of Etroplus maculatus. Fish with size group ranging from 0.60 g to 0.62 g were used for the study. The study was carried out in triplicate groups for a period of 45 days. Fishes were stocked at the rate of 15 per tank. Three test diets namely T₁, T₂ and T₃ with 30% protein level were formulated. Diet T₁ had 60 ppm, T₂ had 120 ppm and T₃ had 180 ppm marigold oleoresin, and diet without marigold oleoresin supplementation served as control (T₀). There was no significant effect in survival rate and feed conversion ratio of the fish (p<62>0.05). However, 60 ppm marigold oleoresin fed fishes showed increased weight of 1.04±0.08 g, lower feed conversion ratio of 1.53±0.05 and higher survival rate (82.14%) than the other treatment groups. The fishes fed with 60 ppm marigold oleoresin incorporated diet showed significantly higher specific growth rate of 1.36+0.21%, relative growth rate of 69.10±3.4% and the absolute growth rate of 0.42±0.02 g. The body colouration and total carotenoid concentration of muscle tissue (4.62±0.02 μg g^-1) was significantly higher in fish fed with 60 ppm marigold oleoresin diet. Among the tested doses, 60 ppm marigold oleoresin showed better results than 120 ppm and 180 ppm marigold oleoresin inclusion in the fish diet.

2 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

020403   Gupta S;Mishra P (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, Government N.P.G Science College, Raipur, Chhattisgarh) : Seasonal variation in blood parameters of African air-breathing catfish, Clarias gariepinus. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(1), 19-22.

Hematological studies in fish can provide valuable information on the effect of the external environment on the internal physiology of fish. Therefore, the seasonal effect of the environment can change the piscine blood physiology. In the present study, an attempt was made to evaluate the seasonal variation in blood parameters of African cat fish, Clarias gariepinus (Family- Clariidae). This fish is intensively cultured in many tropical and subtropical regions of world. Different hematological indices like red blood corpuscles (RBC), white blood corpuscles (WBC), haemoglobin (Hb %), haematocrite (PCV) and erythrocyte indices like mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) were determined using standard methods. The result of present study revealed a statistically significant season effect in RBC (p<60>0.05), WBC (p<60>0.001), Hb% (p<60>0.01) and PCV (p<60>0.001). The results of the red cell indices showed a highly significant (p<60>0.001) season effect in MCV and MCHC only.

2 tables, 27 ref

020402   Das A;Nalini Ranjan Kumar;Krishnan M;Yadav V K;Immanuel S (NO, Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai-400 061) : Adoption of improved aquaculture technologies in Tripura, India. Fish Technol 2014, 51(1), 58-63.

Study was undertaken in the state of Tripura to identify the constraints in adoption of improved fish culture practices under aqua-model village scheme implemented by Department of Fisheries, Govt. of Tripura during 2004-05 to 2010-11. By using multistage stratified random sampling, data were collected from 80 farmers each from the adopted and non-adopted villages respectively. It was found that the extent of adoption of improved practices in aquaculture farms of adopted villages was significantly more than that of non-adopted villages. Correlation and regression analysis between socio-economic parameters and adoption indices revealed that education and training played an important role in adoption of improved aquaculture technologies. Using Rank Based Quotient (RBQ), constraints faced in adopting the improved aquaculture technologies were also documented.

4 tables, 20 ref

020401   Chakraborty I;Ghosh S (Endocrinology Laboratory, Post-Graduate Zoology Dep, Dinabandhu Andrews College, Garia, Kolkata-700 084, Email: ishita.chakraborty12@gmail.com) : Role of pituitary in photosexual activity in vertebrates. Indian Sci Cruiser 2013, 27(1), 36-43.

In vertebrates, photoperiodicstimulation of hormonal secretions facilitate gonadal maturation & reproductive activities in their breeding season. The present review discusses the pivotal roles of certain endocrine glands viz. testis, ovary & thyroid regarding photoperiodic responses to reproduction under the influence of pituitary, - the master gland.

7 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

020400   Bedajit Y;Chakraborty S K;Motilan Y; Vishwanath W;Deshmukhe G;Jaiswar A K (NO, Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai-400 061, Email: bedajit8@rediffmail.com) : Length-weight relationship and condition factor of an endemic carp, Osteobrama cunma (Day, 1888) of Manipur. Fish Technol 2014, 51(1), 64-6.

^ssc1 table, 13 ref

020399   Bajaniya V C;Nair C M;Salin K R;Tank K V (College of Fisheries, Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Veraval-362 265, Email: naircm@hotmail.com) : Growth and survival of Penaeus monodon (Fabricius, 1798) in monosex and mixed-sex cultures. Fish Technol 2014, 51(1), 13-18.

Sexual dimorphism is apparent in black tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon (Fabricius, 1798) with females achieving larger size than males. An experiment was conducted to compare rearing of all female and all male P. monodon with a mixed-sex population using juveniles segregated by hand-sexing. External sex differentiation of postlarvae started after 55 - 60 days of rearing when they reached 2.5 g and 7.0 cm size. Healthy juveniles (4.46 ± 0.54 g; 8.55 ± 0.30 cm for males and 4.35 ± 0.38 g; 8.54 ± 0.20 cm for females) were stocked in 250 1 circular cement tanks with water of salinity 18 ± 2 g I^-1 at a density of 8 individuals per tank (equivalent to a density of 12.5 m^-2). The treatments were all male, all female, and mixed-sex juveniles at a ratio of 1:1, with five replicates in each one. The animals were fed with a commercial shrimp starter feed for 50 days. All female shrimps attained significantly higher growth of 40% and 43% compared to all male and mixed-sex treatments, respectively, with greater specific growth rate and protein efficiency ratio, and lower feed conversion ratio (p<60>0.05). Survival rates were not significantly different among treatments. The male growth in the all male and mixed sex treatments was similar, while the female growth was significantly higher in the all female treatment compared to that in the mixed sex treatment. Results of this study demonstrate the benefit of all female culture of P. monodon over the conventional mixed-sex culture although more trials are recommended to establish its commercial attributes.

2 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

020398   Afsar S (Zoology Dep, Vivek Vardhini College, Jambagh, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, Email: santoshmetar@gmail.com ) : Glycogen post exposure recovery from lead intoxicated freshwater fish, Anabas testudineus. Asian J Anim Sci 2012, 7(1), 1-5.

Glycogen is important amongst the several molecules available in the cells. Carbohydrates play an important role in the cellular process. Under extreme stress conditions, carbohydrate metabolite such as glycogen has been known to act as the energy supplier in metabolic pathways and biochemical reactions. In the present investigation, fish were treated with an equitoxic dose of 10 ppm of lead nitrate and lead acetate intoxicated fish After a period of 15 days of exposure, a batch from lead nitrate exposed fish and a batch from lead acetate exposed fish were transfered to lead-free water. Fishes were scarified on 1, 4, 8, 12 and 15 days for the analysis of of recovery pattern in tissues viz., liver, muscle, kidney, gill and brain. It was found that lead toxicated fishes were recovered after 15 days depending upon physical condition of the fish.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

020397   Abbiramy K S;Ross P R;Paramanandham J; Thenmozhi P (Zoology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: umak.senthil@gmail.com) : Use of tropical artificial soil as a new substrate for avoidance behavioral test of earthworm, Eisenia foetida exposed to urea. J envir Biol 2014, 35(1), 205-10.

The original avoidance behavioral test was developed by temperate countries like North American and Europe which uses the sphagnum peat as organic component of artificial soil for ecotoxicological studies. Since sphagnum peat is difficult to procure in tropical countries like India, the suitability of commonly available coir pith was undertaken. A modified Tropical Artificial soil (TAS) was prepared by mixing 70% sand and 20% kaolin clay with 10% coir pith (fermented) and used for avoidance behavioural test with the earthworm, Eisenia foetida. Urea was used as a test chemical and the eligibility of coir pith as organic component was tested. The dual control avoidance tests, EC₅₀, LOEC and NOEC estimation, avoidance tests with different concentrations of urea (500mg, 1000mg, 1500mg and 2000mg) were performed with two soils (OECD recommended Sphagnum peat artificial soil (SPAS) and TAS) for 48hr according to ISO guideline 17512-1 but were adapted to tropical conditions (i.e. 28°C temperature). After 48hr, the preliminary results of the avoidance behavioural test indicated a varied distribution (NR = 10%) of the organisms in the soil sections (SPAS without urea spiked). Also E. foetida showed a significant congregating behaviour when exposed to low concentration of urea spiked SPASs (500mg, NR = 67%, n = 4), which indicated that the substrate is not suitable for earthworms under tropical condition. Though there was no mortality observed, the avoidance criterions of dual control test (net response 50 ± 0.50%) and avoidance test against urea (net response 50 ± 10%) was valid only in TAS and not in SPAS. Thus this study concludes that the sphagnum peat which was used as an organic component of SPAS is not suitable for ecotoxicological tests in tropical regions. Though fermented coir pith is suitable, furthermore investigations are required for its suitability as an alternate organic component of artificial soil in tropical regions.

2 illus, 4 tables, 26 ref

019331   Tripathi A;Rahman M;Chakraborty B (Zoology Dep, Ranchi College, Ranchi Univ, Ranchi-834 008, Email: rahulzau@rediffmail.com) : Distribution pattern of acetylcholinesterase in the optic tectum of two Indian air breathing teleosts. Ann Neurosci 2013, 20(1), 7-9.

Data available on enzyme localizaton in the brain of fishes, particularly Indian teleosts is inadequate and scattered. AChE distribution in the optic tectum shows a prevalent pattern characterized by precise laminar distribution of enzyme which shows alternatively strong, weak or negative reaction in the different layers. Layers with maximum enzyme activity most likely correspond to areas where cholinergic mechanism is prevailing whereas layers with mild activity may be considered to be non-chalinergic/cholinoceptive having some cholinergic innervations from other layers. The present investigation suggests some possible connections between enzyme localization and functional and anatomical organization of optic tectum.

2 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

019330   Thangjam B;Khan M A;Pandey S;Managanvi K (Biological Control Laboratory, Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant Agriculture and Technology Univ, Pantnagar-263 145) : New species of genus Pediobius Walker (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) with new records of eulophid parasitoids from Uttarakhand, India. Pantnagar J Res 2013, 11(1), 29-34.

New species Pediobius clavatruncus (Hym: Eulophidae) is described and illustrated from Uttarakhand, India. Also redescription of two species viz., Ceranisus menes (Walker) and Sympiesis hyblaeae Surekha which are recorded for the first time from the state is given.

5 illus, 11 ref

019329   Tavares D C;Siciliano S (NO, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque California, Email: wetlandbirdsbrazil@gmail.com) : Inventory of wetland non-passerine birds along a Southeastern Brazilian coastal area. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(11), 4586-97.

This paper presents the list of non-passerine birds of coastal environments of the Quissama municipality, northern Rio de Janeiro State, southeastern Brazil. The surveys were conducted monthly between June 2011 and May 2012. Additional ad libitum observations were made between February 2008 and July 2012. We recorded 76 waterbird species of 15 families, of which Scolopacidae was the most representative, with 15 species. The high Nearctic shorebird species richness observed in coastal lagoons in Quissama (17 species) is an evidence of the important role of the region as staging site for migratory birds at national level. Also, nine of the species recorded are threatened at regional and one is threatened at national level. It should be emphasized that three species considered locally extinct in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, the most extensively surveyed area in the State, were recorded in the present study. Additionally, we present a high number of previously unrecorded species in northern Rio de Janeiro, and report the first documented record of Stercorarius pomarinus in Rio de Janeiro State. The region has a notorious Waterbird richness including endangered and migratory species, when compared to other coastal areas of the state.

3 illus, 61 ref

019328   Srinivasulu C;Srinivasulu B;Javed S M M; Seetharamaraju M;AshaJyothi S;Srinivasulu C A;Tampal F (Wildlife Biology Section, Zoology Dep, College of Science Univ, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh-500 007, Email: bharisrini@gmail.com) : Additions to the araneofauna of Andhra Pradesh, India- part II. records of interesting species of the comb-footed genera Latrodectus, Rhomphaea and Coleosoma (Araneae: Theridiidae). J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(10), 4483-91.

Reports three interesting species of comb-footed spiders (Aranaea: Theridiidae) belonging to three different genera, namely, Latrodectus, Rhomphaea and Coleosoma, of which Latrodectus erythromelas is a first record to India, while Rhomphaea projiciens and Coleosoma floridanum are a first record to Andhra Pradesh. Provided the detailed description of Latrodectus erythromelas, Rhomphaea projiciens and Coleosoma floridanum.

2 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

019327   Sreeja V;Bijukumar A (Aquatic Biology & Fisheries Dep, Kerala Univ, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala-695 581, Email: sreejaaqb@gmail.com) : Ethological studies of the veined octopus Amphioctopus marginatus (Taki) (Cephalopoda: Octopodidae) in captivity, Kerala, India. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(10), 4492-7.

Five Veined Octopus Amphioctopus marginatus (Taki), collected from Vizhinjam Bay in the Thiruvananthapuram District of Kerala, India were kept in aquariums to study their behaviour in captivity. Primary and secondary defence mechanisms studied included crypsis, hiding and escape behaviour. Deimatic behaviour was used by captive animals when camouflage failed and they were threatened. Crawling behaviour to escape from the aquarium was observed in all specimens. Stilt walking and bi-pedal locomotion were also observed. As a defence behaviour, A. marginatus used aquarium rocks to protect the soft underside of their bodies. A. marginatus demonstrated tool use of coconut shells to make protective shelters, carrying the shells for future use. A female specimen also selected a coconut shell for egg laying and performed parental care by continuously cleaning and aerating her eggs with her arms and by squirting jets of water over the eggs.

13 ref

019326   Solanki R;Maini H (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, Govt. M.H. College of H. Sc. and Sc. for Women, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Email: hanindermaini@gmail.com) : Diversity of land snails in some residential areas of Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh). Int J app envir Sci Technol 2014, 2(1), 1-3.

Study was conducted from January 2013 to December, 13 in two distant residential areas of Jabalpur i.e. in Ashoknagar, Adhartal, & Gorakhpur (Near Police Station) on amphibious snails. The present paper deals with diversity of amphibious snails also known as "Land Operculates" found in Gardens, drainages, water tanks, garages & even the road sides. Findings reveal maximum diversity & growth during summer & monsoon season & minimum density in winter.

8 ref

019325   Sinha M P;Srivastava R;Gupta D K (Zoology Dep, Ranchi Univ, Ranchi-834 008, Email: dr.mp.sinha@gmail.com) : Earthworm biodiversity of Jharkhand: taxonomic description. Bioscan 2013, 8(1), 293-310.

Earthworms were collected from different habitats viz. agroecosystems, grassland, pasture, forest and garbage sites form different parts of Jharkhand. A total of 15 species of earthworm were identified namely Glyphidrilus tuberosus (Stephenson), Eisenia foetida (Savingny)Pontoscolex corethrurus (Michaelsen), Dichogaster affinis (Michaelsen), Dichogaster bolaui (Michaelsen), Lennogaster pusillus (Stephenson), Pellogaster bengalensis (Michaelsen), Ocnerodrilus occidentalis (Eisen), Lampito mauritii (Kinberg), Pheretima planata (Gates), Pheretima posthuma (Vaillant), Perionyx sansibaricus (Michaelsen), Perionyx excavatus (Michaelsen)Drawida calebi (Gates) and Drawida willsi (Michaelsen) have been identified belonging to 6 families and 9 genera.

17 illus, 5 tables, 83 ref

019324   Sinha A K (Zoology Dep, G.B. Mahavidyalaya, Ramgarh, Kaimur-821 110) : Effect of cold stress on first instar larva and pupa of Culex fatigans (diptera: culicidae). Proc Zool Soc India 2013, 12(1), 63-5.

The aim of this study was to find out the effect of cold spell (low temperature stress)on the larvae and pupae of Culex fatigans. First instar larvae survive exposure to 2° - 5°C for 96 h (expt. not conducted beyond this period) and change into II instar in 32-34h when brought to 24° -25° C. The I instar larvae die in 16-18 days. The pupae, when exposed to 2°-5°C for 96 h develop when brought to 24° -25° C in 50± 2 h. This indicates that larvae and pupae show cold hardiness,which explains their occurrence even in temperate countries.

1 table, 13 ref

019323   Singh A P (Ecology & Biodiversity Conservation Div, Rain Forest Research Institute, Jorhat, Assam, Email: singhap@icfe.org) : Rediscovery of the empress, Sasakia funebris Leech (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Nymphalinae: Apaturini) after 88 years in India. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(10), 4514-6.

1 table, 17 ref

019322   Siddiqui S;Shamim S M (Zoology Dep, Ranchi Univ, Ranchi-834 008, Email: info@alamhospital.in) : New species of Aiolopus fieber (Acrididae: Oedipodinae) from Ranchi (Jharkhand). Bioscan 2013, 8(1), 321-3.

The genus Aiolopus Fieber, 1853 is represented by three species A. simulatrix (Walker), A. tamulus (Fabricius) and A. thalassinus (Fabricius) from India. During the course of the survey of Jharkhand apart from some old described species, a new species viz. A. ranchiensis sp. n. have been found which has been described with six illustrations and a revised key to accommodate the new species is also provided.

2 illus, 18 ref

019321   Siddiqi S Z;Karuthapandi M (Zoological Survey of India, Freshwater Biological Regional Centre, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh-500 048, Email: szsiddiqi_hyd@yahoo.co.in) : Report on lecanidae (Rotifera: Monogononta) from Andhra Pradesh, India, including six new distribution records with notes on their contemporary taxonomic nomenclature. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(11), 4556-61.

The Lecane-species complex taxonomy the world over, witnessed a state of flux, causing confusion and controversies, among world's taxonomists over the treatment of various subgenera, taxa and sub and or infraspecific categories of the species rich genus Lecane Nitzsch 1827, on the basis of structure/shape of key, morphological features like foot/toes, lorica, etc. The taxonomic scenario in India, relying heavily on the classical, divergent taxonomic approaches presented a picture of more chaos/confusion, following poor accessibility to contemporary revisionary studies until the recent past. Despite revisionary studies across the world, a few notable Indian studies continued to be burdened with old nomenclature. This short communication reports for the first time ever, 33 valid species of lecanid rotifers (Lecanidae), including six new distributional records from Greater Hyderabad region and the entire state of Andhra Pradesh too with comments on their current nomenclature. Further, limnobiological correlation between five physicochemical parameters and rotifer associations revealed, L. bulla, L. closterocerca, L. hamata, L. ludwigi, L. luna and L. papuana as euryokous species, showing tolerance to a wide range of abiotic factors and habitats too.

2 tables, 21 ref