008702   Singh S (Zoology Dep, R.L.S.Y. College, Ranchi Univ, Ranchi-834 009, Jharkhand) : Variations in the cells of proximal pars distalis (PPD) of the hypophysis of an air breathing fish Channa punctatus. J Ecobiol 2012, 30(3-4), 189-92.

Study on various cell types of Proximal Pars Distalis (PPD) of hypophysis of Channa punctatus was carried out in the laboratory. Different types of cells like cyanophil (gonadotroph), acidophil (somatotroph or alpha cell), thyrotroph, chromophobe and undifferentiated cells were identified in PPD part of hypophysis of the test fish. The major concentration of alpha and cyanophil cells were marked. The percentage of cyanophil was greater in the month of July- August and lowest in December to January, the alpha cell was greater in December to January and lowest in July to September. It was indicated that the growth of cyanophil in number, size and granulation was inversely proportional to growth of acidophil (alpha or somatotroph) cells.

1 table, 10 ref

008701   Shirode D S;Jain B B;Mahendra Kumar C B; Ramchandra Setty S (Pharmacology Dep, Dr D Y Patil College of Pharmacy, Akurdi) : In - vivo antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of 70% ethanolic extract of leaves of Albizzia lebbeck in CCI₄ induced hepatotoxicity. Adv Pharmac Toxic 2013, 14(1), 49-55.

Aim is to study in vivo antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of 70% ethanoli xtract of leaves of Albizzia lebbeck (EELAL) against CCI₄ induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. The in-vivo antioxidant activity was assessed by determining the tissue GSH and lipid peroxidation levels. The 70% EELAL at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg and silymarin I OOmg/kg were administered to the CCI₄ challenged rats. The effect of 70% 'EELAL and silymarin on wet liver weight, liver volume, serum biomarkers like SGOT, SGPT, ALP, direct and total Bilirubin were measured. Similarly hepatic tissues were subjected to histopathological observations. Pretreatment with test extract (I00mg/kg and 200mg/kg) prevented the depletion of tissue GSH, reduced the lipid peroxidation and elevated levels of wet liver weight and volume. Further the treatment with test extract reduced the elevated levels of above mentioned biochemical markers of hepatotoxicity, indicating that the test extract possess hepatoprotective property. The 70% EELAL possess significant hepatoprotective activity. The hepatoprotective and in-vivo antioxidant properties may be attributed to the polyphenolic compounds like flavonoids and tannins that are present in the 70%EELAL.

19 ref

008700   Sebastian H;Inasu N D (Zoology Dep, Vimala College, Thrissur-680 009, Email: honeysebi@yahoo.co.in) : Synchronized development of gonad and bioluminescent system in pugnose pony fish Secutor insidiator Bloch (Leiognathidae) from Kerala coast. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 23-8.

Seasonal and length group based changes in the development of gonad and light organ (LO) were studied in pug-nose ponyfish, Secutor insidiator. The male fishes having larger light organs compared to conspecific females belonging to the same length group. Gonadosomatic Index and Percentage Light organ Weight (PLW) were used to find out the possible synchronization in the gonad and light organ enlargement in both sexes. In males and females mean GSI showed marked increase two times of the year. A prolonged breeding period from June to September with peak in August and another short period from February to March with peak in March. Seasonal changes in the mean PLW in males showed the same trend as that of GSI, whereas the mean PLW in females remained almost same throughout the year. A significant positive correlation was observed between GSI and PLW in males but not in females; it can be suggested that gonad and light organ development correlation is seen in males during the breeding season irrespective of the length of the fish whereas, LO remained almost the same size in all sexually mature females irrespective of the length of the fish and breeding seasons. The result suggested the possible role of bioluminescence in reproduction of this silverbelly species as reported for many other species.

1 illus, 4 tables, 35 ref

008699   Sakthivel M;Nazar A K A;Tamilmani G;Kalidas C;Ramamoorthy N;Maharshi V A;Rao K S;Gopakumar G (NO, Mandapam Regional Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institut, Marine Fisheries post, Mandapam, Tamil Nadu, India-623 520, Email: drggopakumar@gmail.com) : Embryonic development of cobia, Rachycentron canadum (Linnaeus, 1766) in controlled conditions. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 29-32.

Cobia, Rachycentron canadum has emerged as a global species for aquaculture in the recent past. Eventhough seed production of cobia is being practiced at many tropical countries, there is very little information on the embryonic development of the species. The details of fertilized eggs, cleavage, embryonic phases and newly hatched larva are documented with photographs. The experiments were carried out at a temperature range of 28.5-30°C. The average diameter of the freshly spawned eggs ranged from 1.1 to 1.2 mm. The time of different stages of development after fertilization is provided. The larva hatched out after 22 hours of fertilization. The total length of the larvae ranged from 2.2 to 2.7 mm. The newly hatched larva was without mouth opening and with a prominent oil globule. The description given in the paper can be made use of in the larval production of cobia in hatcheries.

1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

008698   Ridhi;Jha B C;Parashar A;Das A K;Bose A K (NO, Cental Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata-700 120) : Ichthyofauna of river Chambal in Madhya Pradesh. J Inld Fish Soc India 2012, 44(2), 99-103.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

008697   Raje S G;Das T;Sundaram S (NO, Mumbai Research Centre of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, 2nd Floor, CIFE Old Campus, Fisheries University Road, Seven Bunglows, Versova, Mumbai-400 061, Email: sujitsundaram@hotmail.com) : Relationship between body size and certain breeding behavior in selected species of Elasmobranchs off Mumbai. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 85-9.

Social organization in elasmobranchs is complex and poorly understood. In India, no specific studies on the behaviour of this resource have been published. Breeding behavior in six species sharks, two species of skates and three species of rays were deduced from length frequency data in relation to body size and The species of sharks investigated are Scoliodon laticaudus, Raticaudus acutus, Carcharhinus macloti, Carcharhinus sorrah, Carcharhinus limbatus, Loxodon macrorhinus and Sphyrna lewini. The species of skates observed were Rhinobatos annandaleiand Rhyncobatus djiddensis and rays were Himantura imbricata, Himantura alcockii and Gymnura japonica. Based on e present observations mating areas, pupping and nursery rounds for juveniles, segregation and aggregation of adults were recorded.

3 tables, 26 ref

008696   Pushpalatha E;Muthulakshmi S (Zoology Dep, Calicut Univ, Kerala-673 635, Email: drepushpalatha@yahoo.co.in) : Effects of plant extracts on the filarial vector, Culex quinquefasciatus. J Ecobiol 2012, 30(1-2), 69-74.

Partially purified plant extracts of Glycosmis pentaphylla and Nerium oleander were tested against different instars of Culex quinquefasciatus. Different fractions tested against the juveniles produced 24 h LC₅₀ values between 49 ppm and 75.8 ppm for G. pentaphylla and 43.4 ppm and 51.9 ppm for N. oleander leaf extracts. Effective concentrations (EC₅₀) that prevent emergence of 50% of the treated larvae calculated ranged from 5.8 to 10.9 ppm and 12.5 to 16.9 ppm for G. pentaphylla and N. oleander, respectively. Experiment with below EC₅₀ concentrations of the active Ethyl Acetate fractions produced reduction in fecundity and hatchability of eggs of the treated Cx. quinquefasciatus. The persistence of the insecticidal activity of these extracts were also tested in the laboratory and observed upto 7 days. In general the extracts hold high promise for the control of mosquitoes.

1 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

008695   Priyalakshmi G;Menon N R (Zoology Dep, Bharata Mata College, Thrikkakara, Kerala, Email: priyalakshmig@yahoo.co.in) : Kerala-an abode of taxonomically challenging permanent meiofauna, Gastrotricha. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 61-4.

Interstitial faunal survey of the interstices of the sandy beaches of Kerala, India revealed the presence of gastrotrich, an aberrant phyla of invertebrates in large numbers. The paper reports eight species of gastrotrichs, belonging to four macrodasyds and four chaetonotids, the two major orders of the group. Genus Halichaetonotus is reported for the first time from the Indian coast. All the eight species reported here are premier records from the coast of Kerala. Distinct discontinuity in occurrence and abundance was a striking feature of these animals.

1 illus, 1 tables, 11 ref

008694   Prasad S;Kanaujia D R (NO, Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Kausalyaganga, Bhubaneswar-751 002) : Prawn fishery of river Ganga around Patna. J Inld Fish Soc India 2012, 44(2), 104-7.

^ssc4 tables, 16 ref

008693   Prabhakaran M P;Bijoy Nandan S;Jayachandran P R;Pillai N G K (Marine Biology Microbiology and Biochemistry Dep, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin Science and Technology Univ, Kochi-682 016, Email: prabhusagar@gmail.com) : Species diversity and community structure of Ichthyofauna in the seagrass ecosystem of Minicoy Atoll, Lakshadweep, India. Indian J Geomar Sci 2013, 42(3), 349-59.

Present study consists the species diversity, abundance and community structure of ichthyofauna in the seagrass meadow of Minicoy Atoll, Lakshadweep Islands. Two hundred and three species of fishes were recorded during the study, from four stations in the Atoll. They belonged to 2 classes, 11orders, 43 families and 93 genera. Six species belonged to the class Chondreichthyes and 197 species to Osteichthyes. Family Pomacentridae showed maximum abundance of species (22%). Station I, having close proximity to the coral reefs, observed the maximum number of families (37) and species (129) and that with minimum number was in station II (23 families and 52 species). Bray-Curtis similarity plot showed a similarity range of 22 to 52%, seasonally. Station I showed highest Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H'log₂) (4.22) during August and the lowest (2.91) during June. Stations I and HI showed comparatively higher abundance and diversity of fishes. Variability in seagrass habitat structure and the interaction with coral reefs influenced the species composition and diversity of fishes in Minicoy Atoll. The findings of the present investigation can be used as baseline information for the fishery resource management of the region.

9 illus, 2 tables, 38 ref

008692   Natarajan N;Kiruthika R (Post Graduate and Research Zoology Dep, Periyar E.V.R. College, Tiruchirappalli-620 023, Email: profnirmala.natarajan@gmail.com) : Protein profiling of normal and diseased human serum using tube and agar gel electrophoresis techniques. J Ecobiol 2012, 30(3-4), 193-9.

The blood proteins of normal and diseased blood sera were analyzed using the rod and agar gel electrophoresis. Blood samples were collected from eight persons; of which two were normal male and female and rest six were diseased persons. Albumin bands representing protein were decreased in patients with HIV, multiple myeloma, hepatitis C virus and hepatitis B virus when compared with normal serum. Albumin level is decreased under circumstances in which there is less production of the protein by the liver or in which there is increased loss or degradation of this protein α1 protein fraction bands were completely absent in blood sera of all the patients. α2 protein fraction bands were very light in hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus patients. A decreased alpha 1-protein band may occur because of alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency or decreased production of the globulin as a result of liver disease, β fraction bands were very light in lipoma, jaundice, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus patients, whereas in multiple myeloma and in HIV bands were medium, γ fraction band was very light in HIV patient. In liver diseases and multiple myeloma the level of gamma globulin was increased.

4 illus, 17 ref

008691   Mondal T;Raghunathan C;Venkataraman K (Zoological Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, National Coral Reef Research Institute, Haddo, Port Blair-744 102, Email: t_genetics@yahoo.com) : First report of Dendrophylliid coral Rhizopsammia verrilli from Andaman & Nicobar Islands. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 94-6.

Reefs of Andaman & Nicobar Islands are formed by highly diverse hermatypic scleractinian corals and a few numbers of ahermatypic corals. The present study reports presence of Rhizopsammia verrilli van der Horst, 1922 under the genus Rhizopsammia Verrill, 1870 as a new record to Indian fauna, identified from Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The taxonomic description of newly reported azooxanthallate coral with its distribution is given in detail.

^ssc2 illus, 6 ref

008690   Mishra A S;Nautiyal P;Somvanshi V S (Aquatic Biodiversity Unit, Zoology & Biotechnology Dep, H N B Garhwal (Central) University, Srinagar, Uttarakhand, Email: shivam_12000@yahoo.co.in) : Length-weight relationship, condition factor and sex ratio of Uroteuthis (Photololigo) duvaucelii (d'Orbigny, 1848) from Goa, west coast of India. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 65-8.

The length-weight relationship study on the squid Uroteuthis duvaucelii (d'Orbigny, 1848) was determined from Goa waters. The relationship was expressed as W=0.0875L16134 for male and w= 0.0330L^1.6723 for female. The test of linearity shows that weight increases significantly with increase in total length of the fish, and growth was allometric. The relative condition factor (Kn) is low for male (0.911 to 1.16) compared to the female (0.911to 1.49). In both male and female, Kn values were highest at low size group 40-80 mm and decreases gradually from 200 to 240 mm size group. Sex ratio was peculiar because the number of males is exceedingly higher than females in 40-80 and 200-240 mm size compared to other size groups. In the whole stock, the percentage of males declines with increase in size. In case of females no pattern was obtained. The male:female ratio for the Goa stock was 1 :0.56. Males were dominant in all size group (except 160-200 mm). Sex-ratio varied and differed significantly.

1 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

008689   Mayekar V;Pathare M;Afonso G;Mohite V T;Lahir Y K;Raut P D (Zoology Dep, Thakur College of Science and Commerce, Kandivli (E), Mumbai, Email: dr.pdraut@yahoo.co.in) : Effects of sub-lethal dose of nickel on the biochemical parameters in the tissues of female crab Scylla serrata, from Mumbai coast. J Ecophysiol occup Hlth 2012, 12(1-2), 69-76.

The effects of sub-lethal concentration of nickel on the biochemical composition such as glycogen, protein, cholesterol, lactic acid, pyruvic acid in gills, hepatopancreas, muscles and sugar contents along with haemolymph in female crab, Scylla serrata procured form local fish market in Mumbai (Sassoon Dock) were studied. The female crabs were exposed to sub-lethal dose of nickel LC₀and LC₅₀ were 200ppm and 500ppm respectively. Among the control set the glycogen contents were found to be the highest in muscles (44.616±0,225 mg/gm wt); protein contents were maximum in gills (66.5232±0.170 mf/gm wt); cholesterol contents were highest in ovary (2.009±0.006 mg/gm wt). The sub-lethal dose of nickel caused decline in the contents of glycogen (1.030±0.0141), protein (11.299±0.055), cholesterol (1.373±0.008) and pyruvic acid (0.440±0.195) in most of the tissues studied. The lactic acid contents increased in all the tissues studied in response to the exposure of nickel. The sugar and lactic acid contents in haemolymph were elevated as a result of exposure whereas the contents of protein, cholesterol and pyruvic acid in haemolymph declined due to the sub-lethal exposure in female crabs.

6 tables, 41 ref

008688   Kulkarni B G;Agwuocha S;Pandey A K (Zoology Dep, Institute of Science, 15 Madam Cama Road, Mumbai-400 032, Email: akpandey)cifa@yahoo.co.in) : Alterations in certain biochemical parameters of the intertidal clam, Gafrarium divaricatum, due to chronic exposure of xylene, benzene and gear oil-WSF. J Ecophysiol occup Hlth 2012, 12(1-2), 49-60.

Gafrarium divaricatum (Gmelin) was exposed to sublethal concentrations of xylene (4.25 and 8.50 mg/l), benzene (4.35 and 8.70 mg/l) and gear oil- WSF (1 and 2%) for 30 days. There was a decline in condition index of the treated clams while moisture content showed an increase on day 30. Glycogen content of hepatopancreas of the clams treated with the pollutants registered an initial increase on day 4 whereas the level declined in gill and adductor muscle during this period while this constituent in hepatopancreas, gill and adductor muscle of the treated clams recorded drastic decline by day 30. Lactic acid, pyruvic acid and protein content in the three tissues increased significantly on day 4 and 30 of the treatment. It appears that the clams resorts to anaerobic mode of respiration under the pollution stress induced due to prolonged chronic exposure of xylene, benzene and gear oil-WSF.

14 tables, 63 ref

008687   Khemir S; (Laboratory of Biochemistry, Rabta Hospital, 1007 Jebbari, Tunis, Tunisia, Email: naziha.kaabachi@rns.tn) : Screening of three Mediterranean phenylketonuria mutations in Tunisian families. J Genet 2012, 91(1), 91-4.

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

008686   Kaur N;Kocher D K (Zoology Dep, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: dkocher2002@pau.edu) : Evaluation of standard bromadiolone bait (0.005%) susceptibility in Rattus rattus, trapped from commensal situations of district Ludhiana of Punjab. Pestology 2012, 36(11), 22-5.

Commensal rodents, especially house rat (Rattus rattus) causes extensive losses by feeding and contaminating the food products with their urine, droppings and hair and also plays a role in spreading several diseases of health importance. House rats were trapped from poultry farms, grocery shops, godowns, store houses etc. of Ludhiana city and mature male and female rats were fed on standard bait of bromadiolone (0.005%). This bait was prepared by mixing of 20 g of bromadiolone powder (0.25% pure) in 1 kg of plain WSO-mix bait (having cracked wheat, powdered sugar and groundnut oil, 96:2:2). Feeding of 0.005% bromadiolone (20 trials with 3 rats/trial) separately to male and female house rats for 5 consecutive days in no-choice, showed 100% mortality of both the sexes. All male and female rats (n=60) in these feeding trials were found to be dead within 2-9 days. As no house rat was observed to survive after feeding of standard bromadiolone bait, thus the present study indicated no resistance or 100% susceptibility towards standard bromadiolone bait (0.005%) by R. rattus found in the commensal situations of Ludhiana city.

2 tables, 16 ref

008685   Kalita B;Kusre D (Zoology Dep, Morigaon College, Morigaon-782 105) : Effects of sesame oil on hypercholesterolemic diet-fed albino rat. J Ecobiol 2012, 30(3-4), 315-9.

Sesamum indicum (Til) oil was investigated for its cholesterol lowering effects on Albino rats. The cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) of blood serum of control albino rats (group-1), cholesterol administered (group-ll) and sesame oil administered group (group-Ill) showed higher contents during the experimental periods. Cholesterol is increased by 52.5%, triglycerides by 19.3%, HDL by 52.4% and LDL by 37.1% after 45 days of cholesterol administered albino rats. Cholesterol levels were decreased by -27.5%, triglycerides by -12.1%, HDL by -25.8% and LDL by -49.2% after 45 days of treatment by sesame oil. Influence of different foods on lipid profile of albino rats was studied and found that the sesame oil showed various degrees of hypocholesterolemic activity and cholesterol levels showed dose and duration dependent manner. There was a significant (P<60>0.05) increase in cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein and low density lipoprotein levels when treated with 1% cholesterol for 45 days. But there was significant (P<60>0.05) decrease in the same profiles in the three treated groups when treated for 45 days with sesame oil. The sesame oil contains the highest phytosterol (Sesamol) among the foods which are absorbed in the blood stream nudging out some of the excess cholesterol from it.

2 tables, 8 ref

008684   Kalita B;Kusre D (Zoology Dep, Morigaon College, Morigaon-782 105, Email: dkusre@gmail.com) : Hypocholesterolemic effects of leaves extract of olive (Olea europea) on guinea pig. J Ecobiol 2012, 30(3-4), 237-40.

The study was carried out to determine the effect of oral administration of aqueous leaf extract of the plant Olea europea on total cholesterol levels of Guinea pig. Twenty healthy Guinea pig were divided into four groups and kept in separate plastic cages. The Guinea pigs were fasted before each blood sampling; the blood samples were taken from the orbital veins and centrifuged and then the serum was taken to measure total cholesterol. Guinea pigs in group-1 served as control, group-ll, III and IV were given daily oral dose of 150, 300 and 500 mg/kg of aqueous leaves extract of O. europea respectively for 90 days. At the end of 15th day blood was taken from four Guinea pigs (one sample from each group) to collect serum for analysis of total cholesterol. The results showed that the leaves extract caused significant (P<60>0.05) decrease in total cholesterol levels (-39.4, -40.8 & -49.5% in group III, -40.4, -42.6 and -55.8% in group - IV) of the Guinea pigs throughout the experimental period for 90 days. It may be concluded that O. europea leaves extract is useful in cholesterol lowering effects.

1 table, 10 ref

008683   Jenitta A;Jayasuriya S (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, Holycross College, Nagercoli-629 004, Email: jeni.sharon60@yahoo.co.in) : Optimizing culture of dinoflagellate marine alga Dunaliella for high production of β carotene. J Ecobiol 2012, 30(3-4), 227-35.

Study was undertaken to develop optimum culture conditions of the dinoflagellate marine alga Dunaliella sp in natural stagnant puddles of Tiruchendur area, Tamil Nadu. The results showed that, Dunaliella preferred high pH level upto 9.2, wide range of salinities(8-18%), low temperature(20°C). phosphate concentration 28 g m^-3d^-3d^-3 and high light intensities ( 18*10³ lux ) for their optimum growth. The viability of the cells has been assessed by chlorophyll auto fluorescence and found out fluorescence of algal cells from fresh and old culture was scored.

8 illus, 17 ref

008682   Jain R;Yadav S;Yadav A S (Zoology Dep, Kurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra-136 119, Email: abyzkuk@gmail.com) : Distribution of morphological and behavioural traits among four endogamous groups of Haryana. J Cytol Genet 2013, 14(1), 15-22.

The present study was planned on the 4 endogaraous groups viz., Nai, Jhinwar, Luhar and Bazigar of Haryana and the distribution of various morphological and behavioural traits was determined. In total, 9 traits (5 morphological and 4 behavioural) were observed in 600 individuals. Two morphological traits, ear lobe attachment and chin fissure showed homogeneous distribution while eye colour, hair colour and nose tip showed significant variations. All the behavioural traits showed homogeneous distribution. Heterozygosity and Nei's measure of gene diversity were calculated. The gene diversity in total group (H_T) varied from 0.26 to 0.49. The average G_ST value was found to be 0.47.

4 tables, 27 ref

008681   Indra Mani;Ravindra Kumar;Singh M;Kushwaha B; Nagpure N S;Srivastava P K;Lakra W S (NO, National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NFBGR), Canal Ring Road, PO Dilkusha, Lucknow-226 002, Email: ravinmdrakumar@scientist.com) : Chromosomal distribution of constitutive heterochromatin in eight species of mahseers (family:cyprinidae) from India. Indian J Biotechnol 2013, 12(2), 178-86.

The chromosomal distributions of constitutive heterochromatin were analyzed in 8 species of mahseer, namely, Tor chelynoides (McClelland), T. khudree (Sykes), T. mosal mahanadicus (David), T. mussullah (Sykes), T. putitora (Hamilton), T. progenelus (McClelland), T. tor (Hamilton) and Neolissochilm hexagonolepis (McClelland) using C-banding technique. The constitutive heterochromatin bands were observed on several pairs of chromosomes with maximum numbers in T. progeneius (11 pairs), followed by T. putitora (7 pairs), T. mosal mahanadicus (4), T. khudree (3), T. mussullah (3), N. hexagonolepis (3), T. chelynoides (3) and T. tor (2). In all species, the C-bands were observed mainly on p arm with few on centromeric region of chromosomes. This seems to be the characteristic feature for characterization of these species. The presence of similar chromosome numbers (2n=100) with diverse karyotypes in the mahseer species suggests evolution among the species through pericentric inversions and/or heterochromatin processes. The number and location of the heterochromatic bands were found species-specific and thus useful for the cytotaxonomy of these species. The findings of the present study can also help to understand the evolutionary relationships among the mahseer species.

3 illus, 2 tables, 39 ref

008680   Haldar R S;Pandey N N;Bisht H C S (Directoate of Coldwater Fisheries Research, , Bhimtal-263 136, Nainital, Uttarakhand) : Ichthyofaunal diversity of river Kosi in Kumaon region, Uttarakhand. J Inld Fish Soc India 2012, 44(2), 62-70.

Investigation on status of pis cine diversity and species composition in river Kosi was conducted during 2010-2011. The Kosi river is situated in the south-west area of the Kumaon region in Uttarakhand State. The whole study area 0 River Kosi from Berchuakot (originating point of river Kosi) to Ramnagar (Foothill) was divided in 3 zones and selected six sampling spots. The average annual CPUE calculated was highest along downstream followed by mid stream zone. The fish fauna is comprised of Mahseers, Snow trouts, minor carps, sucker heads, loaches, cat fishes and Baam. Total 26 fish species belongings to 6 families were recorded during the study period. Mahseer is the major fishery in this river system, which gravimetrically contributes 31.0 - 57.0% followed by snow trout.

2 illus, 5 tables, 27 ref

008679   Gupta K;Raina S;Sachar A;Gupta K (Zoology Dep, University of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir-180 006) : Haematological changes induced by starvation in minor CARP, Labeo boga (HAM.). J Inld Fish Soc India 2012, 44(2), 56-61.

Study deals with alteration in haematological parameters in response to stress induced by starvation in the minor carp, Labeo boga for an experimental period of 60 days. Changes in haematological values viz, total erythrocyte count (TEC), haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit (Hct), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), total leucocyte count (TLC), differential leucocyte count (DLC) and thrombocytes based on ten day intervals were investigated from starved fish and compared to fish fed on regular diet (control). The results suggested that a process of senescence takes place in the pre-existent RBCs and such cells are not replaced during starvation. After 60 days of starvation, L. boga had a significantly reduced TEC, Hct, Hb and calculated blood indices viz. MCH, MCHC except MCV, which exhibited a marked increase. TLC, DLC and thrombocytes showed a change parallel to the RBC dependent parameters.

6 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

008678   Felix S;Pradeepa P (NO, Fisheries Research and Extension Centre, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Ani, Madhavaram Milk Colony, Chennai-600 051) : Relative efficiency of Ulva reticulata and Ulva lactuca in producing marine single cell detritus, a fermented shrimp larval diet for penaeid shrimp Penaeus monodon. Seaweed Res Utilis 2012, 34(1-2), 120-6.

Ulva reticulata and Ulva lactuca are two green seaweeds used in the experiment to prepare Marine Single Cell Detritus (MSCD). Lactic acid fermentation technique of seaweed to produce a quality shrimp larval feed was developed using an in situ fermentor (10 lit. capacity). The paper deals with the relative efficiency of seaweeds Ulva reticulata and Ulva lactuca in the preparation of MSCD. For the preparation of MSCD, seaweed was chosen as the base material and the enzyme Cellulase was used for the degradation of seaweed into single cell units. Lactic acid fermentation of Ulva spp. was carried out by a consortium of microbes comprising a lactic acid bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum (MTCC 1325) and a food grade yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae (MTCC No.4780). Potato and soya powder, sugar and nitrogen respectively were also added as substrates. The process of fermentation in an in situ fermentor was monitored continuously for the fermentation efficiency in terms of lactic acid production, pH change and also by the characteristic odour. The microbial propagation pattern for a period of 50 days has also been observed to understand the product's keeping quality. The product was used as a shrimp larval diet and its dietary efficiency was evaluated. The study concluded that Ulva reticulata which is having soft thallus with relatively high protein and carbohydrate is more suitable for the production of MSCD that can be fed to the larval stages of P.monodon.

4 tables, 13 ref

008677   Esfandiar J;Bozorgmehr H (NO, , 39 Princedom Street, Manchester M9 4GQ, United Kingdom, Email: bozorgmehr@tiscali.co.uk) : Effect of functional compensation among duplicate genes can constrain their evolutionary divergence. J Genet 2012, 91(1), 1-8.

Gene duplicates have the inherent property of initially being functionally redundant. This means that they can compensate for the effect of deleterious variation occurring at one or more sister sites. Here, I present data bearing on evolutionary theory that illustrates the manner in which any functional adaptation in duplicate genes is markedly constrained because of the compensatory utility provided by a sustained genetic redundancy. Specifically, a two-locus epistatic model of paralogous genes was simulated to investigate the degree of purifying selection imposed, and whether this would serve to impede any possible biochemical innovation. Three population sizes were considered to see if, as expected, there was a significant difference in any selection for robustness. Interestingly, physical linkage between tandem duplicates was actually found to increase the probability of any neofunctionalization and the efficacy of selection, contrary to what is expected in the case of singleton genes. The results indicate that an evolutionary trade-off often exists between any functional change under either positive or relaxed selection and the need to compensate for failures due to degenerative mutations, thereby guaranteeing the reliability of protein production.

4 tables, 48 ref

008676   Devi Priya B;Jayaprakash;Puttaswamaiah B V (NO, Centre for Applied Genetics, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore-560 056, Email: priya_balaji4u@yahoo.co.in) : RAPD-PCR based genomic delineation of two allopatric populations of the spider Cyrtophora citricola. J Ecobiol 2012, 30(1-2), 81-8.

This work deals with the results of RAPD-PCR based characterization of the genome of two allopatric populations of the tropical tent web spider, Cyrtophora citricola (Araneae:Araneidae), which is linked with branch dieback and sometimes plant death. In-vitro enzymatic amplification of DNA from individual adult female specimens was carried out using four random decamer primers: OPA02: OPB11, OPC07 and OPD02. The number of bands generated by these primers ranged from 9 to 40 ranging in molecular weight from 0.1 to 3.2 Kb with different primers. The results of band sharing coefficients reveal that primer OPA02 is an ideal marker for genomic delineation of allopatric populations of this species.

2 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

008675   Chakravarty M S;Pavani B;ganesh P R C (Marine Living resources Dep, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: chakri_mlrau@yahoo.com) : Length-weight relationship of ribbon fishes: Trichiurus lepturus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Lepturacanthus savala (Cuvier, 1829) from Visakhapatnam coast. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 99-101.

The length-weight relationship in Trichiurus lepturus was found to be W = 0.000012 L^2.9925 (r =0.698) in males, W = 0000013 L^2.9329 (r=0.878) in females and W = 0.000013 L^3.0348 (r=0.746) for sexes pooled data. In Lepturacanthus savala it was W = 0.000011 L^2.8948 (r = 0.856) in males, W = 0.000014 L^2.5170 (r = 0.825) in females and W = 0.000013 L^2.7146 (r = 0.815) for sexes pooled. Analysis of covariance revealed no significant difference in growth in relation to length between the sexes in T. lepturus, whereas in L. savala it was significant between the sexes.

^ssc2 illus, 1 table 22 ref

008674   Bijukumar A;Smrithy R (Aquatic Biology and Fisheries Dep, University of Kerala, Thiruvanthapuram-695 581, Email: abiju@rediffmail.com) : Behaviour of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, Sousa chinensis (Osbeck) in the Ashtamudi estuary, Southwest coast of India. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 33-8.

This paper documents the behaviour of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, Sousa chinensis (Osbeck) found in the Ashtamudi estuary situated along the southwest coast of India. The major foraging strategy of the dolphins observed was beach hunting. The feeding-related behaviours noted were sudden bout towards the prey with shuttling or speedy zigzagging backwards and forwards and fish-stunning by tossing them into the air. The surface feeding was primarily on mullets. The dolphins displayed a stereotyped surfacing-breathing pattern, with the rostrum rising steeply above the water before the forehead breaks the surface. While travelling, they move in the same direction and the group members dive and surface synchronously for a longer time, The resting activity was primarily floatation in water. As part of socializing behaviour, the humpback dolphins exhibited vertical leaps, side leaps, quasi leaps and somersaults. The principal threat to dolphins in the Ashtamudi estuary is the heavy traffic of trawlers and other motorised vessels.

11 illus, 36 ref

008673   Bhaumik U;Bose S;Satpathy B B;Manna R K;Sahoo A K;Roshith C M (NO, Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore-Kolkata-700 120) : Reproductive biology of Indian Shad (Tenualosa ilisha) in the Bhagirathi-Hooghly stretch of river Ganga. J Inld Fish Soc India 2012, 44(2), 42-8.

Hilsa (Tenualosa ilisha) is a major fishery in the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river accounting for about 15-20% of total fish landings. It is an anadromous fish, which migrates to the Bhagirathi-Hooghly river system from the Bay of Bengal for breeding and spending their earlier part of life. Aspects like gonado-somatic, fecundity, maturity and breeding season were studied during 2011 and 2012. The gonado-somatic relation for male could not be drawn due to highly fluctuating values and for females it was y=8.837+0.004x. Fecundity ranged from 44,002 to 15,54,894 in the size range of208mm to 475mm and 105g to 1175.5g. The minimum fecundity value recorded was lowest ever recorded for the species. The first maturity size for males tallied with the previous record but the same was comparatively lower for the females. Breeding season varied with year and indicated linkage with the monsoon and intensity of flood.

8 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

008672   Ashokakuman C;Vijaya Kumari K;Rajeswara Rao M (Zoology Dep, S V University, Tirupati-517 502) : Impact of cyclosporin - a on selected enzyme activity profiles in tissues of the albino rat. Adv Pharmac Toxic 2013, 14(1), 27-36.

Cyclosporin-A (CSA) is one of the drugs of choice in transplantation Medicine. The side effects that arise out of the use of CSA are dose and time dependent. In the control, 7 and 28 days CSA treated (10 mg/kg/wt) albino rat brain, heart, liver and kidney tissues, the major organic constituents like total proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, glycogen, free amino acids, free fatty acids and enzyme activities like protease, A AT, ALAT, phosphorylase a, ab, SDH, ATPase and cytochrome c oxidase activities were assayed. The results indicated that the CSA treated rat tissues experience impaired oxidative metabolism.

5 tables, 43 ref

008671   Ansari K G M T;Lyla P S;Khan S A (Centre of Adanced Study in Marine Biology, Annamalai Univesity, Parangipettai-608 502, Email: seyedajmal@gmail.com) : New records of free-living marine nematodes (Nematoda: Enoplida) from Indian waters. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 39-45.

One hundred and ninety two species of free-living marine nematodes were collected during Cruise No. 260 of "FORV Sagar Sampada" from the southeast continental shelf of India. Six of these species Enoplolaimus longicaudatus, Anticoma eberthi, Oncholaimellus calvadosicus, Viscosia glabra, V. langrunens/s and Eurystomina terricola under the order Enoplida which happen to be first records from Indian waters are described here.

3 illus, 51 ref

008670   Annapurna C;Bhanu C V;Rao M S;Sivalakshmi M V;Cooper L M G;Rao Y K (Zoology Dep, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: cannapurna@rediffmail.com) : Free-living nematodes along the continental slope off northeast coast of India. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(2), 52-60.

Provides first time information about the systematics of nematodes along the continental slope of the Northeastern coast of India between Divi point (16°00'09"N; 81°;81°29'57"E) in the south and Paradeep (20°00'24"N; 87°29' 16"E) in the north. Altogether 89 species were identified, represented by 71 genera, 25 families and 3 orders. Marylynnia complexa, Aponema decraemerae, Desmodorella tenuispiculum, Desmoscolex laevis, Retrotheristus breviseta, Sphaerolaimus balticus, Siphonolaimus ewensis, Terschellingia gourbaultae, Dlplope/tula incisa, and Axonolaimus spinosus were found to be new records from Indian waters. The detailed descriptions along with drawings of nematode species are presented her.

10 illus, 1 table, 32 ref

008669   Agrawal A (Zoology Dep, SNSenBVPG College, CSJM Univ, Kanpur, Email: anjuagrawal2@gmail.com) : Toxicity and fate of heavy metals with particular reference to developing foetus. Adv Life Sci 2012, 2(2), 29-38.

Heavy metals especially lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic and chromium are well known for causing birth defects. Although, the mother may be unaffected and unaware of the contamination, infants exposed to such agents in-utero may have a number of side effects as these substances readily move across the placental barrier. Heavy metals are dangerous because they have the tendency to bioaccumulate in biological organisms over a period of time. The foetus and newborns are much more sensitive to the effects at low levels of metal exposure and this is mainly due to body weight being less and higher rate of food consumption rate, higher gastrointestinal absorption rate, less effective renal excretion, and a less effective blood-brain barrier. On the other hand, lead is tightly bound to red blood cells, thereby enhancing the transfer from maternal circulation through the placenta to the foetus. Placental transfer begins as early as the twelfth week of gestation. Arsenic is found in drinking water and is a potent toxicant but scanty research has been done on its effect on maternal health. Chromium (Cr⁶⁺) accumulates in placenta and impairs foetal development in the placenta. Therefore, the fertile population should prevent themselves from exposure to chemicals, drugs and other environmental agents.

73 ref

007602   Zaki S;Jayabalan N;Al-Kiyumi F;Al-Kharusi L; Al-Habsi S (Marine Science and Fisheries Centre Ministry of Fisheries Wealth, P.O. Box 427, P.C. 100, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, Email: maljaya2@yahoo.com) : Maturation and spawning of the Indian oil sardine Sardinella longiceps Val. from the Sohar coast, Sultanate of Oman. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(1), 100-7.

Maturation and spawning of the Indian oil sardine Sardinella longiceps was studied between October 2007 and September 2009 from Sohar along the coast of Sea of Oman. The species spawned during February-March and September-October. The SST did not clearly indicate its influence in gonad development. While males matured (Lm) at 156 mm TL, females matured at 163 mm TL. Females were dominant in the commercial catches and the annual male to female ratio (1: 1.49) was significantly different. Fecundity varied from 22,456 to 61,867 eggs with the average of 40,479 eggs per female. The study indicates that no intervention is needed to regulate the Indian oil sardine fishery along the Sohar coast.

7 illus, 1 table, 42 ref

007601   Verma J;Lakra W S;Kushwaha B;Sirajuddin M; Nagpure N S;Ravindra Kumar (NO, National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR), Canal Ring Road, P.O. Dilkusha, Lucknow-226 002, Email: lakraws@hotmail.com) : Characterization of two freshwater silurid catfish using conventional and molecular cytogenetic techniques. J Genet 2011, 90(2), 319-22.

3 illus, 16 ref

007600   Upadhyay V B;Pandey P (Zoology Dep, Silkworm laboratory, D.D.U. Gorakhpur Univ, Gorakhpur-273 009, Email: purnimavinaypandey@gmail.com) : Influence of phytoecdysteroid on pupal performance of multivoltine mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori Linn). Bioscan 2012, 7(3), 401-7.

Phytoecdysteroid activates the physiological and developmental processes in the living beings, therefore, the oral application of phytoecdysteroid on silkworm larvae has been studied to observe any possibility for the heavy production of silk. The experiments were conducted with the phytoecdysteroid concentration of 40, 50, 60 and 70% and number of treatment viz; single, double, triple. Variation in the phytoecdysteroid concentration (p₁ <62>0.05) of B. mori larvae significantly influenced the pupal length, pupal weight and survival of silkworm pupae where as pupal duration is in significant for both phytoecdysteroid concentration and number of larval treatment. The weight of pupa increased from 0.73g (control) to the maximum of 0.95g in case of 60%, double treatment of larvae. The pupal length (cm) increases with the increasing phytoecdysteroid concentration and number of treatment up to 60%, double treatment of larvae. The maximum pupal length was recorded to be 2.22g in case of 60%, double treatment of larvae while it was minimum (1.73g) in 70%, triple treatment of larvae. The survival of pupae increased with the increasing phytoecdysteroid treatment from single to double treatment in 40, 50 and 60% phytoecdysteroid concentration and it was maximum (0.91.28%) in 60%, double treatment of larvae.

4 tables, 37 ref

007599   Tiwary C B;Nikendra Kumar;Ravindra Kumar (Zoology Dep, SMD College, MN Jalalpur, Gopalganj-841 503, Email: tiwary-cb@rediffmail.com) : Sexual behavior in Hanuman Langur(Semnopithecus entellus: Primate) Female under captive conditions. Indian J appl pure Biol 2012, 27(2), 235-41.

Human females, unlike most mammals are sexually active outside of fertile periods. This decoupling of sexual behavior from its conceptive function has a large impact on human social relationships. Also examined one type of such mating, the mating that occurs during pregnancy or post-conceptive (PC) mating in Hanuman Langur (Semnopithecus entellus). Used near complete mating record for five females during gestation and observed that conditional PC mating synchronizing copulations to occur on days when other females mated, and refraining from mating for lengthy period when no other females mated. As pregnant females mated exclusively with the same male before and after conception, and mated in response to group female behavior. Concludes that gorillas used PC mating as a form of female competition, and not to confuse paternity or to obtain immediate benefits from the male, as suggested earlier. The male started copulation preferentially with females of high rank, rather than distinguishing between pregnant and cyclic females. Therefore PC mating appears to be a strategy by which high ranking pregnant females attempt to minimize male interest in other females. These findings indicate that female mating competition is more important than considered earlier, and may be a factor in the evolution of non-conceptive mating in humans.

3 tables, 12 ref

007598   Tirpude J (Zoology Dep, Sevadal Mahila Mahavidyalaya and Research Academy, Nagpur-440 009, Email: tirpudeb@yahoo.com) : Electrolytes, proteins and osmolality in the amniotic fluid of microchiropteran bat Hipposideros speoris (Schneider). Bioscan 2012, 7(3), 433-5.

Precise origin of the liquor amnii still remains unsolved. It is probably of mixed maternal and foetal origin. In the present paper osmolality or the measures of total concentration of all dissolved solutes was studied. The biochemical estimation of electrolytes, albumin, globulin and A/G ratio were estimated except variations in chloride values not much difference was observed in all estimated values. The purpose of this study is to present some observations on certain chemical constituents of amniotic fluid at term. The mean values for electrolytes i.e. Na⁺ - 140.63±0.49 meq/L, K⁺- 3.83 ± 0.12 meq/L, Cl- -70.67 ± 0.37 meq/L. In proteins the concentration of albumin exceeds that of globulin. Albumin- 4.10±0.06 meq/L and globulin- 1.87±0.20 meq/L. The A/G ratio was 1.67±0.09 meq/L and osmolality was 223.80±0.17 meq/L. Despite all available information concerning the composition, origin and fate of liquor amnii our knowledge with regard to this fluid remains incomplete. The constitutions of the amniotic fluid are the principal source of information on foetal maturity. Due to differentiation of tissue and ensuing secretary functions no single value or combination of values provide absolute evidence of foetal maturation.

1 table, 21 ref

007597   Thomas S;et.al. (Zoology Dep, Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha, Ernakulam Dist, Kerala, Email: drshaju@gmail.com) : Reconnaissance study of animal diversity in Periyar tiger reserve, Kerala with special reference to invertebrates. Sci Soc 2012, 10(2), 173-84.

Reconnaissance study of animal diversity in Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR), Kerala was carried out with special reference to invertebrates for a period of fifteen days from 5th to 20th January 2012. Various methods like line transect, point count, quadrate, pitfall trap, hand-draw net/towel and opportunistic observation were adopted for estimating the diversity and abundance. A total of 14 different animal taxa were observed which include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, macroinvertebrates, spiders, butterflies, moths, ants, dipterans, hemipterans, coleopterans and odonates. Out of the 24 species of mammals recorded, two of them namely Pigmy shrew (Suncus etruscus) and Madras hedgehog (Hemiechinis nudiventris) are new reports to Periyar Tiger Reserve. One hundred bird species comprising six Western Ghats endemics were observed. Of the 45 reptile species recorded earlier, 14 of them including the king cobra were observed. Among the 27 amphibian species earlier reported from PTR, 14 species could be sighted from Vallakkadavu Range itself. The survey of freshwater fishes in the downstream of the Mullaperiyar dam resulted in recording 21 species including a new record ie.,Etroplus maculates, to PTR. The study resulted in documenting 20 macroinvertebrate species including molluscs, arthropods, annelids and platyhelminthes for the first time in the reserve. Among the 49 species of spiders recorded, 43 are new reports to PTR. Out of the 80 species of butterflies sighted, three of them including Blackvein sergeant (Athyma ranga), Indian cupid (Everes lacturmus) and Chestnut bob (lambrix salsald) are new reports to PTR. The study also resulted in documenting 37 species of moths, 47 species of hemipterans, 3 Ispecies of ants (hymenopterans), 35 species of odonates, 27 species of coleopterans, three suborders, 35 families, seven genera and one species of Diptera. The present study clearly shows the presence of a very rich invertebrate diversity and the utmost need for conducting long term taxonomic studies to unveil the rich faunistic wealth of PTR.

1 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

007596   Tara J S;Ramnik Kour;Sharma S (Zoology Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006, Email: ramnikento@gmail.com) : Aquatic coleopteran and hemipteran diversity of Gharana wetland, Jammu, India. J Insect Sci 2012, 25(2), 220-3.

Study was aimed to record the diversity of aquatic Coleoptera and Hemiptera and physicochemical parameters of Gharana wetland from September, 2009 to August, 2010. A total of 12 insect species of Coleoptera and six of Hemiptera were recorded. Physicochemical parameters like water and air temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO) and free carbondioxide (FCO₂) were also measured and correlated.

2 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

007595   Sujatha K;Shrikanya K V L (Marine Living Resources Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003, Email: sujatha.mlr@gmail.com) : Plectropomus leopardus (LacepŠde, 1802) (Pisces: Serranidae), an addition to the Indian ichthyofauna. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(1), 116-8.

Leopard coral grouper Plectropomus leopardus (Lacepede, 1802) is being reported from Indian waters for the first time, its earlier record being from the western; Pacific, from southern Japan to Australia (Queensland and Western Australia) and eastward to the Caroline Islands and Fiji, Hongkong, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, Palau Islands, Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia and Tonga. Body measurements are compared with specimens from other locations.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

007594   Srivastava P K;Sadguru Prakash;Ansari K K (Zoology Dep, M.L.K. (P.G.) College, Balrampur-271 201) : Effect of sodium fluoride on the blood serum of Heteropneustes fossilis. Biochem Cell Archs 2012, 12(2), 377-9.

Effects of sodium fluoride were investigated on the biochemical parameters in Heteropneustes fossilis. This study was carried out to evaluate the toxicity of fluoride at three levels (25 mg/L,50 mg/L and 75 mg/L) for 90 days. The biochemical changes in plasma showed significant increase in glucose, total protein, triglyceride, cholesterol, SGOT, SGPT, and ALP. These results indicate that sodium fluoride can alter the plasma's biochemical contents of H. fossilis. Thus it can be concluded that fishes can effectively used as monitors of water quality with respect to fluoride as well as toxicants.

1 table, 16 ref

007593   Sohi A S;Pathania P C (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: pathaniapc@yahoo.co.in ) : Taxonomic status of typhlocybine leafhoppers (Homoptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cicadellidae) known from Pakistan and Bangladesh. J Insect Sci 2012, 25(1), 1-23.

Review of the species of Typhlocybinae known from Pakistan and Bangladesh with reference to taxonomy and distribution has been prepared. All the five tribes of Typhlocybinae with 112 species under 51 genera have been dealtwith.

1 table, 139 ref

007592   Singh A;Singh R (Zoology Dep, Udai Pratap Autonomous College, Varanasi-221 002, Email: upcrsingh@yahoo.com) : Day night variation in phagocytosis and superoxide production by leucocytes in freshwater snake, Natrix piscator. Bioscan 2012, 7(3), 383-6.

Aim of the present study was to understand the diurnal variation in phagocytosis and superoxide production by blood leucocytes in the fresh water snake, Natrix piscator. Leucocyte phagocytosis and superoxide production are important constituents of innate immune response and form the first line of host defense. Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisae) cells were used as target cell to study phagocytosis. Oxidative burst activity was measured by reduction of a tetrazolium dye. Snakes were sacrificed at mid day and mid night. Blood was obtained through cardiac puncture, and leucocytes were separated. Equal amount of blood and yeast cells were incubated for 30 minutes, and smear of mixture was prepared on a clean glass slide. Slides were stained and observed in oil immersion. Percent phagocytosis was significantly (p<60>0.05) higher (60.75±1.89) during mid day as compared to mid night (50.75±1.18). Phagocytic index showed non significant increase during mid night (2.44±0.20) when compared to mid day (2.21±0.25). Superoxide production was found to be significantly higher during night (0.357±0.02) as compared to day (0.255±0.02). It is suggested that diurnal variation is a part of immune system circadian oscillation.

2 illus, 38 ref

007591   Shyam Kumar S;Saramma A V (Marine Biology, Microbiology and Biochemistry Dep, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin Science and Technology Univ, Cochin-682 016, Email: gokulamshyam01@gmail.com) : Nitrate and Phosphate uptake by immobilized cells of Gloeocapsa gelatinosa. J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(1), 119-22.

The use of algae to treat wastewater has been under investigation for decades. Laboratory experiments were performed to study the growth rate and nitrate and phosphate uptake of free and immobilized cells of saline tolerant, nitrogen fixing cyanobacterium Gloeocapsa gelatinosa. The immobilization was carried out in calcium alginate matrix. The immobilized cells were found to be highly effective in the removal of nutrients. 93% of nitrate was absorbed by immobilized cells within 24 hours whereas algae- free beads and free algal cells absorbed only 46% and 70% respectively. 80% of phosphate was also absorbed by immobilized cells within 24 hours. The results suggest that G. gelatinosa is a promising biological agent for nutrient removal from wastewater. Bioreactors with immobilized cells of this alga could be developed for the removal of nutrients from aquatic system.

^ssc3 illus, 24 ref

007590   Sharma T (Zoology Dep, Section of Entomology, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Email: tsharma20@rediffmail.com) : Toxicity of different insecticides to the adults of Choreodocus illustris (Acrididae). J Envir Res Dev 2011, 6(2), 286-90.

Choreodocus illustris (Acrididae) is commonly known as grasshopper. They are polyphagous and feed on leaves of rice, maize, millents, sugarcane etc. C. illustris is an important representative of Acrididean family Pyrrhocoridae. The toxicity due to insecticidal action, choreodocus illustris (Acrididae) adults were treated against different concentrations of insecticides Cypermethrin, Malathion, Methyl Parathion and Monocrotophos. The concentrations used to dip the cotton seeds, upon which the insect feeds, were 0.005%, 0.01%, 0.025%, 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1.0%, (v/v) respectively. The present comparative study on the toxicity of Cypermethrin, Malathion, Methyl Parathion and Monocrotophos to the adults of Choreodocus illustris (Acrididae) shows that cypermethrin is most effective (LC₅₀=0.475). On the basis of LC₅₀ value the order of toxicity in descending manner is cypermethrin <62> malathion <62> methyl parathion <62> monocrotophos.

2 tables, 12 ref

007589   Shanis C P R;Akhilesh K V;Manjebrayakath H; Ganga U;Pillai N G K (NO, Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, PB No. 1603, Cochin-682 018, Email: rshanis@gmail.com) : Shrimps of the family Pandalidae (Caridea) from Indian waters, with new distributional record of Plesionika adensameri (Balss, 1914). J Mar Biol Ass India 2012, 54(1), 45-9.

Twenty four species of Pandalid shrimps reported from the Indian waters, of which six genera (Chlorotocella, Chlorotocus, Chlorocurtis, Dorodotes, Heterocarpoides and Stylopandalus) are represented by single species each. The genera, Plesionika and Heterocarpus are represented by eleven and seven species respectively. Plesionika adensameri (Balss, 1914) a deep-sea shrimp hitherto unreported from Indian waters is recorded from west coast of India. Information on some biological aspects of few Pandalid shrimps from Indian waters is also reported.

1 illus, 2 tables, 41 ref

007588   Selvan S T;Kumarasamy P;Thyagarajan D (Ostrich Breeding Unit, Livestock Research Station, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sci. Univ, Kattupakkam-603 203) : Growth performance of ostriches (Struthio camelus) in India. Indian J Anim Res 2012, 46(2), 176-9.

Ostrich (Struthio camelus) farming is a new upcoming venture in India. Ostrich farming was started in India during 2000 with the sole objective of studying its adaptability and commercial viability. Experience revealed that rearing, feeding and nutrition of ostriches were quite different from other poultry species. Out of 68 chicks hatched, the survival percentage was 58.8% up to the age of 18 months. Chick mortality below 3 months of age was one of the most critical phase of rearing. The live body weight was 3.78 ± 0.17 kg at 1 month of age with a feed conversion of 1.67 and 118.21 ± 2.81 kg at 18 months with a feed conversion ratio of 7.50. The average daily body weight (ADG) gain during the period was 220g.

3 tables, 17 ref

007587   Satpathy A;Mohanty P K (P.G. Zoology Dep, Utkal Univ, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar-751 004, Email: prafulla.mohanty@yahoo.co.in) : Genotoxic effect of Apple green clour additive on germ cells of short horned grasshopper Poecilocerus pictus F. (Insecta: Orthoptera: Acridiidae). Bioscan 2012, 7(4), 677-80.

Colour additives, preservatives and food retention agents in our daily food is a matter of serious concern. Such food additives might be mutagenic to human genome. The long term exposure of humans to different synthetic food additives leads to several health hazards,of which genotoxicity is of prime importance. The investigation on the effect of Apple green which is a combination of chemical compounds such as Tartrazine (1914 0), Brilliant Blue (42090) and Sodium chloride of Alpana's Natraj brand on grasshoppers shows that this compound induces chromosomal aberrations significantly with increase in concentration and exposure duration of the organism to such chemical. Hence, nonuse of the stated colour additive is suggested for the better health status of human beings.

15 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref