bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of Marine Invertebrates by Ships
Authors: Allen FE
Published: November 2005

In comparatively recent years a number of sedentary marine invertebrates have been found on the east coast of Australia, where they were previously unknown. New records for Australian waters are: Bryozoa — Bugula flabellata Thompson,Conopeum tubigerum Osburn, Schizoporella unicornis Johnston, Watersipora cucullata Busk, and Anguinella palmata van Beneden; Polycliaeta ( Serpulidae) — Mercierella enigmatica Fauvel; Cirripedia — Balanus algicola Pilsbry. By reason of their abundance, these species could not have been overlooked by field collectors, and as they are ship-fouling organisms in other parts of the world it is concluded that they have been introduced by ships. An examination is made of the factors militating against such importations, but despite the difficulties encountered, organisms can be successfully translocated by ships. Mention is made of some of the more outstanding introductions that have occurred overseas in recent years. The available evidence suggests that many cosmopolitan species may owe their wide distribution to the movements of shipping.
Osmoregulation in Australian Freshwater Mussels (Lamellibranchiata). I. Water and Chloride Ion Exchange in Hyridella australis (Lam.)
Authors: Hiscock ID
Published: November 2005

The chlorinities of the blood and pericardial fluid of H. australis are similar, but always exceed those of the normal external medium. A study of blood chloride changes in mussels in media of different concentrations has shown that immediately following a change of medium there is a change in blood chlorinity, which tends to assume a new equilibrium level
within 24 hr. The rapidity with which this change occurs depends upon the difference between the chlorinity of the blood and that of the external medium. A study of water exchange under identical conditions has shown that significant changes occur in the hydration of the mussel. In hypotonic media the mussel can regulate its water content; in hypertonic media it cannot, but
its hydration assumes a new level within 24 hr. It is concluded that some part of the body surface is permeable to both salts and water. The urine of the mussel is hypotonic to the blood; it remains remarkably stabre in chlorinity despite changes in blood chlorinity. The role of the kidney as a regulating organ is discussed. The significance of shell movements in osmoregulation is demonstrated. Shell closure has been shown to be an effective seal from the external medium, allowing the mussel to resist desiccation.
Studies on the Ovaries of the Humback Whale, Megaptera nodosa (Bonnaterre), on the Western Australian Coast
Authors: Chittleborough RG
Published: November 2005

Observations on the increase of ovarian weight in the female humpback whale cover stages from late foetal life until after the attainment of sexual maturity. Variations in ovary weight during different phases of the reproductive cycle are recorded. Graafian follicles up to 0.13 mm in diameter have been found in the foetal ovary just prior to birth. These initially develop until from 11 to 29 mm (median value 20 mm) in diameter when the female reaches the maturing length range. At sexual maturity one of these follicles enlarges, exceeding 30 mm in diameter before rupture. After ovulation a corpus luteum is rapidly formed and if conception has taken place, this gland enlarges and remains active until parturition. After parturition there is rapid resorption of the
corpus luteum to form a corpus albicans. Variations in the sizes and weights of functional corpora lutea are discussed. There is considerable reduction in the diameters of Graafian follicles in late pregnancy to a median value of 6 mm. After parturition follicles enlarge so that in the ovaries of females in late lactation the largest follicles once more range from 11 to 29 mm in diameter with a median value of 20 mm. In an ovulatory period of from June to November the maximum frequency of ovulations is in late July, though considerable numbers occur in August and September. On the availabIe evidence most female humpback whales ovulate only once in their ovulatory period, a few ovulate twice, and extremely few three times.
The Genera of Oysters and the Australian Species
Authors: Thomson JM
Published: November 2005

Both conchological and malacological characters have been applied to the differentiation of the genera and species. Characters not previously used include the arrangement of tentacles on the mantle folds and the pigmentation on gills, palps, and mantle folds. Three genera are recognized, Ostrea Linnaeus, Crassostrea Sacco, and Pycnodonte Fischer de Waldheim. Ten native species of Australian oyster and one imported species are described in detail. Two keys to the species are provided, one based on shell characters and one based on the details of the soft anatomy.
Dinoflagellates in the Australian Region.
Authors: Wood EJF
Published: November 2005

In this paper, the taxonomy of the dinoflagellates found in Australian
waters is given, and the species concept as applied to the group is discussed.
It is suggested that the Linnaean species concept cannot be strictly applied to
a group which has, as a whole, no known sexual process and of which the vast
majority of forms has not been cultivated.
The seasonal variation and fluctuations of dinoflagellates in Australian
waters are considered. It is found that, as usual, the greatest number of
species occurs in warmer waters.
Dinoflagellates are regarded as excellent indicators of water masses, and
in one example, i.e. west of Tasmania, subtropical dinoflagellates led to the
postulation of a subtropical current flowing east from Cape Leeuwin to King
I. This has recently been confirmed by the finding of warm-water turtles on
the west coast of Tasmania.
Dinoflagellates are not as important as diatoms or tropical blue-green
algae in productivity, except on rare occasions, but do serve as food for certain
groups, e.g. salps, tintinnids, etc. Some are halophytic, some holozoic, and some
facultative.
No single factor or set of factors can be adduced to explain dinoflagellate
maxima. There is some evidence of a rhythm, which may be tidal, in Goniaulas
digitale and also in G. catenella.
Aspects of Reproduction in the Male Humpback Whale, Megaptera nodosa (Bonnaterre)
Authors: Chittleborough RG
Published: November 2005

At puberty, male humpback whales off the Western Australian coast have
an average body length of 36 ft 9 in. From histological examination of the
testes, the extreme range of lengths at puberty is from 33 ft 4 in. to 40 ft 10 in.
The mean testis weight at puberty is 2000 g. Following puberty, males are of
low fertility for a period (possibly 1 yr) during which testis weight, tubule
diameter, and spermatogenetic activity increase, before the attainment of full
sexual maturity.
The mean length of the penis at puberty is 3.5 ft, but owing to considerable
individual variation the penis length alone is not a reliable criterion of puberty.
In sexually mature males the penis length ranges from 3.2 to 6.2 ft.
The proportion of fully physically mature males amongst those examined
was very low (1.4 per cent.). The mean body length of those defined in this
paper as approaching physical maturity was 41.90 � 0.35 ft, and that of the
fully physically mature males was 42.97 �1.59 ft. The largest male examined
(46.42 ft) showed no sign of epiphysial fusion.
Changes in mean testis weight, mean diameter of testis tubules, and
number of sperms in testes and vas deferens fluid have been followed at various
stages of the life cycle. The variations of these characters in mature individuals
have been examined for evidence of a seasonal cycle in male humpback whales;
increasing testis weight and more active spermatogenesis are exhibited during
winter months off Western Australia.
Eggs and Larvae of the Sabre-toothed Oyster Blenny, Dasson steadi (Whitley)
Authors: Munro ISR
Published: November 2005

The eggs of the sabre-toothed oyster blenny, Dasson steadi (Whitley),
are spawned in shallow pools between tide marks in estuaries. They are
deposited in masses cemented in a single layer to the interior surfaces of
discarded shells of bivalve molluscs. During development they are attended
by the male parent. Hatching is spread over a prolonged period. The yolksac
is absorbed about 1 week after hatching, by which time the larvae have
developed functional teeth and ingest unicellular organisms. Egg and larval
stages are described from naturally spawned material maintained under
laboratory conditions for 17 days.
Australian Sipunculoidea. I. The Genera Sipunculus, Xenosiphon, and Siphonosoma
Authors: Edmonds SJ
Published: November 2005

This paper deals with the Australian sipunculids of the genera Sipunculus,
Xenosiphon, and Siphonosoma. Sipunculus angasi Baird, 1868, a species allied
to S. nudus and S. robustus, is redescribed from south, south-eastern, and
eastern Australia. A sipunculid from New South Wales is redescribed and
assigned to the genus Xenosiphon. Siphonosoma cumanense (Keferstein 1867)
and Siphonosoma vastum (Sel. and Biil. 1883) are redescribed from Queensland
and Western Australia.
Studies of the Blood and Tests of Some Australian Ascidians. II. The Test of Pyura stolonifera (Heller)
Authors: Endean R
Published: November 2005

The test of this species is particularly bulky and consists of gelatinous
material which encloses the fleshy part of the animal, leaving openings only for
the two siphons. It also forms a resilient basal stem which anchors the animal
to the substratum. The outer surface of the test is impregnated with sand
grains, which form a hard protective layer.
Blood-vessels traverse the gelatinous material. Two large vessels enter
the test and these branch to form ultimately a ramifying system of small
blood-vessels. Effectively there are two blood circulations in the test. The
blood-vessels have a lining consisting of a single layer of large columnar cells,
the appearance of which is described.
The gelatinous test resolves itself under the microscope into a network of
fibres of variable thickness, but the larger ones at least are aggregates of
smaller fibrils. In some cases the fibres are orientated in definite directions.
The amorphous interfibrillar material seems to be mainly aqueous, as the test
consists of over 97 per cent. of plasma.
Ferrocytes wander about in amoeboid fashion amongst the fibres. These
enter the substance of the test by migrating across the walls of the bloodvessels.
Histologically there is a marked similarity between the appearance of
the test and that of vertebrate connective tissue, as in both cases cells are
present in a groundmass enmeshed by fibres which stain with orcein and
fuchsin.
However, the fibres of the test are composed of a very insoluble polysaccliaride,
Which although resembling plant cellulose in certain respects will not
dissolve in special cellulose solvents nor stain with cellulose stains. A mucopolysaccharide
which stains metachromatically with toluidine blue is associated
with the fibrillar material, and possibly serves to cement the fibres together
since these became disarranged on treatment with hyaluronidase, which
removes the mucopolysaccharide.
The importance of the test in the general economy of the animal is
discussed.
Studies of the Blood and Tests of Some Australian Ascidians. III. The Formation of the Test of Pyura stolonifera (Heller)
Authors: Endean R
Published: November 2005

Certain blood cells, termed ferrocytes, produce fibres when cytolysed.
Similar fibres may be produced by these corpuscles when kept in "hanging
drop" preparations. In both cases histological and histochemical examination
shows that the fibres are identical with those present in the test.
Under normal conditions ferrocytes migrate across the walls of bloodvessels
and enter the test substance. After moving about for a time amongst
the fibrillar matrix already deposited, they produce fibres by one of three
methods :
(i) A cytoplasmic centre, from which fibres subsequently arise, may
be isolated from the main corpuscular mass.
(ii) Fibres may arise directly from the surface of the ferrocyte.
(iii) Fibres may arise from material secreted by the ferrocyte into its
immediate vicinity.
In many respects the process of test fibre formation resembles the production
of vertebrate connective tissue fibres from fibroblasts.
During regeneration of the test, ferrocytes migrate straight to the test sea-water interface and there produce fibres, seemingly as a direct result of the
release of fibre-producing intraglobular material on cytolysis. The probable
mode of formation of the tough outer test is also discussed.
Littoral Penaeinae from New South Wales and Adjacent Queensland Waters
Authors: Racek AA
Published: November 2005

The taxonomy of the subfamily Penaeinae has been revised and coordinated with the latest results of overseas workers, following chiefly Burkenroad's systematic groupings. A key to groups, genera, and species is given for Penaeinae occurring in Australian waters and the adjacent part of the Indo-Pacific region, with special reference to those on the east coast of Australia. Sixteen species occurring in commercial catches off New South Wales and southern Queensland are fully described, and 11 illustrated.
Fossil Microplankton from Australian Late Mesozoic and Tertiary Sediments
Authors: Deflandre G , Cookson IC
Published: November 2005

This paper provides the first comprehensive account of fossil microplankton
assemblages from the southern hemisphere. Dinoflagellates,
hystrichosphaerids, and microorganisms of uncertain affinity, all of which
have unmineralized membranes, have been classified. Forty samples from
bores and outcrops have been examined, and 25 genera, of which four are new,
and 75 species, of which 46 are new, have been recorded from Cretaceous and
Tertiary deposits. The data obtained have provided suggestive indications
concerning the age of certain portions of two bores. A number of interesting
facts has arisen from comparisons with the fossil microplanktons from
European sediments.
Underwater Studies on the Tasmanian Commercial Scallop, Notovola meridionalis (Tate) (Lamellibranchiata: Pectinidae)
Authors: Olsen AM
Published: November 2005

Population densities of scallops in the D'Entrecasteaux Channel (Tas.)
fishing areas have been assessed by diving. In shelving positions the scallops
occur in greatest densities between 4 to 8 fm, and on flat areas within these
limits they may be found everywhere, but in varying concentrations. The
so-called "strips" or "beds" of commercial fishermen are merely higher density
aggregations. The most extensive bed, 1 sq. mile in area and
averaging six scallops/sq. yd, contained about 18 million scallops.
Two scallops/sq. yd is considered the minimum economic limit for operation
provided the meat yield (roe included) per 1000 scallops is not less than
33 lb.
The successful spatfall and subsequent development of a strong year class
is very sporadic and, as yet, unpredictable. In 1954, the 1948 year class
scallops entered the fishery, which until then had been almost entirely
dependent on the scallops spawned about 1940.
Water movements, particularly tidal currents, have a marked influence
on the distribution of the spat. In areas of strong tides the long axes of areas
of high concentrations run lengthwise to the flow whereas in areas of slow
movement the distribution is even, whilst eddy systems appear to concentrate
the spat.
Concentrations of 30-36 scallops/sq. yd were reduced in 4 years by starfish
to five/sq. yd, i.e. a 75-80 per cent. mortality occurred.
During the course of this underwater investigation the individuals of a
selected bed were observed to make random movements, yet the known location
of a bed did not change.
Trachymedusae and Narcomedusae of South-east Australian Waters
Authors: Blackburn M
Published: November 2005

Thirteen species of Trachymedusae and seven of Narcomedusae are recorded from south-east Australian waters, where both orders were previously unknown. Eight Trachymedusae and four Narcomedusae are new records for the entire Australian region. Additions are made to the descriptions of some species. Eight species are epipelagic, seven bathypelagic, and five probably eurybathic in the upper 1000 m of the sea; the second and third groups contain several cosmopolitan species, but the species of the first (epipelagic) group tend to be restricted to tropical and, subtropical latitudes. One epipelagic species, Liriope tetraphylla (Chamisso & Eysenhardt), has not been found south of lat. 39� S. in south-east Australian waters and may serve as an indicator of one of the two main water masses which meet in that region. The most abundant species of either order is Aglauru hemistoma Peron & Lesueur, which is the commonest of all hydromedusae on the continental shelf off Queensland and New South Wales. Aglaura and Liriope are also recorded from the neighbourhood of Fremantle, W.A.
The Zooplankton of Lake Macquarie, 1953-1954
Authors: Kott P
Published: November 2005

A quantitative account of the faunal succession in Lake Macquarie, N.S.W., from June 1953 to July 1954 is given. Comparisons are made between the zooplankton of the lake and those of the neighbouring sea and estuaries. It is concluded that the level of zooplankton of Lake Macquarie is well beIow that of the coast and that it is a specialized and relict marine fauna rather than an estuarine fauna.
The Effects of Artifical Enrichment of a Lake
Authors: Weatherley A , Nicholls AG
Published: November 2005

A Tasmanian highland lake of low natural productivity was enriched by the addition of a mixture of chemicals. The first application, to the mud, stimulated the existing stunted aquatic vegetation to produce a prolific growth; a later application, broadcast over a portion of the lake, had the additional effect of increasing phytoplankton and zooplankton. Concurrent with the growth of plants there was a marked increase in the total numbers of epiphytic fauna. Fish living in the lake at the time of enrichment showed a marked increase in growth rate, and others released later showed a similar response. It is tentatively concluded that phosphorus was the element responsible for the stimulus to the growth of plants and plankton. It is shown that an unproductive lake of this type can, by suitable enrichment, be rendered capable of carrying a stock of fish.
Observations on Periodicity in Marine Invertebrates
Authors: Dew B , Ferguson Wood EJ
Published: November 2005

Arising from field observations of marine fouling in Sydney Harbour, a study was made of planktonic larvae and fouling settlement to see whether the peculiar results observed in the field could be due to a tidal periodicity. While not conclusive, there is evidence of periodicity which may be related to tides. Periodicity was observed in the distribution of lamellibranch and polychaete larvae in the plankton and in the settlement of Balanus amphitrite Darwin and Hydroides norvegica Gunnerus.
Additional Observations on the Biology of the Northern Bluefin Tuna, Kishinoella tonggol (Bleeker), in Australia
Authors: Serventy DL
Published: November 2005

The northern bluefin tuna, Kishinoella tonggol (Bleeker), occurs along the whole of the north coast of Australia and on the east and west coasts as far south as Twofold Bay, N.S.W., and Cockburn Sound, W.A., respectively. Fin formulae, scale row and gill-raker data, and morphometrical characters are recorded separately for fish of the northern, eastern, and western regions. Marked regional differences occur; but it is considered that these can be largely (though not entirely) explained by differential growth of body parts, since only small sizes are found in the extreme north whereas large sizes predominate in the southern portions of the range. The hypothesis of two distinct species, suggested by size group distribution and regional variations, is rejected. Sexual maturity in K. tonggol is reached in the third year of life and spawning is in the summer. The species apparently feeds mainly on pelagic organisms.
The Ecology and Distribution of Intertidal Organisms on the Rocky Shores of the Queensland Mainland
Authors: Endean R , Kenny R , Stephenson W
Published: November 2005

This paper records investigations made on the ecology and biogeography of organisms found on rocky shores in eastern Queensland. Traverses were made at selected localities along a region of the coast bounded by the New South Wales-Queensland border (lat. 28� 15' S.) to the south and Whitecliffs (lat. 16� 39' S.) to the north. An account of general physiographic features and
environmental factors in this region is given. It was found that the majority of typical Peronian organisms extended as far north as about lat. 25� S. North of lat. 25� S. tropical species occurred and the degree of overlapping of species from the two adjacent faunas was very small. However, the Moreton Bay-Caloundra region offered a refuge for some tropical forms.
Zonation patterns on either side of the biogeographical boundary differed. In southern Queensland the zonation picture was similar to that in New South Wales as described by Dakin, Bennett , and Pope (1948); but in northern Queensland an oyster zone dominated the upper half of the intertidal region, whilst in the lower half a barnacle zone replaced the serpulid zone found in southern Queensland and New South Wales. The effects of various environmental factors on zonation on Queensland shores are discussed. It has been found that generalizations made by Evans (1947b) regarding zonation on British shores are only partially applicable to zonation in southern Queensland. Possible reasons for the differences noted are discussed. Also, the rate of change of percentage exposure to the air, which Doty (1946) has shown to be so potent a factor in determining the zonation of organisms at all levels in the intertidal region of the coasts of Oregon and northern California, apparently determines only the upper levels attained by organisms which extend above mean high water neap tide level on southern Queensland shores.
Analyses of the effects of varying environmental factors, including gross environmental changes relating to latitude, on faunistic composition have been made. These have given much information on the general ecology of many common Queensland rocky shore species. Moreover, they have thrown much light on the reasons for the existence of a biogeographical boundary near latitude 25� S. In particular they have shown that such factors as the degree of wave action and salinity are possibly of more importance than temperature in determining the position of this boundary.
The Family Cerithiopsidae (Mollusca) from the Solanderian and Dampierian Zoogeographical Provinces
Authors: Laseron CF
Published: November 2005

This paper reviews the Cerithiopsidae (Mollusca) from the Solanderian and Dampierian Zoogeographical Provinces in northern Australia. In all, 10 genera and 46 species or subspecies are described and figured, and of these six genera and 42 species or subspecies are proposed as new. A key to the Australian genera is also given, and the species from the Peronian and Maugeaa Provinces have been revised to fit in with the proposed classification.
Studies on Australian Cubomedusae, Including a New Genus and Species Apparently Harmful to Man
Authors: Southcott RV
Published: November 2005

A series of large Cubomedusae from northern Australian seas-Darwin and north Queensland-has been examined. These are of a single species, described here as Chironex fleckeri, gen. nov., sp. nov. Morphological and systematic studies have been made. It is shown that the system of gonads is markedly different from that obtaining in other Cubomedusae, in which the gonads are leaf-like lamellae that arise at the interradial septum and project into the perradial stomach pouches. In Chironex, only a narrow ridge is present at the interradial septum in the same situation, at most about 0.4 mm wide, and the gonads are lobulated structures that arise alongside the perradial suspensoria, high in the bell cavity, and project into the bell cavity. This structure is also present in the genus Chiropsalmus, but in more primitive form, and in the past has been called the "gastric saccule", of unknown function. It is apparently absent (judging by the literature) in other Cubornedusae. The histology of the gonads and other relevant features in Chironex fleckeri are described. The term "superior gonad" is introduced for what has hitherto been called the "gastric saccule", and the term "lateral gonad" is used for the structure arising at the interradius in the perradial stomach pouches. The systematics of the Cubomedusae are reviewed in the light of the differences in the gonads. The family Chironecldae, fam. nov., is raised for Chironex, gen. nov. The genus Chiropsoides, nom. nov., is proposed for Drepanochirus Krumbach, 1925 (non Pringuey 1901 preoc.), and hence Chiropsoididae, nom. nov., for the family Drepanochiridae Krumbach, 1925. The clinical effects of the stingings of Cubomedusae on man are considered briefly, where relevant. It is probable that Chironex fleckeri is responsible for severe stingings and deaths of humans in northern Austrahan waters, but dlrect proof of this hypothesis is lacking.
Australian Sipunculoidea. II. The Genera Phascolosoma, Dendrostomum, Golfingia, Aspidosiphon, and Cleosiphon
Authors: Edmonds SJ
Published: November 2005

This paper deals with the following genera of Australian sipunculids: Phascolosoma,
Dendrostomum, Golfingia, Aspidosiphon, and Cleosiphon. Nineteen species
are recorded, of which Phascolosoma rottnesti from Western Australia, Phascolosoma
dunwichi and Phascolosoma heronis from Queensland, and Dendrostomum cymodoceae
from South Australia are new. Phascolosoma scolops var, tasmaniense has been
given specific rank as P. tasmaniense. Two new subspecies, Golfingia margaritacea
adelaidensis from South Australia and G. vulgaris queenslandensis from Queensland,
are also described. A key to the Australian genera and species is given.
The Families Rissoinidae and Rissoidae (Mollusca) from the Solanderian and Dampierian Zoogeographical Provinces
Authors: Laseron CF
Published: November 2005

This paper reviews taxonomically the whole, as far as is known, of the families Rissoinidae and Rissoidae (Mollusca) from northern Australia, with the addition of a number of species from Christmas Island in the Indian Ocean. The area covered includes two zoogeographical provinces, the Solanderian and the Dampierian. All species, known or proposed as new, are figured and discussed. In all, 167 species and subspecies belonging to 47 genera are reviewed, of which 131 species and sub-species and 27 genera are proposed as new. Of these, 123 come from the Solanderian Province and 37 from the Dampierian, and 6 Peronian species are now recorded from the Solanderian. Eight species were found common to the Solanderian and Dampierian. Eighteen species are described from Christmas I.
The Relation Between the Food of the Australian Barracouta, Thyrsites atun (Euphrasen), and Recent Fluctuations in the Fisheries
Authors: Blackburn M
Published: November 2005

The diet of surface-swimming Australian barracouta was studied from over
10,000 stomachs. The principal prey organisms in Bass Strait are the euphausiid Nyctiphanes
australis Sars, the anchovy Engraulis australis (White), and young barracouta, in that order; and in eastern Tasmania Nyctiphanes, Engraulis, and the sprat Clupea bassensis McCulloch, in that order. The pilchard Sardinops neopilchardus (Steindachner) is not an important item of the diet in these regions although it is so in New South Wales, South Australia, and Western Australia. The jack mackerel Trachurus declivis Jenyns is a significant item in eastern Tasmania and New South
Wales but not in Bass Strait. These and other features of the fish diet of the barracouta reflect actual availability of the various small fish species in the waters. Barracouta eat Nyctiphanes by herding them into dense masses (or finding them already concentrated) and swallowing them.
The movements of the anchovy make it unavailable to Bass Strait and eastern Tasmanian barracouta for much of the summer and autumn period, when the barracouta are thus dependent upon Nyctiphanes for the bulk of their food. A close positive relationship between the availability of barracouta and Nyctiphanes might therefore be expected at those seasons. There is evidence of such a relationship between mean availability (catch per boat-month) of barracouta and mean percentage of barracouta stomachs containing Nyctiphanes, at those seasons, from year
to year. For southern Victorian coastal waters both show a downward trend from 1948-49 to 1950-51 and then an upward trend to 1953-54; for eastern Tasmania both show a downward trend (for autumn only) from 1949-50 through 1952-53. The records of catch per boat-month furnish independent evidence that the main variations in this index were effects of availability (population distribution or behaviour) rather than abundance (population size), at least for southern Victoria.
It is therefore considered that when scarcity of barracouta occurs in summer and autumn in the coastal fishing areas it may be due to scarcity of Nyctiphanes, forcing the fish to go offshore for this food which is known to be available there.
This would take the fish out of range of the fishermen.
The Cultivation of the Mother-of-pearl Oyster in the Red Sea
Authors: Crossland C
Published: November 2005

This is an abbreviated form of the original manuscript prepared by the author following 16 years' work at Dongonab Bay in the Red Sea in an attempt to establish a pearl oyster cultivation industry. The environmental conditions at Dongonab, the species of pearl oysters in the Red Sea, and the detailed biology of Pinctada margaritifera (L.), the species used for the experiments, are discussed. Details are given of the methods developed for the collection of spat and the cultivation of the pearl-shell to marketable size. It was unfortunate that the improvements designed in 1921 were not used for commercial production, because the Sudan Government did not continue the scheme.
The Catabolism of Nitrogen Compounds in Dendrostomun cymodoceae Edmonds (Sipunculoidea)
Authors: Edmonds SJ
Published: November 2005

The total non-protein nitrogen in the excretory products of fasting specimens of Dendrostomum cymodoceae Edmonds was found to be 1.18-1.40 mg N/100 g wet wt./24 hr. Of the total nitrogen, 83-90 per cent. was excreted as ammonia nitrogen, 4-6 percent, as urea nitrogen, 0-4 percent. as amino acid nitrogen, and none as uric acid; 89-94 percent. of the nitrogen was thus accounted for. The results are compared with the corresponding values obtained by other workers for Sipunculus nudus and some other invertebrates.
A Revision of the Australian Species of Penaeinae (Crustacea Decapoda: Penaeidae)
Authors: Dall W
Published: November 2005

Twenty-eight Australian species of Penaeinae, of which six are new, are
fully described and figured. Full keys to genera and species, and a glossary of
special terms, are included. The zoogeography of Australian and Indo-West Pacific
Penaeinae is discussed.
The Biogeography of Queensland's Shallow-water Echinoderm Fauna (excluding Crinoidea), with a Rearrangement of the Faunistic Provinces of Tropical Australia
Authors: Endean R
Published: November 2005

Analysis of Queensland's shallow-water echinoderm fauna reveals that approximately 44 per cent. of the 267 species recorded are confined to Queensland mainland waters and approximately 35 per cent, to Barrier Reef waters; the remainder are common to both environments. Marked faunistic attenuation with increasing latitude is exhibited by echinoderms occurring on the mainland north of lat. 25�S, and also by those found on the Great Barrier Reef. In both cases there are few substitutions. South of lat. 25�S Peronian species occur, but an apparently isolated population of tropical species is found in the Moreton Bay-Caloundra area. Queensland mainland echinoderms have strong affinities with those of the East Indies. The principal exchange route utilized by mainland species common to both areas seems to be via Torres Strait and the Arafura Sea. The Coral Sea appears to present a barrier to the spread of mainland species to the West Pacific area. On the other hand Barrier Reef echinoderms have strong ties with those of the latter region. Gene flow between populations of species common to the Barrier Reef and the West Pacific area probably occurs by way of the Coral Sea as a result of the transport of the pelagic larval stages of West Pacific populations by the Pacific south equatorial current. A dearth of coral structures immediately to the west of Torres Strait seems to have prevented the spread of Barrier Reef species to northern Australian waters. However, a few reef echinoderms appear to have entered north-western Australian waters from the East Indies, probably by way of atolls and reef platforms found on the Sahul and Rowley Shelfs. The echinoderm fauna of north-western Australia contains a large number of endemic species but has marked affinities with those of East Indian and Queensland mainland waters. The origin of the echinoderm fauna of tropical Australia is discussed in the light of palaeogeographic and zoogeographic findings. It is concluded that the present fauna of the area is derived predominantly from recent East Indian and West Pacific stocks. Also it is postulated that barriers between echinoderm populations present in tropical Australian waters were set up during the Pleistocene falls of sea-level and that this has resulted in the formation of closely allied sympatric and allopatric species. Available evidence indicates that the Solanderian Province should be restricted to the Great Barrier Reef area and, since Torres Strait does not present a barrier to the dispersal of echinoderms typically found in habitats in which terrigenous sediments predominate, the fauna of Queensland mainland waters and that of the Dampierian Province are grouped together tentatively in a single Tropical Australian Province.
A New Cassification of the Australian Marginellidae (Mollusca), with a Review of Species from the Solanderian and Dampierian Zoogeographical Provinces
Authors: Laseron CF
Published: November 2005

A new classification is proposed for the Australian Marginellidae, both Recent
and Tertiary. Most previous papers and all Australian papers have previously referred
to the many species under one genus Marginella, though occasionally they have been
subdivided into several sections without generic names. This subdivision has now
been carried farther, and the approximately 200 -Australian species have been
divided into 33 genera, of which 31 are new and 2 have been recently named from
Japan. Of the 33 genera 22 are Recent and 20 Tertiary, and 9 Recent and Tertiary
genera are considered congeneric. Figures are shown of all the type species, and a
key is provided to those still living in Australian seas.
The second part of the paper reviews and figures all the known species from the
Solanderian and Dampierian Zoogeographical Provinces. Species number 41, of which
33 are proposed as new. Of these, 37 are Solanderian and 9 Dampierian. Five
species are common to the Solanderian and Dampierian and one to the Solanderian
and Peronian, and one ranges through the Maugean, Flindersian, Peronian,
Solanderian, and Dampierian Provinces.
The Australian Portunids (Crustacea: Portunidae). I. The Genus Thalamita
Authors: Stephenson W , Hudson JJ
Published: November 2005

Twenty-one species are recorded from Australia, including 3 new species
and 10 new records. These are described and illustrated, and a key is given for the
known Indo-West Pacific species. First pleopods of the males are considered in
greater detail than in past works, and a key based on their features is included. The
relative breadth of basal antennal joints varies with sizes of specimens, and is of
less taxonomic value than had been supposed. For this and other reasons some
species have been relegated to the synonymy.
The relationship of Thalamita to other genera, and the existence of species
groups within the genus, are discussed and brief biogeographical comments are given.
The Identification and Nomenclature of the Surface Water Masses in the Tasman Sea (Data to the End of 1954)
Authors: Rochford DJ
Published: November 2005

In this paper an examination of all available data on the hydrological
characteristics of the Tasman Sea, prior to and including the year 1954, has permitted
the identification and naming of eight surface water masses. Certain of
their properties and general features of their season and region of occurrence and
method of formation are summarized.
Although little quantitative data are available some general features of the
circulation of these water masses in the Tasman Sea are deduced from a study of
their seasonal occurrence in relation to source regions.
The Coral Sea water mass (chlorinity 19.60-19.70‰, temperature 20-26� C)
flows from a source region in the north-west Coral Sea along the western side of
the Tasman Sea and reaches maximum velocity off Sydney in October-December.
The South Equatorial (chlorinity 19.50-19.60‰, temperature 24-26� C) also flows
south along the western side of the Tasman Sea but reaches maximum velocity
between February and March. These two water masses constitute the East
Australian current.
The Sub-Antarctic (chlorinity 19.15-19.30‰, temperature 10-14°C) is
found at the surface in the south-eastern Tasman Sea between July and September.
The Central Tasman (chlorinity 19.65-19.75‰, temperature 15-20‰C) flows to the
west from its region of formation and generally flows north along the southern
New South Wales coast in late winter. The South-west Tasman (chlorinity 19.50-
19.60‰, temperature 12-15°C) flows to the east in latitude 38�S. and curves south
in a clockwise gyral off eastern Tasmania between October and December. The Xorth
Bass Strait (chlorinity 19.66-19.75‰ temperature 12-17�C) flows from South
Australia to the eastern approaches of Bass Strait. The East Central New Zealand
(chlorinity 19.10-19.30‰, temperature 15-20°C) flows west through Cook Strait into
the Tasman Sea in midsummer. The East and West Tasmanian (chlorinity 19.40-
19.50‰ temperature 10-14°C) form in midwinter in the southern part of Bass
Strait and flow along the east and west coasts in the spring.
The Tasmanian Trout Fishery. I. Sources of Information and Treatment of Data
Authors: Nicholls AG
Published: November 2005

This paper is a general introduction to a series dealing with the state of the
trout fishery in Tasmania. Methods of collecting and analysing information are
described, and the general scope of the survey is outlined.
The examination of a large number of scales in relation to the length of fish
has shown that scales normally appear when the fish are about 3.6 cm in length.
They grow rapidly at first and quickly establish a straight-line relationship between
fish length and scale length.
Tagging tests carried out on small fish have shown that a large proportion of
fish under 14 cm are unable to carry jaw-tags for more than 2 months. This is
related to the relative weight of fish and tag in water, when the fish weight is reduced
to about one-twentieth of its weight in air, and the tag is thus heavier than the fish.
Experimental work on selective breeding failed to yield significant results,
probably owing to nutritional deficiencies associated with hatchery rearing.
The growth of individual brown and rainbow trout in relation to temperature
was followed for about 3 years.
Continuous Crayfishing Tests: Pelsart Group, Houtman Abrolhos, Western Australia, 1953
Authors: George RW
Published: November 2005

The continuous crayfishing test at the Pelsart Group, Houtman Abrolhos,
conducted in 1948, was repeated in 1953.
The numbers of crayfish available within the tested area had been reduced from
90 per haul in 1948 to 37 per haul in 1953. There was also a decrease in the commercial
catch in 1953 as compared with that of 1948 in the proportion of 90 to 72; and in the
catch per man in the proportion 90 to 66. The ratio of the commercial catch in 1950
(the year of maximum production and one of high fishing intensity) to that of
1953 was 90 to 34.
In 1953, there were relatively fewer very small and very large crayfish than
in 1948.
The effects of the 4 years of intensive fishing between 1948 and 1953 on
the composition and the numbers of crayfish available at the Pelsart Group are
discussed.
The period of the test from March 15 to August 26 was divided into three
catch phases, characterized by changes in the catch rates.
Except for three long-distance movements of tagged crayfish, movements
were limited to a distance of approximately 2 miles.
Mating commenced on July 1 and by the end of August the majority of
mature females were mated. Spawning commenced on August 22. Few females
below a carapace length of 2.9 in. were mated.
The Australian Portunids (Crustacea: Portunidae). II. The Genus Charybdis
Authors: Stephenson W , Hudson JJ , Campbell B
Published: November 2005

The 12 species of Charybdis known from Australia, including two new records, are keyed and illustrated. First pleopods of the males are considered in greater detail than in past works, and a key based on their features is included. Minor changes in Leene's (1938) synonymy are proposed.
The Breeding Cycle of the Female Humpback Whale, Megaptera nodosa (Bonnaterre)
Authors: Chittleborough RG
Published: November 2005

The gestation period in the humpback whale is of almost 12 months' duration,
most conceptions occurring early in August with parturition at the beginning of the
following August. The modal length of calves at birth is 14 ft. The sex ratio at birth
is 51.4 per cent. males to 48.6 per cent. females. Twin foetuses are occasionally
recorded. There is no preference towards either right or left ovary or uterine cornu
with regard to ovulation or pregnancy. The breaking of the umbilical cord at
birth is described.
The histological appearances of the mammary gland during advanced pregnancy
and during lactation are described and illustrated. Upon the evidence presented
it is concluded that lactation in this species extends over 104 months, suckling
generally commencing in mid August and terminating at the end of the following
June. The composition of the milk has been determined during various stages of
lactation.
Oestrous cycles rarely occur during pregnancy, but examples of ovulation
following shortly after parturition, while the females are suckling their calves, are
cited. It is shown that when the calf is lost at or soon after birth, oestrous cycles
usually recommence at once. Where the calf is suckled for the normal period
(10½ months) there is no anoestrous period following the end of lactation as oestrous
cycles recommence in July, immediately after (occasionally just before) weaning
at the end of June.
Three types of breeding cycle are shown for the humpback whale. In the
most common cycle, absence of the post-partum ovulation, or its occurrence without
conception, results in one calf in 2 years. On the other hand, a successful postpartum
ovulation results in two calves in 2 years. In the third type of cycle, loss of
the first calf at or just after parturition is balanced by a second pregnancy succeeding
immediately afterwards. This results in two pregnancies in 2 years with only one
calf reared.
The Tasmanian Trout Fishery. II. The Fishery of the North-West Region
Authors: Nicholls AG
Published: November 2005

A brief account is given of the several rivers, and of the results derived from
the study of the fishery in each. Anglers' returns of catches have been analysed with
respect to the daily catch per angler for nine seasons, and the lengths of fish for five
seasons, and the results are similar for each river. Detailed consideration of a summary
of the data received from all sources in this region shows a definite downward trend
in the daily catch which is statistically significant and more pronounced in the
estuarine than in the inland fishery. There has been no change in the mean lengths of
fish taken, and the size distribution of the catch has remained constant over five
seasons. An 80 per cent. annual mortality rate has been found for fish from 1 to 6 years
of age, after which it falls slightly. The total annual catch has risen with the increase
in licensed anglers. Analysis of the diary of one angler over 27 years shows a decline
in the catching rate, but the mean weight of fish has remained fairly constant. No
direct consistent correlation was found between the estuarine trout fishery and the
commercial whitebait fishery. It is concluded that the decline in catching rate is
probably related to a change in the representation of anglers making returns during the
nine seasons. A study of the contribution made by the release of hatchery fish shows a
maximum possible return to anglers of 2 per cent., subject to a correction for the
proportion of takable fish caught by anglers for which no data are available. Evidence
is produced to show that the release of hatchery fish is unproductive and wasteful in a
stream already stocked to capacity.
The Sea Garfish, Reporhamphus melanochir (Cuvier & Valenciennes) (Hemi-ramphidae), in South Australia: Breeding, Age Determination, and Growth Rate
Authors: Ling JK
Published: November 2005

There are seven macroscopic gonad stages recognizable in male sea garfish.
and eight in females with which ova diameter measurements have been correlated .
In South Australia the spawning period lasts from late September to early March.
and activity is most intense during October and November . A second period of
breeding activity may occur in February . A few females are sexually mature at
2 years. but the majority do not spawn for the first time until the end of 3 years .This applies also to males. A latent maturation cycle is demonstrated in immature female garfish.
The use of otoliths for age determination is described and the method
validated by Petersen length frequency polygons. The rate of growth has been
deduced from calculated intermediate lengths of younger garfish, based on an
otolith lengthlfish length relation and the mean lengths of older age groups. The
weight of the garfish varies as the cube of the length. Females attain a larger
average size than males after the third pear. Gulf St. Vincent females grow faster
than those in other regions; males, however, are variable.
Application of these results to a management policy for the commercial
fishery is severely restricted by the inadequate official catch statistics. However,
it is recommended that netting of garfish in Coffin's Bay be prohibited, but that
no change in the minimum legal length should be made for the present.
Reproduction in Australian Pearl Oysters (Lamellibranchia). I. Pinctada albina (Lamarck): Gametogenesis
Authors: Tranter DJ
Published: November 2005

The primary gonad of Pinctada albina consists of paired systems of confluent
tubules ("follicles") opening to the exterior at laterally situated urogenital openings.
There are no morphologically differentiated gonoducts; the gonads empty into a short
ciliated genital vestibule through the primary gonad follicles. A duct from each
kidney enters each vestibule just inside the urogenital papilla. There is no superficial
difference between the gonads of male and female, except in colour: the testis is
cream and the ovary yellow.
The follicles originate in the connective tissue behind the openings, and spread
through the space between external epithelium and viscera, by invagination, branching,
and ramification. As they do so they carry with them, attached to the follicle
walls, the primary germ cells ("stem cells"). There are four main follicular systems on
each side of the body, but as development proceeds they tend to coalesce. Soon the
gonad loses its bilateral appearance and envelops the whole visceral mass.
The species becomes sexually mature in its first year, often within 4 or 5 months.