bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altitudinal differentiation between adjacent populations of a ground beetle, Elaphrus americanus Dejean (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Elaphrini)
Authors: Frania Henry
Published: August 2008

Samples of Elaphrus americanus from five mountains in the Pacific Northwest were compared for variation in two enzymes (an esterase and an aldehyde oxidase) and a body colour polymorphism. There were significant differences in all three characters between subalpine parkland and temperate forest samples from Mount Rainier and Mount Baker (Washington) and Tusk Mountain (British Columbia). There were no differences between subalpine and temperate forest samples from Mount Adams (Washington) and Mount Hood (Oregon). Subalpine parkland samples from Baker differed from Tusk parkland samples in one character and from Rainier parkland samples in two characters. Differences between forest samples were slight. Large differences over short distances were not expected because dispersal between sites in forest areas is frequent. Parkland populations on Rainier, Baker, and Tusk mountains may be reproductively isolated from adjacent forest populations and could constitute disjunct populations of a sibling species that was widespread in the Pleistocene. Alternatively, subalpine parkland and forest populations may not be reproductively isolated from one another and differences between them are being maintained by selection. Parkland populations on one or more mountains may have diverged independently of the others. Beetles found in parkland areas on Hood and Adams mountains probably dispersed from forest sites.
On the identity of Amblyseius umbraticus (Chant) (Acarina: Phytoseiidae)
Authors: Chant D. A. , Shaul E. Yoshida
Published: August 2008

Specimens previously identified as Amblyseius umbraticus (Chant) from both the Old and the New Worlds were studied to determine if they are indeed conspecific. Both direct observations and numerical analyses suggest that the North American group and the Old World group are separate entities. Specimens from Algeria form a third entity. The European group constitutes the true A. umbraticus, the Algerian group is a new species, and the North American group is reidentified as A. collegae (De Leon). Full descriptions of the three species are provided.
Cadmium toxicity and accumulation in eggs and alevins of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar
Authors: Rombough P. J. , Garside E. T.
Published: August 2008

Embryos and alevins of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) were exposed to cadmium concentrations of between 0.47 μg Cd/L and 27 mg Cd/L from fertilization to near complete yolk absorption. The most sensitive indicator of cadmium toxicity was the inhibition of growth in alevins, with significant reduction occurring in 0.47 μg Cd/L. The LC50 for the interval from fertilization to viable hatch was estimated to lie between 300 and 800 μg Cd/L. Newly hatched alevins had a 24-day LC50 of between 1.5 and 2.7 mg Cd/L. Sensitivity increased sharply in late alevins and significant mortality was recorded in concentrations as low as 8.2 μg Cd/L. Cadmium uptake by eggs was rapid, with dose-dependent saturation levels reached within 24 h and maintained until hatch. Although the total cadmium content of eggs increased with ambient concentration, the degree of bioaccumulation declined. The cadmium contents of newly hatched alevins were much lower but directly proportional to those of eggs. Uptake by alevins was logarithmic, independent of ambient concentration above about 1 μg Cd/L, and did not reach equilibrium during the exposure period (46 days).
An acoustic technique for determining diurnal activities in leopard (Hydrurga leptonyx) and crabeater (Lobodon carcinophagus) seal
Authors: Thomas J. A. , DeMaster D. P.
Published: August 2008

Hourly variations in the rate of underwater vocalizations produced by leopard (Hydrurga leptonyx) and crabeater seals (Lobodon carcinophagus) were compared with counts of these seals on ice floes. For both species maximum "haulout" corresponded with minimum underwater vocalizations. Consequently, sampling the vocal behaviour of pinnipeds may be used to determine their diurnal haulout pattern. This underwater vocalization rate potentially may be used to calculate a series of hourly correction factors that compensate for submerged seals not seen during a census.
In search of a reference protein to replace "vitamin-free casein" in lobster nutrition studies
Authors: Boghen Andrew D. , Castell John D. , Conklin Douglas E.
Published: August 2008

The possible nutritional value of proteins prepared by isopropanol extraction of soft flesh of the sea urchin (Strongylocentrotus drobachiensis), mussels (Mytilus edulis L.), crab (Cancer irroratus), and shrimp tails (Penaeus sp.) was compared with casein in semipurified diets for juvenile lobsters. So that results of the feeding trial could be compared with other nutrition studies, a standard casein–albumin diet and frozen adult brine shrimp (Artemia salina) were fed as reference diets. While diets containing crab, mussel, and sea urchin protein all resulted in significantly greater survival than the casein-based diet, the diet containing crab protein alone was superior in both growth and survival. The diet consisting of shrimp protein was inferior to casein in all respects. The possibility of replacing casein with a crab protein isolate in reference diets for lobster nutrition studies is discussed.
Feeding territoriality in migrant rufous hummingbirds: defense of yellow-bellied sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) feeding sites
Authors: Sutherland Glenn D. , Gass Clifton Lee , Thompson Peter A. , Lertzman Kenneth P.
Published: August 2008

Postbreeding migrant rufous hummingbirds (Selasphorus rufus) establish feeding territories in several habitats at Grizzly Lake, CA. Here we describe hummingbird territorial defense of tree sap made available by sapsucker feeding activity. Territorial hummingbirds fed almost exclusively on sap obtained on their territories, and they remained on the same territories for up to 6 days. The amount of energy produced on each territory was in excess of our estimates of hummingbird energy expenditures; sapsuckers, other birds, insects and small mammals remove almost all of the surplus. Comparisons of the time budgets of birds defending tree sap with those of territorial individuals in nearby habitats showed that these birds spent less time foraging and more time perching than birds in even high-quality subalpine meadows. Sap is thus a rich, easily defendable resource that may be of general value to temperate-zone hummingbirds. Utilization of sap may allow individuals to avoid critical, unpredictable energy shortages while migrating and may permit populations to exploit habitats that would otherwise be unavailable.
Evidence that fidelity to natal breeding colony is not absolute in female snow geese
Authors: Geramita Joan M. , Cooke Fred
Published: August 2008

A sharp increase in population size, a lower than expected proportion of marked birds, and the utilization of new nesting areas led to the hypothesis that there was a large number of nonnative female snow geese breeding at La Pérouse Bay, Man., in 1978. Evidence is presented that the unmarked birds nesting in the new area differ significantly from the rest of the colony in clutch size and initiation date. The alternate hypothesis, that there was extraordinary recruitment from the young of the colony in 1978, is shown to have consequences in contradiction to the data.
Experimental studies on the life cycle of a renal coccidium of lesser snow geese (Anser c. caerulescens)
Authors: Gajadhar A. A. , Cawthorn R. J. , Rainnie D. J.
Published: August 2008

Lesser snow geese (Anser c. caerulescens), gadwall (Anas strepera), mallards (A. platyrhynchos), and blue-winged teal (A. discors) were raised artificially under minimal coccidiosis conditions (no coccidia were found in their feces prior to infection). Oocysts were obtained from the ureters of heavily infected wild juvenile lesser snow geese, sporulated, and orally administered to experimental birds. In lesser snow geese, oocysts were passed in the feces, beginning on postinoculation day (PID) 9 ± 1 and continuing for a further 34–35 days. Peak oocyst production occurred on PID 11 and 12. The morphology of the oocyst was described. Pathogenic effects on experimentally infected lesser snow geese included mild diarrhoea, slight anorexia, polydipsia, and increased salt gland discharge. Kidneys were enlarged, pale, and covered with 1- to 2-mm whitish nodules which, along with the ureters and lumina of renal tubules, contained many oocysts. This coccidium did not produce patent infections in the ducks listed above. Domestic geese (Anser anser domesticus), infected with numbers of oocysts similar to those used for lesser snow geese, passed few oocysts, beginning on PID 11 and continuing for a few days. Because of the inconsistencies in reports of Eimeria truncata in waterfowl, further study is essential before the species identity is determined.
Observations on digeneans from lizards (Sauria) in Indonesia (Paradistomum geckonum, Mesocoelium sociale, and Postorchigenes ovatus) with a revision of Paradistomum Kossack, 1910 (Dicrocoeliidae)
Authors: Killick L. M. , Beverley-Burton M.
Published: August 2008

An emended diagnosis for Paradistomum (syn. Paradistomoides) (Dicrocoeliidae) is given and Paradistomum geckonum is redescribed. Paradistomum geckonum occurred in the gallbladder or bile duct of Hemidactylus frenatus, Cosymbotus platyurus, Gehyra mutilata, Gekko gecko, Calotes versicolor, and Takydromus sexlineatus. Taxonomic characters used to separate P. geckonum from other Paradistomum spp. are evaluated and the effects of two different fixation techniques compared. Of the species occurring in Southeast Asian lizards, P. gregarinum, P. oroterminosus, P. paloensis, P. medius, P. brevis, and P. laruei are made synonyms of P. geckonum; P. mutabile, P. indica, P. samoensis, P. orientalis, P. spatulatus (n. comb.), and P. mujibi (n. comb.) are considered valid species and the taxonomic status of P. ceratophorae, P. excalotes, P. intestinalis (n. comb.), P. lanceolatus (n. comb.), P. diminutus (n. comb.), P. intermedius (n. comb.), P. elongatus (n. comb.), and P. hemidactylus (n. comb.) should be clarified as new material becomes available. Postorchigenes ovatus (Lecithodendriidae) occurred in the small intestine of the first four hosts listed above; Mesocoelium sociale (Brachycoeliidae) occurred in the small intestine or stomach of all hosts listed above except G. mutilata and T. sexlineatus, and was the only digenean found in Mabuya multifasciata. No digeneans were found in H. bowringi, H. garnoti, Draco volans, or Lygosoma spp. Gekko gecko was a new host record for all three parasites and C. platyurus for M. sociale and P. ovatus. Other new host records were C. versicolor and T. sexlineatus for P. gregarinum, H. frenatus for M. sociale, and G. mutilata for P. ovatus. All infections constitute new geographic records. Morphometric data are presented in tabular form for all three species.
Trypanosoma ontarioensis n.sp. and T. paddae from Corvus brachyrhynchos brachyrhynchos in Ontario, Canada, with notes on the biology of T. ontarioensis n.sp.
Authors: Woo Patrick T. K. , Bartlett Cheryl M.
Published: August 2008

Two morphologically distinct trypanosomes (Trypanosoma ontarioensis n.sp. and Trypanosoma paddae) were found by the haematocrit centrifuge technique in the blood of 53% (64 of 121) of Corvus brachyrhynchos brachyrhynchos wintering in southern Ontario. Trypanosoma ontarioensis n.sp. is a small trypanosome with subterminal kinetoplast. It is monomorphic and not host specific. It was readily cultured in diphasic blood-agar medium. Two-week cultures were infective and contained dividing sphaeromastigotes, epimastigotes, and trypomastigotes. Blood trypomastigotes were detected in low numbers in the blood of inoculated birds (Corvus brachyrhynchos brachyrhynchos, Bonasa umbellus, Gallus domesticus, Melopsittacus undulatus, and Serinus canarius) at 28 and 48 days postinfection. The crows, ruffed grouse, and domestic chicks were laboratory raised while the budgerigars and canaries were from pet stores. One canary that was further examined at 180, 360, 540, 730, and 910 days postinfection still had detectable numbers of trypanosomes in its blood.
Differential filtration efficiencies of Daphnia pulex
Authors: Osgood Richard A.
Published: August 2008

When three green algae Chlorella pyrenoidosa, Ankistrodesmus falcatus, and Closterium acerosum (Chlorophyta) were presented to Daphnia pulex in a mixture, these cells were ingested differentially; filtering rates were 1.30, 2.79, and 7.53 mL∙animal−1 h−1, respectively. Filtration rates on each of these algal species presented singly at equivalent (biovolume) food concentrations were not significantly different (p > 0.05) from the rates measured in a mixture. The algal cells for the feeding trials were individually labeled with metal tracers (Fe, Mn, and Zn) and this technique is compared with a radioactive label (32P). The differential filtration efficiencies are viewed as a passive selection mechanism resulting in preferential ingestion of larger food cells and is simply related to the physical properties of Daphnia's filtration system.
The induction of sexual reproduction in Daphnia magna: genetic differences between arctic and temperate populations
Authors: Ferrari Denise C. , Hebert Paul D. N.
Published: August 2008

Even when provided with abundant food and grown in isolation, Daphnia magna from arctic Canada responds to declining photoperiods by producing male and then ephippial offspring. In contrast, clones of English origin do not alter their reproductive behaviour when exposed to photoperiod shifts. Hybrid clones show an intermediate response in terms of ephippial egg production, but a variable response in male production. The results indicate that variation exists at gene loci controlling sexual behaviour in local populations as well as between distant populations. The significance of this variation is discussed in relation to the environmental heterogeneity encountered by D. magna over its extensive range.
Systematic relationship of parapatric tree squirrel species (Tamiasciurus) in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Lindsay Stephen L.
Published: August 2008

Phenetic analysis of 20 cranial characters was used in an evaluation of the systematics of two Pacific Northwest tree squirrels, Tamiasciurus douglasii and T. hudsonicus. Although these species are predominantly allopatric, there exist at least three zones of sympatry along a parapatric border in British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. Two populations of supposedly hybrid squirrels have been described, and these were evaluated in relation to allopatric populations of both species from throughout the area. Principal components analysis, clustering of taxonomic distance coefficients, and discriminant analysis showed a strong morphologic distinctness between the two species. These analyses also consistently placed "hybrid" specimens with one species or the other and gave no indication of intergradation. The Pleistocene glacial history of the Pacific Northwest is used to explain the divergence of the two species as well as the formation of the parapatric species border. In addition, postglacial character convergence in pelage coloration and squirrel size in forest areas allowing noncompetitive coexistence is used to explain the apparent hybrids and to account for the disjunct Vancouver Island distribution of T. douglasii-like T. hudsonicus. It is concluded that with the lack of hybridization and the presence of character convergence in zones of sympatry, reproductive isolation between T. douglasii and T. hudsonicus is complete.
Diorchis pelagicus sp.nov. (Cestoda: Hymenolepididae) from the Whiskered Auklet, Aethia pygmaea, and the Crested Auklet, A. cristatella, in the Western Aleutian Islands, Alaska
Authors: Hoberg Eric P.
Published: August 2008

Diorchis pelagicus sp.nov. (Cestoda: Hymenolepididae) is described from whiskered auklets, Aethia pygmaea (Gmelin), and reported from a crested auklet, A. cristatella (Pallas), in Alaska. The species can be distinguished from others of the genus Diorchis Clerc, 1903 by the small size of the scolex (armed with 10 hooks, 35–41 μm in length), strobila, and most internal organs. A combination of characters including suckers without spines, a relatively long cirrus sac, a cylindrical cirrus lacking a basal bulb and armed with 12–20 longitudinal rows of minute spines measuring 1–2 μm, a globular to bilobed ovary, and ovoid eggs without filaments further distinguish this species from its congeners. In addition, the longitudinal musculature of the cirrus sac appears to be unique for members of the genus. This is the first report of cestodes of the genus Diorchis from pelagic seabirds, and is the first record of any cestode from birds of the genus Aethia Merrem.
Distribution and movements of West Indian humpback whales in winter
Authors: Whitehead Hal , Moore Michael J.
Published: August 2008

The humpback whales which winter in the West Indies are principally found over banks which are at latitudes between 10° and 22° N, have substantial areas of flat bottom between 15 and 60 m deep, and lie less than 30 km from the North Atlantic 2000 m contour. The surface sea temperatures in these areas are between 24 and 28 °C. The major concentrations of the humpbacks, which feed little in winter, are on Silver and Navidad banks. On Silver Bank the humpback and humpback song densities peak in the centre of the Bank. Mothers with calves are generally found in areas of calm water, and singers are found over areas with a flat bottom, where they meander slowly. Larger groups move considerably faster and in straighter lines. There is no evidence of whales possessing particular movement patterns, preferred ranges, or territories within the Bank. The concentration of humpbacks may be a significant feature for other humpbacks.
Nest-site characteristics of the avian community in the dune-ridge forest, Delta Marsh, Manitoba: a multivariate analysis
Authors: MacKenzie David I. , Sealy Spencer G. , Sutherland Glenn D.
Published: August 2008

Nest-site characteristics of nine bird species breeding in high densities in the dune-ridge forest at Delta Marsh, Manitoba, were analyzed using multivariate techniques. Varimax-rotated principal component analysis of the entire set of nest-site variables suggested partitioning of the data into nest-habitat and nest-tree subsets. Discriminant analysis of nest-habitat variables confirmed the ambiguous nature of species relationships in the factor analysis. Discriminant analysis of nest-tree variables identified three distinct groups of species, based primarily on vertical stratification. The existence of these groups and their memberships were supported by similar results derived from discriminant analysis of the entire nest-site data set. Within these groups, pairs of species showed sufficient similarity in nest sites to warrant detailed investigation.
The incidence of twins in pinnipeds
Authors: Spotte Stephen
Published: August 2008

The incidence of twins in pinnipeds is reviewed. Correspondence and a literature search revealed 42 documented cases involving 11 species (six phocids, five otariids). The greatest incidence was found in the grey seal and northern fur seal (7 and 11 cases, respectively). Two verified sets of triplets are known, both delivered by a single, captive grey seal. The odds of both pups of a viable twin birth surviving are slim. Both adoptive suckling and the suckling of two pups occur in some phocids, and the chances that twins will be reared are perhaps greater in these species. Neither behavior has been observed in otariids in the wild; however, a California sea lion that gave birth to twins in captivity suckled both pups until one was removed on day 15. Only two sets of twins (one set each of grey seals and harbor seals) are known to have survived to weaning, and both were captive born. The reproductive biology of pinnipeds does not favor twins, and their occurrence is rare, but probably not so rare as currently believed, because many observations are not published.
A field evaluation of frogs as a potential source of secondary organophosphorus insecticide poisoning
Authors: Powell G. V. N. , DeWeese L. R. , Lamont T. G.
Published: August 2008

Because amphibians are relatively resistant to organophosphorus insecticides and can bioaccumulate residues to high levels, they may be a source of secondary poisoning for vertebrates that feed on them. This hypothesis was tested by determining residues in breeding upland chorus frogs Pseudacris triseriata, that were collected from ponds treated with the organophosphorus insecticide fenthion. Frogs were collected up to 3-days posttreatment in four areas that were treated with fenthion formulated in either diesel oil or water. No residues of fenthion were detected above the 0.01 ppm level of analytical sensitivity. These results indicate that the frogs were not a likely source of secondary poisoning for predatory vertebrates.
Emergence, population densities, and growth of salmon and trout fry in two New Brunswick streams
Authors: Randall Robert G.
Published: August 2008

Postemergent downstream dispersal of Atlantic salmon fry (Salmo salar) was monitored using drift samplers during spring 1978 in two Miramichi River, N.B., tributaries. Catch rates of salmon fry peaked during the 2nd and 3rd weeks of June in both streams, coinciding with peak emergence of the salmon from the gravel. Very few trout fry (Salvelinus fontinalis) were captured in the drift nets, but electrofishing results indicated trout emergence preceded salmon by about 3 weeks.The earlier emergence of the trout gave them an early growth advantage over the salmon, so that trout fry were usually larger than salmon fry inhabiting the same stream areas. Early growth rates of both salmon and trout were quite varied among four stream sites during 2 years when growth was monitored; growth differences were discussed in relation to stream temperatures and density-dependent growth. Salmon fry were more abundant than trout fry at most sites in both years.
Escape behaviour of the pea aphid Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) in response to alarm pheromone and vibration
Authors: Clegg J. M. , Barlow C. A.
Published: August 2008

Pea aphids respond most effectively to the threat of a predator by walking away or dropping from their host plant. Simulating threat by using vibration and alarm pheromone, both separately and together, we found no evidence that escape responses are heritable, nor that individual aphids have characteristic escape behaviours. On the contrary, the amount of alarm pheromone influenced responses: the more pheromone, the more likely an immediate and effective escape. Vibration preceding alarm pheromone greatly increased responsiveness to pheromone, and aphids were more responsive to pheromone after vibration when feeding on stems than when feeding on the undersides of leaves.
Metazoan parasites of three species of scoter (Anatidae)
Authors: Bourgeois Charles E. , Threlfall William
Published: August 2008

One hundred and seventy-five (94 surf, 36 white-winged, and 45 black) scoters obtained from four localities (New Brunswick, British Columbia, Labrador, and Norway) in 1973–1978 were examined for metazoan parasites, with 91% (159 birds: 86 surf, 33 white-winged, and 40 black scoters) being infected. Approximately 45 species of parasites, excluding cestodes, were found (36 from the surf, 25 from the white-winged, and 27 from the black), including 39 which were new host records. Quantitative data, including prevalence and intensity of infection, are given for each helminth and host. Comparisons between different ages and sexes are made, and between different host species. Individual species of parasites are discussed with regard to topics such as location within host. Comments are made on the geographical distribution of the parasites found and their life cycles, where known (seven cycle through the marine ecosystem, seven through freshwater, four through either system, and one through a dipteran).
Functions of female aggression during the pupping and mating season of grey seals, Halichoerus grypus (Fabricius)
Authors: Boness Daryl J. , Anderson Sheila S. , Cox Cathleen R.
Published: August 2008

Aggression of female grey seals Halichoerus grypus toward conspecifics was studied during the pupping and mating season on Sable Island, N.S. The responses of 65 individually identified females with pups toward known males and females were recorded throughout each female's stage of lactation. Female aggression varied both quantitatively and qualitatively as a function of the sex of an approaching animal. Males were threatened more often than females even though females outnumbered males. The likelihood of females threatening other females was affected by the location of the threatening female's pup, but aggression towards males was not affected by the pup's position. Females responded aggressively less often in the second half of lactation, when both weaning of the pup and oestrus occur, than in the first half. They were also more likely to threaten transient males than tenured males. However, a male approaching or mounting a female, whatever his status, was more likely to be challenged by another male if the female threatened him than if she did not. These challenges generally interrupted a male's approach or mount and hence a potential copulation. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that female aggression during the lactation period helps to protect the pup and increases the likelihood that a female mates with a dominant male. This latter function may be viewed as a form of mate choice.
Temperature-sensitive mutations affecting cortical morphogenesis and cell division in Paramecium tetraurelia
Authors: Jones Donald , Berger James D.
Published: August 2008

Nine temperature-sensitive gene mutations affecting cellular morphogenesis were analysed and shown to be single recessive genes. Their phenotypes fall into three classes: small mutants (sm) which interfere with cell surface and basal body proliferation to produce short cells; defective fission zone mutants (dfz) which do not form a complete fission zone during cell division; and defective constriction mutants (dc) which form a normal fission zone, but do not constrict properly. In sm2 cells there is a reduction in the number of basal bodies and in the amount of cell surface produced preceding fission. This results in the production of truncated daughter cells in which most of the normal structures of either the anterior or posterior part of the cell are highly reduced or missing. Production of basal bodies in gullet primordia is also abnormal. The dfz mutants act early in the fission process to block the formation of the fission zone which precedes the formation of the fission furrow. The dc mutations act later in the fission process and lead to failure of daughter cell separation. One mutant, dc3, also shows slightly reduced proliferation of cell surface. This defect occurs prior to fission.
Evaluating the sterile male method on Red-winged Blackbirds: effects of the chemosterilant thiotepa on the reproduction of clinically treated birds under field conditions
Authors: Potvin Normand , Bergeron Jean-Marie , Norman Mark , Cyr André
Published: August 2008

In 1978 and 1979, spring blackbird flocks composed of Red-winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles, and Brown-headed Cowbirds reached a maximum of 5000 birds in the study area. Red-winged Blackbirds accounted for a majority of birds in these flocks. Flocking lasted approximately 1 month leaving ample time for a field application of the chemosterilization method. Three sets of experiments were used to examine the feasibility and the potential of the sterile male method to reduce productivity of Red-winged Blackbird populations. Birds treated by gavage at a rate of 3.1 mg thiotepa/kg body weight had a hatching rate of 32.7%. This was significantly lower than that found in control groups (79.8 to 90.0%). The second treatment, which consisted of feeding redwings with treated corn for 4 consecutive days, thus causing a mean daily ingestion of 3.58 mg thiotepa/kg body weight, produced a hatching rate of 55.6%. The third treatment, like the second but lasting 10 consecutive days, resulted in a daily ingestion by blackbirds of 4.01 mg thiotepa/kg body weight. The hatching rate of this latter group was 46.3% and was significantly lower than that of the control group. Red-winged Blackbird testes weight remained stationary in the treated group for over 1 month after the beginning of the treatment. These experiments demonstrate that the sterilization approach in field conditions offers hope of reducing populations causing crop damage if proper field application methods are developed.
Territoriality and habitat selection of female snowy owls (Nyctea scandiaca) in winter
Authors: Boxall Peter C. , Lein M. Ross
Published: August 2008

Territoriality of snowy owls (Nyctea scandiaca) was investigated near Calgary, Alberta, in the winters of 1976–1977 and 1977–1978. Males appeared to be nomadic, although some individuals remained in small areas for periods of up to 17 days. Many females defended territories of 150–450 ha for periods of up to 80 days. Territories of females contained some habitats in excess of their proportion on the study area. This represents selection of habitats with high prey availability. Owls spent more time in such habitats than in resource-poor habitats within their territories. Territory size was inversely related to the proportion of stubble field and the amount of "edge" habitat bordering stubble fields, on the territories. These findings are consistent with an earlier hypothesis that the size of feeding territories is regulated to provide the territory holder with a constant level of food. Juvenile females defended larger territories than did adult females, with higher proportions of nonpreferred habitats. We suggest that these differences result from the inexperience of juveniles in selecting and defending optimal winter territories.
Systematic relationships of the Atractidae and Cosmocercidae (Nematoda: Cosmocercoidea): two new atractids parasitic in amphibians and fish
Authors: Baker M. R.
Published: August 2008

Raillietnema spectans Gomes, 1964 (Cosmocercinae) from Bufo paracnemis of Brazil is redescribed. The cephalic, oesophageal, and male caudal structures of this species are strikingly similar to Schrankiana freitasi n. sp. (Atractidae) from Leptodactylus pentadactylus of Brazil and Labeonema bainae n. sp. (Atractidae) from the fish Eutropius liberiensis of Gabon. Comparison of the cephalic, oesophageal, and female reproductive structures of the 21 genera of Atractidae reveals two primitive groups with characters suggesting an ancestral relationship with the didelphic Cosmocercinae: Schrankiana, Ibrahimia, Schrankianella, Labeonema with Cosmocercinae-like cephalic and oesophageal morphology, but monodelphic; and Probstmayria and Fitzsimmonsnema with a Cosmocercinae-like oesophagus and didelphic reproductive system, but with a modified cephalic end. A possible polyphyletic origin for the Atractidae cannot be excluded, although for the present the group remains classified as a single family distinguishable by its biology (viviparous) from the Cosmocercidae (oviparous).
Deretrema philippinensis n. sp. (Digenea: Zoogonidae) from Anomalops katoptron (Beryciformes: Anomalopidae) from the Philippines
Authors: Beverley-Burton M. , Early G.
Published: August 2008

Deretrema philippinensis n. sp. is proposed for zoogonid Digenea found in pairs in the gallbladder of 10 of 12 flashlight fish (Anomalops katoptron Bleeker) from the Philippines. Deretrema philippinensis is characterized by intestinal caeca extending posterior to the testes to the posterior one-fourth of body length; comparatively large oral and ventral suckers; ratio of oral sucker: ventral sucker, 1:1.18–1.36; ventral sucker equatorial; comparatively small testes situated at level of ventral sucker and extensive uterine coils in the preacetabular region. These features are used to separate D. philippinensis from the 17 described species currently assigned to Deretrema. The importance of some of the morphological features previously used in the separation of Deretrema spp. is briefly discussed.
Filarioid nematodes in the starling (Sturnus v. vulgaris L.) in southern Ontario, Canada, with a description of Eufilaria sturninus n.sp.
Authors: Bartlett Cheryl M.
Published: August 2008

A total of 58 starlings (Sturnus v. vulgaris L.) collected in southern Ontario, Canada, was examined for filarioid nematodes. Splendidofilaria caperata Hibler, 1964 was found in 5%, Cardiofilaria pawlowskyi Strom, 1937 in 5%, and Eufilaria sturninus n. sp. in 2%. The low prevalence of infection suggests that the three species are sporadic in starlings in southern Ontario. Eufilaria sturninus n. sp. most closely resembles E. longicaudata Hibler, 1964 but differs in that the microfilariae are longer, the tail of the male has two subterminal papillae, the tail of the female is shorter, and the proximal vagina has a thick cuticular inner wall.
Rumenfilaria andersoni n. gen., n. sp. (Nematoda: Filarioidea) in moose, Alces alces (L.), from northwestern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Lankester Murray W. , Snider J. Barry
Published: August 2008

Rumenfilaria andersoni n. gen., n. sp. from subserosal veins on the rumen of moose, Alces alces (L.), is distinguished from other Splendidofilariinae in mammals by a smooth cuticle; male caudal papillae in two longitudinal rows (three pairs preanal, one pair adanal, five pairs postanal); female didelphic with a rounded tail; vulva opening in posterior half of esophagus; sheathed microfilariae.
Oochoristica javaensis n. sp. (Eucestoda: Linstowiidae) from Gehyra mutilata and other gekkonid lizards (Lacertilia: Gekkonidae) from Java, Indonesia
Authors: Kennedy Murray J. , Killick Lyn M. , Beverley-Burton M.
Published: August 2008

Oochoristica javaensis n. sp. is described from the intestines of geckoes, Gehyra mutilata (type host), Cosymbotus platyurus, and Hemidactylus frenatus from Bogor, Java, Indonesia. The seven species of Oochoristica described from geckoes (Gekkonidae) are divided into two groups according to the number of testes present (20–35, and >40). Oochoristica javaensis n. sp., with 20–35 testes, is distinguished from three of the four species in this group in having smaller acetabula and from O. jodhpurensis (the only species in this group with smaller acetabula) in having larger cirrus sacs, gravid segments, and oncospheres. These last-named features serve to further separate O. javaensis n. sp. from other species of Oochoristica. The prevalence and worm burden of O. javaensis n. sp. in seven species of lizards (Lacertilia) collected in Java, Indonesia is provided.
Two new Phallodriline genera of marine Oligochaeta (Annelida: Tubificidae) from the Pacific Northeast
Authors: Baker H. R.
Published: August 2008

Nootkadrilus gen. nov. is characterized by an ental atrial modification, modified penial setae, and stalked posterior prostate glands. Nootkadrilus compressus sp. nov., N. verutus sp. nov., N. grandisetosus sp. nov., N. hamatus sp. nov., N. gracilisetosus sp. nov., and N. frigidus (Brinkhurst, 1971) comb. nov. are separated by shape and numbers of penial setae as well as by details of the atrial and spermathecal systems. Discordiprostatus gen. nov. is established for D. longisetosus (Brinkhurst and Baker, 1979) comb. nov. which is characterized by an anterior diffuse prostate, modified penial setae, and stalked posterior prostate glands. Both Nootkadrilus gen. nov. and Discordiprostatus gen. nov. are included in the subfamily Phallodrilinae. The definition of the Phallodrilinae is modified to include species with both diffuse and stalked prostate glands.
A new species of Glauconycteris from the east coast of Kenya (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae)
Authors: Peterson R. L.
Published: August 2008

A unique specimen of Glauconycteris differs from any known species of bat in colour, facial markings, and cranial characteristics and is diagnosed as a new species.
Fish hosts of four species of lampsiline mussels (Mollusca: Unionidae) in Big Moccasin Creek, Virginia
Authors: Zale Alexander V. , Neves Richard J.
Published: August 2008

Collections of stream drift and fishes were made weekly from May to November 1979 and twice monthly from December 1979 to June 1980 to define the periods when glochidia of four mussel species (subfamily Lampsilinae) were in the drift or attached to host fishes. Representatives of all families and most genera of fishes in the stream, including all naturally infected species, were artificially exposed in the laboratory to glochidia of the four species to enable positive identification of host species. The lampsiline mussels displayed a high degree of host specificity. The host fishes were as follows: Villosa nebulosa, smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieui), and rock bass (Ambloplites rupestris); Villosa vanuxemi, banded sculpin (Cottus carolinae); Medionidus conradicus, redline darter (Etheostoma rufilineatum), and fantail darter (E. flabellare); and Lampsilis fasciola, smallmouth bass. Periods of natural infestation on fishes corresponded with the occurrence of glochidia in the drift and were different for each mussel species. Duration of the period of attachment on host fishes in the laboratory depended on mussel species, water temperature, and the time when glochidia were obtained from gravid female mussels.
Age and growth of the fallfish Semotilus corporalis with daily otolith increments as a method of annulus verification
Authors: Victor Benjamin C. , Brothers Edward B.
Published: August 2008

Daily increments were found in the otoliths of the fallfish Semotilus corporalis from three stream populations in central New York. By counting these increments one can verify annual marks and validate other less precise methods of aging. Results suggested that a false first annulus was observed in the only previous study of fallfish age and growth. Annual growth in length is shown to be linear. All three populations' growth rates were significantly different. Furthermore, the difference among these local populations can account for much of the.variability in the rate of growth exhibited throughout the species' range. It is therefore proposed that the nature of the local habitat, in particular the size of the stream and the density of conspecifics, may be the major determinant of the rate of growth in the fallfish.
The influence of Polydora websteri borings on the strength of the shell of the sea scallop, Placopecten magellanicus
Authors: Bergman K. M. , Elner R. W. , Risk M. J.
Published: August 2008

The effect of spionid worm, Polydora websteri, infestation on the strength of shell valves of the sea scallop, Placopecten magellanicus, was investigated in relation to valve weight and degree of bioerosion. Compression tests indicated that the strength of upper valves increased with weight but were weakened in proportion to the degree of P. websteri induced bioerosion. Strength of the lower valves tested increased with weight and appeared largely independent of bioerosion. Scallop shells weakened by P. websteri boring are more vulnerable to crushing by predatory decapods.
Données préliminaires sur la présence de lignes d'arrêt de croissance périostiques dans la mandibule du marsouin commun, Phocoena phocoena (L.), et leur utilisation comme indicateur de l'âge
Authors: Buffrenil V. de
Published: August 2008

Sharply defined growth lines are revealed by hematoxylin staining of thin sections of mandibular periosteal bone of the harbour porpoise, Phocoena phocoena (L.). The comparison of these lines to dentinal growth layer groups (GLG) suggests that they are deposited at the rate of one per annum. In this species, bone growth lines allow more reliable and much more complete age determinations than do dentinal GLG's. The actual longevity of the harbour porpoise, as determined by growth lines in bone, is at least 21 years.
Echolocation assemblages and their effects on moth auditory systems
Authors: Fullard James H.
Published: August 2008

I analyzed the auditory characteristics of a variety of tympanate moths from areas representing low and high levels of bat (= echolocation signal) diversity. Moths sampled in two African (high diversity) sites reveal significantly higher sensitivities than those analyzed at an Ontario site (low diversity). These sensitivities are particularly pronounced at both low-frequency (5–25 kHz) and high-frequency (80–110 kHz) ranges. I suggest these auditory differences are due to the corresponding increased sensory requirements of tropical moths having to cope with a greater density and diversity of bats (predation pressure) present there.
Seasonal changes in weight gain, growth hormone, and thyroid hormones in male red deer (Cervus elaphus atlanticus)
Authors: Ryg Morten , Langvatn Rolf
Published: August 2008

To elucidate possible endocrine mechanisms in the control of the weight cycle of red deer, we recorded seasonal changes in the concentrations of growth hormone (GH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3) in serum. T3 and T4 were analyzed with specific radioimmunoassays, GH was analyzed with a hetereologous radioimmunoassay. Changes in the levels of these hormones were compared with changes in weight gain. T3 levels were high in summer and low in winter, corresponding to changes in weight gain. Peak values (1.75–4.82 nmol/L) were found in May or June, nadirs occurred in April (0.22–1.78 nmol/L) or October–November (0–1.19 nmol/L). GH levels increased to peak values, 20–53 ng/mL, in April to June, but were low during most of the period of fast weight gain. There were no consistent changes in T4 levels corresponding to the weight cycle. We conclude that the GH peaks following the casting of old antlers may be related to the onset of antler growth. Seasonal changes in T3 levels may be secondary to changes in food intake.
Enchytraeidae (Oligochaeta) from taiga and tundra habitats of northeastern U.S.S.R.
Authors: Piper Stephen R. , MacLean Stephen F. , Christensen Bent
Published: August 2008

The terrestrial Enchytraeidae were studied at two sites in northeastern U.S.S.R., one in taiga forest (Magadan) and one in tundra (Chaun Bay). Twenty-two taxa are reported, 13 at Magadan and 17 at Chaun Bay. Following review of the original descriptions and specimens, we designate Mesenchytraeus primaeuus Eisen, 1878 as type species for the genus. Five new species of Mesenchytraeus are described: M. diverticulatus from Magadan and M. chaunus, M. tundrus, M. kontrimavichusi, and M. svetae from Chaun Bay. Mesenchytraeus diverticulatus has an esophageal expansion and intestinal diverticula that are unique within this genus. Another new species with complex nephridia in segment II is described, but left in uncertain generic position. Henlea diverticulata Cejka, 1912, known previously only from the New Siberian Islands, occurred at Chaun Bay. Bryodrilus arctica (Bell, 1962), known only from St. Lawrence Island, was found at both Magadan and Chaun Bay. The other species are circumboreal in distribution. The Enchytraeid fauna of northeastern U.S.S.R. is similar to that of arctic and subarctic Alaska. The rich complement of species of Mesenchytraeus is a unique feature of the Beringeal region. Both abundance and species richness were higher in tundra than in taiga forest.
Distribution and abundance of terrestrial gastropods on a winter range of bighorn sheep in southwestern Alberta
Authors: Boag D. A. , Wishart W. D.
Published: August 2008

Living specimens of 15 species of terrestrial gastropods (14 snails and 1 slug) were collected on a series of plots located in a variety of habitats associated with a winter range of bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) in southwestern Alberta. Four species of snails (Vertigo gouldi, Discus cronkhitei, Vitrina alaskana, and Euconulus fulvus) constituted ca. 85% of all living specimens recorded in 1979, 1980, and 1981. However, the relative abundance of the last three species changed markedly between years. Based on the size of living individuals recovered over the snow-free season, only one snail (Vitrina alaskana) and the slug (Deroceras laeve) appeared to be annual species; the other common snails appear to live more than 1 year. The distribution of gastropods was correlated with the vegetative cover; maximum abundance was found within forested areas where deciduous tree or shrub growth was a major component of the canopy. The implications of the distribution and abundance of these molluscs for the transmission of lungworms to bighorn sheep is discussed.
The growth of Tipula larvae with particular reference to the head capsule (Diptera: Tipulidae)
Authors: Pritchard Gordon
Published: August 2008

Larvae of Tipula paludosa, under favorable conditions of temperature, food, and photoperiod, grow continuously throughout the first three larval stages and into the fourth. At 21 °C and 16 h light: 8 h dark regime, larval growth slowed markedly after about 20 days into the fourth stage, but imaginal leg and wing bud development continued for more than another 50 days. The invaginated portions of the larval head capsule show the same pattern of growth as the rest of the body. It is proposed that hemicephaly and restricted sclerotization allow tipulid larvae to grow to large size with relatively few molts, but that molting is necessary to increase the size of the feeding apparatus.
A faunistic and ecological survey of the littoral Cladocera of Canada
Authors: Chengalath R.
Published: August 2008

A total of 356 samples was collected and analysed from all the provinces and Northwest Territories of Canada. Nearly 2000 microscopic slides, mostly identified to the level of species, representing the littoral Cladocera of Canada were prepared. The samples, slides, and sorted populations are deposited in the Invertebrate collection of the National Museum of Natural Sciences, Ottawa, and form an objective standard for the identification of these animals for the interested biologist. During this study, 80 taxa of littoral cladocerans were recorded which includes all the species reported from Canada so far. Of these, three species are new to science. The distribution of species in Canada is given, providing several new occurrence records in the provinces and showing regional trends in the distribution. Outstanding taxonomic and morphological features, and the variation exhibited by some species are discussed. The differences between North American populations and European populations of some species are noted. The relationship between pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and the diversity of littoral cladocerans as well as the substrate preferences exhibited by them, during this survey, are also discussed. Past Canadian records of chydorid cladocerans are critically examined and a list of species that have subsequently been synonymized or are of dubious validity is given.
Synthesis of lipids by the rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) ovary in vitro
Authors: Wiegand Murray D. , Idler David R.
Published: August 2008

Lipogenesis was examined in rainbow trout ovaries by monitoring the in vitro incorporation of [1-14C]acetate into various lipid classes. Label was incorporated primarily into polar lipids in fish with a gonadosomatic index less than 0.15, and primarily into triglycerides in fish undergoing ovarian recrudescence. A substantial proportion of incorporated label was recovered in fatty alcohols, especially in recrudescent fish. The results support the contention that teleost oocytes can synthesize lipids and demonstrates that ovarian lipogenesis can continue well into the "exogenous vitellogenesis" stage of development.