bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gentic Differentiation, Hybridization and Reproductive Isolation in Mygalopsis marki Bailey (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae)
Authors: Dadour IR , Johnson MS
Published: June 2005

Differentiation between northern and southern populations of M. marki was revealed for the sex- linked enzyme PGM, the autosomal enzyme LGGP, and the number of teeth on the stridulatory file. Northern populations are fixed for the PGMb allele, and possess the LGGPd allele at moderate frequencies, whereas southern populations are fixed for PGMa and lack LGGPd. Northern populations also have lower mean numbers of teeth. A zone of overlap was indicated by two populations polymorphic for PGM. Within these populations, genotypic frequencies for both PGM (in females) and LGGP conform closely with Hardy-Weinberg expectations, implying random mating. Despite this, the unlinked PGM and LGGP are in strong linkage disequilibrium, with LGGPd found only with PGMb. Furthermore, the mean number of teeth is lower in PGMb than in PGMa males in the polymorphic populations. This association of genetically and functionally independent traits indicates that northern and southern gene pools are isolated, and that the area of overlap is a hybrid zone between two sibling species.
A Taxonomic Appraisal of the Genus Ningaui Archer (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae), including Description of a New Species
Authors: Kitchener DJ , Stoddart J , Henry J
Published: June 2005

Phenetic and phylogenetic analyses of skull morphology for 14 geographic groups of Ningaui indicate the existence of three species. Within species, both classifications show decreasing morphological similarity with increasing separation of geographic groupings. Sexual dimorphism is marked within each species. Discriminant analysis allows accurate identification of individuals to a species by means of skull characters, although this is not possible from external body characters.
An Electroporetic and Chromosomal Study of the Dasyurid Marsupial Genus Ningaui Archer
Authors: Baverstock PR , Adams M , Archer M , Mckenzie NL , How RA
Published: June 2005

Isozyme electrophoresis of 28 loci was used to characterize 30 specimens of Ningaui from four States of Australia. The specimens fall into three genetic groups, with large differences between groups (21-32% fixed differences) and genetic homogeneity within groups. One group, from the Pilbara of Western Australia, is referable to N. timealeyi; a second group, extending from the Kalgoorlie area of Western Australia to the far west of South Australia and north to the Tanami Desert of the Northern Temtory, is referable to N. ridei; and a third group extends from the Kalgoorlie area of Western Australia (where it is sympatric with N. ridei) across southern South Australia and into north-westem Victoria. Because the third group maintains its genetic uniqueness despite being sympatric with N. ridei, it clearly represents a different species, N. yvonnae Kitchener, Stoddart & Henry. This species is distinguishable from N. ridei on skull characters, but indistinguishable on external characters. In contrast to most dasyurids, ningauis display considerable karyotypic diversity involving a pericentric inversion, a reciprocal translocation and addition of constitutive heterochromatin to the X-chromosome.
Morphological observations on the Erthrocytes, Leukocytes and Platelets of Free-Living Platypuses, Ornithorhynchus anatinus (Shaw) (Monotremata : Ornithorhynchidae)
Authors: Canfield PJ , Whittington RJ
Published: June 2005

Blood was collected from the bill sinus of 10 healthy, mature platypuses captured in the Upper Shoalhaven River of New South Wales. Blood from all 10 animals was used for light microscopic morphometrical studies, and that from four of them was used for ultrastructural studies. The erythrocytes presented no unusual features and were similar to those described for other monotremes, marsupials and man. Platelets were of a mammalian type and uniform. Features of the leukocytes were compared and contrasted with those of other monotremes, marsupials, domestic mammals and man. Unusual features of the leukocytes of the platypus included the consistent presence of Dohle bodies within segmented neutrophils, and the nonsegmented nature of nuclei of eosinophils and basophils. Ultrastructural studies confirmed these findings.
Induction of Reproductive Dormancy in Australian Monarch Butterflies Danaus plexippus (L.)
Authors: James DG
Published: June 2005

Non-breeding cluster populations of Danaus plexippus (Danaidae) were monitored at five sites in the Sydney area of New South Wales for 5 years. Meteorological records showed that cluster formation was always preceded by periods of cool overcast weather, during which maximum temperatures remained below 18�C for at least 2 days. Field experiments were carried out to test the hypothesis that low post-eclosion temperatures cause reproductive dormancy in Australian D. plexippus. Butterflies were reared in the laboratory and on eclosion exposed to selected temperatures and photophases for 2-4 days before being tagged and released. Recapture data showed that high post-eclosion temperatures (19 or 28�C) inhibited long-distance flight and resulted in ovarian development, but low temperatures (15:6�C, 7:17 h) inhibited ovarian development and permitted long-distance flight. Intermediate temperatures (e.g. 15�C or 12�3�C continuously) gave mixed results. Photoperiod during or before the period of exposure to low temperature did not affect reproduction. The induction, maintenance and termination of reproductive dormancy in Australian D. plexippus are discussed.
Hybridization of 'White-headed' and 'Orange-winged' VAried Sittellas, Daphoenositta chrysoptera leucocephala and D.c. chrysoptera (Aves: Neosittidae), in Eastern Australia
Authors: Short LL , Schodde R , Noske RA , Horne J.F.M.
Published: June 2005

Hybridization between the sittellas Daphoenositta chrysoptera leucocephala and D.c. chrysoptera is analysed and defined from 59 recently obtained specimens of the two forms and their hybrids in south-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales, and from older museum specimens from those areas and adjacent regions. Characteristics of age and sexual variation are identified and taken into account in the analysis. A character index for crown colour plus supplemental traits affected by hybridization shows that a true, 250-km-wide hybrid zone connects chrysoptera and leucocephala, and that there is a graded shift in the features of sittellas across the Lone. The historical factors likely to have affected the distributional history and hybridization of the two taxa are reviewed.
The Genus Stenoperla McLachlan in Australia (Insecta: Plecoptera: Eustheniidae)
Authors: Theischinger G
Published: June 2005

Two strikingly different kinds of Stenoperla larvae are recorded from Australia. For this reason, and others, a subdivision of Australian Stenoperla into two species-groups (australis group, kuna group) is proposed. The following taxa are recognized within Australian Stenoperla: S. australis Tillyard, now known from south-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales; S. denise, sp. nov., from south-eastern Queensland and eastern New South Wales; S, kuna, sp. nov., from south-eastern New South Wales and Victoria; S. macrops, sp. nov., from the peaks of Mt Bartle Frere and the Bellenden Ker Range in northeastern Queensland; S. wongoonoo, sp. nov., with the typical subspecies in south-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales, and S. wongoonoo tropica, subsp. nov., in north-eastern Queensland. S. australis is redescribed from fresh material, the new taxa are described; all forms are figured. A key is presented for the identification of all known Stenoperla in Australia (adults and larvae).
New Species in the Australian Hydroptilidae (Trichoptera), with Observations on Relationships and Distributions
Authors: Wells A
Published: June 2005

Seventeen new species are described in five genera of Australian Hydroptilidae, bringing the total number now known to 97. Interest in the new species centres particularly on the extension of the distribution of the genus Maydenoptila to include south-west Western Australia and on the addition of five species to the highly divergent aberrans-group in Orthotrichia. Further new species are referred to Hellyethira, Orphninotrichia, Mulgravia and to other species-groups in Orthotrichia.
Karyotypic Evolution in Gehyra (Gekkonidae: Reptilia) III.* The Gehyra australis Complex
Authors: King M
Published: June 2005

A karyotypic analysis of the widely distributed Australian gekko Gehyra australis has revealed a complex of chromosome races. Each of these is fixed for a particular karyomorph, and is found over a geographically delimited distribution. The seven chromosome races differ by number, or chromosome morphology, and are defined as: 2n=44,2n=42a, 2n=42b, 2n=42c, 2n=40a, 2n=40b, 2n=38. In addition, a series of animals from these races possess novel chromosome rearrangements. A model for the evolution of this complex of races is proposed, and the relationship ofthese forms to each other and to members of the Gehyra variegata-punctata complex is discussed.
Revision of the Osmylid Subfamilies Porisminae and Eidoporisminae (Insecta:Neuoptera)
Authors: New TR
Published: June 2005

The single species constituting each of the osmylid subfamilies Porisminae [Porismus strigatus (Burmeister)] and Eidoporisminae (Eidoporismus pulchellus Esben-Petersen) are redescribed and figured. Both groups appear to be valid, and a key is given to subfamilies of Osmylidae in Australia.
Revision of the Australian Centipedes of the Genus Cormocephalus Newport (Chilopoda: Scolopendridae: Scolopendrinae)
Authors: Koch LE
Published: June 2005

Seventeen Australian species are recognized in the large genus Cormocephalus: aurantiipes, esulcatus, hartmeyeri, inermis, michaelseni, novaehollandiae, rubriceps. strigosus, turneri, wesfwoodi, and seven new species: bruchycerus, bungalbinensis, lissadellensis, monteithi, similis, spinosior, and west- angelusensis. All these species are described and keyed, and their distributions mapped.
A Taxonomic Study of the Centipede Genus Ethmostigmus Pocock (Chilopoda: Scolopendridae: Otostigminae) in Australia
Authors: Koch LE
Published: June 2005

Six species of Australian Ethmostigmus are recognized: E. rubripes (Brandt), and five new species, viz. E. curtipes, E. muiri, E. nudior, E. pachysoma, and E. parkeri. These species are described and keyed, and their distributions mapped.
Water and Sodium Intake, and Estimated Food Consumption, in Free-Living Eastern Quolls, Dasyurus Viverrinus.
Authors: Green B , Eberhard IH
Published: June 2005

Seasonal rates of water and sodium influx were estimated in free-living eastern quolls, Dasyurus viverrinus, in southern Tasmania, by means of tritiated water and 22Na turnover. Water and Na influxes were highly correlated and served as indices for estimating rates of food consumption. Influx rates were highest during winter and in late-stage lactating females in spring, indicating increased use of energy for thermogenesis and lactation. Comparative aspects of water turnover and metabolism in free-living marsupials are discussed.
Weight Changes and the Mode of Depot Fat Accumulation in Migratory Short Tailed Shearwaters
Authors: Lill A , Baldwin J
Published: June 2005

The time course of fat deposition in short-tailed shearwater breeding adults, immatures and chicks was determined by monitoring weight changes at the breeding site, and the relative importance of de novo fatty acid synthesis and direct incorporation of fatty acids from the diet was assessed by assaying enzymes associated with hepatic lipogenesis. Extensive fat deposition occurred only in the chicks during development, and all age classes deserted the breeding colony with relatively small reserves of depot fat. The absence of major changes in activities of hepatic lipogenic enzymes in the period between first land- fall in September and breeding site desertion indicates that fat deposition in all age classes occurs mainly through direct incorporation of fatty acids from the diet. Ecological and energetic implications of these findings are discussed.
Samll-Scle Patterns of Variation at the Sorbitol Dehydrogenase Locus in an Introduced Toad, Bufo marinus (Amphibia:Anura)
Authors: Harding R , Catterall CP
Published: June 2005

The spatial distribution of the sorbitol dehydrogenase (Sdh) isozymes in Bufo marinus at 33 localities in south-east Queensland was examined by zone electrophoresis of liver extract. There is significant heterogeneity in isozyme frequencies between localities. The distribution of the frequencies of these localities is non-random, as shown both by the Royaltey-Astrachan-Sokal t-test and by t-tests on spatial autocorrelation coefficients of the sdh*b frequencies. In order to assess the particular pattern type, the autocorrelation coefficients are plotted against increasing inter-locality distance, and a variation of Royaltey et al.'s 'double depression', comprising a 'peak' and a 'depression', is found to best describe the apparent pattern.
The colonization history of B. marinus in Queensland is examined for information about movement patterns and the age, in generations, of the population. The fit of the data to different microevolutionary models is evaluated, and a neutralist model of genetic drift is rejected. The data are consistent with an alternative neutralist model of founder events; however, insufficient evidence is available to assess any concurrent effects of natural selection on the observed small-scale pattern of geographic variation.
Gregarious Oviposition in Drosophila Melanogaster Is Explained by Surface Texture.
Authors: Atkinson WD
Published: June 2005

Laboratory experiments showed that the previously reported tendency of D. melanogaster females to lay their eggs close to other Drosophila eggs and larvae, was really a response to surface texture. Oviposition was encouraged by a rough surface, and the presence of eggs and larvae on smooth food medium provided sufficient surface texture to stimulate egg-laying. Such an effect would certainly not be significant in natural breeding sites.
An Hypothesis on the Evolution of Herpetostrongylinae (Trichostrongyloidea: Nematoda) in Australian Marsupials, and Their Relationships With Viannaidae, Parasites of South American Marsupials.
Authors: Humphery-Smith I
Published: June 2005

Herpetostrongylinae is redefined. A Woolleya-like parasite in Gondwanaland didelphoids is proposed as the ancestral stock of the Herpetostrongylinae parasitic in Australian marsupials. Three evolutionary lines are postulated for the radiation within the Herpetostrongylinae, each derived from a form resembling existing species of Woolleya Mawson, 1973, parasitic in Dasyuridae and Thylacinidae: (i) a short lineage restricted to Dasyuridae; (ii) Dasyuridae-Peramelidae and Myrmecobiidae, followed by re-invasion into Dasyuridae; (iii) Dasyuridae-Macropodidae-Potoroidae, Petauridae and Phalangeridea. W. hydromyos Mawson, 1973, and Paraustrostrongylus ratti Obendorf, 1979, are interpreted as secondary transfers of marsupial parasites to recent murid invaders. No evidence was found to support peramelid parasites giving rise to species parasitic in Diprotodontia. Herpetostrongylus and Vaucherus are considered as a distinct phylogenetic unit based on south-east Asia and parasitic in reptiles.
The Relative Importance of the Gills and Lungs in the Gas Exchange of Amphibious Crabs of the Genus Holthuisana
Authors: Greenaway P
Published: June 2005

Gill area increased with increasing body size in Holthuisana transversa (area in square millimetres equals 1946 times mass, in grams, to the power of 0.563). The increase in area was largely due to increase in the area of individual lamellae, at least over the size range studied (10-35 g). The area of the lungs was only 10% ofthe area ofthe gills but potentially these were at least as effective in gas exchange, due to their much shorter blood-gas diffusion distance. The volume of the lungs increased with body weight (volume in millilitres equals 0.043 times mass, in grams, to the power of 1.218), whilst tidal volume increased at a lower rate (tidal volume in millilitres equals 0.082 times mass to the power of 0.831) in the crabs examined (3-36 g).
The Structure and some Functional Aspects of the Eggshell of the Broad Shelled River Tortoise Chelodina expansa ( Testudinata: Chelidae)
Authors: Woodall PF
Published: June 2005

C. expansa eggs have a brittle calcareous shell composed of needle-like aragonite crystals which radiate from a central core to form conical shell units. The shell is attached to a multi-layered fibrous shell- membrane, the layers of which separate to form an air space at one end of the egg. Funnel-shaped pores occur at the junctions of some shell units. The shell is similar in thickness to that of comparable birds' eggs but the shell membrane is three times thicker. Pores are less dense at the poles of the egg than at equatorial regions but even here they are much less dense than in birds' eggs. Pore diameter is larger than in birds'eggs but this is largely due to the funnel-shape of the pores. Water vapour conductance is six times higher in C. expansa eggs than in comparable birds' eggs. This increase cannot be explained by a larger pore area but may result from water vapour conductance through cracks in the shell, which are frequently observed. The thicker shell-membrane may compensate for these cracks and the partial loss of the shell.
Correlations between Breeding Activity in the Marsupial Bandicoots and some Environmental Variables
Authors: Barnes A , Gemmell RT
Published: June 2005

The percentage of lactating females in wild populations of bandicoots, observed during each month of the year, has been correlated with the environmental variables of daylength, rainfall and temperature, and derivatives of these variables. Breeding activity recorded in four studies carried out in each of the eastern Australian states, Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, was examined. In all four studies, the proportion of lactating females was strongly correlated with the rate of change of minimum temperature, although in some studies rainfall and daylength showed some small additional associations. An analysis of the number of births in a housed captive population in Queensland similarly showed a stronger association of numbers of births to rate of change of minimum temperature than to any other environmental variable examined.
Gene Frequencies and Body Weights of Feral Cats, Felis catus (L.), from Five Australian Localities and from Macquarie Island
Authors: Jones E , Horton BJ
Published: June 2005

Frequencies of seven pelage-related genes and a coefficient of darkness were scored on groups of feral cats collected from five localities in south-eastern Australia and from Macquarie Island. There were significant differences in the frequencies of some of these genes and the coefficient of darkness between the various groups of cats. These differences were presumed to have been caused by the combined effects of natural selection, gene flow from surrounding domestic populations, and the founder effect. Significant differences in body weights of cats between some localities and for one coat colour allele were also found.
Colour Pattern Polymorphism in the Grasshopper Phaulacridium Vittatum. I. Geographic Variation in Victoria and Evidence of Habitat Association.
Authors: Dearn JM
Published: June 2005

The frequencies of the 3 colour pattern morphs (plain, striped and incomplete-striped) in samples of Phaulacridium vittatum (Sjost). from pasture sites in Victoria, Australia, did not conform to the pattern predicted by the latitudinal cline in morph frequencies previously described in south-eastern Australia. Data from 2 transects across pasture-forest boundaries revealed the existence of habitat associations, with forest habitats having a higher frequency of the plain morph. The proximity of some pasture populations to forests may explain some of the variation in morph frequencies observed among pasture sites. However, the frequency of the striped morph was relatively low in all the populations examined; this suggests that there are strong selective constraints on the frequency of striped individuals.
Effects of Ddt and Fenitrothion on Field-Collected Larvae of a Eucalypt-Defoliating Beetle, Paropsis Atomaria Ol. Ii. Effects of Treatment of the Host on the Parasitoids.
Authors: Tanton MT , Epila JSO
Published: June 2005

Treatment of larvae of Paropsis atomaria Ol. with DDT or fenitrothion resulted in the death of a larger proportion of parasitized than non-parasitized larvae. Larvae parasitized by Eadya paropsidis Huddleston & Short were more susceptible to the insecticides than those parasitized by tachinids, resulting in a markedly changed balance of parasitoids in survivors. After insecticide treatment of hosts, development and emergence of parasitoids from survivors were not affected. Nor were ovaries of parasitoids emerging from treated hosts different from those of controls. Although ovaries of Perilampus tasmanicus Cameron were not affected by the insecticides applied to the Paropsis larvae, they were affected by their host: whereas Perilampus adults from tachinid hosts were synovigenic, those from Eadya were not. Perilampus adults from Eadya also were lighter than those from tachinids, spent from twice to five times as long in the pupal stage, and, when they did emerge, tended to have deformed ovaries. Eadya suffered high mortality, even in controls. This mortality probably occurs in weaker hosts less able to support the level of parasitization, because hosts from which Eadya failed to pupate were lighter than those from which it pupated successfully.
The Effect of Temperature and Host Species on the Population Growth Potential of the Cowpea Aphid, Aphis Craccivora Koch (Homoptera: Aphididae).
Authors: Berg GN
Published: June 2005

Age-specific life and fecundity tables were compiled to determine the effect of temperature and host plant on the population growth potential of Aphis craccivora Koch. The intrinsic rate of natural increase (r*m) increased from zero at 5� to a maximum at 30�C, and then declined rapidly to zero at 35�C for aphids reared on all the host species tested. At 25�C aphids on Vicia faba showed a greater population growth potential than those on Capsella bursa-pastoris, followed by those on two Trifolium subterraneum cultivars and finally those on Medicago minima. An increase of temperature resulted in an earlier onset of mortality, irrespective of host-plant species. At higher temperatures the reproductive period began earlier and was shorter than at lower temperatures. The rate of reproduction appeared to be the key determinant in the aphid's population growth rate. The estimated lower temperature threshold of development of the aphid was 8.1�C.
Survival, Development Rates and Generation Times of the Queensland Fruit Fly, Dacus Tryoni, in a Marginally Favourable Climate: Experiments in Victoria.
Authors: O'loughlin GT , East RA , Meats A
Published: June 2005

The abundance of the Queensland fruit fly, Dacus tryoni (Froggatt), is greatest in the tropical-sub- tropical part of its range in Queensland and declines towards its southern extreme in Victoria, where conditions are not very favourable for survival in winter or for a rapid rate of increase in summer. The rate of detection of larval infestations and the level of trap catches of adults indicate that Melbourne (southern Victoria) has had a very low population of D. tryoni each summer for at least 8 years and probably for the last 30 years. Field cage studies in Melbourne, of cohorts started each month as eggs, pupae and teneral adults, indicated that adults emerging from mid-April to mid-May could survive to breed in the following spring. It appears that adults emerging earlier would not survive to produce eggs in spring, and that adults would not be expected to emerge later in autumn because the survival rates of larvae are very low and the survival rate of pupae is zero in winter months. Times taken for cohorts to develop from egg to pupariation, from egg to adult emergence and from egg to adult maturity agreed with the predictions ofthe model of Meats (1981) using temperatures prevailing over the study period. A continuing culture established in a field cage in northern Victoria achieved 3.7 generations in the 1981-82 season. The number and time span of generations also agreed with the predictions ofthe model. It is concluded that a permanent population in Melbourne would have two or sometimes three complete generations per year and never achieve a high density. However, populations in northern Victoria would have three or sometimes four complete generations per year, and relatively high densities may be reached in seasons permitting four generations.
Biochemical Systematics of the Australian Cockatoos (Psittaciformes: Cacatuinae)
Authors: Adams M , Baverstock PR , Saunders DA , Schodde R , Smith GT
Published: June 2005

The genetic and evolutionary relationships of the Australian cockatoos (excluding Probosciger) and of the cockatiel, Nymphicus hollandicus, were examined by the technique of isozyme electrophoresis. A cladistic analysis of data from 28 loci showed that Nymphicus is more closely related to cockatoos than to any ofthe non-cockatoos; accordingly Nymphicus should be included within the Cacatuinae, but in a monotypic tribe. The other genera form two well defined groupings. One comprises all of the white cockatoos (Cacatua) and the gang gang Callocephalon fimbriatum, and the other, the black cockatoos (Calyptorhynchus). Within the white cacatuine cockatoos there seem to be at least two minor groups. One, clearly indicated by the electrophoretic data, comprises the galah Cacatua roseicapilla and Australo-Papuan corellas, all of which have short plain crests and usually coloured periophthalmic skin. The other, neither denied nor confirmed biochemically, is a looser assemblage characterized by coloured up-curving crests and plain periophthalmic skin; it included the sulphur-crested cockatoo Cacatua galerita and the pink cockatoo Cacatua leadbeateri, and their allospecies on islands north of Australia. Isozyme electrophoresis of the loci examined in this study could not differentiate members of the Calyptorhynchus funereus superspecies, nor of the Cacatua tenuirostris-pastinator group of corellas. The results are therefore in accord with other studies that show that isozyme electrophoresis has limited application in elucidating species boundaries in birds.
The Genital System of Temnocephala II.* Further Observations on theSpermatogenesis of Temnocephala novaezealandiae, with particular Reference to the Mitochondria
Authors: Williams JB
Published: June 2005

The testis is bounded by a modified epithelium which has strongly phagocytic properties. Cells at synchronized stages of development are united in syncytia but do not form rosettes; the clusters of joined cells are enveloped by epithelial cell processes. A relatively long period of synapsis characterizes the primary spermatocytes. The nucleus passes through a racquet-shaped configuration as it commences to elongate, and later the compacted chromatin transforms into helically wound strands. At the time of centriole reorientation, the intercentriolar lamellar body divides down the middle, separating the mirror-image halves. Components of the intercentriolar body may give rise to the dense centriole caps. The peripheral microtubules form a spiral array in certain segments of the elongated sperm cell, and dense bodies with paracrystalline centres are regularly aligned in the shaft. When chromatoid bodies of animal spermatozoa are associated with aggregated, indented mitochondria. they are probably in process of degradation by cellular autophagy.
Calling Tactics in Crinia georgiana (Anura: Myobatrachidae): Alternation and Variation in Call Duration
Authors: Ayre DJ , Coster P , Bailey WJ , Roberts JD
Published: June 2005

Male Crinia georgiana actively alternate with artificial stimulus pulses at rates of stimulation encountered in natural choruses. Males also increase the duration of their calls by adding notes in response to increased frequency of acoustic stimulation. We interpret this result to be an adaptation that allows males to maintain broadcasting periods (interference free) at least as long as those ofcompetitors. Alternation is facilitated by a 0.4-s post-stimulus lag period. Evoked calls are not initiated during the lag period which, together with the 0.3-s stimulus pulse, approximates the duration of a three-note call; such calls predominate in natural choruses. Evoked calls that were likely to overlap a following stimulus pulse were terminated, minimizing interference and demonstrating the importance of effective signal transmission.
Factors Limiting the Distribution of the European Rabbit Flea, Spilopsyllus Cuniculi (Dale) (Siphonaptera), in Inland South Australia.
Authors: Cooke BD
Published: June 2005

The distribution of rabbit fleas in the Flinders Ranges in inland South Australia is generally confined to areas where annual average rainfall exceeds 200 mm. The fleas have not been able to become permanently established in more arid areas. They breed only when their host breeds and drought can inhibit breeding in the rabbit by drying up the green vegetation which is needed for its reproduction. Thus, if droughts are prolonged, rabbit fleas may not breed within their life-span and the population may become extinct. Other extremes of weather may also influence flea populations. In particular, low humidity during hot summers may cause heavy mortality. It appears that rabbit fleas will be limited to only a part of the range of distribution of their host and that in much of inland Australia they will not be useful vectors of myxomatosis. Other arthropods in South Australia also have distributions which show close association with climatic gradients, and the behaviour of rabbit flea populations at their extremes of distribution provides useful comparative data which aid our understanding of the distribution of other species.
Digestion of Eucalyptus Andrewsii Foliage by the Common Ringtail Possum, Pseudocheirus Peregrinus.
Authors: Chilcott MJ , Hume ID
Published: June 2005

Mature common ringtail possums, Pseudocheirus peregrinus, maintained body weight when offered Eucalyptus andrewsii foliage as their sole diet. The ringtails consumed 30.9 g.d-� or 41.8 g.kg-0.75.d-� of dry matter, with a mean apparent digestibility of 59%. Mean digestibilities of E. andrewsii foliage fibre fractions were 45% (neutral-detergent fibre), 44% (acid-detergent fibre), 48% (hemicellulose), 59% (cellulose) and 26% ('lignin'). The significant digestibility of the 'lignin' of E. andrewsii foliage means that lignin cannot be used as an indigestible marker in nutritional studies of arboreal folivores consuming eucalypt leaf diets. The apparent digestibility of energy was 50%. The mean intake of digestible energy was 436 kJ.kg-0.75.d-� and of metabolizable energy 345 kJ.kg-0.75.d-�. Urinary energy loss averaged 23% of digestible energy intake or 12% of gross energy intake. These results are discussed in relation to the likely energy requirements of captive and free-living ringtail possums and the importance of Eucalyptus foliage in the field diet of free-living ringtails.
Nitrogen and Urea Metabolism and Nitrogen Requirements of the Common Ringtail Possum, Pseudocheirus Peregrinus, Fed Eucalyptus Andrewsii Foliage.
Authors: Chilcott MJ , Hume ID
Published: June 2005

The maintenance nitrogen requirement of mature common ringtail possums, Pseudocheirusperegrinus, feeding on a sole diet of Eucalyptus andrewsii foliage was estimated to be 380 mg.kg-0.75.d-� on a dietary basis and 290 mg.kg-0.75.d-� on a truly digestible basis. The difference between these two estimates was due to a low true digestibility of nitrogen of 79%. Apparent digestibility of nitrogen was 58%. The level of urea metabolism in the ringtail was low compared with other herbivores. Only 40 mg urea-nitrogen.kg-0.75 was recycled to the gut each day, but this was 96% of irreversible loss rate (i.e. endogenous synthesis rate) and 11% of the ringtail's intake of truly digestible nitrogen. A low maintenance requirement for nitrogen, together with the recycling of a high proportion of endogenous urea to the gut, helps to explain the ability of the ringtail possum to remain in positive nitrogen balance on a sole diet of E. andrewsii foliage of only 1.1% nitrogen content.
Evaporative Water Loss from Three South-Eastern Australian Species of Water Turtle.
Authors: Chessman BC
Published: June 2005

In the chelid turtles Chelodina expansa, C. longicollis and Emydura macquarii, over the temperature range 8-34�C and humidity range 25-60% RH, evaporative water loss (EWL; estimated as weight loss) corrected for differences in body weight was greatest in E. macquarii and least in C. longicollis. Interspecific differences were most pronounced at high temperature and low humidity, but may have been exaggerated by variations in experimental airflow. Under progressive dehydration, EWL declined by about 20% in C. expansa and E. macquarii and over 60% in C. longicollis. Cutaneous water loss greatly exceeded pulmonary loss in all three species, but made up the lowest percentage of total EWL in C. longicollis; dehydration further reduced the relative contribution of cutaneous loss in this species. C, longicollis also demonstrated an ability to take up free water via the cloaca. The water-conserving abilities of C. longicollis are ecologically advantageous, since it commonly migrates over land, occupies ephemeral bodies of water, and is capable of aestivation.
Population and General Biology of Non-Reproductive Colonies of the Monarch Butterfly, Danaus Plexippus (L.) (Lepidoptera: Danaidae) in New South Wales.
Authors: James DG
Published: June 2005

Data were obtained on population and general biology of three non-reproductive overwintering colonies ofthe monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus (Danaidae) during April-August in 1980,1981 and 1982 at a site near Camden in New South Wales. A mark, release and recapture study showed that the 1981 colony was largely stable and the 1982 colony was migratory. In 1980 and 1981 populations comprised less than 500 individuals but in 1982 a peak population of 3500 butterflies was recorded. Males were sexually active throughout clustering. Most females were mated but showed no ovarian development. Periods of flight and feeding activity were common. The condition of most butterflies did not deteriorate markedly during clustering. Comparisons between winter non-reproductive monarch populations in North America and Australia are discussed.
Osteology of the Myobatrachine Frog Arenophryne rotunda Tyler (Anura: Leptodactylidae) and Comparisons with other Myobatrachine Genera
Authors: Davies M
Published: June 2005

Cranial and post-cranial osteology of the headfirst-burrowing Australian myobatrachine frog, Arenophryne rotunda, are described and compared with the genera Myobatrachus, Pseudophryne, Uperoleia and Ranidella. Some anatomical features, such as the position of the nasal bones, the form of the occipital condyles and the orientation of the coracoids, are considered to be burrowing adaptations, whilst other features reflect phylogenetic affinities. The highly paedomorphic nature of the skull is unique among the genera examined.
Electrophoretic Resolution of Species Boundaries in the Sminthopsis murina Complex (Dasyuridae)
Authors: Baverstock PR , Adams M , Archer M
Published: June 2005

Isozyme electrophoresis of 30 loci was used to characterize 52 individuals in 20 populations of the Sminthopsis murina complex. The populations fell into six groups within which there was genetic uniformity but among which there were extensive differences. These groups correspond to the species S. murina, S. ooldea, S. leucopus, S. dolichura, S. gilberti and S. caniventer.
Pentastomids (Arthropoda) Parasitic in Australian Reptiles and Mammals.
Authors: Riley J , Spratt DM , Presidente PJA
Published: June 2005

Records of pentastomid arthropods parasitic in Australian reptiles and mammals are reviewed, with particular reference to material collected recently. Specimens representative of six genera are described. Sebekia sp. from the estuarine crocodile, Crocodylusporosus, is the first record of the genus in Australia and probably represents a new species. A nymph with double hooks, from the dasyurid marsupial Satanellus hallucatus, is determined as Waddycephalus sp. This represents the first evidence of double hooks in nymphal forms of the genus and of the role of marsupials as intermediate hosts of Waddycephalus. Nymphs from the peramelid marsupial, Isoodon macrourus, and from S, hallucatus are determined as Armillifer australis Riley & Self, 1981; those from Perameles nasuta are identified as A. arborealis Riley & Self, 1981. These represent the first records of marsupials as intermediate hosts of Armillifer. Adults of the genus Elenia Heymons, 1932 are confirmed as parasites of varanid lizards. E. australis Heymons, 1932 is recognized and it is suggested that specimens described by Heymons (1939), allegedly from Varanus varius at Townsville, Qld, may represent a new species. The cosmopolitan porocephalid Linguatula serrata Frolich, 1789 is recorded from the nasopharynx of the dingo or wild dog and the validity of the indigenous species, L. dingophila Johnson, 1910 is discussed. The cephalobaenid Raillietiella amphiboluri Mahon, 1954 is reported from Amphibolurus barbatus.
Aspects of Reproduction in the Male Eastern Quoll, Dasyurus viverrinus (Shaw) (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae), with Notes on Polyoestry
Authors: Fletcher TP
Published: June 2005

In captivity, mating activity of quolls reached a peak in late May-early June. Weights of the male accessory glands peaked about the time of mating, after which the glands regressed; in September they weighed considerably less. Weights of testes and epididymides did not vary so much, but by September spermatorrhoea had ceased and the seminiferous tubules had become aspermic. The disseminate prostate gland was divisible histologically into three segments: the anterior and posterior 2 segments had a single cell type in the tubule epithelium; but prostate 1 had two types. The three pairs of Cowper's glands had similar, simple, columnar epithelium. The seminiferous tubules, supported by numerous interstitial cells, were of diameter 360-506 �m. The mature spermatozoon was large, 232 �m long; its flagellum, oval in cross-section, was inserted midway along the wedge-shaped head at the anterior margin of a ventral groove. The gestation period varied from 20 to 24 days; if the first litter was lost early in lactation, the females might return to oestrus. The species is, therefore, polyoestrous. The oestrous cycle of one animal was 34 days.
The Annual Activity and Breeding Cycles of Gould's Long-Eared Bat, Nyctophilus gouldi (Microchiroptera: Vespertiionidae)
Authors: Phillips WR , Inwards SJ
Published: June 2005

The activity and reproductive cycles of free-living and captive Nyctophilus gouldi were monitored over four breeding seasons. They deposited body fats in late summer and autumn, and hibernated from April until September. Spermatogenesis took place during the summer, spermatozoa being stored in the epididymides throughout the hibernation season. Matings were first observed in the captive colony in April each year. Males were seen to copulate with torpid females during the winter. A copulatory plug formed in the vagina following mating, and sperm were stored in the oviducts and uterine glands. Females were seen to expel the vaginal plug when arousing from torpor. Females were sexually active at 7-9 months old, and males at 12-1 5 months old. During the prolonged winter oestrus, ovaries contained large antral follicles. Ovulation occurred in September or early October and one or two young were born in late October or November. The twinning rate in captive N. gouldi was 54.5%. The young were weaned at 6 weeks old and first appeared in the free-living population in January.
In an experimental group acclimated to 22�C in midwinter, breeding was initiated early, the first young being born 67 days before those in an outdoor colony.
The Breeding Behaviour and Migrations of the Terrestrial Crab Gecarcoidea natalis (Decapoda: Brachyura)
Authors: Hicks JW
Published: June 2005

The breeding migrations of the Christmas Island red crab were monitored at plateau and shoreline locations from November 1979 to May 1983. Up to three migration sequences, each resulting in egg release, occurred each year in a breeding season lasting up to 3 months. In the main sequence migration from the plateau to the shore began at the onset of the wet season and lasted 9-18 days. On arrival at the sea, crabs immersed in salt water in large numbers before retreating to the shore terrace rainforest, where males fought over possession of burrows. Crabs courted and copulated near or in the burrows; they copulated in a hard-shell condition with the male generally underneath. At the conclusion of mating activity, males again dipped in salt water before returning to the plateau. Females remained in burrows on the shore terrace for 12-13 days until eggs were nearly ripe; they then moved to shoreline rocks. They released their eggs at night on the turn of the high tide between the last quarter of the moon and the new moon, sometimes from cliff faces, then returned en masse to the plateau. Zoeae hatched immediately on contact with salt water, and baby crabs emerged at the first crab stage 27 days after egg release; successful emergence varied considerably between seasons. Baby crabs migrated inland, taking 9 days to reach the plateau. Most migration activity was diurnal, the main exceptions were egg release and dipping activities.
Evolutionary Waves: Patterns in the Origins of Animal Phyla.
Authors: Inglis WG
Published: June 2005

Concordant patterns of embryology, morphology and functional anatomy delimit grades of animal phyla, each of which contains a 'Major Phylum': PARACOELOMATA (nom.nov.) = acoelomates + pseudocoelomates, flexible hydrostatic skeleton, Nematoda; DEUTEROSTOMIA (including lophophorates) = enterocoelic coelom, rigid internal skeleton, Chordata; and PROTOSTOMIA with two subgrades, MONOMERIC P. = unsegmented, single coelom, molluscan blastular cross, partial rigid exoskeleton, Molluscs; and POLYMERIC P. = segmented, multiple coelom, annelid cross, rigid exoskeleton, Uniramia. Such groups are usually treated as arbitrary stages in mono- and limited-branch phylogenies, but recent studies show them to be real and significant because the only phylogenetic links are from each Paracoelomata and Protostomia Phylum to Turbellaria; and each Deuterostomia Phylum to Cnidaria-Ctenophora and/or enteropneust Hemichordata. Similar grades have often been explained by hypothetical common ancestors, which are unnecessary if the phyla arose during 'evolutionary waves'. These attribute the origin of each grade to the likelihood that its constituent phyla arose independently, about the same time, from the same ciliary powered ancestral stock which was preadapted to enabling a potential body cavity to be actualized while evolving a cylindrical, wholly muscle-powered, body with a hydrostatic skeleton. Because such a skeleton is functionally dependent upon other structural modifications, particularly of the body wall, it could appear only when these were also available. If the latter could be supplied in a number of ways, all opportunities would be exploited and a body cavity would appear several times. The morphology suggests that this did happen, so that a pseudocoelom and coelom evolved independently in each phylum where they occur. Because of evidence that Protostomia and Deuterostomia were never linked during evolution, the origin of the coeloms in the former are explained by the Gonocoelic Theory and in the latter by the Enterocoelic. This, with the recognition of the monomeric protostomes as a distinct group, establishes that segmentation arose at the same time as the coeloms, so that their origins are one problem and not two as usually thought. Finally, protistan data suggest that Turbellaria, and so Paracoelomata and Protostomia, arose from 'close mitosis' flagellates, as did Fungi; while Cnidaria, and so Deuterostomia, arose from 'open mitosis' flagellates. as did Plantae. Thus, the classic Animalia division into Protostomia and Deuterostomia may represent a Protista division such that the animal groups are closer to fungi and plants respectively than they are to each other.
Oviposition Patterns and Egg Characteristics of Australian Tortricine Moths (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae).
Authors: Powell JA , Common IFB
Published: June 2005

Oviposition patterns and egg characteristics are recorded for representatives of five of six tribes that comprise the Tortricinae in Australia. Included are 57 species in 32 genera: Phricanthini (one sp.) deposit globose eggs singly or in non-overlapping rows; Schoenotenini (three spp., three genera) lay flat, circular eggs singly or in rows of two or three; 'Cnephasiini' (three spp., two genera) deploy strongly convex eggs singly; Epitymbiini (30 spp.. 16 genera) deposit flat eggs usually in weakly overlapped, small circular patches of5-15 eggs; Archipini (20 spp., 10 genera) typically oviposit in regularly imbricate rows in a large, oval mass, followed by several smaller ones. Two Australian Archipini are aberrant, laying eggs singly or in pairs. Four different kinds of morphological and correlated behavioural modifications are employed to ornament eggs with 'corethrogyne' scales, either from the female's abdomen (two genera of Epitymbiini and one of Archipini) or hindwings (analogous development in one species of Epitymbiini and one genus of Archipini).
Four New Species of Duonota Hill (Heteroptera: Schizopteridae)
Authors: Hill L
Published: June 2005

Duonota spathulata, sp. nov., and D. lumata, sp. nov., from the Atherton Tableland of north Queensland, and D. fusca, sp. nov., and D, decoricaudula, sp. nov., from New South Wales are described. A key to the 12 Duonota species is given and the relationships of the species discussed.
Effects of Hypophysectomy on Folliculogenesis in the Tammar Macropus eugenii (Marsupialia: Macropodidae)
Authors: Panyaniti W , Carpenter SM , Tyndale-Biscoe CH
Published: June 2005

The ovaries of 18 pouch young tammars 18-42 weeks old, and the ovaries of four sham-operated and four hypophysectomized adults, were serially sectioned and the follicle and oocyte diameters measured and atresia assessed. The relationship between oocyte and follicle diameter for each group of ovaries was best described by an exponential curve. There was an overall reduction in the number of normal follicles in the hypophysectomized tammars. with significant reduction of the smallest type (3b) and absence of the largest type (8), whereas there was a greater incidence of atresia in the penultimate type 7. These results suggest that only the latest stage offolliculogenesis is acutely pituitary-dependent, although in the longer term the pituitary may influence recruitment of preantral follicles. The ovaries of prepubertal tammars had fewer follicles of all types than the ovaries of intact adults but the incidence of atresia was higher in all except type 6. Like the ovaries of hypophysectomized adults they lacked type 8 follicles and had a high incidence of atresia ofthe penultimate type 7. It is concluded that up to 42 weeks the pituitary does not provide gonadotrophic stimulation to the ovaries of prepubertal tammars.
Habitat and Microhabitat Distributions in Relation to Ecological Overlap in Two Species of Ranidella (Anura)
Authors: Mac Nally RC
Published: June 2005

The geographic distributions of two species of anuran amphibians, Ranidella signifera and R. parinsignifera, were examined. The physiognomies of more than 200 sites in south central Victoria were recorded. R. signifera is ubiquitous but R. parinsigngem is restricted to low-elevation sites (<380 m) that are not underlain by quaternary volcanic soils. There is no microhabitat differentiation at sites where both species occur. These results are discussed in relation to the overall ecological relationships of these species in this region of Australia.