bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excretion in an oribatid mite Phthiracams sp. (Arachnida: Acari)
Authors: Dinsdale D.
Published: August 2009

Phthiracams sp. has one pair of coxal glands. Each gland comprises a thin‐walled sacculus which is specialized for the ultrafiltration of the haemolymph and a tubular labyrinth the ultrastructure of which indicates a specialization for the active resorption of material from the lumen.

In addition to its digestive function, the alimentary canal of this mite is also involved in excretion. Excretory material accumulates at the haemocoelic surface of the gut wall and, after endocytosis, passes through the cytoplasm of the cells as discrete bodies which appear in the faecal pellet.

The faecal pellet is covered with a peritrophic layer 250–500 nm thick which has no discernible structure and disintegrates in water.
A contribution to the knowledge of liphistiid spiders
Authors: Bristowe W. S.
Published: August 2009

These spiders resemble fossil spiders of the Carboniferous. Although they are unique in retaining several primitive characters it is thought best to include them in the sub‐Order Mygalomorphae and to abandon the special sub‐Order Liphistiomorphae.

The family Heptathelidae to include those species with seven instead of eight spinnerets as in the Liphistiidae is also abandoned.

The species Liphistius thorelli Sim. from Sumatra is regarded as a synonym of the other Sumatran species L. sumatranus Thor.

Eight species of Liphistius and two of Heptathela are now recognized. Their distribution is confined, according to present knowledge, to Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Japan, Malaysia and Sumatra. This may provide useful evidence in the question, as yet unsettled, of the origin of south‐east Asia in terms of continental drift.

A special visit has been paid to Sumatra to rediscover Liphistius sumatranus (of which only one specimen was found and described in 1879) to establish with certainty that it is distinct from the Malaysian L. desultor. This was achieved and the species are now compared.

Some biological observations are provided.
Rare arachnids from Malaysia and Sumatra
Authors: Bristowe W. S.
Published: August 2009

Oncopus feae Thor. is a rare and archaic opilionid from Penang. A new Sub‐Order is formed for the Asian family Oncopodidae and this specimen becomes the topotype of the species.

Phoroncidia lygeana Walck. of which the male now described from Sumatra was hitherto unknown.

Three species of Sumatran argiopid spider were seen to undergo instantaneous colour changes when forced to drop from their webs.
Cranial and dental remains of Deinotherium bozasi (Mammalia: Proboscidea) from East Rudolf, Kenya
Authors: Harris John M.
Published: August 2009

A skull, three immature mandibles and a number of isolated teeth belonging to Deinotherium bozasi have been collected from Plio‐Pleistocene sediments to the east of Lake Rudolf, Kenya. D. bozasi is the youngest representative of the family Deinotheriidae and the skull is the most complete yet found of this taxon. The East Rudolf specimens are contrasted with comparable specimens of Prodeinotherium hobleyi from East and North Africa and of Deinotherium giganteum from Europe. The size and morphology of the cranial vault of the East Rudolf skull confirms allocation to the genus Deinotherium but other dental and cranial evidence confirms taxonomic differentiation from D. giganteum and direct descent from P. hobleyi. Although the postcranial elements of D. bozasi are poorly known it is considered unlikely that this species developed the cursorial adaptations of D. giganteum. The extinction of D. bozasi is attributable to major changes in ecologic conditions towards the end of the early Pleistocene.
Patterns of ciliary currents in Atlantic reef corals and their functional significance
Authors: Lewis J. B. , Price W. S.
Published: August 2009

Patterns of ciliary currents of 35 species of Atlantic reef corals are described and compared with currents of Pacific corals. Observations were made during the day and at night, during feeding and without food. There is a basic pattern of ciliary currents common to both Atlantic and Pacific species. In all but the family Agaricidae currents flow off the oral disk and up or out between the tentacles. In the centre of the disk region currents flow towards the mouth or the peristome. On the polyp stalk or column there was considerable variation between species in both Atlantic and Pacific forms. In some species currents flow downwards toward the coenosarc while in others, current pass up the stalk towards the tentacles.

In the Atlantic Agaricidae there may be an inward flow towards the mouth, an outward flow or a unidirectional flow across the corallum. The patterns of flow depend upon the state of contraction of the polyps or the shape and proximity of adjacent polyps.

No ciliary current reversal was observed in Atlantic species. Ciliary currents are functional as a cleansing mechanism and facilitated the ability of mucus nets and strands to gather particles.
Incremental cementum lines in the teeth of tropical African mammals
Authors: Spinage C. A.
Published: August 2009

The correlation of series of two darkly‐staining lines in the tooth cementum of tropical African mammals from areas of bimodal equatorial rainfall is briefly reviewed, and contrasted with the findings in southern Africa where bi‐annual lines are claimed for areas of unimodal rainfall. A sample of African buffalo teeth from a unimodal rainfall area in southern Tanzania was examined and the conclusion reached that, in general, one dark line per year was formed. A miscellaneous selection of mainly known age animals was also examined with varied results. Anomalies in the apparent formation of cementum lines are discussed.
Polymorphism in relation to habitat in the snail Cepaea hortensis in Iceland.
Authors: Bengtson Sven‐Axel , Nilsson Anders , Nordström Sten , Rrundgren Sten
Published: August 2009

Polymorphism for shell colour and banding pattern in Cepaea hortensis was studied in a confined area in south Iceland. Morph freqquencies can be related to habitat. Yellow unbanded snails are more frequent in grassland and herb meadows thatn in “darker” habitats such as in ddense Angelica. Fused banding is relatively more frequent in “daarker” habitats. Predation by birds is not known to occur and rodent predation in winter or genetic drift cannot explain the observed correlations. Habitats differ in their microclimate and it is suggested that climatic selection is important. Differences in morph frequencies between juvenile and adult snails support this view.
Cytology of the pituitary gland of the Plains viscacha (Lagostomus maximu)
Authors: Patil D. R.
Published: August 2009

The anatomy of the pituitary gland of the Plains viscacha (Lagostomus maximus) is described. The pituitary gland in various physiological states has been investigated in order to localise the secretory sites of the trophic hormones. The various cell types of the pituitary gland were distinguished on the basis of their morphological characteristics, tinctorial properties and differential solubilities of the protein hormones in trichloroacetic acid solutions. Two cell types were found in the pars tuberalis, three cell types in the pars intermedia and six chromophi1 cell types in the pars anterior. Their possible functions are discussed.
Te systematics and ecology of some isopods of the genus Cirolana (Cirolanidae) from the Indian Ocean region
Authors: Jones D. A.
Published: August 2009

Descriptions of three new Cirolana species from the Indian Ocean are given together with notes on the systematics of six other species. These isopods occur predominantly on hard substrates and their geographical distribution and ecology is discussed in relation to what is known of their biology.
Characteristics of newt breeding sites
Authors: Cooke A. S. , Frazer J. F. D.
Published: August 2009

Breeding site characteristics have been studied for the three species of newt that occur in Britain, the Palmate (Triturus helveticus (Razoumowski)), Smooth (T. vulgaris (L.)) and Warty (T. cristatus (Laurenti)). The Warty newt was seldom found in the absence of the much commoner Smooth newt, but seemed to prefer sites that were relatively large and deep and that had a high proportion of open water surface. All three species tended to breed in ponds having abundant aquatic vegetation. Smooth newts, unlike Palmate newts, were rarely encountered in water with pH <6. The Smooth newt tended to be found in water with relatively high concentrations of metals, while the reverse was true for the Palmate newt. Over Britain, Smooth and Warty newts are relatively less common in soft water areas, while the Palmate is less common in hard water areas. Possible reasons for these associations are discussed.
A proposed unified nomenclature for the enamelled components of the molar teeth of the Cricetidae (Rodentia)
Authors: Reig Osvaldo A.
Published: August 2009

The primitive topography of the enamelled surface of molar teeth of the Cricetidae is described as expressed in the fossil Cricetodontinae. Morphological variations in the molar structure of different subgroups among the Cricetidae are interpreted as derivations from this cricetodontine pattern. Eleven available naming systems for such components are surveyed, and a new unifying nomenclature is proposed, based on the Cope‐Osborn cusp homologies for mammals. Names for enamel cusps, cuspules, styles, lophs, folds and islands are given, in an attempt to include in an overall general nomenclature the advantages of the most valuable, already available, nomenclatorial systems. The system purports to apply to all modifications of the cricetid crown molar pattern, and it claims to fulfil the need for a uniform nomenclature.
Carotenoids in thesolitariaandgregariaphases of the locust, Schistocerca gregaria fed on artificial and natural diets
Authors: Rothschild Miriam , Gardiner Brian , Mummery Rosemary , Valadon Guy
Published: August 2009

The distribution, concentration and excretion of different carotenoids in the tissues of locust hoppers were investigated. Those reared in bright (1300 lx) light stored more and excreted less than specimens reared in dim (450 lx) light: 70% of the former were homo‐chromic and only 2% of the latter matched their background.

Unlike the specimens investigated by Goodwin (1952) our insects stored xanthophylls in their body tissues, but lacked astaxanthin. Exuviae contained four carotenoids.
Mastigoteuthis–the whip‐lash squid
Authors: Dilly P. N. , Nixon Marion , Young J. Z.
Published: August 2009

Features of the brain of this oceanic squid have been investigated and related, as far as possible, to its habits and mode of life. The body and arms are much vacuolated for buoyancy and the animal probably lives with the head upwards. The very long whip‐like tentacles are not vacuolated and perhaps hang downwards. They are covered by numerous minute pedunculated suckers, perhaps providing a sticky surface. A special nerve running outside the brain carries signals from the arms and tentacles to the magnocellular lobe, which is very large and of complex structure. However, there are no giant cells and the mantle is weak. Propulsion is mainly by the large fins, which are controlled from the magnocellular lobe, presumably using the information from the arms and tentacles.
A new species of Argyrosomus (Pisces, Sciaenidae) from Natal, South Africa
Authors: Smith Margaret M.
Published: August 2009

Argyrosomus thorpei sp. n. is described from 11 specimens and compared with its closest relatives A. hololepidotus and A. amoyensis.
Nest opening response of the Nile crocodile Crocodylus niloticus
Authors: Pooley A. C.
Published: August 2009

Observations on captive Nile crocodiles, Crocodylus niloticus confirm earlier reports on parental care of nests and of young. Male and female appear to form a pair bond after courtship, the male defending nesting territory with the female rarely leaving the nest until the sounds of the young hatching stimulate her to open the nest to release them. The female transports unhatched eggs and live young in her buccal pouch to water and establishes a nursery where the young are defended for several weeks. Experiments involving playback of distress calls by tape recorder, offering of live young and eggs to the adults, the parent opening an artificial nest and vocalisations and resultant interactions between adults and young are described.
Reproductive study of Giant tortoises on Aldabra
Authors: Bourn David
Published: August 2009

A population of 150,000 Giant tortoises occurs on the Indian Ocean atoll of Aldabra. During the course of an extensive census and marking programme a preliminary reproductive study was carried out. This paper describes the pattern of seasonal ovarian development and the seasonal cycle of breeding activity that was observed.
Haematology and habits in catfish of the genus Synodontis
Authors: Green J.
Published: August 2009

African catfish of the genus Synodontis vary in their habits, from inverted plankton eaters to normally oriented benthos eaters. Haemoglobin concentrations and red cell counts vary between populations of one species, and between species of differing habits. Synodontis schall from the well‐aerated White Nile had lower haemoglobin concentrations than members of the same species from Lake Kainji, Nigeria. Synodontis membranaceus, an inverted plankton eater, had lower haemoglobin concentrations than the bottom dwelling S. filamentosus and S. nigrita. Species with intermediate habits, such as S. batensoda and S. ocellifer had intermediate concentrations of haemoglobin.

It is suggested that these differences in haemoglobin concentration are a result of differing habits. Those species that enter poorly aerated water are stimulated to make more haemoglobin.
The distribution and dispersal of the introduced millipede, Ommatoiulus moreletii (Diplopoda: Iulidae), in Australia
Authors: Baker G. H.
Published: August 2009

The millipede, Ommatoiulus moreletii, is indigenous to South‐Western Europe. The species has been introduced to Australia where it is in large numbers and constitutes a severe nuisance.

The distribution of O. moreletii in Australia is increasing. Man appears to be a major factor in the establishment of new outbreaks of the species. Individual outbreaks spread slowly but steadily (an expansion of up to 200 metres in radius per year).

The abundance of O. moreletii in Australia relative to its apparent rarity in Southwestern Europe cannot be explained by differences in general climate.

The variety of habitats colonized by O. moreletii in Australia is already wide and there is no reason to doubt that the species will continue to spread much further.
Scent marking and associated behaviour in captive Common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus jacchus) with a description of the histology of scent glands
Authors: Sutcliffe A. G. , Poole T. B.
Published: August 2009

The histological structure of the scent marking glands of Callithrix jacchus jacchus is described. Frequencies of scent marking were variable and bore no relation to reproductive states. Scent marking was temporally associated with sensory and piloerection behaviours. Possible functions of scent marking in C. J. jacchus are discussed.
Reproduction in female gundis(Rodentia: Ctenodactylidae)
Authors: George Wilma
Published: August 2009

Five species of the Ctenodactylidae have been studied both in the wild and in captivity. Ctenodactylids have vaginal closure membranes, lateral nipples, relatively long oestrous cycles and relatively long gestation periods for small rodents. In these features they resemble the caviomorph rodents of the New World and some of the hystricomorphs of the Old World. Many of the reproductive features such as well‐developed young, small litter size, the position of the nipples and the generally low reproductive rate may equally well be attributed to adaptation to a desert rock habitat.
Calving times of Red deer (Cervus elaphus) on Rhum
Authors: Guinness F. E. , Gibson R. M. , Clutton‐Brock T. H.
Published: August 2009

The distribution of calving times in a population of Red deer on the Isle of Rhum, Inner Hebrides, between 1971 and 1976 is described. Two‐thirds of calves were born during a three‐week period beginning in the last week of May, though calving extended from early May to late August. Except in 1976, when calving occurred late, the timing of births was similar in all years. Variation in calving time within years resulted from (i) individual differences in calving time, (ii) late conception in hinds which failed to conceive at first oestrus, and (iii) the effect of previous reproductive history: on average, hinds calved one week later after rearing a calf in the previous winter. Gestation lengths of wild hinds were longer than in a captive group. This may have been due to overestimation of a proportion of gestation lengths in wild hinds, but supplementary feeding could also have shortened gestation length in captive animals.
The biology and functional morphology of Philobrya munita (Bivalvia: Philobryidae)
Authors: Morton Brian
Published: August 2009

Philobrya (Philobrya) munita was originally described as P. (Hochstetteria) munita Finlay 1930, but the features of the shell and ligament clearly ally it with the former subgenus. P. munita, unlike the majority of its closest relatives which are benthic, lives intertidally attached by a stout byssus to the holdfasts of algae on moderately exposed shores in New Zealand.

P. munita is monomyarian though it possesses a shell which has the basic heteromyarian form with an inflated posterior slope (and correspondingly enlarged posterior adductor and posterior byssal retractor muscles) and a reduced concave anterior slope (with a reduced anterior byssal tetractor inserted on the posterior slope of each valve). The umbones are beak‐like and there is a distinct byssal notch. Internally a septum or modified hinge plate is located under the opisthodetic alivincular ligament. There are no hinge teeth or denticles. The significance of the shell and ligament of P. munita is discussed in relation to the basic duplivincular ligament of other arcoids and the ligament of other bivalves.

P. munita possesses a posterior inhalant aperture only. This is unusual since some other members of the Arcoida have both anterior and posterior inhalant streams. The posterior inhalant stream in P. munita results from the very great reduction of the anterior slope of the shell. The ciliary currents of the mantle cavity are described; the ctenidia are of type B(la) and there is a single cephalic eye located just anterior to the anterior filament of each ctenidium. The roof of the supra‐branchial chamber above the inner demibranch possesses a hypobranchial gland. The labial palps are small and there is a labial caecum located within the inner lip of the mouth. The mantle comprises three folds, with the outer fold possessing a secondary fold. The outer mantle fold bears a row of pallial eyes; light reception is thus through the periostracum. The structure of the stomach has been reconstructed from serial sections and the basic histological features of the alimentary canal are described. The pericardium possesses a heart with a single ventricle and a pair of auricles which communicate with each other posteriorly. The kidney and gonads discharge via a common urino‐genital aperture. P. munita incubates fertilised eggs within the infra‐branchial chamber of the mantle cavity; incubation within the supra‐branchial chamber being impossible with a filibranch ctenidium.

P. munita is compared with other philobryids, other members of the Arcoida and with other bivalves. It is concluded that P. munita is a very unusual bivalve–the morphological eccentricities it possesses resulting from its primitive arcoid origins, the evolution of the heteromyarian form, and specialisations not seen in other bivalves.
Spacing and foraging of otters (Lutra lutra) in a marine habitat
Authors: Kruuk Hans , Hewson Raymond
Published: August 2009

The distribution of otter dens (holts) and otter droppings (spraints) which also function as scent markers, is described for an area of coast in north‐west Scotland, and some observations are presented of the otters' movements and foraging. Otter holts were spaced out at an average distance of 11 km, and spraints were concentrated around the holts. The foraging areas were probably used communally, and the difference between this utilization and that observed elsewhere is discussed.
The food of young Puffins Fratercula arctica
Authors: Harris M. P. , Hislop J. R. G.
Published: August 2009

Although Puffins fed their young on those species of small fish that were most abundant in mid water, there was some evidence of selectivity. Sandeels and Sprats were by far the most important prey species. Rockling and Whiting were also taken but they were less suitable because of their small size and low calorific value respectively. Many of the abundant gadoid and flatfish species were not preyed on to any extent. Some years Puffins on St Kilda fed their young on Whiting but in these years chicks fledged at lower weights than in years when young were fed on Sprats. It is suggested that Puffins on St Kilda were short of the best prey species compared to those on the Isle of May and were forced to feed their young on sub‐optimal food.
The Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas): further observations on breeding in captivity
Authors: Ulrich Glenn F. , Parkes Alan S.
Published: August 2009

Mating, nesting and hatching of the Green sea turtle on Mariculture Ltd's farm on Grand Cayman Island, BWI in 1973 were recorded in a previous paper. The results described were the first of their kind, so that events in the farm breeding colony in the following year were awaited with much interest, especially as to hatchability of the eggs. The observations made in 1974, which extended and mainly confirmed those made in 1973, are described below.
Mechanics of locomotion of dogs (Canis familiaris) and sheep (Ovis aries)
Authors: Jayes A. S. , Alexander R. McN.
Published: August 2009

Records have been made of the forces exerted on the ground by dogs and a sheep, in walking, trotting, cantering and slow galloping. Film has been taken simultaneously. The difference between walking and trotting was much less marked for the sheep than for the dogs.

Step length and stride length increase as speed increases. They are expressed as functions of the Froude number.

The vertical component of the force exerted by a foot on the ground shows two main maxima in walking, except in the case of the fore feet of sheep. In this case and in other gaits there is only one main maximum. The vertical movements of the fore and hind quarters which occurred in examples of each gait have been calculated from the force records.

The force exerted by a foot on the ground changes direction in the course of a step so as to remain more or less in line with a point fixed relative to the animal, but dorsal to its back.

The force records show impact disturbances in the first 003 sec of contact of each foot with the ground.

The point of application of the force on the sole of a foot tends to move posteriorly as the force increases.

The results are discussed in relation to a theoretical account of the mechanics of locomotion on legs.
The systematics of some Red Sea Isopoda (Family Cirolanidae) with descriptions of two new species*
Authors: Bruce Niel L. , Jones D. A.
Published: August 2009

Eurydice inermis Hansen, Cirolana corrugis Jones and C. theleceps Barnard are recorded for the first time from the Red Sea. The range of E. arabica Jones is extended to the Northern Red Sea, Cirolana rotunda sp. nov. and C. fishelsoni sp. nov. are described and C. anadema Glynn is shown to be a synonym of C. theleceps Barnard. Their distribution is discussed and a table of all cirolanids known from the Red Sea is included. One species, C. fishelsoni, is also known from the Mediterranean.
Histochemistry of the epidermis of the Chequered water snake Natrix piscator (Colubridae, Squamata)
Authors: Banerjee* Tarun Kumar , Mittal** Ajay Kumar
Published: August 2009

Various histochemical techniques have been employed to distinguish the different cell layers within the epidermal generations of Natrix piscator.

The oberhautchen and the thin superficial areas of the beta‐layer contain both alpha‐ and beta‐keratins and give moderate reactions with Papanicolaou's stain for keratin, for protein bound NH2 groups, basic proteins, and calcium; strong reaction for cysteine bound sulphydryl (SH) groups and very strong reaction for disulphide (SS) bonds of cystine. The remaining bulk of the beta‐layer gives weak reactions with Papanicolaou's stain for keratin, for NH2 groups, basic proteins, SH groups and SS bonds. The mesos and the alpha‐layers stain strongly with Papanicolaou's stain for keratin, for NH2 groups, basic proteins, sulphydryl groups and calcium, and weakly for mucopolysaccharides. The mesos layer also gives strong reactions for disulphide bonds and might contain both alpha‐ and beta‐keratins.

The cells of the lacunar tissue are metabolically active as indicated by their normal nuclei and positive reaction for RNA. These cells contain granular glycogen, small amounts of acid mucopolysaccharides, NH2 and sulphydryl groups. The underlying layer of clear cells remain weakly or almost unstained with various histochemical techniques.

The inner generation could roughly be divided into two layers–the presumptive beta‐layer and the presumptive alpha‐layer. High RNA contents in the presumptive beta cells indicate the active polymerization of keratin in this layer. These cells give weak reactions for protein bound NH, groups, basic proteins, SH groups and calcium. The remaining cells of the inner generation are not easily distinguished and contain small amounts of RNA.

The differentiation of outer and inner generation in the hinge region is not clear. The thin outer oberhautchen and the beta‐layer give very weak reactions for NH, groups, SS bonds, SH groups and calcium and stain orange‐red with Papanicolaou's stain, bluish‐black with Verhoeff's elastin stain and pinkish red with Mallory's triple stain. The alpha‐layer resembles in its staining properties the alpha‐layer of the scale region.

A large number of eosinophilic granular cells could be observed in the lower layers of the epidermis, especially in the hinge region and in the dermis.
The milk of the fur‐seal, Arctocephalus tropicatis gazella; in particular the composition of the aqueous phase
Authors: Peaker M. , Goode Jane A.
Published: August 2009

Milk and plasma samples from the Southern fur‐seal (Arctocephalus tropicalis gazella), collected from animals shot between 0 and 26 days post‐partum, have been analysed. The aqueous phase of milk (ultracentrifugate) was hyperosmotic to plasma by about 35 m‐osmol/kg water but contained no lactose. The osmolality of milk could be accounted for by the ionic content, of which sodium and potassium (in approximately equal amounts) were the main cations. The fat content of the milk was very high (approximately 40%), except in very early lactation (0 and 1 day post‐partum). The concentrations of chloride, calcium, magnesium, phosphate and citrate in the aqueous phase are given. Major differences between the composition of fur‐seal milk and that of other mammals are pointed out, and discussed in relation to water conservation, energy and fat supply, and prolonged milk storage in this snecies.
Haematological studies on wild African elephants (Loxodonta africana)
Authors: White* PeterT. , Brown IainR. F.
Published: August 2009

Various haematological parameters have been measured in a sample of wild African elephants from two game parks in Uganda. The results are compared with those of other authors for the African and Indian elephant and other mammals. No intersex differences were found to occur but calves (1–5 years) differed from the population as a whole in several respects. Some values varied with season and this may be attributed to the effect of dehydration during the dry season. A number of elephants from one of the parks had abnormally high red cell numbers and the possibility is considered that this may reflect an incidence of habitat induced cardiovascular disease.
Coat growth in Red deer (Cervus elaphus) exposed to a day‐length cycle of six months duration
Authors: Kay R. N. B. , Ryder M. L.
Published: August 2009

Four male Red deer were subjected to artificial light giving a shortened annual cycle of six months. Moulting and colour changes, coat length, and histological changes in the activity of hair follicles were studied in samples taken at three‐weekly intervals for 20 months.
Further observations on the fate of morphological variation in a population of Smooth newt larvae (Triturus vulgaris)
Authors: Bell Graham
Published: August 2009

Sixteen morphometric characters were studied in a population of Smooth newt larvae. Variation was found to decrease in all characters during the course of larval life. This finding is consistent both with earlier work on newt larvae in the same population and with the results of other authors. There is no direct evidence to show that this decline was caused by selection rather than by developmental canalization, although a theoretical argument suggests that canalization may not be very important in animals as fecund as newts. In the case of vertebral number, it seems likely that developmental processes act to reduce variation in very young larvae, but that selection is important in later life. Variation was also studied in this population at and just after metamorphosis, when about 40% of the emerging juveniles were killed by shrews, by scoring 25 morphometric characters. Despite difficulties of interpretation caused by growth and by the morphogenetic changes associated with metamorphosis, a clear case of stabilizing selection was discovered.
Sexual dimorphism in primate teeth
Authors: Harvey Paul H. , Kavanagh Michael , Clutton‐Brock T. H.
Published: August 2009

A new measure of sexual dimorphism in tooth size (Relative Male Tooth Size) is estimated for a sample of 39 primate species and is used to test predictions concerning the adaptive significance of sexual dimorphism in primate tooth size. It is concluded that both sexual selection and predator defence are important selective forces producing marked sexual dimorphism in the teeth used for fighting.
Vocalizations of chicks and juveniles and the development of adult calls in the Aldabra White‐throated rail Dryolimnas cuvieri aldabranus (Aves: Rallidae)
Authors: Wilkinson R. , Huxley C. R.
Published: August 2009

Calls were recorded from eggs, chicks and juveniles of the Aldabra White‐throated rail Dryolimnas cuvieri aldabranus. A sonagraphic analysis was made of these calls, their behavioural contexts described and probable functions suggested. Three calls, the twitter, tiuu and contented peep were produced by chicks in the egg. All three calls may be derived from the basic peep first recorded some 36 hours before hatching. Shortly after hatching two more calls, the distress call and the alarm call, can be elicited from the rail chicks. Contented peeps and twitters are restricted to the repertoire of young rails. Song was first heard from wild rail chicks at the age of ten days and may develop from the contented peep. Three adult calls, the 'mp yeah, 'mptiuu and 'mpclick appear at the age of three months and six months later the adult vocal repertoire is completed by the appearance of 'mps, toks, purrs and nest‐defence squeals. With the exception of the 'mp, all adult calls can be derived from the vocalizations of chicks and juveniles.
The size, shape and orientation of pore grooves in the egg shells of Rhea sp.
Authors: Tyler C. , Fowler Sue
Published: August 2009

In the egg shells of Rhea sp. there are grooves on the surface and it is into these grooves that one or more pore mouths open.

Five egg shells of Rhea americana and four of Rhea darwinii were studied in detail in respect of the numbers of pore mouths and the number, length and orientation of the grooves. It was found that R. americana had nearly twice as many pore mouths and grooves as had R. darwinii. Their distribution in both species showed more and longer grooves and more pore mouths in the equatorial regions than in the polar regions of the shell. The grooves were also found to be approximately longitudinally orientated in the equatorial regions but this orientation became less marked towards the polar regions. Not surprisingly longer grooves tended to have more pore mouths than did shorter grooves, but, in addition, broader grooves were associated with greater length too.
Has Octopus vulgaris a second radula?
Authors: Nixon Marion
Published: August 2009

Octopus vulgaris drills shelled molluscs and measurements showed the radula to be too large to reach into the depths of the holes made. Small teeth were found on the salivary papilla and its seems likely that these are used for excavating the deeper parts of the holes and penetration of the shell.
Endocrine aspects of sexual mimicry in Spotted hyaenas Crocuta crocuta
Authors: Racey P. A. , Skinner J. D.
Published: August 2009

Female Spotted hyaenas mimic the male in the possession of a peniform and highly erectile clitoris and false scrotum. Sex hormones have been assayed in the blood plasma, gonads and adrenal glands of male and female Spotted hyaenas and in the blood plasma of Striped and Brown hyaenas. Although the testicular concentration of testosterone greatly exceeds that of the ovaries in Spotted hyaenas, there is no significant difference between the sexes in the mean plasma levels of this hormone, or of the other androgen assayed, andro‐stenedione. In contrast, male Brown and Striped hyaenas have far higher plasma concentrations of testosterone than females.

Testosterone levels in twin female Spotted hyaena foetuses were similar to the mean for adult females and it is suggested that high foetal androgen levels are responsible for the appearance of the male sexual facies in adult female Spotted hyaenas. The high plasma androgen levels recorded in adult females may also be associated with their aggression and dominance of males.
The effects of stylopisation in two species of planthoppers in the Krian District, West Malaysia (Homoptera: Delphacidae)
Authors: Kathirithamby Jeyaraney
Published: August 2009

Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) and Sogatellafurcifera (Horvath) found in light trap samples at Titi Serong Padi Experimental Station, Parit Buntar, Perak, West Malaysia, between 1972–74, were stylopised by Elenchus sp. The types of changes caused by stylopisation to the secondary and tertiary sexual organs/characters are discussed. The sex of the specimens with extremely reduced secondary sexual organs is analyzed. The development of the male secondary sexual organ from the late fifth instar to a fully developed male is traced. The reasons why the secondary sexual organs of stylopised male Delphacidae are more reduced than females are outlined.
Tidal movements of the macrofauna on an exposed sandy beach in South Africa
Authors: Mclachlan A. , Wooldridge T. , VanDerHorst G.
Published: August 2009

All epifaunal and shallow‐burrowing, intertidal macrofauna on an exposed sandy beach appear to undergo tidal migrations which vary in extent but are all upshore on the incoming tide and downshore on the outgoing tide during day and night. In the crustaceans this is probably endogenous rhythmic behaviour and they show increased activity at night. In the molluscs this movement is not synchronised by an intrinsic mechanism but results from behavioural responses to changing physical conditions. The large wedge clam, Donax serra, shows no tidal migrations but does show a semilunar rhythm of movement from just above mean tide level (MTL) during springs to the low tide level during neap tides.
Scanning electron microseopy of the respiratory surfaces of trout gills
Authors: Hughes G. M.
Published: August 2009

Fixation of trout gills with different concentrations of glutaraldehyde has shown that the more concentrated solutions (25%) tended to produce clearer material for inspection under the scanning electron microscope. All gradations in surface sculpturing, from microvilli to microridges of about 13– 7–0 μm length have been observed, and their distribution on different parts of individual secondary lamellae is described. The possible significance of the types of sculpturing and their distribution is discussed in relation to the likely pattern of water flow across the secondary lamella during gill ventilation.
The rhinoceros faucial and laryngopharyngeal tonsils
Authors: Cave A. J. E.
Published: August 2009

The literature of mammalian splanchnology contains but a single reference to the tonsillar morphology of the Rhinocerotidae, viz. Owen's (1852) cursory description of the faucial (palatine) tonsil in an Indian rhinoceros {Rhinoceros unicornis). Herein a fuller account is given of the tonsillar formations present in the lateral food channel of another Indian rhinoceros specimen and of specimens of the Sumatran rhinoceros (Didermocerus suma‐trensis), the African White rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) and the African Black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis). Attention is drawn to the invariable presence of tonsillar tissue in the rhinoceros pyriform fossa and to its frequent manifestation therein as an anatomically discrete and hitherto unrecognized organ, the laryngopharyngeal tonsil. This structure, functionally supplementary to the faucial tonsil, would appear to develop independently from the lympho‐thymic primordium of the embryonal third pharyngeal pouch. Its anatomy is described and its morphological significance is discussed.
Characteristics and environmental determinants of natality, growth and maturity in a natural population of the desert scorpion, Paruroctonus mesaensis (Scorpionida: Vaejovidae)
Authors: Polis GaryA. , Farley RogerD.
Published: August 2009

The scorpion, Paruroctonus mesaensis (Vaejovidae) has seven instar stages and moults six times. There is no post‐reproductive moult. The average growth ratio between successive instars is 1–38. The average rate of weight increase is 000249/day. This rate fluctuates seasonally: it is highest in spring and lowest in winter and summer. Growth rate is a function of ambient burrow temperature and prey abundance. Body size is determinate. The growth rate of the pectines is significantly greater in males as compared with females. Analysis indicates that the pectines are a secondary sexual trait in males.

Animals mature from 19 to 24 months of age. Matings were observed from May through October. Gestation lasts 10–14 months. First surface appearance of newborn (instar II) is synchronous throughout the population and occurred in early August for five consecutive years. Some females were observed to be gravid for at least three consecutive years. Gravid females carry an average of 48–8 embryos. However, on the average only 19–9 young/female survive to appear on the surface. Factors which may be responsible for this observed decrease include resorption of embryos; death at birth, eclosion or first moult; and maternal and sibling cannibalism. The influence of various environmental factors on reproduction were analyzed. The number of newborn appearing on the surface and the population biomass of newborn showed a high positive correlation with precipitation and vegetation cover.
Feeding mechanics in primitive teleosts and in the halecomorph fish Amia calva
Authors: Lauder George V.
Published: August 2009

The mechanics of feeding in Salmo gairdneri and Hoplias malabaricus, two generalized predaceous teleosts, was studied using high‐speed movies (200 frames per second). In Hoplias, the feeding mechanism is characterized by an extreme anterior swing of the maxilla and rapid depression of the hyoid occurring synchronously with mandibular depression and neurocranial elevation. A similar feeding sequence is observed in Salmo although the movements of the head are neither as extreme nor as rapid.

The anterior swing of the maxilla, usually attributed to mandibular depression, increased when the ligamentous connection of the maxilla to the mandible was severed. A mechanical model of the jaw was constructed to elucidate the functional interrelationships of the neurocranium, maxilla and mandible.

Films of the “holostean”Amia calva feeding show that the feeding mechanism is of a fundamentally different nature than that of primitive teleost fishes. Extreme anterior swinging of the maxilla occurs synchronously with jaw opening but branchiostegal expansion and hyoid depression only reach a maximum well after the jaws have begun to close. The existence of a highly efficient levator operculi—opercular series—mandible coupling is hypothesized on the basis of the rapid initial jaw opening.

This pattern of feeding movements in Amia has necessitated a revision of current theories on the nature and significance of the “holostean”
Methods of age determination in Grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) in Britain
Authors: Dubock Adrian C.
Published: August 2009

Using X‐ray and lens weight techniques on wild and known age captive animals age criteria have been established for Grey squirrels in Britain. Adults have fused epiphyses of the radius and ulna and a paired dried lens weight above 76.0 mg. The longevity of Grey squirrels in Britain is considered. Comparisons with similar data from the USA are made.
Male Grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) reproductive cycles in Britain
Authors: Dubock Adrian C.
Published: August 2009

A synchronized seasonal cycle of sexual regression and development is described for the male Grey squirrel in Britain. Sexual development is maximal in December and May and minimal in August. The seasonal cycle can be overriden, but this is exceptional. Comparisons with previous work and the suggestion that the synchronized seasonal sexual cycle is general for Grey squirrels in Britain, and probably America, are made.
The mandibular movements of Octopus vulgaris
Authors: Boyle P. R. , Mangold K. , Froesch* D.
Published: August 2009

The movements of the isolated buccal mass of Octopus vulgaris have been investigated. The beaks undergo rhythmic cycles of activity in the absence of applied stimulation and after electrical stimulation of the inter‐buccal connective. Initial opening, closing, retraction and re‐opening phases of movement are described. This cycle of movements is taken to resemble those in the intact animal. Anatomical and electrical evidence identifies the superior mandibular muscle as being partly responsible for the closing and retraction phases of movement. The inferior buccal ganglion determines the sequence of these buccal movements, but modification by sensory feed‐back from the musculature is also implied. The preparation will allow a closer comparison of the control of movement in cephalopods and gastropods.
The mating calls of 12 species and sub‐species of the genus Xenopus (Amphibia : Anura)
Authors: Vigny Catherine
Published: August 2009

The principal acoustic characteristics of the mating calls of 12 species and sub‐species of the genus Xenopus were determined: X. laevis laevis, X. laevis petersi, X. laevis victorianus, X. gilli, X. muelleri, X. borealis, X. clivii, X. fraseri, X. ruwenzoriensis, X. wittei, X. vestitus and X. tropicalis. These calls are very specific, especially among species whose hybrids are particularly viable in the laboratory. Twin species have not been discovered. Most of the species emit calls with high harmonic frequencies of 16 kHz; these frequencies reach 80 and 150 kHz in X. I. laevis and X. ruwenzoriensis, the ultra‐sound level. This was a previously unknown phenomenon in the Batrachians.
The biology, functional morphology and taxonomic status of Gaimardia (Neogaimardia) finlayi (BivaMa: Gaimardiidae)
Authors: Morton Brian
Published: August 2009

Gaimardia (Neogaimardia) finlayi Powell 1933 is a member of the little known family Gaimardiidae which collectively have an Australian, New Zealand and sub‐Antarctic distribution. N. finlayi nestles amongst algal holdfasts at the bottom of wave‐exposed beaches in New Zealand. It is a small, weakly heteromyarian dioecious bivalve attached by a relatively stout byssus. The mantle and the siphons are exceedingly simple; mantle fusions, other than anterior and posterior to the internal ligament, are of the inner folds only. The siphons are non‐extensible wide openings with few sensory papillae. Each ctenidium comprises an inner demibranch only with no inter‐lamellar and but a few inter‐filamentar junctions. Within the ctenidium large telolecithal eggs are incubated to a crawling, shelled stage of approximately 0–75 mm in length. Sperm were found in the ctenidium of two mature males. The possible storage of sperm and eggs and the incubation of fertilized eggs have survival value for a small bivalve living in a difficult environment.

The modifications which suit N. finlayi to its mode of life are discussed, but major interest centres around the taxonomic position of the Gaimardiidae. It is concluded that the Cyamiidae and Gaimardiidae are very closely related, but more comprehensive studies on representatives of both families are needed.
Biomechanics of chelipeds in some decapod crustaceans
Authors: Brown Stephen C. , Cassuto Sherri R. , Loos Ryland W.
Published: August 2009

The major chelipeds of five species of decapod crustaceans were studied with reference to lever system mechanical advantage, pattern of occlusive geometry, and force/pressure developed during cheliped closure by intact animals. Every cheliped type was found to possess a linear array of two to four distinctive regions of occlusion. The factors responsible for the differences in occlusive design are discussed. It is suggested that crustacean major chelipeds must be regarded as regionally‐specialized, multifunctional appendages.
Relative growth rates of limb muscles in the diprotodont marsupial, Setonix brachyurus
Authors: Freedman Leonard , Twomey Lance T.
Published: August 2009

The fore‐ and hindlimb muscles of 12 Setonix brachyurus joeys, aged 5 to 175 days postpartum, and four adults were dissected out and weighed. Individual muscles and muscle groups were analysed for absolute and relative growth changes. From comprising almost 59% of the total limb musculature at birth the forelimb muscles finally constitute just over 9% in the adult; the hindlimb muscles start at just over 41% and end at almost 91%. In both limbs, the extensor actions predominate in the proximal limb segment because of their propulsive functions, whereas in the distal segment the flexor muscles tend to be the larger because of their shock‐absorbing and spring functions. During growth of the fore‐limb there is a relative increase in the size of latissimus dorsi and triceps brachii and a decrease in the distal segment muscles; in the hindlimb the gluteal and hamstring muscles increase at the expense of the distal segment muscles. Specializations for speed include long distal hindlimb segments and proximally located muscle bellies. The above findings reflect the adaptations and changing locomotor patterns from birth to adult in the Quokka.
The activity patterns of Ommatoiulus moreletii (Diplopoda: Iulidae) in South Australia
Authors: Baker G. H.
Published: August 2009

Pitfall traps were set and visual observations made along regularly walked transects to assess the patterns of surface activity of Ommatoiulus moreletii in open grassland and dry sclerophyllous woodland in South Australia. Active O. moreletii were most commonly seen and trapped in autumn, to a lesser extent in spring, occasionally in summer and rarely in winter. Day to day variations in activity were related to changes in temperature and moisture. The activity of older stadia was greater than that of younger stadia.