bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New species of Hydrachna (Acari: Hydrachnidia; Hydrachnidae) parasitic on water boatmen (Insecta: Hemiptera; Corixidae)
Authors: Smith Bruce P.
Published: March 2009

Larvae of eight species of Hydrachna found parasitizing water boatmen in central and western Canada are described, including seven representing new species. Hydrachna barri n.sp., Hydrachna trombida n.sp., and Hydrachna severnensis n.sp. have larvae similar to those of the European species Hydrachna skorikowi Piersig, while Hydrachna elongata n.sp. has larvae similar to those of the holarctic species Hydrachna cruenta Müller. Larvae of Hydrachna leptopalpa n.sp. bear superficial similarity to those of both H. elongata and H. severnensis. These resemblances appear to represent a general trend: larvae of species that attach primarily to the external surface of the host's hemelytra have an elongate gnathosoma and coxal field when compared with larvae of closely related species that tend to attach to the body or basal leg segments. Larval Hydrachna davidsi n.sp. and Hydrachna denticulata n.sp. are very similar to larvae of the European species Hydrachna conjecta Koenike and Hydrachna distincta Koenike. Five of these new species are known only from the larval stage. Adult H. barri are very similar morphologically to adult H. cruenta and, based on affinities indicated by the larvae, probably so are the currently unknown adults of H. trombida, H. severnensis, and H. elongata. A key to the North American species of Hydrachna parasitic on Corixidae is provided.
Heart rate conditioning to L-cysteine and other chemical stimuli in young Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Morin Pierre-Philippe , Dodson Julian J. , Doré François Y.
Published: March 2009

As a preliminary step towards the use of natural odorants in laboratory imprinting studies, olfactory learning by young Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, was assessed by heart rate conditioning to L-cysteine (3.8 × 10−4 M). Fish were successfully conditioned and decelerated their heart rate to L-cysteine compared with that of a control group tested under random pairing sequences of L-cysteine and an electrical stimulation. The cardiac conditioning response and sensitivity of fish to L-cysteine was unaffected by a procedure of curarization. Cardiac performance of fish conditioned to L-cysteine was also compared with that of other groups of fish exposed to four different odorous substances. The conditioned response increased significantly across trials when morpholine, L-cysteine, or L-phenylalanine was used as the conditioning stimulus, but remained unchanged throughout the experiment in the presence of L-serine or L-threonine.
Polygyny and nest site abundance in the slimy sculpin (Cottus cognatus)
Authors: Mousseau Timothy A. , Collins Nicholas C.
Published: March 2009

The mating patterns of three slimy sculpin populations from central Ontario were examined using SCUBA to determine the relationship between the degree of polygyny and the relative availability of potential nest sites. We found that sculpins were exclusively polygynous in a lake where nests were probably limiting, while in two other lakes where potential nests were much more abundant relative to male density, the predominant mating system was monogamy. Our observations of sculpin mating patterns conform to those predicted for species exhibiting resource-defense polygyny.
Tetrabothrius shinni sp.nov. (Eucestoda) from Phalacrocorax atriceps bransfieldensis (Pelecaniformes) in Antarctica with comments on morphological variation, host–parasite biogeography, and evolution
Authors: Hoberg Eric P.
Published: March 2009

Tetrabothrius shinni sp.nov. is described from blue-eyed shags, Phalacrocorax atriceps bransfieldensis Murphy in the western Antarctic. Morphologically, T. shinni is most similar to Tetrabothrius phalacrocoracis Burt, 1977, the only other tetrabothriid known from the Phalacrocoracidae. Specimens of T. shinni are distinguished by a relatively small scolex, numerous testes, (35–61 in number), a large genital atrium (196–317 μm in diameter), a long male canal (86–160 μm in length) with a prominent distal sphincter, and the configuration of the genital atrium (massive ventrally directed male papilla with the aperture of the male canal located anterolaterally). The extreme intraspecific variation in some morphological characters evident in specimens of T. shinni suggests that a reevaluation of some Tetrabothrius spp. is required. The life cycle of T. shinni is thought to involve nototheniid fishes as second intermediate or paratenic hosts. The host and geographic distributions and a suite of unique characters shared by T. shinni and T. phalacrocoracis suggest that they are sister species in which cladogenesis during the Tertiary coincided with that of shags referred to the subgenera Leucocarbo and Stictocarbo.
Long-term structure, disturbance, and recolonization of macroinfauna in a New Hampshire sand beach
Authors: Jaramillo Eduardo , Croker Robert A. , Hatfield Edward B.
Published: March 2009

The southern portion of Foss Beach, New Hampshire, was totally eroded of sand during the second quarter of 1977. Long-term community data from the beach since 1971 served as background for studying recolonization by burrowing invertebrates after redeposition of sand. About 2 years were required for the beach to regain much of its sand, and another year passed before a complete coverage of sand was long lasting. Twenty-five species of macroinfauna were recorded from the beach during a 13-year period, seven of these only from the postdisturbance beach. The polychaetes Scolelepis squamata and Paraonis fulgens, and the amphipods Acanthohaustorius millsi and Amphiporeia virginiana, were the most abundant species. The numbers of species and abundances of polychaetes were the primary influences on the pattern of variation of the total macroinfauna before disturbance. Polychaetes also dominated during early recolonization, 1.5–2 years after sand erosion, particularly species with planktonic larval stages. During this time, Capitella sp. exhibited abundances up to 10 times mean values for the predisturbance period. Four years after sand erosion, the macroinfauna had largely recovered.
Croissance de l'autruche en parc zoologique
Authors: Guittin Pierre
Published: March 2009

The ponderal and size growths of 56 hand-reared ostriches, Struthio camelus australis, were studied at Parc zoologique de Paris. During the first year, three growth phases can be observed. The first phase occurs during the first week and is characterized by a physiological decrease in weight which is unavoidable. The second phase occurs from 8 days to 6 months and coincides with the period in which the most important growth in size takes place; it corresponds to one of the critical periods (during the second month) when many deformed legs are seen. During the following 6 months, the third phase, the growth in size is slower than the increase in weight. The growth of ostriches is an interesting indicator of the quality of breeding.
Seasonal synchronization of emergence in Dolania americana (Ephemeroptera: Behningiidae)
Authors: Peters Janice G. , Peters William L. , Fink Thomas J.
Published: March 2009

This paper summarizes factors regulating seasonal emergence of Dolania americana in the Blackwater River, Florida, U.S.A. Emergence is temperature-dependent, and emergence on a given day can be predicted from the period of nymphal maturation and the pattern of temperatures on previous mornings. Development of the last two nymphal instars follows a pattern that can be interpreted linearly or by day-degree summations. Increases in water temperature at time of emergence (dawn) on the previous day provide the best correlation with emergence. Different responses to temperature events that cue emergence probably result from the effects of different temperature regimes in which the different populations develop. In experiments, males emerged equally 1 and 2 days after increases in the daily low water temperature, while females emerged more frequently after 2 days of increasing temperatures.
Structure of western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) song repertoires
Authors: Horn Andrew , Falls J. Bruce
Published: March 2009

Each male western meadowlark sings a repertoire of 3 – 12 (average 6) song types, sometimes acquiring more with age. Song types within repertoires are not especially contrasting, song type abundance is apparently randomly distributed, and neighboring birds share no more song types than distant birds. The results suggest that song types are learned early in life, and that the particular identity of the song types learned is not important for communication.
Effects of a juvenile hormone analogue on the metamorphic changes of the foregut and midgut in Tenebrio molitor L. (Insecta, Coleoptera)
Authors: Tano Yao , François Jean , Noirot-Timothée Cécile
Published: March 2009

During normal Tenebrio metamorphosis, the smooth pupal foregut cuticle is replaced by a thicker adult cuticle with spines. The pupal midgut epithelium includes regenerative cells organized into nests that proliferate during pupal life, protruding as crypts into the general cavity. At high levels of treatment with juvenoid (Methoprène), some adult characteristics of the foregut cuticle were observed: the foregut cuticle apolysed soon after ecdysis, and the duration of cuticular secretion was shortened. Differentation of the pupal midgut into the adult form was either stopped or delayed by the juvenoid; the growth of the crypts was often inhibited in supernumerary pupae and in other cases could be observed 10 days later than in controls.
Croissance et productivité d'une population du Sphaerium corneum (L.) (Bivalvia: Pisidiidae)
Authors: Gallo Jean-Michel Le , Moreteau Jean-Claude
Published: March 2009

The growth pattern of Sphaerium corneum from a small stream population (Mérantaise, Île-de-France) has been established from the analysis of annual modal evolution. Preliminary data obtained by other authors suggested that the von Bertalanffy growth model was the most suitable, but that the growth rate varied with the season. The largest and smallest heights of animals observed in the field allowed us to determine the parameters of the model: H (asymptotical height) = 11.5 mm and h0 (initial height) = 2 mm. The daily growth rate (k) varied from 2.5 × 10−4 in November to 4.3 × 10−3 in May and its seasonal variation is described with a model that allows its incorporation into the von Bertalanffy growth function. Mortality was studied considering the evolution of cohort size; the annual mortality rate was about 80%, which suggests a 3-year life-span. Productivity was estimated by analysis of a theoretical cohort evolution and by field data analysis. Productivity (P) determined from monthly samplings varied between 9 and 10.3 g m−2 according to the method; the productivity to biomass per square meter ratio (P/B) was between 3.7 and 4.4. The same ratio obtained from the theoretical cohort was 4.5. Comparison of these values with those reported by other workers reveals notable variations that might be related to ecological differences in the ecosystem.
Polysaccharide synthesis stimulating factors from the dorsal bodies and cerebral ganglia of Helisoma duryi (Mollusca: Pulmonata)
Authors: Miksys S. L. , Saleuddin A. S. M.
Published: March 2009

Polysaccharide synthesis by the albumen gland of Helisoma duryi is under the endocrine control of two factors, one from the cerebral ganglia and the other from the dorsal bodies. Both factors stimulate albumen synthesis in vitro in a dose-dependent manner. The cerebral ganglia derived factor is probably a peptide or protein, as it is not extracted by acid or base and is sensitive to trypsin. The nature of the dorsal body derived polysaccharide synthesis stimulating factor is less clear. It is heat labile and not extracted by acid or base, but is insensitive to trypsin and general proteases, and is soluble in methanol. These characteristics lend some support to the hypothesis that dorsal body hormone is a steroid.
Fifty-one years later: an update on Entepherus, with a phylogenetic analysis of Cecropidae Dana, 1849 (Copepoda: Siphonostomatoida)
Authors: Benz George W. , Deets Gregory B.
Published: March 2009

Entepherus laminipes Bere, 1936 is redescribed from female and male specimens collected from Manta birostris, Mobula japonica, Mobula tarapacana, and Mobula thurstoni captured in the Sea of Cortez, and from Mobula rochebrunei captured near Nossi Bé, Madagascar. All of these collections represent new host and geographic records for E. laminipes. It appears that this parasite is a cosmopolitan species with a predilection for mobulid fishes. A phylogeny of the family Cecropidae Dana, 1849 based on a generic-level cladistic analysis is also provided.
Metabolic-, channel-, and pump-coupled functions: constraints and compromises of coadaptation
Authors: Hochachka P. W.
Published: March 2009

An important implication of the principle that metabolic energy is interconvertible with energy storable in electrochemical gradients is that the functions of channels, exchangers, pumps, and pathways are coupled and must coadapt. However, the inherent catalytic efficiencies of the three classes of proteins vary by orders of magnitude (channels > exchangers > pumps) while their inherent sensitivities to environmental perturbation often show the reverse sequence. Furthermore, recent studies of the structures and catalytic properties particularly of ion-specific channel and ion-specific pumps, in comparison with earlier studies of enzyme structures and functions, inidicate that not all parts of such multicomponent systems are equally plastic. Some components are highly constrained, some are moderately constrained, and some are extensively adaptable. Hence properties of the coupled system as a whole in any given tissue, organ, or species represent a compromise between what can and what cannot change. Natural selection appears to be forcing change and forcing constraint simultaneously and this duality is evident at all levels of structural organization and function.
Regulation of tissue-specific glycolytic isozyme genes: coordinate response to oxygen availability in myogenic cells
Authors: Webster Keith A. , Murphy Brian J.
Published: March 2009

The steady-state levels of glycolytic isozymes in higher eucaryotic cells result from the coordinated expression of multiple unlinked genes. The tissue-specific isozyme profiles that characterize the expression of these genes are the result of adaptive evolutionary selection and form the primary basis for physiological regulation of the pathway. This review addresses some of the molecular mechanisms that may contribute to the regulation of these genes, both during development and in response to physiological perturbations in mature tissues. The evidence favors mechanisms of programmed "gene activation" accompanied by the concurrent activation of tissue-specific coordinating trans-acting cellular factors that determine transcriptional efficiencies of both regulatory and nonregulatory glycolytic isozymes. Based upon data from higher and lower eucaryotes, it is predicted that tissue-specific glycolytic isozyme genes have common cis-acting regions in their promoters to bind the cellular transcription factors. These regulatory sequences allow the unlinked genes to respond coordinately to physiological and developmental signals.
Skeletal muscle adaptations for maximizing exercise performance
Authors: Parkhouse Wade S.
Published: March 2009

A description of the skeletal muscle adaptations responsible for the large variations in exercise performance between and within species are outlined. These variations arise from phenotypic expression, muscle mass, and fiber quality. Specific adaptations in cross-bridge dynamics, contractile and regulatory protein isoforms, amounts of Ca2+ releasing and sequestering structures, metabolic capacity, and design inherent in the different fiber types are discussed. The alterations associated with physical stimuli generally involve changes in the rates of protein degradation and synthesis, whereas nonphysiological stimuli are normally required to induce changes in the kinds of proteins produced.
Effect of fractionated blood components on trypsin activity in the stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) (Diptera: Muscidae)
Authors: Houseman Jon G. , Aresta F. , Mark W. A. , Morrison P. E.
Published: March 2009

Female stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.), were fed either whole blood, serum, plasma, or intact or lysed red blood cells and tryptic activity and protein content in the midgut were determined at various intervals after feeding. In flies fed either whole blood, serum, or plasma, posterior midgut trypsin activity increased more than 10-fold, reaching maximum activity 12–18 h after feeding. Protein content of the posterior midgut correlated significantly (p < 0.001) with tryptic activity. Ingestion of either intact or lysed red blood cells resulted in only a 2-fold increase in trypsin activity, and protein content of the posterior midgut did not correlate with trypsin activity. These results indicate that the principal stimulus, or secretagogue, for trypsin production is contained in the noncellular components of the ingested blood meal.
Morphology of gekkonid cutaneous sensilla, with comments on function and phylogeny in the Carphodactylini (Reptilia: Gekkonidae)
Authors: Bauer Aaron M. , Russell Anthony P.
Published: March 2009

The surface morphology of the cutaneous sensilla of 12 species of carphodactyline geckos is described and discussed in light of sensillar function and the phylogeny of the tribe. Sensilla are common on paralamellar scales of most geckos but are here described for the first time from the scansorial plates themselves in Hoplodactylus maculatus. Sensilla from all members of the New Zealand – New Caledonian lineage of carphodactylines bear a single central bristle. The Australian padless geckos (Nephrurus, Phyllurus, Underwoodisaurus) bear sensilla with one to eight bristles which themselves bear many lateral setules. This state is a synapomorphy of those taxa. The spinose subdigital scales and the scales of the knob-tail of Nephrurus bear sensilla without bristles. The absence of bristles is correlated with the lack of epidermal microarchitecture in Nephrurus (perhaps a paedomorphic feature), and with functional demands that expose the sensilla to constant direct substrate contact.
Evidence for Cl−-dependent K+ secretion by the blood–testis barrier of brook trout
Authors: Marshall William S. , Bryson Sharon E.
Published: March 2009

The transepithelial transport of 86Rb+, a tracer for K+, was examined in the isolated sperm duct of brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). Fluxes of 86Rb+ at 1.0 mM Rb+ in voltage-clamped ducts bathed with Ringer's solution on both sides revealed net secretion of Rb+ averaging 31–58 nequiv.∙cm−2∙h−1 after stimulation by 1.0 mM dibutyryl-cAMP. Unstimulated tissues had no net Rb+ transport. The stimulated Rb+ transport was reduced 70% by bilateral replacement of Cl− with gluconate, indicating that Rb+ secretion is dependent on Cl−. Ba2+ (2.0 mM) added to the luminal (mucosal) side had no effect on Rb+ secretion rate, suggesting that apical Ba2+-sensitive K+ channels are not involved. When added on the blood side (serosal), Ba2+ stimulated Rb+ net flux by 68%, possibly as a result of blockade of basal K+ channels and increased intracellular [K+]. Injection of the antiandrogen cyproterone acetate (3 × 0.4 mg∙kg−1 over 7 days in vivo) significantly reduced stimulated Rb+ secretion (in vitro), suggesting that androgens may maintain the active transport characteristics of the blood – testis barrier. The active K+ secretion by the sperm duct accounts for the high concentration of K+ in seminal plasma which in turn is important in maintaining quiescence of developing spermatozoa.
The Coccidia (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) of Anura, with descriptions of four new species
Authors: Upton Steve J. , McAllister Chris T.
Published: March 2009

Four new species of Coccidia (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) are described from anurans from Texas and Arkansas, U.S.A. Oocysts of Eimeria flexuosa sp.n. were found in Pseudacris streckeri streckeri and are irregular in shape, long axis 17.0 (15.2–19.2) μm (mean, range), with a thin, flexible wall. Micropyle and oocyst residuum absent; polar granule present. Sporocysts ovoid, 10.3 × 7.3 (9.6–12.0 × 6.4–8.0) μm, with Stieda body and sporocyst residuum. Oocysts of Eimeria streckeri sp.n. were also found in P. s. streckeri and are spherical or subspherical, 18.8 × 18.7(16.8–21.5 × 16.8–20.8) μm, with a thin wall. Micropyle and polar granule absent; oocyst residuum present. Sporocysts ovoid, 11.1 × 7.7 (9.6–12.8 × 7.2–8.8) μm, with Stieda body and sporocyst residuum. Oocysts of Isospora delicatus sp.n. were found in P. s. streckeri and Pseudacris streckeri illinoensis and are spherical or subspherical, 15.8 × 15.7(12.8–16.8 × 12.8–16.8) μm, and have a thin wall. Micropyle, oocyst residuum, and polar granule absent. Sporocysts ovoid, 13.5 × 8.0(11.2–14.8 × 7.2–9.6) μm, with Stieda body and diffuse sporocyst residuum. Oocysts of Isospora fragosum sp.n. were recovered from Gastrophryne olivacea and are spherical, 18.5 (16.8–20.8) μm, and have a thin wall that ruptures easily. Micropyle, polar granule, and oocyst residuum absent. Sporocysts ovoid, 12.7 × 10.9 (11.2–14.4 × 9.6–12.0) μm, lacking Stieda and substieda bodies; large sporocyst residuum present.
Systematic revision of the Atractidae sensu Chabaud (1978) (Nematoda; Cosmocercoidea): Maracaya belemensis n.sp. and Aplectana albae n.sp. from Amphisbaena alba in Brazil
Authors: Adamson Martin L. , Baccam Doahne
Published: March 2009

Two new species of Cosmocercoidea are described from the posterior intestine of Amphisbaena alba from Brazil, namely Maracaya belemensis and Aplectana albae. Maracaya belemensis n.sp. differs from the type species, Maracaya graciai, in that the spicule is more arcuate and the posterior extremity of the gubernaculum tapers more gradually. In addition, a small prevulvar swelling is present in the type species but absent in M. belemensis. Maracaya pusilla (Miranda, 1924) n.comb. differs from the new species in possessing bifid spicules and in having many more eggs in utero. Aplectana albae n.sp. most resembles Aplectana unguiculata (Rudolphi, 1819) by its short, simple spicules. It differs in that the first two pairs of postanal papillae are very close together rather than being well separated as in A. unguiculata. The disposition of caudal papillae in both new species resembles that seen in many other Cosmocercidae and genera classified in the Atractidae. On the basis of this resemblance and similarities in the form of the excretory pore, Maracaya, Shrankiana, Schrankianella, Labeonema, Ibrahimia, and Paradollfusnema are transferred from the Atractidae to the Cosmocercidae.
DDE, PCB, and mercury residues in Minnesota Common Goldeneye and Hooded Merganser eggs, 1981
Authors: Zicus Michael C. , Briggs Mark A. , Pace III Richard M.
Published: March 2009

DDT and its metabolites, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and mercury (Hg) were measured in Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) and Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) eggs after dead hens were found on clutches. DDE, PCBs, and Hg were detected in all eggs analyzed. Geometric mean concentrations of DDE were low in merganser and goldeneye eggs (0.62 and 0.52 ppm wet weight, respectively). Geometric mean PCB levels were also low, but were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in goldeneye eggs (1.52 vs. 0.66 ppm wet weight). Geometric mean Hg in merganser eggs approached a level for concern and was significantly greater (P < 0.01) than in goldeneye eggs (0.45 vs. 0.11 ppm wet weight, respectively). Merganser and goldeneye eggshells were 9.6 and 15.4% thinner, respectively, and their Ratcliffe indices were 6.0 and 9.2% lower, respectively, than measurements from eggs collected before DDT was in use. Residues and shell thicknesses had among- and within-nest variance structures that differed by species. DDE accounted for 21% of the variation in shell weight controlled for egg size in goldeneyes, but no relationship was evident for mergansers. No dead females were found in about 240 nest boxes monitored in 1982 and 1983 and it is unlikely that contaminant levels measured contributed to hen mortality. Egg breakage in successful nests was greater for goldeneyes than for mergansers or Wood Ducks (Aix sponsa).
Chemical communication in Heligmosomoides polygyrus (Nematoda: Trichostrongylida): the effect of age and sexual status of attracting and responding worms and localization of the sites of pheromone production in the female
Authors: Riga Ekaterini , MacKinnon Barbara M.
Published: March 2009

Pheromones, specifically sex and aggregation pheromones, have been found in both immature and mature male and female Heligmosomoides polygyrus. "Heterosexual" (male–female and female–male in responder–target positions) experiments using mature, 12-day-old worms showed a significantly greater attraction to target worms than did similar experiments using immature, 9-day-old worms. "Homosexual" (male–male and female–female) experiments using mature worms were not significantly different from similar experiments using immature worms. The strength of the pheromonal system influencing heterosexual interactions appears to be dependent on the maturity of worms in both the target and responder positions, mature worms being both more attractive and more responsive than immature worms. To determine the site of pheromone production in female worms, various homogenized tissues from females were tested for their attractiveness to males. Male nematodes responded more rapidly toward homogenized uterus containing fertilized eggs than toward homogenates of fertilized eggs only, unfertilized oocytes, or the intestinal tract of female worms. The source of the female-produced pheromone seems to be the uterine epithelium.
Description of a species of Sarcocystis (Apicomplexa: Sarcocystidae), a parasite of the northern saw-whet owl, Aegolius acadicus, and experimental transmission to deer mice Peromyscus maniculatus
Authors: Espinosa Rolando H. , Sterner Mauritz C. , Blixt John A. , Cawthorn Richard J.
Published: March 2009

Sporocysts of Sarcocystis were recovered from the intestinal mucosa of a northern saw-whet owl (Aegolius acadicus). Sporocysts measured 12.0 × 9.7 μm (9.6–14.0 × 8.0–12.0 μm; n = 100). Doses of 0, 500, and 2500 sporocysts were administered orally to five deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) and five Swiss-Cox white mice (Mus musculus) At necropsy, 28 days postinoculation, deer mice administered 500 and 2500 sporocysts had sarcocysts in skeletal muscles and cardiac muscle. White mice were negative at all dose levels. Sarcocysts had a thin wall (< 1 μm) that consisted of a primary cyst wall and a coarse granular layer composed of 36.6 nm granules (25.6–51.2 nm; n = 11). Thickness of the primary cyst wall was 62.5 nm (38.4–116.1 nm; n = 10). Metrocytes were 2.3 × 1.7 μm (1.5–3.5 × 1.2–2.5 μm; n = 25). Bradyzoites were 5.2 × 1.1 μm (4–7 × 1–2 μm; n = 25).
Comparative demography of forest Peromyscus
Authors: Krohne David T. , Merritt Joseph F. , Vessey Stephen H. , Wolff Jerry O.
Published: March 2009

The demography of Peromyscus leucopus and Peromyscus maniculatus was studied from 1979 to 1986 in four deciduous forest sites in Indiana, Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In two sites (Virginia and Pennsylvania) the two species were sympatic; at the other two sites, Peromyscus leucopus was the only species present. Peak densities varied greatly among sites (range: Indiana Peromyscus leucopus peak = 30/ha; Pennsylvania Peromyscus maniculatus peak = 120/ha). Except for an apparent synchronous high in 1981, there was no strong temporal concordance of peaks or lows among sites. Breeding seasons were of comparable length at all four sites and typically showed a late summer (August–September) hiatus followed by some fall breeding. There was no consistent relationship among sites between over-winter survival and peak density the following summer or between the percentage of adult females pregnant and peak density. Thus, our data suggest that local processes are more important than regional ones in Peromyscus demography.
Epizootiology, pathology, and description of Eustrongylides tubifex (Nematoda: Dioctophymatoidea) in fish
Authors: Measures Lena N.
Published: March 2009

In Guelph Lake, a man-made reservoir in Ontario, Canada, prevalence of larval Eustrongylides tubifex in pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus), rock bass (Ambloplites rupestris), and yellow perch (Perca flavescens) was 12.9% and mean intensity ranged from 1 to 1.8. Larvae were encapsulated on the mesentery of fish. Pumpkinseed and yellow perch were the important fish hosts in Guelph Lake as most larvae in these fish were alive. In contrast, 40% of larvae in rock bass were dead and calcified. Third- and fourth-stage larvae from naturally infected fish are described. Larvae in the three species of fish elicited a granulomatous inflammatory reaction. Attempts to transfer third-stage larvae from experimentally infected oligochaetes and third-stage larvae from naturally infected fish to laboratory-reared pumpkinseed were unsuccessful. Fourth-stage larvae from naturally infected fish were transferred successfully to pumpkinseed. Eutropic lakes such as Guelph Lake are particularly suitable enzootic areas because of the abundant populations of tubificid intermediate hosts and the presence of fish hosts such as pumpkinseed and perch. The advanced stage and development of larvae (to the fourth stage) in fish likely represents an adaptation for a parasite that occurs in a migratory host such as Common Mergansers (Mergus merganser), which frequent Guelph Lake for only about 1 month in spring and fall.
Identification externe du sexe chez le Saumon atlantique (Salmo salar L.)
Authors: Maisse G. , Baglinière J. L. , Landry G. , Caron F. , Rouleau A.
Published: March 2009

A technique to determine the sex of the atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) from external features is proposed. A total of 214 individuals caught in July and August 1986 in five rivers in Quebec and at a salt water location have been studied. Overall, the sexual dimorphism of the relative length of the upper jaw bone allowed us to sex the fishes with 88% success.
Adaptations of Coleoptera to the marine environment. II. Observations on rove beetles (Staphylinidae) from rocky shores
Authors: Topp Werner , Ring Richard A.
Published: March 2009

Two common rove beetles inhabit the intertidal rocky shores of British Columbia: Liparocephalus cordicollis Le Conte and Diaulota densissima Casey. Liparocephalus cordicollis, the more abundant of the two, is a predator that feeds preferentially on small chironomid larvae. Adults and larvae of this species can withstand submergence in seawater at 10 °C for more than 2 weeks. Thus they are able to survive continuous inundation from one spring tide to the next, just above lowest tide levels. Adults of L. cordicollis are osmotic regulators and can stabilize their body weight at salinities varying from 2 to 45‰. Both of these staphylinid species respire above and below water. Oxygen consumption of L. cordicollis in air at 10 °C was 376 ± 59 μL O2∙g−1∙h−1, but when the beetles were immersed in seawater at the same temperature the respiration rate was reduced to 45 ± 8 μL O2∙g−1∙h−1. During submersion, temperature-dependent reactions were observed (Q10 = 2). Respiration was constant within the salinity range of 2–30‰, but at higher levels (45‰) oxygen consumption increased to 55 ± 5 μL∙g−1∙h−1. When L. cordicollis was exposed to warm, dry conditions (simulating low tide on a warm summer day) the rate of evaporation from the cuticle was very high, calculated at 175 μg H2O loss per cm2 body surface per hour per mm Hg saturation deficit. The LT50 (mean lethal time) for a laboratory population was 2.5 h at a vapor pressure deficit of 7 mm Hg. In the larvae of beetles of the two species, asynchrony of growth in the population occurs because submerged larvae stop feeding and growing. Consequently, the development of individuals living near the low tide line is protracted compared with that of individuals living in the midlittoral zone.
Observations on the composition and behaviour of groups of female sperm whales near the Galapagos Islands
Authors: Arnbom Tom , Whitehead Hal
Published: March 2009

During visual and acoustic tracking of sperm whales, Physeter macrocephalus, off the Galapagos Islands, observations were made on the composition and behaviour of the 13 photographically identified groups being followed. Observations of calves and the high incidence of animals with dorsal fin calluses suggested that the groups could be categorized as mixed groups, which contain females and their offspring. Animals recorded to be escorting calves were probably females. Individual calves were escorted by different individuals at different times, and known individuals were observed to escort more than one calf on different occasions. There was a significant difference in the proportion of open and closed fluke notches between groups, suggesting some relatedness of individuals within a group. Twenty-one percent of the identified individuals had tooth mark scars on their flukes, but there was no significant variation in this proportion between groups.
An evaluation of three methods for determining diet quality of free-ranging small herbivorous mammals
Authors: Loeb Susan C. , Schwab Robert G.
Published: March 2009

Pocket gophers (Thomomys bottae) were fed one of seven diets spanning a wide range of nutrient content and dry matter digestibility to evaluate three methods of assessing diet quality in small herbivorous mammals: the ash tracer method, prediction equations based on stomach composition, and prediction equations based on fecal composition. The ash tracer method was a poor predictor of dry matter digestibility because (i) total ash content of the stomach contents was only weakly correlated with the total ash content of the diet and (ii) total ash digestibility varied considerably between diets and was in part dependent on the dry matter digestibility of the diet. In contrast, neutral detergent soluble content of the stomach contents and of the feces was a good predictor of dietary neutral detergent soluble content and dry matter digestibility. Fecal nitrogen was a good predictor of dietary nitrogen although it was less reliable in predicting dry matter digestibility. Stomach content crude fat, ash, and nitrogen concentrations were poor predictors of both dietary nutrient content and dry matter digestibility, as were colon content and fecal crude fat and ash concentrations. None of the indices tested were reliable predictors of dry matter intake.
Echinococcus granulosus (Cestoda: Taeniidae) infections and moose – wolf population dynamics in southwestern Quebec
Authors: Messier François , Rau Manfred E. , McNeill Marilyn A.
Published: March 2009

The prevalence, mean number, and mean total weight of Echinococcus granulosus cysts in the lungs of moose increased with moose density in southwestern Quebec. Such responses in the level of infection were documented in areas of 0.17, 0.23, and 0.37 moose/km2. The increase of E. granulosus infection in moose was attributed to higher densities of wolves, the definitive host of this parasite, as well as an accompanying increase in the rate of wolf predation upon moose. The aggregated distribution of this parasite within the moose population is considered to reflect the highly heterogeneous use of space by wolves and the consequent aggregated distribution of parasite eggs within the environment. A possible regulatory effect of E. granulosus infections on moose numbers is discussed.
Ecology of helminth parasitism in Puffinus gravis (Procellariiformes) on the breeding grounds at Gough Island
Authors: Hoberg Eric P. , Ryan Peter G.
Published: March 2009

Great shearwaters, Puffinus gravis, on the breeding grounds at Gough Island in the central South Atlantic were hosts for seven species of gastrointestinal helminths (range, two to five species per host; abundance = 114–4016 parasites per host). Cestodes, including Tetrabothrius laccocephalus, Tetrabothrius diomedea, Tetrabothrius filiformis, and metacestodes of Tetrabothrius sp., a strigeid trematode, Cardiocephaloides physalis, and an acanthocephalan, Corynosoma australe, occurred in the small intestine. Nematodes, Seuratia shipleyi and larvae of Contracaecum sp., were found in the proventriculus. Great shearwaters had not previously been recognized as hosts for T. filiformis, T. diomedea, and Cardiocephaloides, while C. australe is reported for the first time in an avian host. Populations of the five most abundant and prevalent helminths (Tetrabothrius spp. and Cardiocephaloides) were overdispersed. The patterns of diversity (measured by Brillouin's index), species richness, and abundance in the intestinal helminth community from P. gravis were at the lower end of a continuum for equivalent communities in avian hosts from terrestrial and aquatic habitats. The predictable breeding phenology of P. gravis at Gough Island and the distribution of immature or recently acquired helminths indicated that the major component of the parasite fauna was derived in the South Atlantic Ocean adjacent to the breeding grounds during the austral spring. The distribution of helminth parasites of great shearwaters is discussed with reference to food habits and long-range migration of the hosts.
A technique to determine the behavior of a radio-tagged animal
Authors: Nams Vilis O.
Published: March 2009

I describe a technique to differentiate between activities of radio-tagged animals solely from radio signals. Signal amplitude and pulse interval data are transformed with time series analysis, and variables measured from the transformation are classified with discriminant function analysis. An example is given with known reference radio signals for three behaviors from striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) in which 75% of the reference signals are classified correctly. If the classification is adjusted to allow for unclassifiable signals, then 23% are unclassifiable, but of the remaining 77%, 84% are classified correctly.
Life cycles of four species of Pseudocalanus in Nova Scotia
Authors: McLaren I. A. , Laberge Estelle , Corkett C. J. , Sévigny J.-M.
Published: March 2009

The primarily arctic Pseudocalanus acuspes, relict in Bedford Basin, Nova Scotia, produces a first generation (G1) in late winter; most G1 individuals mature in late spring. The G1 then produces a G2, most of which "rest" in copepodite stages III and IV until early winter. These stages store large amounts of lipid in early summer, which slowly diminish subsequently. A small number of G2 individuals continue to develop at temperature-dependent rates, maturing in early autumn and producing G3 adults in November. Copepodites developing in winter and spring store less lipid. The primarily arctic Pseudocalanus minutus, rare in Bedford Basin and on the Scotia Shelf, is strictly annual, developing to a lipid-filled copepodite stage V after spawning in late winter. The arctic–temperate Pseudocalanus newmani is abundant on the Scotian Shelf, but may not be self-sustaining when advected into Bedford Basin. It stores little lipid and appears to have at least three mature generations at temperature-dependent intervals over Browns Bank between May and November. It may rest in winter, or its life-cycle synchrony by spring could result from food-limited development during winter. The temperate Pseudocalanus moultoni appears to have a life cycle similar to that of P. newmani, but was less common during summer on Browns Bank. These life cycles are appropriately adapted to the geographical ranges of the species, and show some parallels with species of Calanus.
Wing movements and positioning for aerodynamic benefit by Canada geese flying in formation
Authors: Hainsworth F. Reed
Published: March 2009

Wing tip spacing (the distance between wing tips of adjacent birds at maximum span, perpendicular to the flight path), depth (distance between adjacent birds along the flight path), wing beat frequencies, and extreme relative wing positions were measured for Canada geese (Branta canadensis) flying in V formations to test for use of variation in trailing wing tip vortex positions produced by wing movements. Use of vertical vortex position variation requires similarity in wing beat frequency. An average of only 48% of 73 birds in eight formations had frequencies similar to those of the bird ahead during migratory flight (difference ≤ 0.1 beat/s). Birds whose wing beat frequency was similar to that of the bird ahead differed in depth based on whether wings were in or out of phase. Use of horizontal vortex position variation involves variation in wing tip spacing with depth, which was observed, but variation was high and median wing tip spacing was less for birds with similar wing beat frequencies to the bird ahead in only two of eight formations. Induced power saving may be limited by unpredictable moves of birds ahead and by ability to track trailing vortex positions.
Supraorbital ossifications in geckos (Reptilia: Gekkonidae)
Authors: Bauer Aaron M. , Russell Anthony P.
Published: March 2009

Two types of supraorbital ossifications occur in members of the family Gekkonidae. True osteoderms, embedded within the dermis, overlie the orbital region in Tarentola and Geckonia. In Teratoscincus and Aristelliger, small bones in a supraorbital position, for which the term parafrontal bones or ossa parafrontalia is suggested, are found within the brillar fringe. These elements lie beneath the dermis in the plane of the frontal bone, and differ from osteoderms in their irregular shape and lack of correspondence with overlying epidermal scales. Parafrontal bones have been derived independently in the lineages in which they occur and their homologies to supraorbital ossifications in other lizards, if any, remain unclear.
Systematics of Onchocleidus Mueller, 1936 (Monogenea: Ancyrocephalidae): phylogenetic relationships, evolution, and host associations
Authors: Wheeler Terry A. , Beverley-Burton Mary
Published: March 2009

The phylogeny of Onchocleidus Mueller, 1936 (sensu Wheeler and Beverley-Burton 1989) is analysed cladistically. The putative monophyly of the genus is supported by three synapomorphies: dextral vaginal opening, spiral filament encircling the penis, and dorsal hamuli with reduced deep roots. Haplocleidus Mueller, 1937 and Pterocleidus Mueller, 1937 are considered synonyms of Onchocleidus. The spiral filament, previously considered synapomorphic for the group comprising Onchocleidus and Aethycteron Suriano and Beverley-Burton, 1982, is reinterpreted as independently derived in both genera. An alternative hypothesis is presented for the relationship between Onchocleidus and Aethycteron, with the spiral filament and accessory piece of Aethycteron arising through transformation of an accessory piece similar to that found in Urocleidus Mueller, 1934. This implies a sister-group relationship between Aethycteron and Urocleidus, not between Aethycteron and Onchocleidus. The host associations of Onchocleidus, Aethycteron, and Urocleidus are discussed in light of this hypothesis. Onchocleidus is assumed to have originated and (or) radiated on centrarchids; species of Onchocleidus parasitizing Percichthyidae are not monophyletic and probably spread to percichthyids via ecological association. Rather than assume that Aethycteron spread to percids by ecological association with centrarchids, it appears that percids were host to a common ancestor of Aethycteron and Urocleidus, which later radiated, giving rise to the two genera. The occurrence of Urocleidus on centrarchids is attributed to ecological association with percids.
Alebion crassus Wilson, 1932 (Copepoda: Caligoida) from the sand tiger shark, Eugomphodus taurus (Rafinesque), in the upper Bay of Fundy
Authors: Hogans W. E. , Trudeau Deborah J.
Published: March 2009

A single adult female of Alebion crassus was recovered from the skin of the sand tiger shark, Eugomphodus taurus, captured in the Minas Basin region of the upper Bay of Fundy. Alebion crassus has not been previously reported from this host or locality. The present find is a northern range extension record for both the host and parasite.
Bobcat–coyote niche relationships during a period of coyote population increase
Authors: Litvaitis J. A. , Harrison D. J.
Published: March 2009

Resource partitioning between bobcats (Felis rufus) and coyotes (Canis latrans) was investigated in eastern Maine during 1979–1984, when colonizing populations of coyotes were rapidly expanding. A total of 2615 radio locations of 10 resident bobcats and 6 resident coyotes were used to investigate activity patterns, spatial relationships, and habitat use. The daily distribution of activity by both species was similar during all seasons, and neighboring bobcat–coyote home ranges overlapped. Simultaneous locations of eight sympatric bobcat–coyote pairs (≥ 10% home range overlap) indicated an apparent lack of attraction or avoidance between neighboring heterospecifics. Bobcats preferred hardwood stands during all seasons (P < 0.05), and occupied softwood-dominated stands less than expected (P < 0.05) during autumn and winter. Coyote habitat use was less consistent, and indices of habitat-use overlap with bobcats varied from 0.60 during autumn to 1.00 during winter. Seasonal indices of diet diversity, based on the examination of 1495 feces, indicated that bobcats were more specialized than coyotes. Coyotes became omnivorous during summer and autumn, while bobcats remained strict carnivores during all seasons. Indices of diet overlap were higher during winter (0.76) and spring (0.72) than during summer (0.49) and autumn (0.49). The numbers of bobcats and coyotes trapped in eastern Maine during 1977–1986 were negatively correlated (r = −0.75, P < 0.02), suggesting a population response to exploitation competition between these two carnivores.
Caribou from the Late Pleistocene of northwestern Alabama
Authors: Churcher C. S. , Parmalee P. W. , Bell G. L. , Lamb J. P.
Published: March 2009

Rangifer tarandus, represented by the isolated distal end of a left metacarpal, was recovered during June 1987 from Bell Cave, Colbert County, Alabama. The Late Pleistocene level that yielded this caribou element is dated at [Formula: see text] years BP. This record is the first for Alabama, and the most southerly known in North America.
Daily variation in plasma growth hormone of juvenile coho salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch
Authors: Bates David J. , Barrett Bruce A. , McKeown Brian A.
Published: March 2009

Circulating levels of plasma growth hormone were measured in juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) over a 24-h period. Growth hormone followed a circadian rhythm, peaking three times during 24 h. Peaks occurred at 10:00, 16:00, and 24:00, with the largest peak (24:00) representing a 575% increase in plasma growth hormone over a 2-h period (22:00–24:00).
Biochemical separation of Atlantic Canadian redfish: Sebastes mentella and Sebastes norvegicus
Authors: Trottier Bertin L. , Rubec Peter J. , Ricard Anne C.
Published: March 2009

One of the problems for management of the redfish fishery in the Gulf of St. Lawrence is the difficulty in distinguishing between the different species: deepwater redfish (Sebastes mentella), golden redfish (Sebastes norvegicus), and Acadian redfish (Sebastes fasciatus). Controversy exists concerning whether S. mentella and S. norvegicus are separate species because of similarity of meristic characters and other attributes. We describe a procedure that distinguishes these two forms by isoelectric focusing using polyacrylamide gels of water-soluble muscle proteins. In our samples, the lower part of the gel of S. mentella consistently shows three major protein bands, while that of S. norvegicus shows only one major band. The isoelectric focusing banding patterns from our study agree with those found by other workers for redfish from Greenland and Norway. The unequivocal isoelectric focusing separation and its concordance with morphometric characters indicate that S. mentella and S. norvegicus are genetically distinct, reproductively isolated species.