bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Redescription of Carbula aliena Distant, 1918 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) from West Bengal, India with Reference to Male Genitalia and a Key to the Indian Species
Authors: Pal Amartya , Dash Swetapadma , Hassan M. E. , Gupta Devanshu
Published: January 2025

Carbula aliena Distant, 1918 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) is re-described and illustrated based on the material collected from the Alipurduar district, West Bengal, India. New characters are included, along with illustrations of male morphometric measurements to facilitate easy species detection. A key to the Indian species of Carbula Stål, 1865 is also prepared.
Redescription of Neoeucirrhichthys maydelli (Teleostei: Cobitidae) from Brahmaputra drainage, Assam, Northeastern India
Authors: Basumatary Bidangshri , Lokeshwor Singh Yumnam
Published: January 2025

A cobitid genus Neoeucirrhichthys, a monotypic loach under family cobitidae, was described based on a single specimen of N. maydelli from Janali River (Brahmaputra River system) at Raimona, Goalpara district, Assam. Almost after four decades an attempt was made to redescribe Neoeucirrhichthys maydelli from Mechi River, Nepal without mentioning presence of minute maxillo-mandibular rudimentary barbel at the corner of mouth. And as the samples were not from the type locality of the original description, thus, need verification and confirmation of its taxonomic status with fresh specimens collected in and around the habitat of its type species. Recent collection of specimens from Khujia River (the vicinity of type locality of type species), the northern tributary of Brahmaputra drainage, Assam have found a population of Neoeucirrhichthys maydelli which is redescribed here with additional information on its morphology, anatomy and osteology. The present study reveals the presence of a lateral extension of air bladder capsule on each side which was not seen in the illustration of original description; important osteological features like neurocranium with reduced (almost absent) anterior frontal region, posterior portion of frontal bone triangular shape, no anterior preepiphysial fontanelle, posterior fontanelle triangular shape with wide base towards posterior; total vertebrae 37–38 (18‒20 abdominal vertebrae; 18–19 caudal vertebrae), dorsal fin insertion between 14–15 and 16‒17 vertebrae, anal fin insertion between 23–24 and 25–26 vertebrae; and caudal complex with 5 hypural and gap between epural and neural arch of first preural centrum (pc-1).
Morphological discrepancies of three Garra (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) in Arunachal Pradesh, India- a possible evolutionary process
Authors: Shangningam Bungdon , Rath Shibananda , Kiran Tudu Asha , Kosygin Laishram
Published: January 2025

The present study appraises the discrepancies patterns of morphometry for the first time on the three species of Garra. Garra arunachalensis, G. birostris, and G. quadratirostris were collected from various locations of the Siang River in Arunachal Pradesh, India. The results of the morphological analysis revealed that G. arunachalensis, G. birostris, and G. quadratirostris hold many similar characteristics compared to the type species, which confirms its speciation. However, they parade distinct variations in morphological and meristic characters which indicate genetic variation as time lapsed. Certain morphometric characters overlapped. Hence the variations in many morphometric characters point towards a possible continuous evolutionary process. Details of the morphological discrepancies of the three species and possible hypotheses of climatic, geographical, and habitat changes are discussed.
Comparative analysis on Sclerite Morphometry: a useful tool in the soft corals Lobophytum sp. (Sarcophytidae: Octocorallia: Anthozoa) identification from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India
Authors: Rajendra S. , Raghunathan C.
Published: January 2025

Soft corals are sessile, marine benthic organisms that play an important role in the coral reef ecosystem. The identification of soft coral species is challenging due to their morphological deviations. Octocorals are one of least studied groups in Indian waters due to a lack of expertise. A total of 60 species under the genus Lobophytum have been identified across the world’s oceans while India shares a total of 21 species including 18 species from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. During the study, Lobophytum specimens were collected from coral reef regions of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands employing SCUBA-diving and hand-picking methods. Specimens were distinguished with lobate, plate-like, or capitate with a prominent stalk and dimorphic, fully retractile polyps into thick coenenchyme. Species were identified by extracting sclerites from various regions of the colony with 5% sodium-hypochlorite (capitulum surface and interior, base surface, and interior) examined under a stereo-zoom microscope. Sclerite structure and measurements, as well as type composition, have been examined in ten Lobophytum species in this study. In different regions of the same colony, the structural composition of each species sclerites varies. Sclerites of various shapes like club-shaped, rod-shaped, spindle-shaped, shuttles, capstans, dumbbells, cylindrical, barrel-shaped, irregular-shaped, and cross-shaped were observed in ten Lobophytum species. The colony morphology also plays a role in taxonomy and species arrangement in systematics. Aside from colony morphology, zooid arrangement in the colony is also important for species identification. The colour of the colonies does not have a proper role in species identification because they show a variety of colours due to their symbiosis with zooxanthellate microalgae. The colony colours are determined by zooxanthellate concentration, temperature, depth, and other environmental factors. However, after preservation, most colonies turn white, beige white, or cream in colour. Hence, Sclerite morphometric is a very useful characteristic for species identification in the Lobophytum species.
Scanning Electron Microscopic study on mouth parts of hill stream fishes, Psilorhynchus ngathanu, Shangningam et al., 2013 and Garra abhoyai, Hora, 1921 from Chindwin Basin, Manipur, India. (Teleostei: Cyprinidae)
Authors: Aruna Chanu Shagolsem , Linthoingambi I. , Singh Kh. Rajmani , Ng. Catherine
Published: January 2025

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on the associated structures of mouth of Psilorhynchus ngathanu and Garra abhoyai has been carried out. SEM structures of mouth parts of P. ngathanu reveal the presence of elongate and pointed tubercles on the rostral cap. Papillae studded with unculi and taste buds are seen along with numerous mucus. In G. abhoyai hexagonal epithelial cells with elevated cell boundaries and scantly mucous gland opening are observed. Taste buds present at the apex of epithelial cells with micro-ridges pattern have also been observed. Histology of rostral cap and parts of Gular disc of Garra abhoyai are also carried out. Fringed and papillated rostral cap on upper lip are observed. Clavate cell, sensory cell, pigment cell of central callous are seen.
Descriptions of Poorly Known Marine Sponges (Phylum Porifera) from the Andaman Islands India with Notes on their Ecology
Authors: Pereira Preeti , Raghunathan Chelladurai
Published: January 2025

In the present manuscript taxonomic descriptions of 20 species of sponges distributed among 18 genera, 14 families and 10 orders are provided along with notes on their geographic distribution and ecology. A total of 10 growth forms were observed of which, thin sheets were the most dominant growth form (25%) followed by massive globose (15%); massive lobose (15%) and massive flanged (10%). Seven growth forms were found to be rare, represented only by one species each. Most sponge species preferred a rocky substrate followed by dead coral and live coral. Sponges exhibiting thin sheet type of growth form were found to colonise on all hard substrates such as rocky substrates, dead and live corals. Only one species, Oceanapia sagittaria, exhibiting cylindrical growth form, was found in sandy bottom. Stylissa massa and Phyllospongia foliascens were found to be present invariably in all depths. Spheciospongia vagabunda, and two varieties viz., Spheciospongia inconstans var. meandrina and S. inconstans var. digitata were found in the shallow waters (0 – 1 m). Species-specific information on taxonomy, zoogeography and bathymetric distribution of the sponges of the Andaman Islands provided herein would be valuable for future biomonitoring programs for their conservation and management.
Species Diversity of Phytophagous Scarab Fauna (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in Western Ghats of Kerala, India
Authors: Correya Judith Corolin , Sreedevi Kolla
Published: January 2025

Surveys were carried out during March to August months of 2021 and 2022 to document the species diversity of phytophagous scarabs in selected locations of four districts of Kerala viz., Wayanad, Malappuram, Palakkad and Idukki, which cover rich biodiversity hotspots in the Western Ghats. The explorations yielded 1953 specimens belonging to 60 species under 18 genera of subfamilies Melolonthinae, Rutelinae and Dynastinae, of which Melolonthinae is the most speciose representing 11 genera. Various diversity indices revealed variations in species diversity in terms of species richness and evenness among the surveyed locations. Six species viz., Anomalachela bicolor (Brenske, 1892), Sophrops karschi (Brenske, 1892), Apogonia proxima Waterhouse, 1877, Apogonia sp.1, Maladera rufocuprea (Blanchard, 1850) and Anomala communis (Burmeister, 1844) were found to be common in all the four surveyed districts while ten species each were observed to be specific to Palakkad and Idukki districts. The species distribution and dynamics across the districts are discussed.
Diversity of Zooplankton in Mountainous Organic based Paddy cum Fish Cultivation ecosystem in Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Authors: Saikia Rajashree , Debnath Dipankar , Das Tapati , Das D. N.
Published: January 2025

Zooplankton in the organic based mountainous paddy fields play an important role for the holistic development of fisheries and aquaculture sector, promoting livelihoods, food and nutritional security. Five major communities of zooplankton namely Cladocera, Copepoda, Rotifera, Protozooplanktonand Ostracoda were found in the study area where 34 species under Cladocera, 7 species under Copepoda along with some nauplii, 17 species under Rotifera and 1 species under Ostracoda and among protozooplankton 5 species under Protozooplankton, were recorded. Simpson dominance index revealed that Bosmina, Chydorus, Cyclops, Diaptomus, Brachionus, Keratella, Arcella were found as the most dominant zooplankton species. Shannon diversity index showed that Cladocera (2.45)> Copepoda (1.44)>Rotifera (1.30)>Protozooplankton (1.27). Margelef richness index showed that Cladocera (5.64)> Copepoda (1.65)> Rotifera (1.10)>Protozooplankton (1.33). The physico-chemical parameters of the rice field water as well as the structure and dynamics for the growth and abundance of zooplankton in the rice field also the productivity of rice and fish yield. It can be concluded that diversified zooplankton species has found in the organic nature paddy fields which have the reflection of the healthy ecosystem of Organic paddy fields. This type of ecosystems will be helped to attain of the three goals of sustainable development viz. Goal 12 (Responsible consumption and production), Goal 13 (Climate action), Goal 14 (Life below water) by enhancement of blue revolution of the country.
Centipede Diversity in Reserved Forests of Southern Kerala: A Preliminary Observation
Authors: Krishnan Rahul , Prasad G.
Published: January 2025

The present study focuses on the southern districts of Kerala, viz., the reserved forests of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta for the period from May, 2021 to June, 2022. Representatives of three orders belonging to three families, six genera and 14 species have been recorded. The dominant orders reported are Scolopendromorpha, followed by Scutigeromorpha. Within Scolopendromorpha, the genera Rhysida and Digitipes are the most abundant and enjoy a rich distribution in these areas.
Flower Visiting Flies (Insecta: Diptera) and their Interaction with The Flowering Plants in a Tropical Island Ecosystem
Authors: Pramanik Debdeep , Mukherjee Koustav , Ghosh Debjani , Sarkar Saikat , Naskar Atanu , Banerjee Dhriti
Published: January 2025

Pollen transportation and pollination is an essential ecological function. Flies of order Diptera perform a significant role in transfer of pollen and pollination to some extent (Raguso, 2020). In tropical island ecosystems the flower visiting dipteran flies may function simultaneously with the bees to maintain a healthy ecosystem service. However, the study of flower visiting Dipteran flies in India has received less attention from the entomologists and even lesser in island ecosystems. In tropical areas the Hymenopterans can be outnumbered by the Dipterans in terms of biodiversity (Inouye, 2001). So, the main objective of this study is to identify and make an inventory of flower visiting Dipteran flies of a tropical island along with their visited plant species. The study was conducted across the Sagar Island, West Bengal. The collection of flies and observation of the plants visited by them was done through line transect method in 10 chosen study sites containing both the crop and non-crop flowering plants. Throughout the study, a total of 41 species of flies belonging to 34 genera under 13 families have been observed to visit flowers of 32 species in our studied landscape. Paragus (Paragus) serratus of family Syrphidae has been found to be the most interactive fly visiting 27 different flowering plant species and Mangifera indica appears to be the most visited plant with 17 dipteran species visiting its flowers. We have also observed the variation in seasonal occurrence of the flower visiting flies and prepared a simple bipartite network representing the links between the dipteran flower visitors and their visited flowering plants. The outcomes illustrate a clear scenario of flower visiting Dipteran flies occurring in a tropical island which interact with the plants. This can also lead to future studies about pollination by Diptera in an island ecosystem.
Studies on the Prevalence of Endoparasitic Protozoans of Oligochaetes in the Bankura District of West Bengal
Authors: Sinha Moumita , Modak Biplob Kumar
Published: January 2025

Endoparasitic aseptate gregarines are commonly found in Annelida, particularly in seminal vesicles of earthworms. An extensive survey has been carried out for aseptate gregarine in earthworms in the Bankura district during the period of January 2022- December 2022. Different genera of host earthworms were studied for occurrence of aseptate gregarines throughout the year. To study the morphology, prevalence and life cycle of these parasites, earthworms were dissected and a small amount of seminal fluid was drawn out on the slide. Then they are fixed in Schaudin’s fixative, stained in Heidenhain’s hematoxylin and studied under the light microscope. During the survey four genera viz. Monocystis Stein, 1848, Nematocystis Hesse, 1909, Stomatophora Drzhevetskii, 1907, Apolocystis Cognetti de Martiis, 1923 are recorded but the prevalence of Monocystis Stein, 1848 and Stomatophora Drzhevetskii 1907, are much higher than the others. These endoparasites reproduce sexually and exhibit mainly three distinct stages viz. trophozoite, gametocyst and oocyst in their lifecycle.
An Insight into the Taxonomy and Diversity of Pollinating Hoverflies (Insecta: Diptera: Syrphidae) from Dry Deciduous Landscape of West Bengal
Authors: Sengupta Jayita , Mukherjee Arka , Naskar Atanu , Banerjee Dhriti
Published: January 2025

Alternative uses of land use pattern have caused declination in pollinator globally. The current pollinator catastrophe anomaly affects food scarcity, magnifies problems with hidden hunger, erodes ecological resilience and threatens ecosystems. Despite visiting at least 72% of global food crops, dipteran pollinators always have received much less research attention than hymenopterans. Hoverflies (Insecta:Diptera: Syrphidae) being one of the largest pollinator group from the Dipteran lineage is worthy of more research priorities. The study on this group of flies represents a huge research gap, particularly from the plain land ecosystems of West Bengal. According to the report, the ISHI score (India State Hunger Index) is 20.97 which is atan alarming level. The current study includes a detailed systematics & diversity analysis of this pollinator from the dry deciduous landscape (Sonamukhi Forest) from the state. For the current study purpose, pollinators have been collected by net sweeping & by using different traps over 3 years. The detailed study includes 20 species under 16 genera over two subfamilies where Syrphinae (53%) are more prevalent than Eristalinae (47%). The most prevalent species is found to be Episyrphus (Episyrphus) balteatus (De Geer, 1776) whereas Sphaerophoria indiana Bigot, 1884 is rarely present in all the seasons. On the other hand, the results of the diversity analysis study show species diversity to be at its highest during the Pre-Monsoon season (H = 4.261) and its lowest during the Monsoon season (H=1.12). Further detailed studies at periodic interval are necessary for more accurate database development and for ecosystem monitoring.
An Updated Checklist of Indian Batoids with New Distributional Records and Conservation Status
Authors: K. K. Bineesh , E. G. Ida , M. Nashad , Kumar Rajendra , Rajan Rajkumar , Mohapatra Anil
Published: January 2025

The present paper is an attempt to provide new information on taxonomy, current distribution, and conservation status of batoids in India. This study is based on the landing site surveys conducted during the years 2017-2022 at major fish landing centres across India. The present study updated the checklist of Indian batoids to 77 valid species. They were caught in commercial and artisanal fisheries of India and several of them were caught as bycatch. Among the deep water batoids, Dipturus spp, Torpedo spp. and the Dark blind ray Benthobatis moresbyi were frequently observed in the deepwater trawl bycatch. Distributions of batoids were highly variable along the Indian coasts. Landing centre survey shows that distribution of Stripenose guitarfish Acroteriobatus variegatus is restricted to southern cost of India. Similarly Smoothback guitarfish Rhinobatos lionotus is restricted to east coast of India from Kilakarai, Tamil Nadu to Hoogly, West Bengal. In addition, distributional ranges of several batoid species in Indian waters were extended; Brown sting ray Bathytoshia lata and Smalleye stingray Megatrygon microps are new record to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Indian Guitarfishes and Wedgefishes are declining drastically due to fishing pressure and habitat destruction, 21% of the species is Vulnerable and 19% are Endangered, 16% are Critically Endangered, and 7% Near Threatened respectively.
Occurrence of Soil-Inhabiting Nematoda (Dorylaimida and Tylenchida) in Some Protected Areas and Tea Estates of Assam with Four New Records of Dorylaimida from India
Authors: Sen Debabrata , Roy Samprit Deb
Published: January 2025

During a survey in 2018, soil samples were collected to explore the occurrence and diversity of soil-inhabiting nematode in some of the districts of Assam state including several protected areas and Tea Estates/gardens which have immense economic importance. The soil samples were processed by Cobb’s Sieving and Decantation Method and the extraction of nematodes was done by modified Baerman Funnel Technique. 25 Nematodes have been reported from several conservation areas and Tea gardens. Among these, 21 species belong to the order Dorylaimida and 4 to the order Tylenchida. Out of these nematodes, 15 species are reported as new distributional records from Assam. Four species, Mesodorylaimus bastiani (Butschli, 1873) Andrassy, 1959, Aporcelaimellus taylori Yeates, 1967, Makatinus punctatus Heyns, 1965 and Nygolaimus macrobrachyurus (Heyns, 1968) Thorne, 1974 are recorded for the first time from India. The nematodes reported exhibited various feeding habits like omnivore, herbivore, predatory & predatory- omnivore.
Biological Assessment of Major Water Bodies of The City of Kolkata
Authors: Ghosh Subhadip , Akhtar Shaheen , Kumari Kanchan
Published: January 2025

Benthic macroinvertebrate monitoring or biological monitoring is use of biological responses for populations and communities of certain indicator organisms to evaluate anthropogenic environmental changes. Biomonitoring is a special way of assessing water quality using macroinvertebrates to find the Saprobic score and Diversity score to indicate the level of pollution as well as to assess the biological quality of water. It entails the use of indicator species, generally, benthic macroinvertebrates/ fish and algae communities as well as certain aquatic plant species are also used. From several studies, benthic macro-invertebrate populations have been regarded as the most acceptable biological parameter to assess the quality of water out of all the biotic components. The mapping based on bio-monitoring has been proven as a powerful tool for the preparation of future action plans to control water pollution and improve the water quality of water bodies. The present study has been conducted in four major water bodies of city, Kolkata (West Bengal) using benthos monitoring to understand the prevailing scenarios.
The benthos samples were collected from all the four water bodies selected for study, sieved, washed, and transferred into a large tray for identification purposes and classified according to their taxa. As per the score obtained, most of the sampling sites were found to be moderately polluted. Gastropods, annelids, crustacea, and insects made up the majority of the benthic macro-invertebrate species that were collected. The various opportunities and lessons learned from past experiences of monitoring of different water bodies have also been included in this study. The details and significance of the work have been discussed in the full paper.
Osteology of incomplete lateral lined schisturid loaches of Meghalaya: a comparative account
Authors: Marak Wimarithy K. , Lokeshwor Singh Yumnam
Published: January 2025

The present study is based on the comparative osteology among Schistura fishes with incomplete lateral line found in Meghalaya. Six species are studied for osteology, three already described ones and three unknown species. The clearing and staining of this species group showed variations and similarities in their neurocranium structure, ceratobranch structure, air bladder capsule structure, vertebrae number, fin insertions and caudal vertebrae complex in all cases. The study revealed that Schistura fasciata has a total of 37 vertebrae, S. reticulofasciata with 35–36, S. syngkai with 34–35, S. sp. 1 with 35, S. sp. 2 with 37 and S. sp. 3 with 32 vertebrae.
Do Earthworms Truly Always Assist Farmers or is There Another Fact ?
Authors: Tiwari Pooja , Yadav Shweta
Published: January 2025

Among all the soil creatures, earthworms are regarded as the most crucial. They are found in the areas where the soil contains enough water and temperature. They also exhibit a variety of environmental adaptations to the various environments. Earthworms may live in local microsites, even in unsuitable areas, when the conditions are favorable (such as urban gardens, desert oasis, etc.), especially if well-adapted species have been introduced. Despite the fact that earthworms have many positive effects on the soil ecology, certain of their activities are deemed undesirable. The destructive behaviors of earthworms include removing and burying surface residues that would otherwise protect soil surfaces from erosion, producing fresh casts that promote erosion and surface sealing, increasing soil compaction on the surface, leaving castings on lawns where they are an annoyance, dispersing weed seeds in gardens and agricultural fields, transmitting plant or animal pathogens, and riddling irrigation canals that reduce their ability to function. Although being little understood, there is a surge in exotic earthworm invasions as a result of worldwide commerce in agriculture, waste management, and bioremediation. Exotic earthworm invasions are spreading globally and having a significant impact on plant populations and soil processes. It has been documented that at least 100 different species of earthworms are found outside of their natural habitats. Non-native earthworms can potentially colonize new places despite disturbance and interference. The present study discusses on the impact of invasive earthworms on the agroecosystem and analyzes the importance of earthworms in all soil ecosystems.
Biodiversity Profile of Phytotelmata of The Southern Western Ghats, and The Use of Tree Crab Kani maranjandu Kumar, Raj & Ng, 2017, as an Indicator of Ecosystem Health
Authors: K. R. Soumya , A. Biju Kumar
Published: January 2025

Kani maranjandu Kumar, Raj & Ng, 2017 (Gecarcinucidae) is India’s first tree-climbing crab reported from the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve (ABR), Southern Western Ghats. This unique arboreal species uses phytotelmata or water-filled tree holes as their habitat. The species has been reported from the phytotelmata of trees of evergreen and adjacent semi-evergreen forest covers across the ABR. Phytotelmata being an aquatic microcosm, serves as a discrete ecosystem. It harbours a diverse range of taxa, dominated by insect larvae, crustaceans and amphibians interacting with each other within this small ecosystem. The highly selective habitat requirements of Kani maranjandu eventually highlights their importance as indicator species, which can showcase the health and productivity of the forest ecosystem. The multifaceted role of Kani maranjandu as a key constituent of phytotelmic container habitat has been evaluated. The eligibility criteria for a bio-indicator have been assessed for this crab species and found fit as a biological indicator towards manifesting the productivity of the forest ecosystem. Kani maranjandu, as indicator species, can judge the quality of the container habitat and forest ecosystem, and changes happening over time. Any unusual environmental stress or impact influence subsequent changes in the biotic responses of the animal to look into ecosystem stability. Estimating the ecological stressors and devising the indicator species towards monitoring plans and management measures promotes successful conservation and appropriate management of the ecosystem’s biodiversity. The study further suggests conserving larger trees in degraded forests through eco-restoration efforts, besides considering this ubiquitous species as an indicator of ecosystem health.
Investigating the pollen transport network between moths (Lepidoptera) and the economically important plants in Central and Eastern Himalaya
Authors: Lenka Rajesh , Mitra Dipayan , Chatterjee Pallab , Talukdar Avishek , Singh Navneet
Published: January 2025

The current study was planned to understand the pattern of pollen transportation in commercially significant plants of the central and eastern Himalayas via non-papilionoid Lepidoptera. For data collection, 14 locations of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and North Bengal were surveyed between September 2018 to August 2019. Our investigation revealed that 37 species in seven moth families contribute significantly in pollen transportation of eleven economically significant plant species belonging to nine angiosperm families. The analysis is based on a bipartite model between the identified moths and plant taxa to measure pollen carrying capacity, selectivity, connectance, Shannon’s diversity, linkage diversity, and link per species. We examined generalist and specialist moth species. The outcome of the current research work offers a basic and fundamental understanding of the ecological role of moths in pollen transportation of economically significant plants in the central and eastern Himalaya, and will thus open up a new doorway in pollination ecology of moths.
Pesticide differentially affects natural predators causing pest build up: a case study in Brinjal
Authors: Das Manobrata , Basu Parthiba
Published: January 2025

Pesticide application aimed at pest regulation in agricultural field can have unintended differential and negative impacts on non-target species.Therefore, its continuous and uncontrolled usage can disturb the balance of agricultural ecosystem. The objective of the present study was to assessrelative impacts ofpesticideson pest and predator populations in an agricultural ecosystem. We chose brinjal farm as our focal system as it is an economically important crop that has high pest vulnerability and therefore requires heavy pesticide usage. Whitefly is a major pest of brinjal.Spiders are important natural predators that is known to control pests by active predation. We explored the impacts of pesticide on whitefly and spider populations in brinjal farming system. Thirty farms were selected in the coastal agro-climatic zone in southern West Bengal. Whitefly abundance increased significantly with increasing usage intensity of pesticides used by farmers. Spider abundance decreased as pesticide intensity increased. Decreasing spider density resulted in increased whitefly population. These results show how non-target impact of pesticide impedes natural pest regulation
New Distributional Record of Spilomutilla eltola (Cameron, 1898) (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae) From India
Authors: B. Terine Joshua , P. Kumar Girish
Published: January 2025

The Sri Lankan mutillid species, Spilomutilla eltola (Cameron, 1898) (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae) is newly reported from India. Differential characters, figures, distribution map and comparisons of the newly recorded species with description of materials from Sri Lanka is provided.
Two new species of Bryophaenocladius Thienemann (Diptera: Chironomidae: Orthocladiinae) from Darjeeling and Kolkata, West Bengal, India with a note on biology of montane species
Authors: Kumar Som Dipak , Mukherjee Tuhar , Das Torpita , Chakraborty Rima
Published: January 2025

Two new species of Bryophaenocladius are proposed and described from West Bengal, India. Bryophaenocladius kolkataensis sp.nov. is reported as first Orthoclad from metropolitan areas of Kolkata while B. pollexus sp.nov. is reported from the montane regions of Eastern Himalayas biodiversity hotspot. The two species can be separated from other species of Bryophaenocladius by the presence of unique inferior volsella and gonostylus. A brief note on the biology of B. pollexus sp. nov. with special reference to its habitat preference, larval behaviour and adult swarming has been incorporated. DNA barcode of B. kolkataensis sp. n. is also given. A taxonomic key to the adult males of 14 Oriental species of the genus Bryophaenocladius is also provided.
An updated checklist of Thrips (Insecta: Thysanoptera) of Sikkim
Authors: Songomsing Chiru Th D , Johnson Thang , Rachana R R , Varatharajan R
Published: January 2025

Systematic surveys of thrips were undertaken during 2019-2022 with specific reference to Khangchendzonga National Park in order to understand the species richness of this World heritage habitat. The study revealed presence of 56 species in Sikkim. The suborder Tubulifera is represented by 24 species which can be grouped into 14 genera under two subfamilies such as Phlaeothripinae and Idolothripinae in Phlaeothripidae. Similarly, the collection records have indicated as many as 32 species of terebrantians under Thripidae. All the above said 32 thripids belong to 20 genera which are grouped within four subfamilies, with the lion’s share of 25 species in Thripinae, followed by 5 Panchaetothripines, and one each of Dendrothripinae and Sericothripinae. Analysis of the species composition in terms of their feeding habit and habitat reflected that 83% of the thrips are phytophagous, 13% mycophagous and 4% obligate predators. From amongst the phytophagous forms, 27 are phyllophilous, 17 flower dwelling anthophilous species, and 4 poephilous. A close scrutiny also revealed the presence of pests, of which Sciothrips cardamomi Ramakrishna, Thrips palmi Karny, and Ceratothripoides claratris Shumsher are notable pests with appreciable economic importance.
The Diversity and Distribution of The Order Charadriiformes Along The Kerala Coast and Selected Islands of Lakshadweep, India
Authors: HP Nisanth , Kumar A Biju
Published: January 2025

The birds belonging to the order Charadriiformes are widely distributed along the coastal regions and coastal waters of Kerala and Lakshadweep. Most species in this region are migratory and use the coastal habitats and coastal waters as their feeding grounds or stopover sites. In this study, we documented the diversity and distribution of Charadriiformes along the Kerala coast and Lakshadweep, and recorded 47 species of birds. Among this, 22 species were recorded from both the Kerala coast and the Lakshadweep islands. The abundance and distribution of the Charadriiformes have been examined, and the results show the distribution pattern between the mainland and the islands. On the Kerala coast, the population of three gull species and three sand plover species and in Lakshadweep islands, the population of three tern species and brown noddy determines the Charadriiformes abundance. The breeding colonies of Anous stolidus and Onychoprion fuscatus were observed during the study from the Pashi Pitti, Lakshadweep archipelago. While the distribution and diversity of birds will be used to measure the ecosystem’s health, the results obtained from the current study will provide insight into coastal management and conservation of the avian fauna.
A new distributional record of the marine gastropod, Tonna zonata (Green, 1830) from the Andaman Islands, India
Authors: S. Rajendra  , C. Raghunathan
Published: January 2025

This study documents the marine gastropod, Tonna zonata (Green, 1830), belonging to the family Toniidae, for the first time from the Andaman Islands. The characteristic features of the shell, habitat, illustration and list of Tonnidae species so far reported from India are provided.
Morphometric studies of subgenus Megabombus (Hymenoptera: Apidae) from Jammu and Kashmir, India
Authors: Parrey Aejaz H. , Raina Rifat H. , Khan Sajad A. , Paray Manzoor A. , Choudhary Preeti
Published: January 2025

The subgenus Megabombus comprises remarkably long-tongued species of bumblebees and remains usually more specialized in their selection of diversity of floral plants than other bumblebees for pollen and nectar resources. The subgenus Megabombus is described by only a single species from the North West Himalayan belt viz., Bombus albopleuralis Smith. This species is mostly familiar to exist at low highland habitats in the Indian Himalayan region with a long seasonal activity and is widely spread throughout North West and eastern Indian Himalayan region. The different caste members of this species viz., Queen, worker and male were recorded from different selected sites in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. A total of sixteen morphological characters of Bombus albopleuralis were studied and later on, measured to find out the variations in different castes of Bombus albopleuralis and subsequently help in the identification of their different castes.
New record of Loach fish (Cypriniformes: Nemacheilidae) from Himachal Pradesh, Trans Himalayan Ecosystem, India
Authors: Sharma Indu
Published: January 2025

Loaches (Triplophysa spp.) of the family Nemacheilidae are ecologically significant, endemic and zoogeographically important fishes of the Trans Himalayan Ecosystem of India. These fishes mostly have not evaluated by the IUCN and also not included under the Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972. Triplophysa tenuicauda (Steindachner, 1866) has been reported for the first time from the cold desert province of state Himachal Pradesh.
Current status of Faunal diversity of Siju Cave, South Garo Hills, Meghalaya
Authors: Kharkongor Ilona Jacinta , Saikia Uttam , Khynriam Dimos , Saikia Bhaskar
Published: January 2025

Siju Cave located in the South Garo Hills district of Meghalaya was extensively surveyed by the Zoological Survey of India team led by Stanley Kemp and B. Chopra in 1922 for documenting its faunal diversity. That study led to the documentation of a total of 102 species including descriptions of several new species. During the 2018-2020 period, multiple surveys were undertaken to reassess the present faunal composition of the cave. Our study records only 36 species belonging to 11 major faunal groups, including 11 new records of the Cave. Among the 36 species documented, three species belong to different threatened categories of the IUCN redlist.
First record of Tridrepana obscura Watson, 1957 (Drepanidae: Lepidoptera) from India
Authors: Singh Navneet , Ahmad Jalil , Joshi Rahul
Published: January 2025

Tridrepana obscura Watson, 1957 is reported for the first time from India. Description, diagnosis, and images of habitus and male genitalia are provided.
Description of a new species of the genus Fessonia (Acari: Trombidiformes: Smarididae) from Kerala, India
Authors: Martin Neeraj , James Sachin P.
Published: January 2025

A new species of the genus Fessonia (family: Smarididae) viz., Fessonia indica sp. nov. has been collected from rice from Kerala state, South India, which is described and illustrated. So far, two species of the genus Fessonia have been reported in India. Descriptions are based on the morphology of post larval instar. A key to the Indian species is also provided.
A note on Indian Dryomyzidae (Insecta: Diptera) with special reference to the distribution pattern
Authors: Choudhuri Mousumi , Naskar Atanu , Sengupta Jayita , Banerjee Dhriti
Published: January 2025

The present checklist reveals a total of three species viz. Dryomyza formosa Wiedemann, 1830, Dryomyza pakistana Kurahashi, 1989 and Paradryomyza steyskali Ozerov & Sueyoshi, 2002 under 2 genera belongs to subfamily Dryomyzinae Schiner, 1862 and tribe Dryomyzini Schiner 1862. Besides that, the present study also depicts their discontinuous and restricted distribution pattern. The current checklist will serve as a primary database to encourage future research on medically and forensically important flies of Indian Dryomyzidae.
Committing to Parenthood
Authors: Hadsell Nicholas
Published: January 2025

How do adults acquire the moral right to rear a child? In Luara Ferracioli’s new Parenting and the Goods of Childhood, she argues that adults acquire this right when they morally commit to a child. In this note, I’ll critically evaluate Ferracioli’s account. I’ll first describe the moral commitment view in further detail. After this, I’ll argue that it suffers from what I call the Swooping Problem. Contrary to Ferracioli’s defenses, her view permits adults to swoop in and acquire a right to rear a child just by asserting a moral commitment to them even when the mother is still gestating the child or when there is already an established parent-child relationship in place. Since these are undesirable and counterintuitive results, we should modify the moral commitment view to avoid them. Along the way, then, I’ll suggest ways Ferracioli could modify her view to avoid these objections.
A compreensão de graduandos em pedagogia sobre a relação entre plágio e inteligência artificial para escrita de textos acadêmicos
Authors: Vital Bruna de Oliveira Passos , Lopes Carlos
Published: January 2025

O artigo analisa criticamente a compreensão de estudantes de Pedagogia sobre a inter-relação entre plágio e uso de Inteligência Artificial (IA) para a produção de textos escritos. O artigo aborda aspectos conceituais sobre o plágio, o ciberplágio e a IA para produção de textos. A Análise de Conteúdo (BARDIN, 1977) foi utilizada como metodologia.  Os dados foram gerados durante o primeiro semestre de 2021, portanto, em período anterior ao lançamento do ChatGPT, ocorrido no ano de 2023. Participaram da pesquisa estudantes de Pedagogia das modalidades presencial e a distância da Universidade de Brasília (UnB), sendo que 108 responderam a questionário e 16 foram entrevistados.  Em resultado do questionário, 53,7% dos estudantes admitiram que utilizariam ferramenta de IA para criação, organização e escrita de textos dissertativos; em entrevista, 08 entre os 16 entrevistados disseram que fariam uso; os estudantes demonstram concepção limitada sobre o plágio em associação às normas e referenciação e, ao serem apresentados a situações específicas, em que há necessidade de julgamento da ocorrência ou não do plágio associado ao uso de IA na escrita de textos acadêmicos, a maioria não consegue identificar plágio. Os estudantes evidenciaram preocupação com questões de autoria em caso de uso IA para escrita de texto. Diante da tendência de utilização crescente da IA para a escrita de textos, é importante propiciar no meio acadêmico, espaço de questionamentos, capacitação e aprendizado sobre os sentidos e uso dessa tecnologia, propiciando o desenvolvimento da autoria, o uso ético da IA e a compreensão de situações que envolvem o plágio.
Updated peer review of the pesticide risk assessment of the active substance spinosad
Authors:   European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Álvarez Fernando , Arena Maria , Auteri Domenica , Batista Leite Sofia , Binaglia Marco , Castoldi Anna Federica , Chiusolo Arianna , Colagiorgi Angelo , Colas Mathilde , Crivellente Federica , De Lentdecker Chloe , De Magistris Isabella , Egsmose Mark , Fait Gabriella , Ferilli Franco , Fittipaldi Broussarad Monica , Giner Santonja German , Gouliarmou Varvara , Halling Katrin , Ippolito Alessio , Istace Frederique , Jarrah Samira , Kardassi Dimitra , Kienzler Aude , Lanzoni Anna , Lava Roberto , Leuschner Renata , Linguadoca Alberto , Louisse Jochem , Lythgo Christopher , Magrans Oriol , Mangas Iris , Mioč Andrea , Miron Ileana , Molnar Tunde , Padovani Laura , Padricello Vincenzo , Panzarea Martina , Parra Morte Juan Manuel , Piti Alexandra , Rizzuto Simone , Rortais Agnès , Santos Miguel , Serafimova Rositsa , Sharp Rachel , Szentes Csaba , Terron Andrea , Theobald Anne , Tiramani Manuela , Vianello Giorgia , Villamar‐Bouza Laura
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authorities of the rapporteur Member State, the Netherlands, and co‐rapporteur Member State, France, for the pesticide active substance spinosad and the assessment of applications for maximum residue levels (MRLs) are reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 844/2012. The conclusions were reached on the basis of the evaluation of the representative uses of spinosad as insecticide on bulb/dry onions, maize (fodder and grain), sweet corn, grapes (table and wine), lettuce, potato, aubergine, pepper and tomato. MRLs were assessed in field leek and field and greenhouse strawberries, cane fruits, lettuce & plants salad (others), spinach and similar leaves (others), herbs and edible flowers (others), cardoons, rhubarb and animal commodities. The conclusions from 2018 were updated in 2024 following the request from the European Commission with regard to the endocrine‐disrupting properties. The reliable end points, appropriate for use in regulatory risk assessment and the proposed MRLs, are presented. Missing information identified as being required by the regulatory framework is listed. Concerns are reported where identified.
SISTEM INFORMASI RAPORT DIGITAL SD BERBASIS WEB PADA SEKOLAH DASAR NEGERI KEMIRI
Authors: Wahyudi Mochamad Alief Satria , Sumarno Sumarno , Rahmawati Yunianita
Published: January 2025

Seiring dengan kemajuan teknologi informasi yang merambah ke berbagai sektor, termasuk pendidikan, keperluan akan informasi yang tepat dan cepat menjadi sangat penting. Saat ini, proses pembuatan rapor di SDN Kemiri masih dilakukan secara manual. Metode ini rentan terhadap berbagai risiko, seperti kehilangan atau kerusakan berkas akademik, serta kesulitan dalam pencarian dokumen yang efektif dan efisien untuk sejumlah siswa. Untuk mengatasi tantangan tersebut, penelitian ini ditujukan untuk merancang dan membangun sistem Raport Digital berbasis web di SDN Kemiri. Metode yang digunakan dalam pengembangan sistem ini adalah metode WDLC (Web Development Life Cycle), yang meliputi tahapan planning, analysis, design and development, testing, implementation, dan maintenance. Sistem ini dikembangkan menggunakan bahasa pemrograman PHP dengan basis desktop. Sistem ini menyediakan modul untuk nilai rapor murid, data guru, data murid, dan data mata pelajaran. Implementasi sistem ini di SDN Kemiri diharapkan dapat membantu dalam manajemen administrasi akademik. Pengujian pada sistem dilaksanakan menggunakan metode black-box testing untuk memastikan antarmuka pengguna mudah digunakan oleh pengguna akhir. Hasil dari studi pustaka ini menunjukkan bahwa sistem rapor online memberikan kemudahan bagi pendidik dalam pengolahan data nilai peserta didik, yang dapat diakses oleh peserta didik dan orang tua secara mudah dan efisien.
PENERAPAN METODE SERVQUAL DALAM MENINGKATKAN KUALITAS KINERJA PELAYANAN PUBLIK PADA KANTOR URUSAN AGAMA KECAMATAN RAWANG PANCA ARGA
Authors: Zein Jihan Raihan , Ramdhan William , Sahren Sahren
Published: January 2025

Di Kantor Urusan Agama Kecamatan Rawang Panca Arga juga belum terdapat ruang tunggu atau kursi khusus yang digunakan untuk menunggu antrian. Ruang tunggu atau kursi khusus yang digunakan untuk menunggu merupakan bagian yang perlu diperhatikan dalam pelayanan publik. Ruang tunggu atau kursi khusus yang digunakan untuk menunggu merupakan fasilitas yang harus ada dalam proses pelayanan agar masyarakat merasa nyaman pada saat menunggu antrian untuk diberikan pelayanan. Selain faktor pengetahuan, keahlian dan keterampilan, pegawai pemberi pelayanan juga harus mempunyai sikap dan perilaku yang dibutuhkan oleh masyarakat. Sikap (attitude) merupakan kecenderungan evaluative terhadap suatu objek atau subjek yang bersifat permanen mengenal aspek-aspek tertentu dalam lingkungannya sedangkan perilaku merupakan suatu reaksi psikis seseorang terhadap lingkungannya. Sikap dan perilaku yang ditunjukkan oleh pegawai Kantor Urusan Agama Kecamatan Rawang Panca Arga selama pra survei sudah baik namun masih ada masyarakat yang mengeluhkan tentang keramahan pegawai Kantor Urusan Agama Kecamatan Rawang Panca Arga. Pegawai Kantor Urusan Agama Kecamatan Rawang Panca Arga dirasa masih kurang ramah dalam melayani masyarakat.
Implementasi Zero Trust Architecture untuk Meningkatkan Keamanan Jaringan: Pendekatan Berbasis Simulasi
Authors: Kusnanto Yudhi , Nugroho Muhammad Agung , Kartadie Rikie
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini mengeksplorasi penerapan Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) sebagai pendekatan keamanan untuk mengatasi tantangan keamanan jaringan yang dihadapi oleh perusahaan modern, terutama dengan meningkatnya jumlah perangkat Internet of Things (IoT) yang terhubung. Simulasi dilakukan dengan menggunakan alat iperf dan Wireshark untuk mengukur performa jaringan sebelum dan sesudah penerapan ZTA, khususnya dalam menguji efektivitasnya dalam menghadapi serangan man-in-the-middle, DDoS, dan insider threats. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa penerapan ZTA mampu mengurangi risiko serangan siber secara signifikan, meskipun terdapat sedikit kompromi pada performa jaringan, dengan penurunan throughput sebesar 5% dan peningkatan latency sebesar 5 ms. Kebijakan micro-segmentation, multi-factor authentication (MFA), dan least privilege access terbukti efektif dalam meningkatkan stabilitas jaringan dan mencegah akses tidak sah. Meskipun demikian, penelitian ini menekankan pentingnya optimalisasi ZTA untuk memastikan keseimbangan antara keamanan dan kinerja jaringan di masa depan.