bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproduction and post-natal development in the marsupial Bettongia lesueur (Quoy & Gaimard)
Authors: Tyndale-Biscoe CH
Published: June 2005

The female reproductive tract is described and compared with that of other
Macropodidae. It is shown that the characters considered to be diagnostic of the
Potoroinae are more variable than hitherto supposed and occur also in the Macropodinae.
For the greater part of the oestrous cycle the lateral vaginae are probably
occluded and the pseudovaginal canal closes within a day of parturition, so that the
contents of the vaginal smear are derived mainly from the posterior vaginal sinus.
B. lesueur is polyoestrous and monovular. The oestrous cycle has a modal
length of 23 days and gestation modal length of 21 days, post-partum oestrus following
about 1 day later. The reproductive cycle is delayed during lactation and
embryonic diapause occurs. The young leaves the pouch at 115 days and the delayed
embryo is born a few days later. Experimental removal of the pouch young results in
resumption of development and birth 20 days after removal. The young weighs 0.317 g
at birth and it reaches an adult weight at about 280 days, when sexual maturity is
attained. Animals less than 1 yr old can be distinguished by the presence of the sectorial
premolar 3 in the upper jaw, which is shed at 1 yr. The full adult dentition is attained
by 18 months.
In close confinement females bred regularly from February to September but
about 70% spontaneously lost their young by the age of 3 weeks. In large pens young
were carried through lactation to independence.
Reproduction in Bettongia is compared to that of Potorous, a closely related
rat-kangaroo, and a general hypothesis is developed to reconcile several disparate
observations of marsupial reproduction. It is postulated that most marsupials have a
period of obligatory diapause interposed in the development of the embryo, and this is
followed by a short and relatively constant period of embryogenesis. The diapause
may be short, as in Perameles, or long as in Potorous, and, in the special conditions of the
Macropodidae may be greatly extended during lactation. This latter phenomenon may
be secondarily advantageous to the species ecologically but it is emphasized that its
primary adaptive significance is likely to be found in the need to synchronize embryonic
and uterine development for intra-uterine nourishment of the embryo.
Influence of the spleen on blood volume and haematocrit in the brush-tailed possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)
Authors: Dawson TJ , Denny MJS
Published: June 2005

The blood volume of T. vulpecula was measured and the influence of the spleen on the circulating blood volume investigated. The circulating blood volume of "normal" restrained animals was 57.4 � 3.19 ml, the plasma volume being 31.2 � 1.93 ml, and the red blood cell volume 26.2 � 2.08 ml per kilogram body weight. These values tended to be lower than those of eutherian mammals and it is suggested that this might be associated with a possible lower metabolic rate.
The spleen was found to have a significant function as a blood reservoir. Measurement of volume of circulating red blood cells after injections of adrenaline (to cause splenic emptying) and chlorpromazine (to achieve maximum filling of the spleen) showed that the splenic reserve of erythrocytes was approximately 11.0 ml/kg body weight.
Nest and nesting behaviour of Amegilla (Amegilla) Pulchra (Smith) (Hymenoptera : Apoidea : Anthophorinae)
Authors: Cardale J
Published: June 2005

Females of A. (A). pulchra were studied at nesting sites in Brisbane, mostly at
an artificial site established in mud bricks with overwintering cells from a natural
aggregation. The length of adult life, structure of nests, number of nests, cells per
female, times taken in activities in the nests, seasonal cycle, pattern of emergence, sex
ratio, and development times of offspring were investigated. Some observations were
made on the length of life and habits of males, and on the behaviour of females away
from the nest.
Lactation and suckling in relation to early growth of the southern elephant seal, Mirounga leonina (L.)
Authors: Bryden MM
Published: June 2005

The growth rate of elephant seal pups during the suckling period is shown to be lower at Macquarie I. than at the Falkland Is. Dependencies. Earlier initiation of suckling and lower suckling frequency occurs in the more rapidly growing Falkland Is. seal pups.
The analyses of the milk samples collected from Macquarie I. elephant seal cows at different stages of lactation are reported, and a striking difference in milk composition at the different stages is noted.
An attempt to determine quantitatively the milk production of the elephant seal is described, and the inaccuracies of the methods used are discussed, with comments on how a better estimate could be obtained.
It is concluded that the principal cause of depressed growth rate of elephant seal pups at Macquarie I. is disturbance within the harems. This disturbance has been alleviated to some extent at the Falkland Is. due to alteration in the structure of the population by long-term sealing operations. Indicative of disturbance within the harems at Macquarie I. were the high incidence of injury noted during dissection of 54 seal pups, the delayed initiation of sucking in new-born pups, and the higher frequency of sucking by pups.
The fate of adventitious and embryonic articular cartilage in the skull of the common fowl, Gallus domesticus (Aves : Phasianidae)
Authors: Hall BK
Published: June 2005

The fate of adventitious cartilage on the membrane bones of the skull of the
common fowl has been studied from hatching to 4.5 months after hatching. Adventitious
cartilage is not a permanent feature of the membrane bone on which it
develops but is ultimately replaced, partly by bone and partly by the thickening
and chondrification of the fibrous articular membrane. This fibrocartilage, formed
in the fibrous articular membrane, forms the adult articular cartilage. Several new
areas of adventitious cartilage arise in the fowl after hatching and these have been
described. The articular cartilage of the pterygoid-parasphenoid articulation is
not replaced by a fibrocartilage but is transformed into a fibrocartilage in the
hatched fowl.
Revision of the genus Eutyglossina Cockerell (Apoidea : Colletidae)
Authors: Exley EM
Published: June 2005

The genus Euryglossina Cockerell, 1910, is revised. Fifty species are recognized
including the following 27 species described as new : E. kellyi, E. stygica, E. healesvillensis,
E. douglasi, E. lobiocula, E. gigantocephala, E. nigra, E. atra, E. glenmorganensis,
E. bowenensis, E. townsvillensis, E. pulchra, E. polita, E. grandigena, E. angulifacies,
E. pulcherrima, E. xanthocephala, E. crococephala, E. megalocephala, E. sulcata,
E. melanocephala, E. micheneri, E. pseudoatomaria, E. psilosoma, E. gracilis,
E. argocephala, and E. proserpinensis.
All previously described species are redescribed and unassociated males
representing 19 species are described but not named.
The following are considered to be synonyms: E. semiflava Cockerel1 and
E. personata Cockerel1 of E. cockerelli Perkins; E. minuta (Rayment) of E. proctotrypoides
Cockerell; E. nana Cockerell of E. perpusilla (Cockerell); E. xanthogena
(Rayment) of E. bicolor (Rayment) ; E. fusciventris (Cockerell) of E. atomaria (Cockerell) ;
and E. pachycephala (Cockerell) of E. gilberti (Cockerell).
Keys and line drawings which enable the separation of all species are presented.
Cytogenetic and Hybridization studies of geographic populations of Teleogryllus connodus (Walker) and T. oceanicus (Le Guillou) (Orthoptera : Gryllidae)
Authors: Fontana PG , Hogan TW
Published: June 2005

Cytogenetic studies of geographic populations of the Australian field cricket
T. commodus reveal that, although morphologically similar, the northern non-diapausing
populations and the southern diapausing populations show marked chromosomal
differences. The number of chromosomes is the same (2nB = 26+XO) but the
centromere position and the size of some of the autosomes as well as of the sex
chromosome differ.
In further studies the chromosomes of T. oceanicus (2nB = 26+XO) were
compared: the northern populations of T. commodus showed a closer relationship
to T. oceanicus than to T. commodus from southern Australia.
In hybridization experiments, the F1 hybrids of the northern and southern
populations of T. commodus were sterile. This sterility was due to several kinds of
meiotic disturbance during spermatogenesis and to the abnormal development of the
ovaries in the hybrid progeny. Hybridization experiments between T. oceanicus and
the two different "races" of T. commodus were also carried out.
The present study, in conjunction with that of the stridulation patterns presented
by Leroy, leads to the conclusion that the crickets from northern Australia, at present
designated T. commodus, are in reality more closely related to T. oceanicus, of which
they should be regarded as a geographic or chromosomal race, there being no evidence
of reproductive isolation.
The meiosis of these populations and their hybrids, in addition to the cytological
data available from the congeneric Japanese species, provides evidence as to the course
of evolution of the group.
Clinical variation in pattern and colour in coastal populations of the butterfly Tisiphone abeona (Donovan) (Lepidoptera : Satyrinae)
Authors: Lucas AM
Published: June 2005

Samples of populations of the autumn brood of T. abeona were examined for a
number of colour and pattern characters. Morph-ratio clines in two patterns and two
colour traits were detected. Three of these clines occur in the one small part of the
species range. The decrease in frequency of the two pattern traits is accompanied by a
decrease in size of the marking, when present. Limited genetic data show that one of
the colour traits is sex-linked, and suggests that the others may be under simple genetic
control. The data suggest that secondary intergradation, following a period of allopatry,
has produced the observed distribution pattern.
A new freshwater species of the genus Dolops (Crustacea : Branchiura) parasitic on a galaxiid fish of Tasmania - with comments on disjunct distribution patterns in the southern hemisphere
Authors: Fryer G
Published: June 2005

A new species of Dolops is described from Lake Surprise, Tasmania, where it has
been found on a galaxiid fish. Hitherto the genus has been known only from freshwater
in S. America and Africa.
Taxonomic errors involving an alleged Asiatic member of the genus are rectified
and recent gross mistreatment of the classification of the Branchiura is discussed.
The genus Dolops is re-defined.
Evidence bearing on the history and dispersal of Dolops and other organisms is
reviewed, particular attention being directed to the freshwater bivalve molluscs formerly
assigned to the Mutelidae. While the African and S. American muteloids belong to
closely related families of the Muteloidea, the Australasian forms formerly thought of
as representatives of this group have no place in this superfamily. They, and certain
S. American bivalves, however, show unambiguous trans-Antarctic affinities as they
belong to a common family, the Hyriidae.
Taking into account recent work, both geological and biological, and in spite of
powerful voices raised in objection, the disjunct distribution of several groups of
animals in the Southern Hemisphere seems to be most plausibly explained as a
result of continental drift, though no dogmatic claims are made.
Ecology of lice on sheep. VII. Population dynamics of Damalinia ovis (Schrank)
Authors: Murray MD , Gordon G
Published: June 2005

The numbers of D. ovis decline in the spring, remain low during the summer, and
increase during the winter. A density of two lice per square inch is necessary in the
autumn if numbers are to increase during the winter to 200 per square inch, the density
found on heavily infested sheep in the early spring. The time needed for this increase
has been calculated using the deterministic matrix model ofpopulation increase described
by Leslie (1945), and 4-5 months are required when there is only a small mortality.
Thus, when the favourable winter period lasts only 3 months, the increase in
louse numbers may be insufficient to sustain the losses which occur in late spring,
summer, and early autumn. The factors responsible for these losses determine the
density of the louse population at the commencement of winter. Should the winter
period last c. 6 months there is usually a direct relationship between the number of lice
on a sheep in the late autumn and in the following spring. However, should winter last
9 months it is suggested that other factors become increasingly significant, and determine
the eventual size of the louse population.
Ultrastructual studies on maturing spermatids and on sertoli cells in the bandicoot Perameles nasuts Geoffroy (Marsupialia)
Authors: Sapsford CS , Rae CA , Cleland KW
Published: June 2005

This paper describes maturation changes in bandicoot spermatids after the
latter have become embedded in Sertoli cells and are orientated within the seminiferous
tubule. The changes are recorded as taking place in four stages, namely the
stage of nuclear flattening and condensation, the stage of nuclear rotation, and the
early and late post-rotational stages.
The changes in shape and reduction in volume of the nucleus taking place
during these stages are described, together with the division of the nuclear contents
into condensed chromatin and the less electron-dense parachromatin. The disposition
of nuclear pores in relation to the distribution of these two substances is discussed.
A possible means of the disposal of redundant nuclear envelope substance is outlined.
An account of the modifications taking place in the structures of the neck
region is given and it is shown that both transverse and longitudinal centrioles
persist until the terminal stages of spermiogenesis, when the latter centriole disappears.
As a result of the migration of the annulus and the attached proximal extremity
of the cytoplasmic canal, the axial filament complex of the future middle piece is
left in contact with the general spermatid cytoplasm, and thus is created a pathway
whereby spermatid mitochondria can migrate to this part of the complex to form
the mitochondria1 sheath of the middle piece.
Details are presented of the changes in form, throughout spermiogenesis, of
spermatid mitochondria as well as of the acrosome, manchette, and nuclear ring.
A description is given of specialized changes in that part of Sertoli cell
cytoplasm immediately adjacent to the spermatid acrosome. It is thought that
these changes are indicative, and mark out the extent, of a Sertoli cell-spermatid
attachment. Cyclic changes in the overall form as well as in the endoplasmic reticulum
and mitochondria of Sertoli cells are recorded. Pinocytotic activity in Sertoli
cells and spermatids, as well as secretory activity in Sertoli cells, is examined.
Night flights of the Australian plague locust, Chortoicetes terminifera Walk., in relation to storms
Authors: Clark DP
Published: June 2005

During long-term studies of the numbers of non-swarming C. terminifera, it was
noted frequently that sudden changes in distribution and population densities occurred
after storms. In most instances no flight was observed during the day rain fell or on
the following day, but light trapping revealed considerable flight activity on nights
after storms.
Examples of night flight and associated changes in density are presented. It seems
possible that C. terminifera requires higher humidities than those generally prevailing
in the areas where it occurs, in order to undertake sustained flights. Hence there is an
association between storms and night flights. The temperature threshold for flight is
approximately 70�F.
The airspeed of free flying C. terminifera in still air is 10 ft/sec and it is suggested
that at night, in the absence of visual clues from the ground, flying locusts are likely
to drift downwind at wind speeds well below their own airspeed.
Drift of night-flying locusts in the air flowing behind fronts or flight activity
in the zone of more humid air flowing from convective thunderstorms to places beyond
the areas of rain are suggested to account for the occurrence of higher numbers of
locusts in areas where rain has fallen.
Ultrastructural studies on the sertoli and spermatids in the bandicoot and ram during the movement of mature spermatids into the lumen of the seminiferous tubule
Authors: Sapsford CS , Rae CA
Published: June 2005

In the terminal stages of spermiogenesis in the bandicoot, branches of Seroli cell cytoplasm are seen to invade the lateral aspects of spermatids. Some of the ivadeing branches pursue a course along the border of various parts of the spermatid tail; others penetrate into the Cytopasmic canal. One function of the invading branches is thus partially to dissect the future spermatozoon from sulphur spermatid cytoplasm.
The karyotes of some Australian Rodents (Rodentia : Muridae)
Authors: Kennedy JA
Published: June 2005

The number and morphology of the chromosomes of 11 species of Australian rodents have been described. It is suggested that Rattus lutreolus (2n = 42) is derived from an ancestor closely related to R. norvegicus (2n = 42) and that the former gave rise, in Australia, to R. fuscipes (2n = 38). R. fuscipes then gave rise to R. greyi (2n = 38) and R. assimilis (2n = 38) with both of which it is conspecific.
Pseudomys minnie (2n = 48) and two species of Leggadina (2n = 48) have very similar karyotypes which differ from the karyotypes of two species of Notomys (2n = 48). The latter have apparently identical chromosomes. Within the Pseudomys group, marked changes in the heteromorphic pair of chromosomes have been involved in the evolution of karyotypes.
Some aspects of the ecology of the land snail, Helicella virgata, in South Australia
Authors: Pomeroy DE
Published: June 2005

H. virgata was introduced to South Australia from Europe and has since become
remarkably numerous. Its natural history is described, including breeding, growth, and
food. There is normally one generation per year, the eggs mostly hatching in autumn
and the young growing rapidly until spring. Marking and recapture were used to
determine growth curves in the field.
Snails are only active when the ground is moist and the humidity high. Even in
winter dormancy is frequent, and in summer it is prolonged.
H. virgata is microphagous, feeding mainly on the topsoil and surface litter,
avoiding places from which these are removed. It was shown experimentally that the
numbers of young produced, their rate of growth, and the length of life of adults all
decreased with increasing density. This was explained in terms of increasing starvation.
A natural population was studied for nearly 2 years. In places the density of
this population was high and there was evidence of a consequent shortage of food, which
affected young and adults differently. "Effective fecundity" (p. 509) was inversely
proportional to the density of the population. There were marked aggregations,
apparently reflecting the distribution of food. However, the degree of "patchiness"
(Lloyd 1967) remained fairly constant with time.
Over most of its range H. virgata is relatively scarce and the numbers in these
places are less likely to press upon the food resources. The effects of cultivation and
trampling, lack of calcium in the soil, and other factors must explain this scarcity.
Weather can certainly be important; the drought of 1965-66 reduced all populations
severely.
Reproduction in a laboratory colony of the marsupial mouse Sminthopsis larapinta (Mardupialia : Dasyuridae)
Authors: Godfrey GK
Published: June 2005

A laboratory colony of S. larapinta was established with three females and four
males received from north-western Queensland. Over a period of two and a half years 109
young were born and second-generation descendants were produced. In the third
breeding season oestrous cycles were irregular and, in the few instances where copulation
was recorded, this was associated with almost 100% prenatal mortality. The colony
became extinct without the cause being definitely established.
In Adelaide S. larapinta had a well-defined breeding season with all females either
pregnant or in oestrus from July to February. From March until June all the females
were in anoestrus. The males produced sperm throughout the year.
A technique was developed for determining the length of the oestrous cycle,
based upon the incidence of epithelial cells in the urine. S. larapinta is polyoestrous,
with a mean cycle length of 26.25�0.5 days. Gestation occupies 12.5 days, and a
maximum of eight young remain in the pouch, attached to the teats, for 40 days. They
are suckled in the nest for a further 30 days. Weaning takes place at 70 days, and the
young females come into oestrus from 4 months of age onwards.
Twenty female reproductive tracts were sectioned and examined and the anatomy
and histology described briefly. The mean number of ova shed per ovulation was 30.6
(n = 12) with one instance of 40. The corpora lutea are formed rapidly, and reach
their maximum size towards the end of pregnancy. They have completely regressed by
the seventh week of lactation.
The young are born through a pseudovaginal canal which extends from the
median vagina to the urogenital sinus. This closes within 24-48 hr of parturition.
The high "pre-pouch" and litter mortality observed during this study is discussed.
Geographical distribution of land birds in Australia - A numerical analysis
Authors: Kikkawa J. , Pearse K
Published: June 2005

The divisive information analysis was used for the hierarchical classifications of
faunal areas and faunal elements of Australia from the distribution of 464 species of
land birds at 121 selected sites. The faunal areas are delimited from the classification
of the sites in terms of the distributions of species, superspecies, genera, and polytypic
genera, separately. For the classification of faunal elements only species groups and
genera groups were used. The derived faunal areas produced concentric zonation
showing remarkable resemblances to the faunal subdivisions proposed by earlier
workers who used intuitive methods for the classification. This demonstrates empirically
the applicability of the numerical method to zoogeography. Comparison between the
species pattern and the genera pattern of distribution suggests the Kimberley line as the
oldest barrier separating the central fauna from the northern fauna. This is followed by
the barriers separating the faunas of Tasmania, the south-west, and the north-east
respectively, in order of increasing recency. In the distribution of species, new terms of
reference are proposed to denote the faunal areas and the species groups characterizing
the areas.
Studies on Australian Muscidae (Diptera) III. A revison of the genera with a facial carina
Authors: Pont AC
Published: June 2005

Australian Muscidae with a facial carina are revised. Keys to genera and species
are given, with illustrations of characters of diagnostic and systematic importance, and
all taxa are fully described, with details of previously unknown sexes and immature
stages. The Oriental genus Rhynchomydaea Malloch is redefined, and a redescription
given of the type species tuberculifacies Stein (syn. Graphomyia luteicornis Senior-White,
syn. nov.). Hennigiola, gen. nov., is erected for Spilogaster setulifera Stein (syn.
Rhynchomydaea australis Malloch, syn. nov.) from Australia. Beccimyia papuana, gen.
et sp. nov., is described from New Guinea. The Australian genus Prohardyia, nom. nov.
(syn. Hardyia Malloch nec Walcott), is revised, and the new species macalpinei, sp. nov.,
and fungorum, sp. nov., are described. All four genera are assigned provisionally to the
subfamily Phaoniinae, tribe Phaoniini.
Obsevations on the Tasmanian Devil, Sarcophilus harrisii (Marsupialia : Dasyuridae) I. Numbers, home, range, movements and food in two populations
Authors: Guiler ER
Published: June 2005

Two geographically separate populations of S. harrisii were studied. There is evidence that long-term population cycles exist in this species. Devils are non-territorial and have a home range which may be shared by several animals. Sclerophyll forest and coastal scrub are their favoured habitats. Individuals in the two populations showed different movements, probably related to food availability; those in areas of abundant food moved about 2 miles and had small home ranges whereas those in areas with less food moved over at least 10 miles per night. The density of population was high in one area, reaching over 30 per square mile, but this is abnormal. Devils have a wide food spectrum and use introduced species as well as native, but in each area their food was based upon one to three species. Man is the principal predator on adult devils. Females were more numerous in all populations but a heavier mortality of this sex occurs in late life. This differential mortality took place at immaturity in one population. Juvenile recruitment was greater in areas with less food than in areas of abundant food, due to the absence of overcrowding.
Cementum deposition as an age indicator in the brush-tailed possum, Trichosurus vulpecula Kerr (Marsupiala)
Authors: Pekelharing CJ
Published: June 2005

Cementum layers were exposed in the mandibular molariform teeth of T. vulpecula using a simple etching and staining technique. These layers were independently counted by three observers in a preliminary sample of 84 teeth of unknown age, and 40 teeth of known age. No significant variation was found between the observers and their interpretation of the number of layers per tooth, nor was there a significant variation in the number of layers counted in each of the four molars of one jaw. In the teeth of known age, counts of the layers compared closely with age in years, although some variation was recorded between the three observers. Cementum layers resembling those found in the possum were also found in the third molar of a brush wallaby, Macropus rufogrisea (Desmarest).
The ecology of a natural population of Queensland fruit fly, Dacus tryoni III. The maturation of female flies in relation to temperature
Authors: Pritchard G
Published: June 2005

The relationship between temperature and speed of ovarian maturation in
D. tryoni has been investigated in the laboratory, in field cages, and in natural
populations, the time required for 50 % of the females to develop mature eggs (TM,,)
being used as the basis for comparison. When measurements were made at a series of
constant temperatures, rate of maturation increased in a sigmoid manner with
increasing temperature up to about 26T, but decreased at higher temperatures. In
females held in laboratory cages, speed of ovarian maturation was increased (a) when
males were present, and (b) when density was increased. These observations were
important when results obtained in the laboratory were used to estimate maturation
times of populations in the field.
The usefulness of various methods of estimating maturation times in natural
populations was judged by measuring speeds of maturation of populations held in
large field cages and comparing them with theoretical estimates. A detailed method,
by which the amount of development completed each hour under field conditions
was estimated from data on the percentage development per hour obtained at a series
of constant temperatures in the laboratory, gave quite good estimates, but a number
of factors have to be taken into account when transferring data from the laboratory
to the field. The method of "temperature summation" was completely inadequate,
but a simple method relating TM,, observed in field cages to mean temperature
was as good in practice as the detailed method.
In natural and field-caged populations in the vicinity of Sydney, N.S.W.,
maturation of ovaries proceeded very slowly after April through the winter months,
but the rate increased rapidly with the higher temperatures of August and September.
The shortest time recorded for maturation of 50% of the females in field-caged
populations was about 14 days during midsummer, although some individuals
matured in half of this time. As in the laboratory, the time required for maturation
increased when high temperatures (above 26�C) were frequent.
The development of the egg of Didymuria cuilescens (Phasmatodea : Phasmatidae : Podacanthinae) - embryology and determination of the stage at which first diapause occurs
Authors: Bedford GO
Published: June 2005

Development of the egg of D. violescens commences as nuclei multiply and
congregate at the posterior pole (stage 1A). A germ disk then forms which elongates
and becomes segmented as it turns anticlockwise on the surface of the yolk. Anatrepsis
is completed when the tail end of the embryo reaches almost halfway to the anterior
pole on the micropylar side of the egg. Katatrepsis commences as the embryo moves
head-first around the posterior pole and continues to differentiate. The process is
completed when the head of the pharate first-instar nymph comes to rest beneath the
operculum at the anterior pole of the egg.
Eggs kept at a constant warm temperature enter first diapause when there are
numerous nuclei at the posterior pole (stage 1A of embryology), and if held under
these conditions for a prolonged period they may emerge from diapause irregularly
and continue development.
In the field eggs develop continuously but slowly, suggesting that diapause
and embryogenesis may proceed together at temperatures favourable to both.
The Musca sorbens complex: The relative status of the Australian and two African populations
Authors: Paterson HE , Norris KR
Published: June 2005

The work of the late F. van Emden (1939) suggested that a single species,
M. sorbens, extended from the Southern Palaearctic Region, through the Ethiopian
and Oriental Regions, to the Australasian Region. Morphological and distributional
evidence is provided here to show that two forms are widespread in Africa, both of
which would have been identified as M. sorbens by van Emden; one, characterized by
a relatively narrow male frons, is morphologically very similar to the bushfly
of Australia. However, the bushfly is largely reproductively isolated from both
African forms under laboratory conditions. A detailed study using morphometric
and genetical methods indicates that only a single form occurs in Australia. An
assessment of available evidence pertinent to the problem indicates that the three
forms so far distinguished are probably distinct biological species.
The digestion of lucerne chaff by cape barren geese, Cereopsis novaehollandiae Latham
Authors: Marriott RW , Forbes DK
Published: June 2005

The digestibility of lucerne chaff by Cape Barren geese was investigated by
means of digestibility trials with six birds caged individually.
The geese were found to have large intakes (mean daily dry matter intake
113.9 g/kg of metabolic body weight) but had a very rapid rate of passage (mean
retention time 1.3 hr) and digested only 25.8% of the dry matter of the lucerne.
Crude protein was well digested (76.4%) but fibre was not significantly digested (0.8%
digestibility).
The influence of temperature on the post-diapausal development and survival in the aestivating eggs of Halotydeus destructor (Acari : Eupodidae)
Authors: Wallace MMH
Published: June 2005

After diapause development is complete, moistened aestivating eggs of
H. destructor develop successfully within the temperature range 5-20.5C. The rate of
development up to the deutovum stage increases with temperature up to about 20C
and then rapidly decreases. Eggs will tolerate temperatures between 25 and 31.5C
for up to 53 days without undergoing morphogenesis, but this treatment retards
subsequent development at 16C. Exposure to alternating temperatures accelerates the
rate of development but, if the higher temperature exceeds 20.5C, development is
retarded. The effect of temperature on the rate of development within the deutovum
stage is similar to that on non-diapause winter eggs throughout their morphogenesis.
Air-dry eggs will tolerate temperatures up to 75C but moist eggs are killed by
exposure for 1 day to 45C.
This high temperature tolerance, together with the limitations on development
imposed by temperature, ensures that the aestivating eggs do not hatch before early
autumn, even in the event of unseasonal summer rain.
The temperature response curve and its ecological significance are discussed
briefly.
Serum protein variation in southern fur seals, Arctocephalus spp., in relation to their taxonomy
Authors: Shaughnessy PD
Published: June 2005

Examination of serum samples from Arctocephalus spp. from southern
Australia, New Zealand, and Macquarie I. revealed six transferrin types, which were
assumed to be the products of four allelic genes, and two phenotypes of a haem-binding
protein. Seals from South Neptune Is., Cape du Couedic, and the Recherche Archipelago
were identical on these criteria; while those from Victoria were identical
with those of Tasmania. This division is consistent with previous conclusions based
on skull characters. The names there suggested for these two groups were A, forsteri
and A. doriferus respectively. Transferrin types of New Zealand and Macquarie I.
A. forsteri were not identical with those of Australian A. forsteri. It is suggested
that fur seals may have been exterminated from South Australia and Western Australia
and that recolonization was from New Zealand. Alternatively, these differences may
indicate the existence of more than one species in these populations.
In vitro studies on the environmental biology of Goiodes colchici (Denny) (Mallophaga : Ischnocera) II. The effects of temperature and humidity on water loss
Authors: Williams RT
Published: June 2005

Weight changes have been used to assess the effect of various conditions of
temperature and humidity on the rates of water loss of pheasant body lice, G. colchici.
Both living and dead animals, in 0% R.H., lose water at a low but increasing
rate from 32 to 40C; above this temperature, the rate of water loss suddenly
increases. Living insects lose water at half the rate of dead ones over this temperature
range. At 35C and 0% R.H., all non-moulting stages lose water at a similar rate.
Moulting insects lose water at half the rate of non-moulting ones.
The threshold humidity for survival of these insects is within the range
52.5-62.5% R.H. The weight of mature animals does not vary at different humidities
above the threshold.
In general, the patterns of humidity requirements and regulation of water loss
of G. colchici do not differ from those of other insects. There is no evidence that the
dependence of these animals on temperatures in the 30-40C range for survival and
reproduction is connected with more efficient control of water loss under these
conditions.
Estimating fat reserves in the brush-tailed possum, Trichosurus vulpecula Kerr (Marsupialia : Phalangeridae)
Authors: Bamford J
Published: June 2005

Two hundred possums were collected from an area in Westland, New Zealand.
Their carcasses were macerated and total fat content was determined by chemical
means.
The reliability of existing indices (visual, kidney fat, back fat, marrow fat) for
predicting the proportion of total fat in the body was investigated. Two indices were
developed and tested; one based on fat depots in the mesogastrium, the other based
on deviations from a standardized weight for length. The index based on weight
deviations gives good results if derived from a large sample of animals, and has the
advantage that it can be used on live animals under sedation. The marrow fat index
gives good results if fat reserves are low, and the mesogastric index does at other
times, when estimates are obtained by autopsy of a few animals.
Analysis of variance showed that, within the population studied, time of the
year and a season-age interaction were the only significant sources of heterogeneity in
fat reserves.
Studies on the vaginal mucusof the marsupial Trichosurus vulpecula
Authors: Hughes RL , Rodger JC
Published: June 2005

The vaginal mucus of T. vulpecula is secreted by the simple columnar epithelium of the vaginal cul-de-sac and upper portion of the lateral vaginal canals. Vaginal mucus was present in measurable quantities for a period of only 3-4 days: from the commencement of oestrus (as judged by vaginal smears) until about half a day after ovulation. Over this period the volume of mucus in the cul-de-sac rose rapidly from practically nil to about 3.5 ml at ovulation. Following ovulation, the volume very soon returned to its former level. Treatment of anoestrous animals with doses of oestradiol benzoate at 40ug/kg body weight daily for 2 or 4 days, and 20 or 40 ug/kg body weight for 8 days, resulted in secretion of mucus in similar quantities to that found in oestrous animals. Preliminary studies of the physical properties (density, percentage dry matter, viscosity, and "stickiness") of the vaginal mucus of T. vulpecula revealed few trends that could be causally related to follicle development, oestrus, and ovulation. However, the pH appeared to follow a trend with regard to follicle development. It was found to fall from 7-8 to 6 at the end of follicle growth. The histochemical findings suggest that the vaginal mucus of T. vulpecula is a carbohydrate-protein com- plex, containing neutral sugars and acidic mucopolysaccharides. The acidic mucopolysaccharides are mainly carboxylated; however, low concentrations of sulphated mucopolysaccharide are also evident. The presence of appreciable quantities of free vaginal mucus in the vaginal cul-de-sac between oestrus and ovulation suggests that it is likely to be functionally important in the maintenance of a sperm reservoir.
The ecology of Sminthurus viridis (Collembola) III. The influence ofclimate andl land use on its distribution and that of an important predator, Bdellodea lapidaria (Acari : Bdellidae)
Authors: Wallace MMH , Mahon JA
Published: June 2005

The lucerne flea, S. viridis, is restricted to the southern parts of Australia and,
apart from a few isolated occurrences in eastern New South Wales, occurs only in
areas with an essentially Mediterranean-type climate. The northern inland limit to
its distribution agrees closely with the 250-mm isohyet for the growing season of
May-October inclusive. The eastern limit to distribution in New South Wales and
Victoria agrees with a December-March isohyet of 225 mm. Areas east of this line
receive predominantly summer rainfall, and the pastures contain a high proportion
of perennial plants which probably do not provide the nutritional stimulus for the
development of aestivating diapause eggs in S. viridis essential for oversummering.
The predatory mite B. lapidaria requires slightly moister conditions than
S. viridis and the limit of its inland distribution agrees reasonably well with the 260-mm
isohyet for the May-October period. Low temperatures (mean maximum < 17.5'C)
also seem necessary during this period. The eastern distribution limits in Victoria
are similar to those of S. viridis.
Implications of a comparison of the airbourne vocalizations and some aspects of teh behaviuo of the two Australian fur seals, Arctocephalus spp., on the evolution and present taxonomy of the genus
Authors: Stirling I , Warneke RM
Published: June 2005

The structure and number of airborne vocalizations of Arctocephalus pusillus
doriferus and A. forsteri were studied. Four types of calls were compared: the pupattraction
call given by adult females; the female-attraction call given by pups; the
high-intensity guttural threat given by adult males; and, the repetitive barking call
given by adult males. Male A. fovsteri gave two additional threat calls not present in
A. p. doriferus. The structure and number of the calls given by the two species are
substantially different. They here then compared to the calls of other members of the
genus for which data were available and it became evident there were two vocal types
within the genus Arctocephalus. We believe this is the first time such a situation has
been reported in mammals.
In addition to vocalizations, data on behaviour and morphology are presented
to show the enigmatic taxonomic position, between the fur seals and the sea lions,
occupied by A. pusillus.
The ecology of Rattus fuscipes and Melomys cervinipes (Rodentia : Muridaae) in a south-east Queensland rain forest
Authors: Wood DH
Published: June 2005

Quantitative data were collected on population size and structure, mortality,
growth, movements, and activity during a 3-yr live-trapping study. Both species maintained
relatively stable population levels with seasonal peaks related to the duration
of the breeding season. R. fuscipes commenced breeding in November, M. cervinipes
in September each year. In both species the breeding season was of variable duration
from year to year. The average litter size for R. fuscipes was 4.4, and for M. cevvinipes
1.8. A few individuals of each sex in both species survived to a second breeding season.
Both species were strictly nocturnal. R. fuscipes rarely left the forest floor, but M.
cevvinipes showed considerable arboreal activity. Movements and ranges of male
R, ~ K S C @ ~ S were larger than those of females; there was little difference between the
sexes in M, cevvinipes. There appeared to be some nomadic movements in the adult
R. fuscipes population. The M. cevvinipes population appeared to be relatively sedentary.
Mathematics of populations of the quokka, Setonix brachyurus, (Marsupialia) II. A stochastic model for quokka populations
Authors: Niven BS
Published: June 2005

A stochastic model is given for populations of the quokka, S. bvachyuvus, at the
West End of Rottnest I., W.A. A mathematical imitation of the quokka is defined,
then required to "breed", using computer simulation, in order to produce a population
observed as output from the computer. Results include a study of populations heading
for extinction. It is shown that a new population starting with less than 100 animals
may become extinct and that this situation may not be clear for 25 years or more.
The Litoria ewingi complex (Anura : Hylidae) in south-eastern Australia I A new species from Victoria
Authors: Watson GF , Loftus-Hills JJ , Littlejohn MJ
Published: June 2005

Populations of the L. ewingi complex in central and north-eastern Victoria are
described as a new species (L. paraewingi) following a study of levels of reproductive
isolation and morphological differentiation from other members of the complex. In the
south the new species is broadly sympatric with L. verreauxi, but is contiguously allopatric
with L. ewingi at the north-eastern and south-western borders of its distribution.
Pre-mating isolating mechanisms between L, paraewingi and L. ewingi are not
well developed; however, a high level of post-mating isolation exists between the two
species. Morphological differences were found between L. paraewingi and populations
of L. ewingi from southern Victoria and Tasmania, but populations in north-eastern
Victoria are morphologically similar.
Likely effects of standing and lying on the radiating heat load experienced by a resting kangaroo on a summer day
Authors: Dawson TJ
Published: June 2005

A study was carried out to examine the effect of posture (standing or lying)
on the radiation heat load which would be experienced by a kangaroo resting under
a small desert tree during a summer day. Measurements were made to assess the
temperature and radiation characteristics in three situations judged to be equivalent
to the following: (1) a kangaroo standing in the sun in open country; (2) an animal
standing in the shade of a small tree; (3) an animal lying in the same shade. The
overall pattern of results was shown by the effective radiation temperature measurements
made at midday: 78.3, 57.6, and 52.5C for positions (I), (2), and (3)
respectively. The relative contributions of solar and long-wave infrared radiation to
the pattern of results are discussed.
Graphidium strigosum and Trichostringylus retortaeformis in a confined population of wild rabbits
Authors: Dunsmore JD
Published: June 2005

Replicated rabbit populations were maintained in experimental enclosures at
each of three densities (approximately 12.5, 25, and 50 rabbits per ha); in addition,
populations were maintained at a density of about 50 per ha but in enclosures of three
different sizes (about 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 ha). Altogether 230 rabbits commenced the
experiment. Towards the end of the breeding season all the surviving rabbits (or their
replacements) were killed and counts made of the numbers of G. strigosum and T.
retortaeformis. Statistical tests were done relating the numbers of these parasites to the
treatment to which their hosts had been exposed and to a range of factors that had
been measured either during or at the termination of the experiment.
Numbers of G. strigosum varied in relation to the treatment to which their hosts
were exposed, in particular to the length of time that the rabbits had been under the
conditions of the experiment and to factors directly related to the treatment, especially
rabbit density and the amount of social contact with other rabbits. These extrinsic factors
had a much less marked effect on the numbers of T. vetortaeformis in the rabbits.
Male rabbits of low social status carried significantly more T. uel'ortaeformis
than did their more dominant counterparts. It is suggested that this was the result of
social factors affecting the susceptibility of these subordinate animals to infection with
this parasite.
The influence of temperature on development, longevity, and fecundity in the Rutherglen bug, Nysius vinitor (Hemiptera : Lygaeidae)
Authors: Kehat M , Wyndham M
Published: June 2005

The mean duration of the egg stage of N. vinitor at constant temperatures
ranged from 36.8 days at 15C to 3.8 days at 32C and that of the nymphs from 45
days at 20C to 12.0 days at 32C. Within the range 20-35C egg and nymphal mortalities
were low; temperatures of 12 or 40C were lethal to both eggs and nymphs.
Mean nymphal development times for males and females were similar. The threshold
temperature for egg development was 14.5C and that for nymphs 15C; 70 and 225
day-degrees were required for completing egg and nymphal development respectively.
The immature stages developed more rapidly at fluctuating temperatures out of doors
than they did indoors at constant temperatures equal to the mean of the fluctuating
temperatures. Within the range of screen temperatures 21.5-23.0C the difference
between mean development in shade and in sun was 9-10 days.
Age-specific fecundity and mortality schedules were determined for N. vinitor
at constant temperatures. Temperature and longevity were inversely related and males
survived longer than females. Thus at 22OC mean longevity of males was 115 days
and of females 90 days, as compared with 31 and 18 days respectively at 30�C. After a
maturation period that was longer at lower temperatures, daily egg-laying per female
decreased with age from a maximum that occurred before there was significant
mortality of females. The rates of the cumulative egg-laying increased with temperature
from 22 to 35C. Mean total number of eggs per female was significantly higher
at 25 and 30�C than at 22 or 35�C. However, life-table calculations revealed that a
temperature of 35�C yielded the maximum rate of population increase. Within the
range 22-35C, temperatures and rc values were linearly related. Unmated females
laid significantly fewer eggs than those that had mated, but survived longer.