bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taxonomy, phylogeny and biogeography of the ant genus Tetraponera (Hymenoptera : Formicidae) in the Oriental and Australian regions
Authors: Ward Philip S.
Published: September 2002

A revision of the ant genus Tetraponera in the Orientaland Australian regions reveals 33 species (18 new), belonging to four informalspecies-groups: allaborans-group(T. allaborans (Walker),T. apiculata, sp. nov., T. avia,sp. nov., T. bita, sp. nov.,T. brevis, sp. nov., T. conica,sp. nov., T. connectens, sp. nov.,T. crassiuscula (Emery) stat. nov.,T. extenuata, sp. nov.,T. microcarpa Wu & Wang, andT. modesta (F. Smith));nigra-group (T. aitkenii (Forel),T. atra Donisthorpe, T. attenuataF. Smith, T. binghami (Forel),T. buops, sp. nov., T. difficilis(Emery), T. inversinodis, sp. nov.,T. laeviceps (F. Smith),T. mimula, sp. nov., T. nigra(Jerdon), T. nitida (F. Smith),T. nixa, sp. nov., T. nodosa, sp.nov., T. notabilis, sp. nov.,T. polita, sp. nov., T. punctulataF. Smith, T. rotula, sp. nov.,T. tucurua, sp. nov., T. vivax,sp. nov., and T. volucris, sp. nov.);pilosa-group (T. pilosa (F.Smith)), and rufonigra-group(T. rufonigra (Jerdon)). Keys are provided foridentification of workers, queens and males, although the sexual forms remainunknown in some species. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that the fourspecies-groups represent independent lineages, each with its nearest extantrelatives in the Afrotropical region. There have been multiple invasions ofAsia from Africa, and at least four west-to-east transgressions ofWallace’s line into the Australian region. Plate tectonic eventspostulated to have been important in facilitating such dispersal include thecollision of India with Asia in the Eocene and the approach of the Australianplate to Laurasia in the mid-Miocene.
Phylogeny of the leech family Erpobdellidae (Hirudinida : Oligochaeta)
Authors: Siddall Mark E.
Published: September 2002

The phylogenetic relationships of the family Erpobdellidae, a group of
non-sanguivorous leeches useful as bioindicators, were investigated with the
combined use of morphological characters, mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase
subunit I, mitochondrial 12S rDNA and nuclear 18S rDNA. Analyses of separate
data sets and the combined data provide strong support for the contention that
generic distinctions in the family are not reflective of phylogeny. The
resulting hypothesis indicates the number of pairs of labial eyes as the sole
morphological predictor of phylogenetic relationship. The traditionally used
degree of annular subdivision is the least consistent character. In the
absence of readily definable morphological synapomorphies for the resulting
clades, the genera Dina,
Mooreobdella, Nephelopsis and
Trocheta are formally synonymised under the genus
Erpobdella, the type genus of the family.
Review of the southern African genus Prolytta Kaszab, with a description of the first-instar larva, and bionomic and taxonomic remarks (Coleoptera : Meloidae)
Authors: Bologna Marco A. , Di Giulio Andrea
Published: September 2002

The taxonomy and bionomics of the southern African meloid genus
Prolytta are reviewed. First-instar larvae of four
species (P. coriacea,
P. pallidipennis, P. lucida and
P. semilineata) are described and keyed. The morphology
of the specialised setae found in the larvae of this genus is discussed and
compared with that of other blister beetles. Based on adult and larval
morphology, two assemblages of species, the
pallidipennis-group and the
lucida-group, are recognised. Included are a key and
catalogue of species, taxonomic remarks and several new faunistic records. Two
new synonymies, Prolytta lucidicollis Kaszab, 1967
= Prolytta coriacea Kaszab, 1967 and
Prolytta sumptuosa (Laporte de Castelnau, 1840) =
Prolytta nitidula (Fabricius, 1775), are proposed.
A review of Heteronyx Guerin-Meneville (Coleoptera : Scarabaeidae : Melolonthinae)
Authors: Britton E. B.
Published: September 2002

The genus Heteronyx Guérin-Méneville is
defined and the 353 nominal Australian species are reviewed. Of the described
species, 222 are shown to be valid (152 based on unique type specimens) and
111 names are synonomised. Four species are transferred to other genera.
Lectotypes are designated and 28 extra Australian species are listed.
Australian species are described and keys for identification provided. The
possible reasons for the prolific speciation in
Heteronyx are discussed. Genetic drift following the
temporal and spatial isolation of small populations in a semi-desert
environment, and/or isolation resulting from prolonged drought combined
with local rainfall are suggested as causes.
A revision of the Australian carpenter bees, genus Xylocopa Latreille, subgenera Koptortosoma Gribodo and Lestis Lepeletier & Serville (Hymenoptera : Apidae)
Authors: Leys Remko
Published: September 2002

The Australian carpenter bees, genusXylocopa Latreille, subgeneraKoptortosoma Gribodo, and LestisLepeletier & Serville, are revised. Six species of X.(Koptortosoma) are recognised after solving problems with the association of the sexes.Xylocopa (K.) waterhousei, sp. nov. andX. (K.) lieftincki, sp. nov. are described as new, and two previously recognised species, X. (K.) wallabiaLieftinck and X. (K.) xerophila Lieftinck are synonymised withX. (K.) parvula Rayment. Two species ofthe subgenus Lestis are recognised, while the threespecies-level names, X. (L.) gibbonsi Cockerell,X. (L.) violascens Cockerell, andX. (L.) australensis Kirby are synonymised withX. (L.) bombylans (Fabricius). A key for theidentification of the species is provided, and descriptions, information aboutmating behaviour, nesting substrates, flower records and distribution maps aregiven for all species.
The genus Microcerotermes (Isoptera : Termitidae) in New Guinea and the Solomon Islands
Authors: Roisin Yves , Pasteels Jacques M.
Published: September 2002

The genus
Microcerotermes Silvestri is revised in an area covering
New Guinea, the Bismarck Islands and the Solomon Islands. The presence and
status of M. biroi (Desneux),
M. papuanus Holmgren and
M. repugnans Hill are confirmed.
Microcerotermes brevior (Desneux), formerly treated as a
subspecies or a synonym of M. biroi, is raised to
specific rank. Microcerotermes piliceps Snyder, formerly
considered a junior synonym of M. biroi, is recognised
as valid; M. umbritarsus Hill and
M. froggatti Hill are transferred from the synonymy of
M. biroi to that of M. piliceps.
The Australian species, M. taylori Hill, is reported
from southern New Guinea. Four new species: M. luluai,
sp. nov., M. cupreiceps, sp.
nov.,M. bouilloni, sp. nov. and
M. flyensis, sp. nov. are described. For each of the ten
species recorded from our study area, all castes are described or redescribed,
diagnostic characters are outlined, and a distribution map is given.
Comparisons are also made with related species from adjacent regions. An
identification key, based on the soldier and worker castes, is provided. We
hypothesise that the New Guinean Microcerotermes fauna
is of mixed Australian/southeast Asian origin.
Short Communication: Elevated δ15N values in aquatic plants from cleared catchments: why?
Authors: Udy James White , Bunn Stuart Edward
Published: September 2002

δ15N values of plants and animals are being
increasingly used to identify the flow of nitrogen through aquatic ecosystems.
The δ15N values of crops, riparian trees, emergent
and submerged aquatic vegetation in streams from both cleared (agricultural)
and forested (rainforest) catchments were sampled. Riparian and aquatic plants
had similar δ15N values in forested
streams,suggesting a similar source of inorganic nitrogen.In cleared
catchments, however, aquatic plants had δ15N
values 4–8‰ higher than adjacent riparian vegetation and aquatic
plants from streams in forested catchments. The elevated
δ15N values of aquatic vegetation in streams with
cleared catchments suggest that these plants either have access to a different
source of N than those in undisturbed catchments or that high rates of
microbial decomposition and nutrient cycling in the cleared catchments
influence the δ15N value of available N. This also
suggests that the aquatic plants in disturbed catchments are incorporating a
different source of nitrogen than the adjacent riparian vegetation. This
supports the proposal that in-stream processing of N affects the
δ15N value of available N in streams with cleared
catchments. These results begin to identify potential pathways for nitrogen
transport to streams and the effect that internal cycling may have on a
stream’s nitrogen load.
Historical stream salinity trends and catchment salt balances in the Murray - Darling Basin, Australia
Authors: Jolly I. D. , Williamson D. R. , Gilfedder M. , Walker G. R. , Morton R. , Robinson G. , Jones H. , Zhang L. , Dowling T. I. , Dyce P. , Nathan R. J. , Nandakumar N. , Clarke R. , McNeill V.
Published: September 2002

This paper summarizes the results from a study of historical stream salinity
trends and catchment salt balances within the Murray–Darling Basin,
Australia. A broad analysis of stream salinization was necessary to assist
prediction of the increase in the effect and extent of dryland salinity across
the basin. The sparseness of the water-quality data necessitated the
development of an innovative statistical trend technique that also allowed for
the high autocorrelation of the stream salinity data which was often
present.Results showed the spatial distribution of stream salinization and
identified regions of concern. The salinization characteristics of four
distinct geographical regions were identified by providing a spatial analysis
of catchment salt balances and stream salinity trends. The salinization
behaviour of each region was also related to distinct physical processes. The
most significant rising trends and catchment salt output/input ratios were
in the zone with 500–800 mm year–1 rainfall
in the southern and eastern dryland region.
Occurrence of tuna and mackerel larvae (Family: Scombridae) off the east coast of South Africa
Authors: Beckley Lynnath E. , Leis Jeff M.
Published: September 2002

Spatial and temporal distribution patterns of
scombrid larvae along the east coast of South Africa were investigated from
ichthyoplankton collections made during May–June 1990 (winter), October
1990 (spring) and February 1991 (summer). Results were analysed in relation to
oceanographic conditions and known spawning localities of tuna and mackerels
in the western Indian Ocean. In total, eight species were represented in the
samples, with highest diversity in February and lowest numbers in
May–June. Larvae of the temperate chub mackerel
Scomber japonicus were most abundant at shelf stations
during October. Larvae of neritic tunas Auxis sp. and
Euthynnus affinis occurred in shelf stations off
KwaZulu–Natal in February and extended southward in a plume along the
shelf edge. Larvae of skipjack tunaKatsuwonus pelamis
were most abundant in the Agulhas Current during February. Only a few larvae
of oceanic tunas Thunnus spp., wahoo
Acanthocybium solandri and king mackerel
Scomberomorus commerson were collected in the Agulhas
Current in the north of the study area during February when there was an
intrusion of warm Tropical Surface Water. This indicates that spawning of
these species probably does not occur off the east coast of South Africa.
Feeding and distribution of the bigeye flounder Hippoglossina macrops off Northern Chile
Authors: Villarroel J. C. , Acuña E. H. , Andrade M. J.
Published: September 2002

Bathymetric distribution and stomach contents of the bigeye flounder captured
during November 1995 were analysed. Bathymetric distributional pattern
differed among age classes, with younger fish inhabiting shallower waters
while older fish occupied all depths sampled. For each sex, the densities were
greatest at shallower depths and decreased constantly with depth. Differences
in feeding habits with fishing ground, depth and age classes were found.
Feeding is characterized by consumption of juvenile squat lobsters
Pleuroncodes monodon and
Cervimunida johni of 3 mm mean cephalothorax length at
150–300 m depth, and primarily of shrimp
Heterocarpus reedi below this range. Young flounders
(≤3 years) mainly fed on small prey such as juvenile squat lobsters,
whereas flounders >3 years old fed mainly on macrocrustaceans such as
H. reedi and to a minor extent on
P. monodon and C. johni. Feeding
intensity increased with age for each sex, with older females showing a larger
food intake rate that was consistent with their higher growth rate in
comparison with males.
Use of FDA and flow cytometry to assess metabolic activity as an indicator of nutrient status in phytoplankton
Authors: Brookes Justin D. , Geary Sean M. , Ganf George G. , Burch Michael D.
Published: September 2002

This study reports the use of a technique to
determine nutrient limitation of cultured and natural phytoplankton. The
technique, an FDA-activity assay, which is usually used to assess cell
viability, was used to measure metabolic activity in response to nutrient
addition; the metabolic activity of phytoplankton was determined as the rate
of hydrolysis of fluorescein diacetate (FDA), by intracellular esterases, to
fluorescein, which was detectedusing a flow cytometer. Replacement of the
limiting nutrient to nitrogen- or phosphorus-limited cultures and field
populations resulted in an increase in metabolic activity that was detectable
24 h after nutrient addition. By flow cytometry, the natural phytoplankton
community can be divided into different taxonomic groups; the response of
these to FDA could be determined individually to allow identification of the
nutrients limiting each type of phytoplankton. This would be more specific
than the assessment of a whole-community response, which may mask subtle
differences among taxa.
Validated ageing methods for blue warehou (Seriolella brama) and white warehou (S. caerulea) in New Zealand waters
Authors: Horn P. L.
Published: September 2002

Blue warehou (Seriolella brama) and white warehou
(Seriolella caerulea) (Stromateoidei : Centrolophidae)
from New Zealand waters were aged from counts of zones in cross-sectioned
otoliths, a technique that was validated for both species by examining the
state of otolith margins from fish sampled regularly throughout the year. Von
Bertalanffy parameters were calculated for blue warehou on the Stewart-Snares
shelf. The fish grew rapidly up to the time of first spawning (~4 –5
years) , but growth was negligible after ~10 –12 years. A maximum age
of 22 years was recorded. Von Bertalanffy parameters were calculated for white
warehou from the Chatham Rise and the Campbell Plateau;there were no
significant differences in growth between areas. The fish grew rapidly up to
the time of first spawning (~3 –4 years) , but growth was negligible
after ~6 –8 years. A maximum age of 21 years was recorded. Females of
both species grow significantly faster than males. A revised growth model for
silver warehou (Seriolella punctata) is also presented.
Swimming ability of the larvae of some reef fishes from New Zealand waters
Authors: Dudley Bruce , Tolimieri Nick , Montgomery John
Published: September 2002

Larval fish, caught in good condition in light
traps, were obliged to swim at 13.5 cm s –1 in a
flume chamber without food or rest. Five species were strong swimmers capable
of swimming for at least several days.
Scorpis lineolatus (Scorpidae), swam longer than the
others: >400 h on average (~200 km) with one individual swimming for 559 h
(271 km). The other two reef species,
Upeneichthys lineatus (Mullidae) and
Parika scaber (Monacanthidae), swam ~100 h (~50 km) on
average. Two non-reef carangids were also tested for comparison with the reef
fishes: Trachurus sp. and a single
Pseudocaranx dentex swam ~30 km and 82 km, respectively.
These results add to the growing body of evidence that fish larvae should not
be treated as passive particles.
Reproduction of the turban shell Turbo torquatus Gmelin 1791 (Mollusca : Gastropoda), in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Ward D. W. , Davis A. R.
Published: September 2002

The Sydney turban shell Turbo torquatus is the focus of
a small-scale commercial fishery in New South Wales. Effective management
requires knowledge of the reproductive biology, yet this is lacking for NSW
waters. The reproductive cycle was investigated at three localities on the
southern New South Wales coast. Samples of T. torquatus
were collected monthly at Wollongong, Ulladulla and Eden from February 1996
until August or December 1997. The reproductive cycle was investigated by
three methods: monthly determination of a gonadosomatic index, estimation of
oocyte size-frequency distributions and classification of female gonads into
developmental stages following histological sectioning. Males and females
within a population underwent synchronous gonad development and spawning.
Spawning events were often protracted over a period of several months with
females in various stages of gonadal development. Two spawning events occurred
each year, with a spawning event in autumn–winter and another in
spring–summer. These events were asynchronous among the three
localities, and partial spawning appeared to be a common occurrence. Owing to
variation in the timing of spawning between populations separated by a
distance as small as 15 km, seasonal closures to protect spawning stocks are
unlikely to be effective.
Prey preference and the consumption of sea urchins and juvenile abalone by captive rock lobsters (Jasus lalandii )
Authors: Mayfield S. , de Beer E. , Branch G. M.
Published: September 2002

Recent studies on the diet of the South African rock lobster
(Jasus lalandii) have shown an increase in the
consumption of sea urchins in certain areas relative to earlier assessments.
Concurrent ecological surveys have demonstrated the dependence of juvenile
abalone on urchins for their survival, and a radical increase in the abundance
of lobsters in the area that is the main abalone fishing ground. This paper
describes laboratory experiments on the consumption of urchins by lobsters,
and the preferences for different prey species. Small lobsters (<68 mm
carapace length) ate no urchins. Larger lobsters ate urchins of all sizes,
although small urchins were preferred. The consumption rate was easily
sufficient for the lobsters to have caused the documented disappearance of
urchins (and juvenile abalone) in the main abalone fishing area. Lobsters
showed a strong preference for mussels over all other prey offered, and for
juvenile abalone over urchins, although previous field observations and
laboratory experiments have shown that urchins provide shelter for juvenile
abalone. However, if black mussels were available in addition to sea urchins
and juvenile abalone, consumption of sea urchins and juvenile abalone
declined.
Human influence on nitrogen export: a comparison of mesic and xeric catchments
Authors: Caraco N. F. , Caraco N. F. , Cole J. J. , Cole J. J.
Published: September 2002

Human impact on export of nitrogen in rivers is of great concern because
increases in nitrogen export can dramatically increase primary productivity
and decrease water quality in the coastal zone. Most research on this has been
done for mesic catchments and not the xeric catchments that cover a large
fraction of the earth’s surface. This paper uses river data to compare
whole-catchment nitrogen export from xeric and mesic areas and human impact on
this export. Results suggest that although nitrogen export is lower from xeric
catchments than from mesic catchments, human impact on export and forms of
nitrogen being exported may be similar. In both xeric and mesic catchments
with low population density (<20 humans km–2)
the export of nitrate averages only 30%of export from catchments with
populations ≥20 humans km–2. For organic N
export there is little effect of human population in either xeric or mesic
catchments. Thus, for both xeric and mesic catchments human activity is
associated with a shift in dominant form of N being exported. On average,
organic N is the dominant form of nitrogen being exported at low human
population densities, whereas inorganic N export tends to dominate at higher
population densities.
Bioavailable colloidal iron in river water originated from the forest
Authors: Deein G. , Thimdee W. , Matsunaga K.
Published: September 2002

In samples of water from five sites on the Shukunohe, Ohno and Kunebetsu
rivers, Japan, most of the filterable iron (<0.45 m) was colloidal iron
(0.45–0.025 m). There was a correlation between dissolved iron and
colloidal iron; both are assumed to be associated with humic substances, since
the carbon isotope ratio of colloidal organic substances on glass-fibre
filters corresponded to the ratio of mountain humic soil. In culture
experiments, the freshwater phytoplankton
Melosira granulata var.
angustissima f. spiralis grew rapidly in a medium
containing colloidal iron, to a maximum of ~250 000 cells
mL–1. However, there was little growth with
amorphous colloidal iron and no growth in control medium containing ~0.1 M
dissolved Fe. In a multispecies phytoplankton culture, colloidal iron also
promoted growth, with a maximum of ~60 g Chl-a
L–1. These results indicated the bioavailability
of colloidal iron.
Population structure of pink ling (Genypterus blacodes) from south-eastern Australian waters, inferred from allozyme and microsatellite analyses
Authors: Ward R. D. , Appleyard S. A. , Daley R. K. , Reilly A.
Published: September 2002

Thirty eight allozyme loci were examined in orange and pink morphs of pink
ling (Genypterus blacodes) and in rock ling
(G. tigerinus). Six of the loci were species-diagnostic.
No differences were observed between the orange and pink morphs, which appear
to be the juvenile and adult forms respectively of pink ling. The pink ling
forms an important component of Australia’s South-East Fishery and is
managed as a single stock. Three polymorphic allozyme loci (average
heterozygosity 0.324) and nine polymorphic microsatellite loci (average
heterozygosity 0.823) were examined in collections of pink ling from five
regions of the fishery. Estimates of the extent of population subdivision were
effectively zero (F ST values per locus ranging from
0.0052 to –0.0065, P values non-significant), and
the null hypothesis of a single pink ling stock in the South East Fishery
could not be rejected.
Trophic ecology of the mid-slope demersal fish community off southern Tasmania, Australia
Authors: Bulman C. M. , He X. , Koslow J. A.
Published: September 2002

The demersal fish community on the mid-slope off southern Tasmania in
south-eastern Australia is dominated by orange roughy
Hoplostethus atlanticus (Trachichthyidae), several
species of oreosomatids, macrourids, squalids, alepocephalids and a
synaphobranchid eel. Cluster analysis based on diet dissimilarities of
proportional prey weight identified five major trophic guilds:
pyrosome-feeders, crustacean feeders, piscivores, benthopelagic omnivores and
benthic-invertebrate feeders. Overall, the fish fed predominantly on pelagic
or benthopelagic prey, consistent with other trophic studies in the
Australasian region and the Northern Hemisphere.
H. atlanticus, warty dory
Allocyttus verrucosus, and the macrourid
Coryphaenoides serrulatus were benthopelagic omnivores
that ate mesopelagic fishes, crustaceans and squid. The first two species ate
more mesopelagic fishes as their sizes increased. The squalids were
predominantly piscivorous but might also scavenge. Macrourids were
benthic-invertebrate feeders, pelagic crustacean feeders or benthopelagic
omnivores. The alepocephalids and the smooth oreo
Pseudocyttus maculatus were pyrosome-feeders. No
seasonal variation in diet was found for any species. Ecological indices
varied within each guild. Benthopelagic omnivores and piscivores had the
largest diet breadth, evenness and diversity. Trophic levels ranged from 3.0
for pyrosome-feeders to 4.9 for piscivores and the overall average for the
community was 3.7.
Age and growth estimates for the Zambezi shark, Carcharhinus leucas, from the east coast of South Africa
Authors: Wintner S. P. , Dudley S. F. J. , Kistnasamy N. , Everett B.
Published: September 2002

Growth rings (GR) were counted in vertebrae of 69 female (56–221 cm
precaudal length; 3–238 kg) and 54 male (57–216 cm; 3–180
kg) C. leucas. Annual GR deposition could not be
confirmed by centrum edge analyses but was assumed on the basis of
‘mark–recapture’ analysis of 10 sharks held captive for
between 2.2 and 20 years in an aquarium. GR counts indicated that the largest
female and male were 32 years (221 cm) and 29 years (216 cm), respectively and
the smallest mature female and male were 14 years (197 cm) and 25 years (196
cm). Length at 50% maturity was 193 cm (21 years) and 190 cm (20 years)
for females and males, respectively. Maximum age is >50 years, and the two
specimens (216, 217 cm) that have been held in the aquarium for 20 years are
both estimated to be >29 years. Von Bertalanffy parameters for the combined
sexes were L∞ = 230
cm, k = 0.071 year–1,
t0 = –5.12 years, and
Gompertz parameters were w0
= 24 kg, G = 2.86, g
= 0.046 year–1.
High survival and growth of European lobster juveniles (Homarus gammarus) reared communally on a natural-bottom substrate
Authors: Jørstad Knut E. , Agnalt Ann-Lisbeth , Kristiansen Tore S. , Nøstvold Einar
Published: September 2002

A series of communal rearing experiments with European lobster
(Homarus gammarus) performed in 1998 and 1999 at the
Kvitsøy Lobster Hatchery in Norway tested methods for future production
of juveniles for farming and release purposes. Lobster larvae were raised from
stage IV in tanks or cages with a bottom substrate of shell sand and a variety
of shelters. Survival rates after 4 to 5 months ranged from 10 to 67%;
averages were 59% in 1998 and 30% in 1999. Final densities
ranged from 29 to a maximum of 130 juvenilesm–2 ;
means were 72 in 1998 and 55 in 1999. As expected, the fastest growth was
found in tanks with heated water (15–19˚C), where mean carapace
length (CL) was 17 mm after 4 months, compared to a mean CL of 11 mm in
unheated water. Size at the end of the experiments was highly variable, even
within the offspring from a single family, and especially in heated water.
Lobsters raised communally were in general larger and more variable than were
lobsters raised in single compartments.
Predicting the recreational western rock lobster (Panulirus cygnus) catch in Western Australia
Authors: Melville-Smith Roy , Anderton Sonia M. , Caputi Nick
Published: September 2002

The number of fishers purchasing recreational rock-lobster licences in Western
Australia increased from ~15 000 during 1986–87 to 33 000 during
1998–99. The quantity landed was estimated from mail surveys conducted
during this period. The recreational catch of western rock lobster increased
from approximately 220 to 630 tonnes, or from 1.8% to 4.8% of
the commercial catch. This study has shown that total recreational catches of
western rock lobster in Western Australia are correlated with licence usage
rates (r2 = 0.81) and
puerulus settlement indices at Alkimos, in the southern region of the fishery,
3 to 4 years earlier (r2 =
0.59). A multipleregression analysis using both of these variables
(r2 = 0.91) was used to
predict future recreational lobster catches. If future usage were to remain at
1998–99 levels, it is predicted that the recreational catch would be 700
t in 1999–2000, 650 t in 2000–01, and 550 t in 2001–02. We
attempted to improve predictions by analysing the data according to puerulus
settlement and licence usage in the two coastal management regions. The
correlation for the southern region (where most of the recreational fishing is
concentrated) was marginally better than that for the total fishery
(r2 = 0.93), but the
correlation was poor for the northern coastal zone
(r2 = 0.55), where licence
usage has been relatively steady and where the recreational catch has
consistently remained at around 98 t per annum over the last decade.
Effect of stocking density and shelter on growth and mortality of early juvenile Jasus edwardsii held in captivity
Authors: James Phil J. , Tong Lennard J. , Paewai Megan P.
Published: September 2002

The effects of stocking density and the presence of shelter on the growth and
mortality of early juvenile spiny lobsters,
Jasus edwardsii, were determined over periods of 118 and
162 days respectively. Growth in length and weight were significantly slower
with increasing stocking densities from 50 to 200
m–2, but overall mortality rates were very low and
exhibited no difference amongst the densities tested. Conversely, shelter
appeared to help to maintain high survival rates in early juvenile lobsters
but had no effect on growth throughout the experiment. For maximum growth and
survival in a commercial aquaculture operation, densities of 50 to 100
m–2, and adequate shelter would be recommended for
early juvenile spiny lobsters. The implications of these results are discussed
in relation to aquaculture of this species.
Ultrastructural analysis of sperm storage and morphology of the oviducal gland in the Oman shark, Iago omanensis (Triakidae)
Authors: Hamlett William C. , Fishelson Lev , Baranes Avi , Hysell Chris K. , Sever David M.
Published: September 2002

Sperm storage, oviducal gland morphology and ultrastructure are described in
pregnant females of the viviparous placental Oman shark,
Iago omanensis, that were harbouring uterine eggs,
embryos or fetuses. Zonation of the gland from anterior to posterior is
similar to those previously described for other elasmobranchs and is
designated as club, papillary, baffle and terminal zones. The terminal zone
has two regions, the first comprising short tubules adjacent to the baffle
zone that are positive by periodic acid–Schiff. Posteriorly, the
terminal zone has deep clefts that terminate as dilated recesses harbouring
laterally arrayed bundles of spermatozoa surrounded by a flocculent matrix.
Sperm were found in the terminal zone of all animals examined. Samples were
not available throughout gestation, so it is not known whether the sperm is
stored from a single insemination or from multiple matings. The club zone
stains positive by the periodic acid–Schiff method, as does the
papillary zone. The last lamella of the papillary zone is positive by Alcian
blue staining. The secretory product of the baffle zone is the tertiary egg
envelope that encloses the developing embryo during much of gestation.
Use of a treadmill to study the relationship between walking, ventilation and heart rate in the lobster Homarus americanus
Authors: O'Grady Daniel F. , Jury Steven H. , Watson III Winsor H.
Published: September 2002

A passive treadmill was designed and built that measures the speed of lobster
walking, while simultaneously recording heart and scaphognathite pumping
rates. The treadmill only moved when the lobster voluntarily walked either
forward or backward. Lobsters (n = 5) on the
treadmill typically walked in bouts lasting an average of 5 min (range 8 s to
53 min). During these bouts, the mean walking rate was 0.9 0.6 m/min
(n = 100 bouts from 5 lobsters), and the maximum
speed recorded was 2.5 m/min. At the onset of walking, and sometimes
5–10 s before, the heart and ventilation rates rapidly increased.
Ventilation rate increased more than heart rate during walking (ventilation
rate: 194% increase; heart rate: 69% increase) and returned to
baseline faster (4.5 3.9 min) than heart rate (6.6 3.9 min) after a bout.
Heart and ventilation rates during walking do not appear to be related to the
duration of the bout. Heart and ventilation rates were positively correlated
with the average walking speed attained in 3 of the 5 lobsters tested. Heart
rate, in particular, appeared to have an upper limit of approximately
90–100 beats/min, regardless of walking duration or speed.
Lobster trap video: in situ video surveillance of the behaviour of Homarus americanus in and around traps
Authors: Jury Steven H. , Howell Hunt , O'Grady Daniel F. , Watson III Winsor H.
Published: September 2002

A lobster-trap video (LTV) system was developed to determine how lobster traps
fish for Homarus americanus and how behavioural
interactions in and around traps influence catch. LTV consists of a low-light
camera and time-lapse video cassette recorder (VCR) mounted to a standard trap
with optional red LED arrays for night observations. This self-contained
system is deployed like a standard lobster trap and can collect continuous
video recordings for >24 h. Data are presented for 13 daytime deployments
of LTV (114 h of observation) and 4 day and night deployments (89 h of
observation) in a sandy habitat off the coast of New Hampshire, USA. Analyses
of videotapes revealed that traps caught only 6% of the lobsters that
entered while allowing 94% to escape. Of those that escaped, 72%
left through the entrance and 28% through the escape vent. Lobsters
entered the trap at similar rates during the day and night and in sandy and
rocky habitats. Lobsters generally began to approach the trap very shortly
after deployment, and many appeared to approach several times before entering.
These data confirm the results of previous laboratory-based studies in
demonstrating that behavioural interactions in and around traps strongly
influence the ultimate catch.
The sensory basis of feeding behaviour in the Caribbean spiny lobster, Panulirus argus
Authors: Derby Charles D. , Steullet Pascal , Horner Amy J. , Cate Holly S.
Published: September 2002

A complex nervous system enables spiny lobsters to have a rich behavioural
repertoire. The present paper discusses the ways in which the sensory systems
of the Caribbean spiny lobster, Panulirus argus,
particularly its chemosensory systems, are involved in feeding behaviour. It
addresses the neural mechanisms of three aspects of their food-finding
ability: detection, identification, and discrimination of natural food odours;
the effect of learning on responses to food odours; the mechanisms by which
spiny lobsters orient to odours from a distance under natural flow conditions.
It demonstrates that the olfactory organ of spiny lobsters might use
acrossneuron response patterns in discriminating odour quality; that the
hedonic value of food can be modified by experience, including associative and
nonassociative conditioning; that spiny lobsters can readily orient to distant
odour sources; and that both chemo- and mechanosensory antennular input are
important in this behaviour. Either aesthetasc or nonaesthetasc chemosensory
pathways can be used in identifying odour quality, mediating learned
behaviours, and permitting orientation to the source of distant odours.
Studying the neuroethology of feeding behaviour helps us understand how spiny
lobsters are adapted to living in complex and variable environments.
Factors influencing the growth rate of juvenile rock lobsters, Jasus lalandii
Authors: Hazell R. W. Anthony , Cockcroft Andrew C. , Mayfield Stephen , Noffke Mark
Published: September 2002

Environmental conditions for juvenile spiny lobsters can vary spatially,
interannually, and seasonally. We examined both field and aquarium data to
elucidate some of the most important factors influencing somatic growth rates
of juvenile Jasus lalandii. Growth increments of
juveniles were determined at two sites in Table Bay, South Africa. Premoult
individuals were captured and held in aquaria until they moulted. In addition,
growth rates of small, medium, and large juvenile lobsters were monitored in
aquaria under approximately ambient conditions for nine months. A separate
aquarium experiment addressed effects of temperature. Moult increments at the
two field sites varied significantly with season (highest in winter, lowest in
spring), and month and site interacted. Temperature and diet affected grow-out
significantly. Tagging and limb regeneration slowed grow-out. The 10˚C
and the 15˚C experimental groups did not differ significantly in mean
moult increment, but intermoult period at 15˚C was 50% shorter, so
lobsters at 15˚C grew faster. Temperature affects intermoult period but,
provided food is not limiting, does not appear to affect moult increment
(within normal temperature range). In the wild, however, moult increments can
vary up to twofold with season, probably at least in part because of seasonal
temperature variation.
Mouthpart and foregut ontogeny in phyllosoma larvae of the spiny lobster Jasus edwardsii (Decapoda: Palinuridae)
Authors: Johnston Danielle J. , Ritar Arthur
Published: September 2002

Mouthpart and foregut structure indicates that
Jasus edwardsii phyllosomas ingest soft fleshy foods such
as gelatinous zooplankton. Mouthpart morphology changes little during larval
development, indicating that ingestive capabilities and external mastication
are well developed from an early age. However, the density and complexity of
setation and robustness of individual mouthparts increases with age,
suggesting a greater capacity to ingest larger prey during development. The
foregut consists of a single chamber with a number of well-developed grooves,
ridges, and setae but lacking a gastric mill. The primary role of the foregut
is mixing, sorting, and filtering particles, preground by the mouthparts.
Phyllosomas have been divided into early (stage I–III), mid
(IV–V), and late (VI–X) stages based on the development of the
filter press and main brushes. Increasing robustness of setation and
complexity of the foregut suggest that the texture of prey becomes more
muscular (fibrous) with larval development. The results presented here suggest
that early-stage phyllosoma would benefit from a diet comprising soft
gelatinous items, whereas late-stage phyllosomas are better prepared to deal
with larger, fleshy prey. The changes in structural characteristics with age
should also serve as a guide in the development of formulated diets.
Redescription of the gobiid fish genus Pseudotrypauchen (Gobiidae : Amblyopinae) and its significance in amblyopine phylogeny
Authors: Murdy Edward O. , Shibukawa Koichi
Published: September 2002

The Indo–West Pacific gobiid genus
Pseudotrypauchen is defined and redescribed.
Pseudotrypauchen comprises one
species,P. multiradiatus, known only from India,
Malaysia, and Sumatra. A figure and description of this species are given.
Pseudotrypauchen is unique within the Amblyopinae in
having short, compressed, and gently rounded teeth in the outermost row on
jaws, and in having the first two pterygiophores of the second dorsal fin
separated by a neural spine. The latter character is unique within the
subfamily. Owing to their shared possession of (1) free
and silk-like pectoral-fin rays, and (2) a high
pectoral-fin ray count, Odontamblyopus is a more likely
candidate as sister group to Pseudotrypauchen than any
other member of the Amblyopinae. Other relationships of
Pseudotrypauchen are discussed.
Diversity and evolution of life histories of gobioid fishes from the viewpoint of heterochrony
Authors: Kon Takeshi , Yoshino Tetsuo
Published: September 2002

The ontogenies of the gobioid fishes are matched against a framework of
age-based heterochrony and their life-history strategies are discussed on the
basis of published reports. Deceleration was observed in
Leucopsarion, Crystallogobius and
some species of Luciogobius from temperate or cold
waters. Hypomorphosis was observed in Schindleria,
Paedogobius and another species of
Luciogobius, the former two genera maturing at one month
or two after hatching throughout the year in tropical environments.
Acceleration was observed in oxudercines, soft bottom-dwellers in intertidal
areas and mangrove swamps, during larval and juvenile periods. Their
acceleration, based on warm conditions allowing fast metamorphosis, may be an
adaptation allowing immediate recruitment to a littoral life style.
Hypermorphosis was observed in Acanthogobius flavimanus,
which develops more slowly than other congeners. Isomorphosis by acceleration
and hypomorphosis was observed during the larval and juvenile periods in
fluvial Rhinogobius spp.
and Acentrogobius viridipunctatus. This developmental
shift, with truncation of the larval period, seems to be an important event
among gobioid fishes, facilitating their survival in severe environments such
as spates in rivers or on mudflats.
Stress-related changes in the metabolic rate of juvenile spotted grunter, Pomadasys commersonnii (Haemulidae, Pisces)
Authors: Radull J. , Kaiser H. , Hecht T.
Published: September 2002

Metabolic responses were measured in juvenile spotted grunters subjected to
stress factors pertinent to handling and transportation. The metabolic
response to chase and capture lasted ~15 min during which period oxygen
consumption rate increased from 0.26 mg to 0.62 mg O2
g–1 h–1. Routine
metabolism was re-established after ~90 min. An acute increase in temperature
resulted in significant increase in oxygen consumption, with a rapid rise from
0.25 to 0.36 mg O2 g–1
h–1 before settling at a rate of 0.30 mg
O2 g–1
h–1. The oxygen consumption of individual fish was
not affected by the presence of their conspecifics or by high fish density
within the range tested. It is concluded that, although an acute increase in
temperature results in considerable stress in this species, the greatest
stress is caused during chase-and-capture, whereas packing density within the
range tested in this study does not cause stress.
Spawning on the edge: spawning grounds and nursery areas around the southern African coastline
Authors: Hutchings L. , Beckley L. E. , Griffiths M. H. , Roberts M. J. , Sundby S. , van der Lingen C.
Published: September 2002

The southern African coastline is dominated by strong currents. Along the
eastern seaboard, the warm western boundary Agulhas Current sweeps close
inshore along the shelf edge before diverging from the coast on the Agulhas
Bank and retroflecting back into the Indian Ocean. On the western seaboard,
strong jet currents develop in the southern Benguela, associated with the
strong thermal gradients induced by upwelling and Agulhas Current intrusions
and eddies. There is, in general, northward drift of surface waters in the
Benguela Current with strong offshore losses in the vicinity of an
exceptionally active upwelling region off LÜderitz. Several potent
mechanisms exist for offshore dispersal and loss from the productive shelf
waters, such as eddies, filaments, retroflections and offshore Ekman drift,
which pose special problems for successful retention of planktonic eggs and
larvae from broadcast spawners. Most fish species in southern Africa have
evolved highly selective reproductive patterns, which ensure that sufficient
progeny are retained or can enter the nursery grounds along the coastline.
Four important reproductive habitats, comprising spawning areas, transport
mechanisms and nursery grounds, occur between Moçambique and Angola.
These are used by a wide variety of pelagic, demersal and inshore-dwelling
fish species.
Monitoring of fish and fish catches by local fishermen in Kenya and Tanzania
Authors: Obura D. O. , Wells S. , Church J. , Horrill C.
Published: September 2002

Monitoring of fish populations underwater and of fish catches is being
undertaken at several sites in Kenya and Tanzania using local names and
languages. This paper describes the programmes underway at Kiunga Marine
Reserve and Diani-Chale in Kenya, and at Tanga in Tanzania. At all three
sites, standard protocols have been adapted for use by local fishermen, who
have been trained to collect data. A key factor enabling this has been to use
local knowledge as the foundation of monitoring. The paper discusses some of
the difficulties encountered, such as variations in the use of names, and
generally low literacy among fishermen. Overall, the benefits far outweigh the
disadvantages in terms of developing a much greater sense of involvement in,
and participation by, the fishing communities in the management of their
resources. The programmes are also providing the fishermen with a deeper
understanding of the impact of fishing on their resources and thus will help
them to apply appropriate management approaches.
A synchronized rhythmic flashing light display by schooling Leiognathus splendens (Leiognathidae : Perciformes)
Authors: Woodland David J. , Cabanban Annadel S. , Taylor Valerie M. , Taylor Ronald J.
Published: September 2002

Ponyfishes emit light produced by symbiotic bacteria residing in an
oesophageal diverticulum. A dorsal and, in some species, either a ventral or
pair of lateral ‘shutters’ on the wall of this organ allow the
duration and intensity of light emission to be controlled by the fish. By
differential use of the shutters, the site on the body wall that is
illuminated can also be varied. Four different light displays have been
described from captive specimens of various species. We record a spectacular
light display in schooling Leiognathus splendens in the
field at Ambon, Indonesia. The display occurred at night. Fish emitted brief
flashes of light at high frequency over extended periods. All the fish in a
school synchronized their flashes, the pooled light markedly increasing
underwater visibility for a human observer. Possible explanations for this
display include spatial organization of the school, location of planktonic
prey, courtship and reduction of attacks by predators.
Estimating trapping areas from trap-catch data for lobsters and crabs
Authors: Bell Michael C. , Addison Julian T. , Bannister R. Colin A.
Published: September 2002

Conversion of catch per unit effort data to density of an exploited species is
fundamental to stock assessment. A vital component of this conversion for trap
fisheries is the effective area fished by a trap. A conceptual model of
interactions between traps set in strings that potentially allows estimation
of trapping areas from trap-by-trap catch data predicted highest catch rates
of lobsters and crabs in traps at the ends of strings. An individual-based
simulation model developed to explore the effects of trap spacing, density,
and agonistic behaviour at the trap shows that, in the absence of agonistic
interactions at the trap (i.e., trap saturation), catch
rates conform to those expected from the conceptual model, provided that trap
exposure modifies the catchability at all traps equally. Trap saturation
reduces the effect of trap interactions, particularly at high densities, and
causes the relationship between capture probability and distance from the trap
to depend on density. We discuss the application of the model to trap-by-trap
data in practice and conclude that the approach may be valuable in an
experimental context when direct methods of estimating effective area fished
are not practicable.
Reproductive biology of a diandric protogynous hermaphrodite, the serranid Epinephelus andersoni
Authors: Fennessy Sean T. , Sadovy Yvonne
Published: September 2002

Epinephelus andersoni is a serranid endemic to
south-eastern Africa. An investigation of the reproductive biology of this
species from two areas along the east coast of South Africa revealed that
E. andersoni exhibits several features that differ from
the hermaphroditism found in most other epinepheline serranids. Among sexually
mature fish, there is a complete overlap of male and female sizes and
significantly more males than females. Males can develop directly from the
juvenile phase as well as by sex change from functional females, although
testicular morphology does not vary according to developmental pathway. Hence,
the species is classified as a diandric protogynous hermaphrodite, a sexual
pattern hitherto unconfirmed for the genus Epinephelus.
The morphology of the gonads also differs from that of congeners, with male
and female tissues being spatially distinct. A substantial part of the
mature-sized component is not reproductively active, possibly because of
edge-of-range effects and/or because not all individuals spawn each year.
Reproduction occurs between November and January, and female total length at
50% maturity is 492 mm.