bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multivariate analysis of postembryonic growth in two species of Ectobius (Dictyoptera: Blattidae)
Authors: Davies R. G. , Brown Valerie
Published: August 2009

Principal component analyses of postembryonic changes in the dimensions of over 70 skeletal structures were carried out in Ectobius lapponicus (Linn.) and E. panzeri Stephens. The results are interpreted as four or five orthogonal patterns of growth, of which the major constituent is very simply related to the set of independently definable allometric growth ratios. The methods of analysis are discussed in relation to other multivariate techniques and their uses in the quantitative description of growth and metamorphosis are indicated.
Chromosome studies in some members of the family Caviidae (Mammalia: Rodentia)
Authors: George Wilma , Weir Barbara J. , Bedford Jean
Published: August 2009

A study of the chromosomes of Cavia aperea and Galea musteloides has been made following the introduction into captivity of these two cavies from Argentina. The evolutionary relationships of the two genera have been considered, and the possible ancestry of C. porcellus from C. aperea was investigated in hybrids of the two species.
Mites and other microarthropods from the Joshua Tree National Monument, California
Authors: Wallwork John A.
Published: August 2009

An account is given of the microarthropods collected from juniper litter and from the soils of oases in the southern California desert. Particular attention is paid to the mite component of this fauna and descriptions are given of five new species of Cryptostigmata, namely Joshuella striata, Haplochthonius variabilis, Eremaeus magniporus, Passalozetes californicus and Zygoribatula heteroporosa. A detailed sampling programme was undertaken only at the juniper site, but the results obtained from the entire survey, and comparisons with the fauna of neighbouring semi‐desert areas, indicate that each of the microhabitats sampled has its own characteristic assemblage of species populations.
The effect of age and environment on extrarenal salt excretion in juvenile gulls (Larus argentatus and L. fuscus)
Authors: Ensor D. M. , Phillips J. G.
Published: August 2009

Young gulls captured from an essentially marine colony with no access to freshwater showed a significantly greater ability to excrete a hypertonic salt load than did birds of approximately the same age captured from an inland colony.

This ability was reflected by higher extrarenal secretion rates from the heavier nasal gland of the “marine” birds. That this increased ability was due to environmental exposure and not to genetic variations was shown by the fact that these differences disappeared when the two groups of birds were maintained on a freshwater diet for four weeks.

The main environmental factor stimulating the development of the nasal gland in the “marine” birds appeared to be non‐availability of freshwater, as analysis of the diet of both colonies showed only minor differences.
Factors affecting ultrasound production in infant rodents
Authors: Okon Eyo E.
Published: August 2009

Studies on the motivation for the production of ultrasound in rodents revealed that two principal factors influence this phenomenon in the infants. These have already been reported in full for white mice and partially for Wistar rats and Golden hamsters. The present paper completes the report on all five species that were investigated and makes a general assessment of the findings.
Hair growth in mouse mutants affecting coat texture
Authors: Trigg Monica J.
Published: August 2009

The genetic control of hair growth has been studied in mice carrying the following coat texture genes: fz (fuzzy), soc (soft coat), hid (hair interior defect), sa (satin), It (lustrous), Ve (velvet), wa‐1 (waved‐1), Re (rex), Rewc (wavy coat) and pk (plucked).

A general effect on cells of epidermal origin, found in soc/soc and Ve/+ skin samples illustrates how common factors control developmental potential in both the stratum germinativum and the follicle bulb. A direct influence on follicle bulb development is also seen in fz/fz homozygotes in which the dermal papilla functions abnormally. The role of the bulb cells and the dermal papilla in the control of hair shaft calibre is discussed.

hid is a new gene, found in homozygous condition in all mice of the AKR inbred strain. hid and sa appear primarily to be concerned in the differentiation of the medulla.

In the hair waving mutants, waved‐1, rex and wavy coat, the processes controlling hair movement within the follicle are disturbed. These genes appear to regulate internal root sheath function. When the normal relationship between internal root sheath and developing hair shaft is disturbed, shaft movement slows, with the subsequent development of shaft calibre abnormalities.

pk acts at the level of the sebaceous gland, disturbing the normal process of hair eruption. The roles of the internal root sheath, external root sheath and the sebaceous gland in hair eruption are discussed.

The abnormal epidermal layer in soc/soc and Ve/+ skin also disturbs hair eruption to a small extent. The resulting abnormalities this causes in hair shaft formation are compared with those found pk/pk samples and also with the similar effects of faulty hair movement in the hair waving mutants. An effect on pigmentation is also described.

The chemistry of keratinization appears to be normal in all these mutants.
Polychaete annelids from the Cook Islands
Authors: Gibbs P. E.
Published: August 2009

A systematic account of a collection of polychaetes from the Cook Islands, central Pacific, is given together with ecological and zoogeographical notes. New species of the genera Ceratonereis, Perinereis, Scolelepis and Myriochele are described.
The comparative morphology of the thorax of selected genera of the Leptophlebiidae (Ephemeroptera)*
Authors: Tsui Philip T. P. , Peters William L.
Published: August 2009

The external thoracic morphology of the nymphs and imagos and the thoracic muscles of the imagos of Leptophlebia pacifica are described. Descriptions of the imaginal thoracic exoskeleton are given for five other genera of the Leptophlebiidae. A comparison of homologous structures in the imaginal thoraces of these genera and the use of these structures in understanding the taxonomy and phylogeny of the family are discussed.
Sound production by infant Peromyscus maniculatus (Rodentia: Myomorpha)
Authors: Smith Jane C.
Published: August 2009

Peromyscus maniculatus pups were found to emit both partly audible and purely ultrasonic sounds in response to cold stress and tactile stimulation. The two pulse types could be correlated with the two different conditions and variations with age of the intensity, frequency structure and rate of production were studied. Audible pulses are more characteristic of young pups subjected to cold stress and ultrasonic pulses are more characteristic of older pups subjected to tactile stimulation. These results are discussed in relation to previous work on infant rodent sound production and its effects on maternal behaviour.
Structure and function in the excretory systems of some terrestrial prosobranch snails (Cyclophoridae)
Authors: Andrews Elizabeth B. , Little Colin
Published: August 2009

The excretory systems of terrestrial prosobranch snails of the family Cyclophoridae, collected in Jamaica, Costa Rica and South Africa, have been examined physiologically and as regards their gross and fine structure. The process of urine formation commences in the heart, where fluid is filtered across the wall of the ventricle. Filtration through the auricular wall is believed to be negligible. The kidney, which contains three types of cell, modifies the composition of the filtrate. One type of resorptive cell, characterized by basal infoldings associated with mitochondria, takes up salts. Another type, with basal subcellular spaces, may be responsible for taking up water. The third type of cell is secretory, producing concretions of uric acid and phospholipid which are liberated into the kidney lumen when the cell degenerates.

The rate and mechanism of urine production have been investigated using injections of inulin. The filtration rate at 25°C is 0.5 μl/g/min, and in 100% R.H. the average rate of urine production is 0–39 μl/g/min.

An accessory excretory organ has been developed from the hypobranchial gland of aquatic forms. It is composed of groups of subepithelial tubular glands opening into the mantle cavity by one or a series of pores, and secreting purines, phospholipids and mucus. There is evidence that this organ becomes progressively more complex in forms occupying drier habitats.

The systems of excretion and osmoregulation in the Cyclophoridae are considered to be very similar to those in their aquatic relatives, the Viviparidae and Ampullariidae. Certainly the cyclophorids are not as well adapted to a terrestrial life as are the Pulmonata, and in many respects they may be considered “aquatic” snails living on land.
Tetrapyrrol pigments in the test of the echinoid Arbacia lixula
Authors: Kennedy G. Y. , Vevers H. G.
Published: August 2009

The test of Arbacia lixula contains chlorin e6 and traces of coproporphyrin I, in addition to the already known naphthaquinone pigments. The possible function of the chlorin is discussed.
A key to the species of Mugilidae (Pisces) in the Northeastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, with explanatory notes
Authors: Trewavas Ethelwynn , Ingham Susan E.
Published: August 2009

A key is given for identifying the eight species of Mugilidae of the Northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean. The use of Risso's names for four species is justified and explained and recognition is given to Tortonese's discovery that Mugil capurrii (Perugia) is a senior synonym of M. monodi Chabanaud. The relationship of Liza saliens to certain species of West and southern Africa is held to be additional support for the recognition of Protomugil Popov as a subgenus of Liza including these species. Chelon Röse, with type‐species Mugil chelo Cuvier (=Chelon labrosus (Risso)), is recognized, following Jordan & Evermann (1917) and Schultz (1946), but its limits are differently conceived so as to include Crenimugil Schultz rather than Liza Jordan & Swain. The latter is held to comprise about 30 Old World species. The status of Chelon bispinosus (Bowdich) is discussed, with its bearing on possible population‐differences in C. labrosus and the relationship of this species with C. crenilabis. The identity of Liza seheli (Forskål) is discussed and reasons are given for disagreeing with Wimpenny and others in applying this name to the species found at both ends of the Suez Canal zone. The latter is L. carinata (Ehrenberg in Cuvier & Valenciennes). Myxus maroccensis Mohr is believed to be a young Liza ramada.
Latitudinal variation in associations of planktonic Rotifera
Authors: Green J.
Published: August 2009

The planktonic Rotifera are not all cosmopolitan in their geographical distribution. There is a latitudinal variation in the assemblage of planktonic species. Most of this variation can be attributed to species in nine genera, of which some (e.g. Brachionus) are more abundant in warm areas, and others are more abundant in cool areas (e.g. Notholca). The latitudinal change in the assemblage is gradual, but it can be measured by the Sorensen index of similarity.

In addition to the latitudinal variation there is evidence of a small group of species restricted to the Americas.

Detailed surveys extending over a year or more yield between 30 and 100 species for a given lake or area, except in the high Arctic where the number recorded for Spitzbergen falls to 16. Single samples yield many fewer species, normally ranging from 4 to 26.
Intergrading between members of the “regularis group” of toads in South Africa
Authors: Passmore N. I.
Published: August 2009

The mating calls of three members of the “regularis group” of toads (Anura: Bufonidae) that are sympatric in part of South Africa are examined. A naturally occurring population of hybrid toads from Pretoria (South Africa) has previously been described as representing an intergrading between Bufo garmani Meek and Bufo rangeri Hewitt. Examination of the mating calls of these toads provides little evidence of intergrading between Bufo rangeri and Bufo garmani, and indicates the involvement of Bufo regularis Reuss in the hybridization. The mating calls of the hybrids are varied, and are structurally intermediate between those of the parental species. Mating call parameters are found to be useful in separating forms that are difficult to distinguish on morphological grounds alone. They are further found to be a sensitive non‐morphological means of ascertaining the affinities of naturally occurring hybrid toads.
A statistical description of structural variation in the cerci of the common earwig (Forficula auricularia)
Authors: Ollason J. G.
Published: August 2009

Polymorphism in the cerci of the earwig (Forficula auricularia L.) has been re‐examined making use of a graphical method for the analysis of frequency distributions. Three statistically distinct types of male cerci and two statistically distinct types of female cerci are described.
Indications of recent changes in status in the British Isles of the frog (Rana temporaraia) and the toad (Bufo bufo)
Authors: Cooke A. S.
Published: August 2009

Two surveys are described which were designed to provide information on changes in status in the British Isles of the frog (Rana temporaria L.) and the toad (Bufo bufo L.). Questionnaires were distributed asking for information and conclusions are based on replies referring to 1079 localities and 314 individual breeding sites. Replies indicated that the frog decreased slightly over most of the British Isles during the 1940s and 1950s, and suffered considerable declines over most of England throughout the 1960s. Moderate declines occurred in Scotland and Northern Ireland during the last half of the decade. Declines for the toad probably followed a similar pattern.

The garden pond was the only habitat in which either species increased. Both the frog and the toad decreased markedly in breeding sites on agricultural land in the early 1960s, but during the late 1960s declines were less severe.

The main reason for the declines has probably been loss of suitable wetland habitat due to sites being filled in, drained or physically modified in some way. Insecticides are only likely to have been harmful in sites where unusually high pollutant concentrations occurred. Other possible contributory factors are discussed and of these road mortality is perhaps the most important. Recent declines for the frog were significantly related to human population density.
Case building behaviour of the caddis fly larva, Lepidostoma hirtum
Authors: Hansell M. H.
Published: August 2009

On hatching from the egg, a larva of Lepidosroma hirtum Curtis constructed a tubular, sand grain case. As the larva became older it periodically added new material to the anterior of the case and, once in every instar except the 1st, cut off ⅓ to ¼ of the posterior of the case. In the 3rd instar the larva changed from adding sand grains to cutting out and attaching almost rectangular leaf panels. By the 5th instar the case was composed entirely of leaf panels. The case was then square in section and composed of one row of panels for each of the sides. The panels were not truly rectangular but convex on the leading edge and sides and concave at the back, so that the anterior convexity of one panel fitted into the posterior concavity of the panel in front. Panels were arranged with their long axes across the case. The seams between panels in the roof were half a panel length out of phase with those in the sides but in phase with those in the floor. The convex sides of a panel allowed it to overlap the seams between panels on the two adjacent sides. If a 5th instar larva was removed from its case it first built a sand grain case followed by a leaf panel case. The animal cut panels from the leaf with its mandibles and then further shaped them by chewing round the edge. Just prior to pupation, the case was modified by the attachment of further panels to the anterior; these included panels which for the first time in the life of the larva were arranged with their long axes along the case.
Biopsy studies on the natural sex reversal in Monopterus albus (Pisces: Teleostei)
Authors: Chan S. T. H. , O Wai‐Sum , Tang F. , Lofts B.
Published: August 2009

A technique for the study of the ontogenetic development and the sequential changes in structure of the gonad of Monopterus albus during natural sex reversal was established by making successive biopsy examinations on gonadal tissue of individual animals at regular time intervals. Results obtained from the present investigation provided some direct and conclusive evidence that anatomical transformation from an ovary, through a transitory intersexual phase, to a testis occurred as a natural process in the life cycle of individuals in this species, and confirmed most of the previous observations derived from studies based upon body‐size and sexuality correlation. This biopsy approach will form a basis for further investigations on the effects of various experimentations, such as hormone administration, hypophysectomy, photo‐stimulation and thermo‐stimulation, on sex differentiation and sex changes in this protogynous hermaphroditic fish.
The feeding mechanism of sharks of the family Carcharhinidae
Authors: Moss Sanford A.
Published: August 2009

The morphology of thefeedingapparatus in several genera of carcharhinid sharks (Carcharhinus, Rhizoprionodon, Hypoprion, Prionace, Galeocerdo and Negaprion) was studied in both fresh and preserved states. The actions of the cranial musculature were determined through electrical stimulation. The feeding behaviours of representatives of the genera Carcharhinus, Negaprion and Galeocerdo were studied under controlled conditions by direct observation as well as photographically. The cranial anatomy of carcharhinid sharks is characterized by a relatively reduced chondrocranium and a greatly hypertrophied musculature. The hyostylic jaw suspension serves to allow substantial cranial kinesis, particularly with respect to the upper jaw. Protraction of this skeletal element is accomplished in at least two ways, depending on the external and internal forces applied to the palatoquadrate cartilage. Under one set of conditions upper jaw protraction serves to allow precision when feeding on benthic organisms. Under quite different conditions upper jaw protraction allows the jaw to cut deeply through food items too large to be swallowed whole. The feeding mechanism found in these sharks, therefore, seems to be well adapted to deal with a wide variety of food types.
Locomotory aspects of squid mantle structure
Authors: Ward Diana Valiela , Wainwright Stephen A.
Published: August 2009

Morphological aspects of squid (Loligo, Lolliguncula) mantle relevant to locomotory function were studied. Methods used included polarized light microscopy of frozen sections of untreated tissue taken from animals immediately after death and electron microscopy.

The mantle consists of circular and radial muscles arranged in alternating rings along the whole length of the mantle. The muscle is obliquely striated. Connective tissue fibres are found in the body of the muscle and in the outer and inner tunics. The outer tunic consists of layers of large collagenous fibres. The fibres run in superimposed right‐ and left‐handed helical courses that lie at an angle of 27° to the long axis of the animal. The tunics and the intramuscular connective fibres are thought to resist length changes in the mantle while permitting the changes in girth required for the jet power stroke. Both the intramuscular and the tunic fibre systems may provide elastic energy for the return phase of the jet cycle. Tunic fibres appear to be a geodesic tensile reinforcing system ensuring smooth shape changes in the mantle.
A revision of the family Ciconiidae (Aves)
Authors: Kahl M. P.
Published: August 2009

Behavioural and morphological characteristics of all members of the stork family are summarized. References are given to other papers where these subjects are discussed in greater detail for each group of storks. Based on the evidence now available, a revised classification is suggested (Table II) which divides the Ciconiidae into three tribes, six genera, and 17 species. The following genera (of Peters, 1931) are synonymized with other existing genera: Ibis, Sphenorhynchus, Dissoura, Euxenura, and Xenorhynchus. It is further suggested that Scopus should be placed in a suborder of its own and that Balaeniceps be placed in a monotypic family adjacent to the Ciconiidae, pending further study.
Notes on the food of feral mink Mustela vison in England and Wales
Authors: Day M. G. , Linn Ian
Published: August 2009

There is some apprehension about the possible effect of the introduced American mink Mustela vison upon the indigenous British fauna, either as a predator exerting new and excessive pressure upon native prey species, or as a carnivore competing for prey resources against native carnivores. Concern is also felt by preservers of game, and by keepers of small domestic animals (poultry and rabbits) about the mink's potential as a pest. To investigate the food habits of the mink in England and Wales the alimentary canals of 1165 trapped animals were examined, yielding 204 samples for analysis. The resulting information provides a general picture of the mink's diet, including seasonal variations. Comparisons were possible with similar work carried out in other countries, and with the diets of other British carnivores. Tentative conclusions were reached regarding the broad pattern of food relationships between the mink and other British animals, wild and domestic.
The food of feral mink (Mustela vison) in Scotland
Authors: Akande Modupe
Published: August 2009

Feral American mink (Mustela vison) thrive in Scotland. The potential impact of the mink on the native fauna was investigated through its food. Fifty‐five stomachs and 33 scats were analysed by identifying the indigestible remains. Fish formed the main prey (49% occurrence) and birds and mammals 28% and 23% respectively. Most of the fish eaten were Salmonidae (brown trout and salmon). No remains of eels were found.

Mink may compete with otters for food, but the smaller prey taken by the mink and its greater use of land separates it from the otter. Mink seem to be occupying a vacant feeding niche in Scotland.
Preferential distribution of left and right auricular blood into the arterial arches of the Tuatara, Sphenodon punctatus
Authors: Grigg G. C. , Simons J. R.
Published: August 2009

Evidence is presented which shows that in traversing the heart of the Tuatara, systemic venous blood is selectively distributed to the pulmonary arches. This selective distribution of deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary circuit occurs despite the poorly developed primary ventricular septum and the lack of a secondary septum, and yet it appears to be as effective as that seen in reptiles having these anatomical attributes.
Locomotory function of the squid mantle
Authors: Ward Diana Valiela
Published: August 2009

A detailed kinematic analysis of the mantle movements of swimmingLolliguncula breviswas made. Some data were also obtained onLoligo pealei.The qualitative and quantitative data provided are of use in discussing mechanisms of squid mantle function.

Several possible mechanisms of squid mantle re‐expansion were proposed and investigated. The inhalant phase of jet propulsion is probably effected by contraction of the radial muscles, since thinning of the mantle wall accompanies re‐expansion. The radial muscles may cause mantle re‐expansion by contracting alternately with the circular muscles in response to nerve impulses, or by contracting alternately with the circular muscles in response to stretch cycles effected by mantle wall thickening in the power stroke, or by contracting continuously through both power and recovery strokes. Elasticity of the mantle tissue may contribute to mantle re‐expansion. Neither pressure pumps nor a Bernoulli effect mechanism are effectors of mantle re‐expansion.
Body size and composition of elephant seals (Mirounga leonine): absolute measurements and estimates from bone dimensions
Authors: Bryden M. M.
Published: August 2009

The major body components (bone, muscle, blubber, viscera and connective tissue) of 94 elephant seals were dissected and weighed.

Seals in growth phase 3 (more than ten weeks old) had significantly more muscle and viscera and less blubber than seals in growth phases 1 and 2 (less than ten weeks old) of similar body weight. There were no significant differences in body composition between sexes before sexual maturity, but after sexual maturity was attained males had relatively more muscle, and less bone and viscera, than females.

Prediction equations relating body component weight and body weight were derived by regression analysis. These were very highly significant, and could be used to estimate body composition from body weight.

It was demonstrated that body length could be estimated from linear measurements of some bones, which would enable an estimate of size and composition of seals to be made from bone dimensions.
The true body shape of rorqual whales
Authors: Williamson Gordon R.
Published: August 2009

Live Sei and Minke whales were observed underwater off Japan by a new method using commercial catcher boats. A non‐explosive harpoon was fired into the tail region of a whale and a diver approached the “tethered” live whale.

After initial flurries, Sei and Minke whales swam steadily ahead of the catcher and could easily be approached by a diver. They took absolutely no notice of the diver. Live Sei and Minke whales kept their mouths tight shut all the time, but immediately after death the lower jaw always fell open. Little blood was emitted from the harpoon wound. The flippers were raised laterally when a whale surfaced and held against the sides of the body when it dived.

The body shape of both rorqual species was streamlined and the throat region was quite flat, not in any way dilated. The classical baggy‐throated illustrations of rorqual whales do not show the true shape of live animals.

Sperm whales harpooned by the same method swam about wildly, shed much blood and could not be observed underwater.
Flight muscle hypertrophy and ecophysiological variation of Yellow wagtail Motacilla flava races at Lake Chad
Authors: Fry C. H. , Ferguson‐Lees I. J. , Dowsett R. J.
Published: August 2009

During the few days before emigration to the Palaearctic, the weight of Yellow wagtails wintering in Africa doubles. Most of the increase is due to the deposition of fat, as is well known, but a part of it is shown to result from hypertrophy of the pectoral muscles. The same applies to other Palaearctic birds, four warblers and a hirundine, that winter in Africa.

Eleven subspecies of M. flava occur at Lake Chad in spring. The four black‐headed ones have more restricted habitat requirements than some of the others; however, no differences in diet have been found. There is no evidence of hyperphagia and little of diet change when fattening. Broadly, the races that have farthest to migrate leave earliest, and their sexual recrudescence and fattening are early.

Yellow wagtails wintering at or passing through Lake Chad breed mainly in eastern Europe (from the Adriatic to the Gulf of Finland, between about 12° and 30°E). They probably migrate on a great circle route, and during the flight lose one gram of weight, mainly fat, per 200 km.
Histochemical and ultrastructural observations on feeding and digestion in Reighardia sternae (Pentastomida: Cephalobaenida)
Authors: Riley J.
Published: August 2009

Histological, histochemical and ultrastructural methods have been used to study gut structure and function in the cephalobaenid pentastomid Reighardia sternae (Diesing, 1864).

R. sternae feeds exclusively on blood. Haemolysis of ingested erythrocytes is thought to be initiated by non‐specific esterase secreted by cells lining the posterior oesophagus. Only one other enzyme, acid phosphatase, was demonstrated; its activity is confined to the microvillar layer of the gastrodermis.

Digestion appears to be largely extracellular, as large volumes of haematin form in the gut lumen after haemolysis. However, this is supplemented by a significant amount of intracellular digestion: accumulations of iron‐positive granules occur in approximately 20% of gastrodermal cells.

All gastrodermal cells are alike, and all can undertake the same intracellular digestive process. This is characterized by a number of morphologically distinct stages which have been studied using the electron microscope. The iron‐positive particles distinguished under the light microscope were easily identifiable ultrastructurally. Spherical, weakly iron‐positive bodies form within the cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum. Phagosomes containing haemoglobin, or some breakdown product of haemoglobin, apparently bud off from the termini of a labyrinth system of tubules under the microvilli and fuse with the ER to form these phago‐lysosomes. Intensely iron‐positive heterolysosomes, also present in the cytoplasm of these cells, accumulate haemosiderin particles which are thought to be released into the cytoplasm during phago‐lysosomal digestion.

The ensuing complex changes in cell morphology are, apparently, related to the elimination of spent phago‐lysosomes. It has been suggested that the purpose of intracellular digestion is to provide a specific metabolite which the extracellular degradation of haemoglobin cannot supply.
Decapod Crustacea from the International Indian Ocean Expedition: the larval development of Heterocarpus (Caridea)
Authors: Menon P. Gopala
Published: August 2009

The larval species Atlantocaris gigas Ortmann is shown to be conspecific with Heterocarpus ensifer A. Milne Edwards, while Procletes biangulatus Bate is the larva of Heterocarpus levicarina (Bate). Each species passes through 13–15 zoeal stages and 3–4 megalopal stages. The later zoeal stages are large, have a long toothed rostrum, a carinated carapace and dorsal abdominal spines. The carinae on the carapace are retained in the adult; the rostrum becomes shortened and the abdominal spines modified at metamorphosis. Larval characters support the retention of Heterocarpus in the Pandalidae.

New information on the distribution of both species is included.
The food of the Common frog, Rana temporaria, on high moorland in northern England
Authors: Houston W. W. K.
Published: August 2009

Analysis of the stomach contents of 427 Common frogs, Rana temporaria L., captured on an area of moorland typical of the northern Pennines, showed that this species is an unspecialized and opportunistic feeder in this habitat.

There was a distinct temporal variation in the food eaten which was closely related to its availability. Adult Tipulidae and Lepidoptera larvae each formed a fifth of the diet by volume, while Phalangidae, Coleoptera, and Gastropoda, each formed about a tenth. The diet of the frogs changes as they grow. Small frogs fed almost entirely on small items. The bigger the frog the wider the range of items eaten and the larger the items which were predominantly eaten.
The moults of captive Scottish ptarmigan (Lagopus mutus)
Authors: Hewson Raymond
Published: August 2009

The moults of captive Scottish ptarmigan were studied at Banchory, north‐east Scotland from December 1968 to February 1971. In the autumn moult (June to September) which included the primaries, cock ptarmigan moulted earlier and more completely than hens. In the winter moult (September to February) hens moulted earlier and both sexes moulted more completely than in spring. In the spring moult (February to June) cocks moulted more rapidly to begin with but by mid‐April hens had caught up and thereafter moulted at least as rapidly as cocks. When kept indoors at slightly higher temperatures ptarmigan grew more pigmented feathers during the winter moult. In a colder winter the birds became whiter than in a milder one. First‐winter ptarmigan completed the winter moult later than older birds. Birds from the Cairnwell hills had more dark feathers in winter than those from the eastern Cairngorms. There was no correlation between the start or finish of egg‐laying and moulting.
Moults of wild Scottish ptarmigan, Lagopus mutus, in relation to sex, climate and status
Authors: Watson Adam
Published: August 2009

The three annual moults and plumages of Scottish ptarmigan (Lagopus mutus) were studied from shot specimens but particularly from field observations. Cocks were ahead of hens in showing the grey autumn plumage but hens were ahead of cocks in turning white in winter. Although cocks were ahead in growing summer plumage, after late April the hens passed them. Ptarmigan on the same hill turned dark earlier in mild than in cold springs.
Feeding and gut structure in Nerilla antennata (Annelida: Archiannelida)
Authors: Gelder S. R. , Uglow R. F.
Published: August 2009

The littoral and sublittoral marine archiannelid Nerilla antennata Schmidt 1848 browses selectively on organic debris and micro‐organisms (algae, protozoa and bacteria) resident on the substrata. The gut consists of a mouth, a buccal cavity with a posteriorly‐situated muscular pharynx, a proventriculus, stomach, intestine and anus. The alimentary canal is ciliated throughout its length, except for the muscular pharynx. The selected food is abraded and fragmented by the “to and fro” action of the muscular pharynx and this organ, aided by the anterior, ventral ciliary sheet, directs the food into the buccal cavity. Mucus from the posterior lips of the mouth and granules from the salivary glands are mixed with the food particles as these are concentrated in the proventriculus. The particles are then drawn, by a peristaltic wave, into the stomach. Regurgitation is prevented by posteriorly‐directed cilia which line the constriction separating the proventriculus from the stomach.

The stomach wall consists of cells which vary in shape from columnar (25 μm in height) to cuboidal (12 pm) and there is an anterior ring of strongly basophilic cells surrounding the entrance of the proventriculus into the stomach. The distal regions of these cells contain numerous proteinaceous granules and bear a somewhat reduced number of cilia.

Pyriform gland cells occur laterally beneath the cells of the stomach wall. Their necks penetrate between the sharply delineated stomach wall cells, to discharge a proteinaceous mucoid material into the gut lumen. Sections of the stomach stained with toluidene blue differentiated two types of non‐glandular cells, one positively staining and the other negative ly staining. The anterior stomach contains a predominance of negatively‐staining cells, whilst posteriorly the proportion of positively staining cells increases until they form a ring surrounding the posterior stomach lumen.

Lipid droplets were localised mainly in the epidermis and in the walls of the stomach and intestine. Following a short period of starvation a lowered concentration of lipid droplets in the distal region of the stomach and intestinal cells was noted.
The feeding mechanism and ecology of the New Zealand pulmonate limpet, Gadinalea nivea
Authors: Walsby J. R. , Morton J. E. , Croxall J. P.
Published: August 2009

Gadinalea nivea is a marine pulmonate classed near the Siphonariidae. It lives at mid‐tidal level under ledges and in small concavities, away from light, on rocky shores exposed to heavy surge, or in caves with high water turbulence. Gadinalea does not normally move about, but lives in closely aggregated colonies. In the absence of light, algal food is scarce and the animal does not in the normal way abrade the substratum with the radula.

The feeding mechanism involves the utilization of the turbulence of the water, and the animal orients very accurately to the current. In its normal position it hangs upside‐down, and lowers the shell, so that the water current enters behind. Lavish mucus is produced from glands of the mantle edge and the sides of the foot. A mucous curtain is so secreted, in front of the head, extending outwards from the mantle margin and ballooning out with the current from behind. Particles of phytoplankton are in this way trapped until the mucous curtain is fully loaded. At close intervals it is inspected by the extended oral lobes, and is then enclosed by a hood formed by these lobes, and ingested.

There are no ciliary tracts involved in food‐collecting, and normal feeding is not elicited in still water. Animals must be observed under suitable conditions of turbulence for feeding behaviour to appear. Measurements with a “Celloscope” cell counter showed progressive reduction of the particle content of suspensions in which Gadinalea was being fed.

The histology of the mantle edge shows highly specialized mucus‐secreting tracts. The structure of the alimentary canal has a basic resemblance to that of the Siphonariidae, but in several features, especially the reduction in size of the radula teeth, has become adapted for current‐borne particle feeding.
A new species of Trimalaconothrus (Acari: Cryptostigmata), an aquatic oribatid mite from Cameroon
Authors: Wallwork John A.
Published: August 2009

A new species of oribatid mite belonging to the genus Trimalaconothrus is described from specimens taken from a crater lake in West Cameroon. This new species can be distinguished from other members of the genus, for which detailed descriptions are available, by a unique combination of morphological characters. The viviparous habit of the species is also noted.
Deposit feeding in Abra tenuis (Bivalvia: Tellinacea)
Authors: Hughes T. G.
Published: August 2009

Deposit feeding in Abra tenuis is described in terms of the size of particles utilized.

Material is collected by the inhalant siphon performing a circular motion sucking in sediment from beneath and on the surface.

The size distribution of silica admitted into the mantle cavity is described and shown to be controlled by physical parameters. The density of a particle does not affect its uptake by the inhalant siphon. The size distribution of the sediment affects the size distribution of particles admitted to the mantle cavity.

No selection of material for ingestion in terms of size occurs after it has been taken into the mantle cavity. Thus the range of material ingested is ultimately controlled by a physical parameter, the inhalant opening.
The ecology of small mammals in arable fields drilled with winter wheat and the increase in their dieldrin and mercury residues
Authors: Jefferies D. J. , Stainsby B. , French M. C.
Published: August 2009

A study was made of the dieldrin and mercury residues in small mammals inhabiting arable fields before and after they were drilled with dressed wheat. Results showed that Apodemus, which inhabited both field edge and open surface, fed on the dressed grain immediately. Mean whole body loads increased 68 times from 2.46 to 166.8 μg dieldrin (0.17 to 10.18 w/w p.p.m.) and 11 times from 0.62 to 6.57 μg mercury (0.04 to 0.39 w/w p.p.m.). Maximum body load recorded was 298 μg dieldrin and 13.8 μg mercury. Concentrations increased during the two weeks after drilling and in some specimens reached a level to cause mortality. A marked decrease in stored lipid with onset of cold weather may exacerbate the effect of dieldrin residues. Clethrionomys inhabits only the field edges and did not show these large increases except for occasional individuals. The uneven distribution of Apodemus over the field surface suggested the possibility that two populations existed, one foraging onto the field from the edge and one inhabiting the field surface continuously. There was an increase in body weight and in the ratio of males to females with increasing distance from the hedge into the field. The results indicate that even though there is a ban on the use of dieldrin in spring its continued use as a dressing for winter wheat would appear to present a similar danger for mammal‐feeding predators such as the barn‐owl and kestrel.
Histological and ultrastructural studies on the testis of Bithynia tentaculata (Mollusca: Gastropoda), and on the effects of Cercaria helvetica XII (Trematoda: Digenea) on this host organ*
Authors: Reader Trevor A. J.
Published: August 2009

Histological and ultrastructural studies were made on spermatogenesis in the gastropod mollusc Bithynia tentaculata (L.). The various changes seen during the differentiation of spermatogonia into spermatocytes, spermatids and ultimately spermatozoa, are described, and their significance discussed. The nutrients required by these developing germ cells appear to be furnished by nutritive cells attached to the germinal epithelium. The spermatozoa are highly specialized to facilitate the successful fertilization of ova.

In snails heavily infected with sporocysts of the digenetic trematode Cercaria helvetica XII (Dubois), many of the seminiferous tubules were found to be degenerating. The significance and possible causes of this degeneration are discussed.
The functional significance of the spermatophore and the fate of spermatozoa in the genital tract of Helix pomatia (Gastropoda: Stylommatophora)
Authors: Lind Hans
Published: August 2009

In the Helicidae and in some other Stylommatophora the sperm are transferred in a spermatophore, even though there appears to be no need for protection of the sperm during the transfer. The function of the spermatophore and related problems concerning the genital organs of Helix pomatia were studied by means of morphological and experimental methods.

The spermatophore is necessary to ensure the functioning of the female system at copulation. Its structure allows some of the spermatozoa it contains to escape through its tail canal, pass from the stalk of the bursa and reach the spermatheca by way of the oviduct; but most of the sperm pass into the bursa copulatrix and are destroyed, as is also the fate of the spermatophore. Only foreign sperm are stored in the spermatheca.

Spermiogenesis was found to take place throughout the whole summer. At intervals some sperm are released from the hermaphrodite duct and are conducted via the spermoviduct and oviduct to the bursa, where they are digested. The two grooves of the spermoviduct are functionally separated only for a few minutes at actual copulation, when sperm are conducted to the copulatory organs, where the spermatophore is being formed.
Embryonic development in two species of Chesias (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)
Authors: Wall C.
Published: August 2009

The embryonic development of Chesias legatella Schiffermiiller and C. rufata Fabricius is described and compared. Eggs of C. rufata develop in approximately nine days at 20°C; those of C. legatella overwinter and hatch after five or six months. The morphology of the developing embryo is described in detail and is essentially similar in both species except during the formation and early development of the germ band. Morphogenesis is divided into a number of arbitrary stages and the relative duration of the different stages is compared in these and other species.
The dentition and dental tissues of the agamid lizard, Uromastyx
Authors: Cooper J. S. , Poole D. F. G.
Published: August 2009

The dentition of Uromastyx hardwicki was examined in a series of carefully prepared dry skulls and was found to be very different from that of other agamid lizards. The anatomy of the dentition undergoes great changes from the time of hatching to advanced age, but no evidence of tooth replacement could be found. Extension of the tooth rows by addition of larger teeth posteriorly, together with elongation of the premaxilla, and a characteristic pattern of wear are responsible for the condition seen in aged specimens.

The structure of the dental tissues was investigated by means of a variety of histological techniques including scanning electron microscopy and it is established that the enamel has prismatic structure like that of mammalian enamel. The mode of formation of enamel with and without prisms is described and the occurrence and significance of prismatic structure in reptilian dental enamel discussed.
The transmission of 125I labelled globulins to the circulation in young rats
Authors: Morris B. , Begley D.
Published: August 2009

The total and bound concentration quotients (C.Q.s) developed after intraperitoneal administration of globulin preparations are considerably greater than those developed after oral administration in young rats aged 15, 20, 23 and 27 days.

Over this age range the total C.Q.s developed after intraperitoneal administration decline more sharply than those developed after oral administration, suggesting that the mechanism of protein absorption from the peritoneum becomes comparatively less efficient during this period. At 27 days of age, contrasting with earlier stages, considerable degradation of the intraperitoneally administered dose occurs.

The duodenum of unweaned 28 day old rats is capable of transmitting to the circulation large quantities of labelled globulin with apparently little degradation or selection. This ability is virtually lost by 33 days. The jejunum of unweaned 28 day old rats transmits only very small quantities of labelled globulin to the circulation, and there is considerable degradation of the injected dose.

These several factors are discussed in the general context of the postnatal transfer of passive immunity in this species.
The role of griffon vultures Gyps africanus and Gyps ruppellii as scavengers
Authors: Houston D. C.
Published: August 2009

In the Serengeti, predator kills formed from 8 to 45 % of the carcasses that griffon vultures fed upon, the remaining carcasses coming from animals that had died from other causes. But since vultures obtained only very small amounts of food from predator kills, they had to rely for their food supply chiefly on the carcasses that were derived from other causes. In the Serengeti the large proportion of migratory ungulates prevent the mammalian predators from building up to a population size that can be responsible for a large proportion of ungulate mortality. It is estimated that the mammalian predators only take about one quarter of the potential food supply available for carnivores. The remaining ungulates die from various other causes, and so provide food for scavengers which varies in abundance and location with the seasons. This is a food supply which mammalian scavengers cannot easily use but griffon vultures, with their adaptations for gliding flight, are able to exploit it. These vultures therefore exploit a basically different food supply from predators and probably evolved as scavengers of migratory ungulate populations.