bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gill Surface-Area and Its Components in the Yellowfin Bream, Acanthopagrus-Australis (Gunther) (Pisces, Sparidae)
Authors: Roubal FR
Published: June 2005

As head length (HL) of Acanthopagrus australis increases, fewer gill filaments are added, total gill filament length (TFL) increases linearly, and total gill surface area (TSA) increases exponentially. Changes in surface area components [surface area per lamella (SA), distance between adjacent lamellae (DBT) and number of lamellae per zone on one side of the filament (NPZ)] with increasing HL were examined in the distal, middle and basal zones (relative lengths 3:10:1) of a corresponding filament on the external hemibranch of the four gill arches. SA was the smallest in the basal zone and largest in the middle zone; DBT was greatest in the distal zone and smallest in the basal zone; SA and DBT increased at similar rates in different gill arches within the distal and middle zones but at different rates in each zone within an arch; growth of NPZ in the middle zone differed among gill arches but did not in the distal zone. Surface area of lamellae in the middle zone contributed most to increasing TSA. Compared with other fish of intermediate activity, the estimate of TSA for A. australis was smaller than expected; although DBT and TFL were as expected, SA was smaller than expected; possible reasons include method of measurement in situ, shrinkage caused by fixation, and absence of a weighting factor. The method employed enables large numbers of lamellae and filaments in a large number of fish to be measured, and enables regression equations to be derived that relate surface area per filament zone to head length and filament length in order to estimate the loss of surface area caused by ectoparasites.
Reproduction of 2 Closely Related Skinks, Egernia-Modesta and Egernia-Whitii (Lacertilia, Scincidae) in Southeast Queensland
Authors: Milton DA
Published: June 2005

The reproductive cycles of two closely related skinks, Egernia modesta and E, whitii, in southern Queensland are described and compared in sympatric populations. They are very similar, both species produce 1-5 live young about 40 mm long in January-early February. Lizards mature at the end of their second year and litter size is positively related to female body length. Adults grow to 110 mm and appear to live at least 4 years. Two non-hybridising colour morphs of E. whitii were present in the study area and did not associate at random. Possible mechanisms explaining the evolution of these three closely related forms, which can coexist in similar habitats, are discussed.
Effects of Temperature and Humidity on the Rust-Red Flour Beetle, Tribolium-Castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae), in Wheat-Grain
Authors: White GG
Published: June 2005

Rates of survival and development of the immature stages of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera : Tenebrionidae) were determined in wheat grain at constant temperatures from 20 to 37.5�C and constant relative humidities from 25 to 65%. The rates for eggs and pupae were similar to those previously published for T. castaneum in flour, but larval development was slower and mortality greater, except at low temperature and high humidity. The effect of temperature and humidity on rates of fertility and oviposition in young adults were also determined in wheat grain. The patterns of effects of temperature and humidity on oviposition were similar to those previously published for T. castaneum in flour, but the maximum observed oviposition rate was lower. Fertility was significantly reduced when densities of adults were greater than one pair per 250 g.
Mathematical functions were fitted to data from the present and previous studies on age-specific survival and fecundity of adults; population growth rate statistics were calculated from life-table parameters defined by these functions. Under optimal conditions within the range of the present study (35�C, 65% RH), the innate capacity for increase rm was 0.84 per week. The limits for population increase, where rm is zero, were largely determined by.the limits for larval survival, which were approximately 35% RH, and 20-22�C at the lower limit and 40�C at the upper limit.
Phylogenetic-Relationships Among Australian Tree Frogs (Anura, Hylidae, Pelodryadinae) - an Immunological Approach
Authors: Hutchinson MN , Maxson LR
Published: June 2005

Phylogenetic relationships among hylid frogs of the Australian region were studied by micro-complement fixation comparisons of serum albumin. Although our data support current species-group arrangements, we do not find good agreement between our phylogenetic hypotheses and those derived from morphological and karyological studies. Immunological analyses provide data which allow the construction of a phylogeny for the Australian radiation of the speciose genus Litoria, and suggest dividing the species of Litoria examined into five major species-assemblages, each of which is probably monophyletic. The sister- group relationship between the Litoria aurea group and Cyclorana is confirmed, and the diphyletic origin of the terrestrial hylids is supported. The radiation of Australian hylids is monophyletic with respect to the outgroup taxon (Hyla) used in this study, and the origin of diversification within the genus correlates well with estimates of the final separation of Australia from Antarctica-South America. Preliminary data suggest that the endemic New Guinean taxa (Nyctimystes and the montane Litoria) are closely related to the Australian 'freycineti' assemblage within Litoria. Albumin from Litoria infrafrenata cross-reacted poorly with all available Australian antisera, suggesting that this species may have originated independently of the rest of the Australian hylids. Our data support the classification of Australian tree frogs as hylids, rather than as leptodactyloid offshoots.
Effect of Diet and Mineralocorticoid Administration on the Concentration of Anions in Parotid-Saliva From the Red Kangaroo, Macropus-Rufus
Authors: Beal AM
Published: June 2005

The composition of parotid saliva from six red kangaroos was compared after they had been fed for 21 days with supplement pellets plus chaff, with chaff only, and with chaff plus injections of deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) at 0.25 or 0.3 mg kg-' every 12 h. DOCA administration caused a marked reduction in sodium concentration and increase in potassium concentration (Na:K ratio of from 0.17�0.097 to 4.68�0.749 depending on flow rate) and an overall reduction in total cation concentration; salivary chloride concentration and osmolality were also reduced. Partial replacement of the chaff diet with supplement pellets produced significantly higher salivary bicarbonate and lower phosphate concentrations. No relationship between salivary bicarbonate concentration and arterial pCO2, plasma bicarbonate concentration or the rate of acetylcholine infusion was found which might indicate the cause of the anion changes. Similarly, no causal relationship was observed between salivary phosphate concentration and arterial plasma phosphate concentration or dietary phosphate intake. Dietary intakes of calcium and magnesium, and the plasma and salivary concentrations of these ions, were similar under the three experimental regimes. The diet-induced changes in salivary bicarbonate and phosphate were not associated with differences in dietary intake of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein or neutral detergent fibre, but may have been related to concurrent changes in intake of one or more subcomponents of dietary fibre.
The Scent Glands and Their Chemicals in the Aposematic Cotton Harlequin Bug, Tectocoris-Diophthalmus (Heteroptera, Scutelleridae)
Authors: Staddon BW , Thorne MJ , Knight DW
Published: June 2005

In describing differences in morphology, developmental fate and secretion composition in the scent glands of the cotton harlequin bug Tectocoris diophthalmus we have sought to extend comparative knowledge of the scent gland system in the pentatomoid families within the Hemiptera-Heteroptera. Chemical investigation of the secretions was undertaken by coupled gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The following volatiles were detected: 2-hexenal, 2-hexenyl acetate and 2- octenyl acetate from the metathoracic scent gland (an adult gland); nonanal from the abdominal dorsal first gland (the divided dorsal gland) in the adults; 2-hexenal, 2-octenal, 4-oxohex-2-enal, dodecane and tridecane from the abdominal dorsal second and third glands (the undivided dorsal glands) in fifth-instar nymphs. Secretory units are sparse, opener muscles absent, and secretion scarcely, if at all, present in the second and third dorsal abdominal scent glands in the adults. T. diophthalmus is an addition to the small but growing list of pentatomoids in which biochemical divergence of the abdominal dorsal first gland from the abdominal dorsal second and third glands has been reported. The metathoracic scent gland in T. diophthalmus is comparatively small, as it is in many other aposematic species within the Hemiptera-Heteroptera.
Temperature, Development and Survival in Monophagous and Polyphagous Tropical Pierid Butterflies
Authors: Jones RE , Rienks JH , Wilson L , Lokkers C , Churchill T
Published: June 2005

Development rates and juvenile survival of seven species of pierid butterfly from the Australian tropics were examined in laboratory conditions at a range of temperatures between 15 and 32�C. We studied three monophagous species, Eurema brigitta, E. laeta and E. herla, and four oligophagous or poly- phagous species, E. hecabe, E, smilax, Catopsilia pomona and Pieris (Artogeia) rapae; the last of these is the predominantly temperate cabbage butterfly, which has established a small tropical population on the Atherton Tableland in north Queensland. Larval and pupal stages of all species survived poorly at temperatures above 30�C, and most showed reduced survival below 22�C. Within their optimal temperature ranges, smaller species tended to survive better than larger ones. Oligophagous and polyphagous species developed more rapidly than monophagous ones, even though three of the former are larger than the latter. Development thresholds were between 10�C (for P. rapae) and 15�C (for C. pomona). There was little correlation between development threshold and latitudinal distribution, and we suggest that selection for the ability to develop relatively rapidly at lower temperatures may be influenced by the seasonal timing of the breeding season as well as by geographic distribution.
Seasonal Abundance, Longevity and Population Age Composition of Potential Malaria Vectors in Northern and Southern Australia
Authors: Russell RC
Published: June 2005

Populations of Anopheles mosquitoes were sampled fortnightly for 2 years at Casuarina and Leanyer in Darwin, N.T., and at Appin, N.S.W., and for 3 years at Echuca, Vic. Six anopheline species were recorded at the Darwin sites: An. bancroftii, An. farauti s.l., An. hilli, An. annulipes s.l., An. meraukensis and An. novaguinensis, although only the first three species were common and dissected for age grading. Only one species, An. annulipes s.l., was recorded at Appin and Echuca. The seasonal peak abundance of Anopheles species at Darwin was generally from the late wet season to the middle of the dry season. The proportion of the populations which was parous generally increased with increasing abundance. The oldest females were found in the early to mid-dry season about May, June and July. An average of 4.3% of An. farauti s.l., and an average of 2.6% of An. bancroftii, were old enough to be potential malaria vectors at Casuarina; at Leanyer less than 3.0% of An. farauti s.l., 0.1% of An. bancroftii, and 0.3% of An. hilli were of a potentially infective age. The period of greatest risk for malaria transmission in Darwin was, therefore, from April to August. At Appin and Echuca, populations of An. annulipes s.l. were present throughout the year, being most abundant in mid- to late summer. The populations aged gradually from the spring buildup; the oldest females being found from summer to late autumn. Females old enough to be potentially infective for malaria were recorded at each site during summer: up to 6.6% of the species at Appin and up to 10.3% at Echuca.
Component Analysis and Modeling of the Movement Process - the Interaction Between Ants and Ant-Lions
Authors: Jenkins B , Kitching RL
Published: June 2005

The interaction between three species of ants and the pits of ant-lions has been studied. The probability of falling into a pit following contact is negatively related to pit size and positively related to ant size. The probability of being caught after having fallen in is positively related to pit size and negatively related to ant size. In both cases prediction of the probabilities is possible from a knowledge of pit size and ant size. The probability of contact between ants and pits increases with pit density. These results are presented as prerequisites for incorporation into a more general simulation model of animal movement, and the structure of an appropriate submodel is presented. The interpretation and ecological consequences of the results are discussed.
Transfer of Banksia-Spinulosa Pollen by Mammals - Implications for Pollination
Authors: Goldingay RL , Carthew SM , Whelan RJ
Published: June 2005

Native mammals have been implicated by various authors as visitors to flowers of Australian plants in both eastern and western Australia, but few data are available to allow an estimation of their potential as pollinators. In the present study, Antechinus stuartii, Petaurus breviceps and Rattus fuscipes were regularly trapped in flowering Banksia spinulosa. A few Cercartetus nanus were also captured. Individuals of all species carried pollen on their fur. Pollen loads were greater on mammals which had been in traps for short periods, which suggests that mammals will groom pollen from their fur if left longer in traps. Therefore, pollen loads on foraging mammals have probably been dramatically underestimated by previous authors, and their potential to effect pollination may have been greatly underestimated. Furthermore, significantly more pollen was removed from flowers of B. spinulosa at night than during the day, suggesting the importance of nocturnal pollinators at this site.
The Effect of Water Depth on the Predatory Behavior of the Water Stick Insect, Ranatra-Dispar (Heteroptera, Nepidae)
Authors: Bailey PCE
Published: June 2005

The effect of water depth and prey density on the capture success (as measured by the number of prey eaten) of the aquatic, sit-and-wait predator, Ranatra dispar, was examined in the laboratory. When water depth was held constant at 5, 10, 20 or 30 cm, prey densities of 10, 15, 30 or 40 prey per container had no effect at the two shallowest depths, where very few prey were caught or eaten at any density. At 20 and 30 cm, density had a significant effect with progressively more prey being consumed as density increased. When prey density was held constant at 1, 2, 4 or 8 prey per litre, water depth significantly affected the proportion of prey eaten. At each density, predators held in 5 cm of water and, to some extent, those in 10 cm consumed significantly fewer prey than those in 20 or 30 cm. It is suggested that fewer prey are caught in shallow water because: (1) the predator cannot put itself in the position which most favours an efficient strike; (2) the absence of a significant 'vertical' component in the environment reduces the effectiveness of the sensory organs in locating prey. The lower capture success in shallow water may cause adult R. dispar to avoid shallow water, thus providing a partial refuge in which small R. dispar can avoid competing with adults for prey of similar sizes.
Courtship Feeding and Mate Choice in Thynnine Wasps (Hymenoptera, Tiphiidae)
Authors: Alcock J , Gwynne DT
Published: June 2005

Females of two species of thynnine wasps, Megalothynnus klugii and Macrothynnus sp., attract mates while perched upright on vegetation close to the ground. When given an experimental choice between two females of different sizes, males of M. klugii carry off and copulate with the larger female significantly more often than they do the smaller one. No such preference was exhibited by males of Macrothynnus sp. Females of both species resist being removed from their calling perches and large males succeed more often than small ones in carrying away very large females. Despite mechanisms allowing a preference for large partners by both males and females in M. klugii, there is no evidence, in nature, of positive assortative mating according to body weight in this species. Various conditions, especially a scarcity of fertilisable females, may severely limit the choice of mates by males of these wasps.
Factors Affecting the Numbers of Culicoides (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) in Traps in Coastal Southeast Queensland, With Particular Reference to Collections of Culicoides-Subimmaculatus in Light Traps
Authors: Edwards PB , Kettle DS , Barnes A
Published: June 2005

Hourly light-trap collections, made at Tingalpa Creek, south-east Queensland, on 101 nights over 2.5 years from 30 min before to 3.5 h after sunset, caught 45 414 Culicoides, largely C. subimmaculatus (63%). Sinusoidal curves for annual, lunar and tide cycles, and linear maximum tide height were fitted to logarithmically transformed data. Annual cycles accounted for 44-71% of the between-day variation in catch of C. austropalpalis, C. cordiger, C. henryi, C. histrio, C. longior, C. marmoratus and C. subimmaculatus. Catches of C. subimmaculatus were inversely related to maximum tide height. Catches of the other species were independent of tide. Linear effects of wind speed, temperature, saturation vapour pressure deficit (VPD), cloud cover and time on within-day variation were analysed. Catches of all seven species were inversely related to wind speed but not to the same degree, were independent of VPD and cloud cover, and varied in their dependence on temperature and time. Moonlight increased truck-trap catches of C. subimmaculatus in the third hour after sunset. Activity of female C. subimmaculatus throughout the diel (five trials) varied with the method of assessment: bait, truck trap or light trap. Collections were age graded. All seven grades were caught in the light trap, and empty females dominated the truck trap.
Caudal Morphology of the Knob-Tailed Geckos, Genus Nephrurus (Reptilia, Gekkonidae), With Special Reference to the Tail Tip
Authors: Russell AP , Bauer AM
Published: June 2005

The tail of lizards in the Australian gekkonid genus Nephrurus bears a characteristically expanded distal tip, the caudal knob. Anatomical and histological investigation of the knob reveals it to be an integumentary derivative with a massively hypertrophied dermal component. The knob's structure indicates that it is probably used to monitor the environment by detecting mechanical stimuli via the profuse array of sensilla on its surface. The vascular supply to it suggests that the knob may also be involved in thermoregulation.
Southern Limits of Distribution and Abundance of the Biting-Midge Culicoides-Brevitarsis Kieffer (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) in Southeastern Australia - an Application of the Growest Model
Authors: Murray MD , Nix HA
Published: June 2005

Field surveys established that C. brevitarsis has a megathermic distribution. The GROWEST model of Nix was modified to reflect the temperature requirements of the midge, and a data bank was created of daily rainfall over 20 years, 1965-84, from 130 localities scattered across New South Wales. The environmental indices calculated were correlated with extensive field data on seasonal abundance of C. brevitarsis collected from 11 localities, and further checked against survey data collected from 1963 to 1984. The seasonal and annual distributions of potentially suitable environments for the midge, derived from the model, agreed well with field observations. Areas suitable for summer multiplication and winter survival were identified, and regions favourable for survival of breeding population, defined as being enclosed within 'brevitarsis lines', were determined for the spring of each year. In the wet years, 1973-78, these regions increased in size to the west and southwards along the coastal plains. In the drought, 1979-83, they conrracted to the upper Darling Basin and coast. The model enables extensions in the distribution in the summer to be analysed to determine whether they are due to local or long-distance dispersal, and has considerable application in analyses of epidemics of arboviruses of which C. brevitarsis is a vector.
The Population Biology of Gehyra (Gekkonidae, Reptilia) .2. Individual-Movements and Colonization by Gehyra-Variegata and Gehyra-Nana
Authors: Moritz C
Published: June 2005

Dispersal and colonisation were studied in two species of Gehyra to determine whether they are likely to have the low levels of gene flow that are necessary for some modes of chromosomal speciation. One of the species examined, G. nana, lives only on rocks, whereas the other, G, variegata, is a habitat generalist. A study of marked individuals of both species confirmed an earlier report of strong site attachment by individuals of Gehyra, although some longer distance movements were detected. By contrast, removal studies showed that individuals of both species are capable of rapidly recolonising vacant habitat. Many of the colonisers had moved distances over two to three times those detected for the marked animals. The results suggest that dispersal within populations of Gehyra may not be as restricted as previously thought. Microgeographic recolonisation and local dispersal could cause moderate to high levels of gene flow. If moderate gene flow is a common feature of populations of Gehyra, then speciation via single, severely underdominant chromosome changes is unlikely.
Logical Synthesis of an Animals Environment - Sponges to Non-Human Primates .4. The Common Octopus, Octopus-Vulgaris
Authors: Niven BS
Published: June 2005

The environment of the octopus, O. vulgaris, is classified according to the defining equations given in the first paper of this series. An envirogram displaying the objects within the environment in their correct place is presented. Notes on the envirogram include informal versions of the appropriate defining equations that are used for the classification.
Appendicular Musculature in the Echidna, Tachyglossus-Aculeatus (Monotremata, Tachyglossidae)
Authors: Walter LR
Published: June 2005

An Australian echidna, Tachyglossus aculeatus, was dissected in order to verify the positions, origins, and insertions of the major appendicular muscles. Muscle identifications followed Westling (1889). Drawings of muscles were made as the dissection progressed. In osteology and musculature, as in many other aspects of their biology, echidnas display a mosaic pattern of apparently reptilian, mammalian, and unique traits.
Reproductive Traits of 2 Populations of the Common Ringtail Possum, Pseudocheirus-Peregrinus, in Victoria
Authors: Pahl LI , Lee AK
Published: June 2005

Reproduction in the common ringtail possum in Victoria was seasonal, with the majority of births in late autumn and early winter, and late lactation and weaning occurring in late spring and early summer, when young foliage is most abundant. Births and lactation usually did not occur in late summer and early autumn, a time when many ringtails lost weight and some died, and a time when conditions were hot and dry. The age structure and weight of females in the population appeared to influence the timing of breeding and fecundity, but did not explain all the variation in these parameters observed within and between populations. Early breeding in one population appeared to be associated with a high proportion of multiparous females, resulting from high adult survival. Late breeding of primiparous females may have been due to their low body weights at the beginning of the birth season. Among the multiparous females, some produced litters earlier than others, but these females were not significantly heavier than those which bred later. During individual years, multiparous females which bred early in the season, and which were able to wean their first litter at 5 months old instead of the more typical 6 or 7 months, often produced a second litter in spring but were not heavier or older than multiparous females which bred only once in any one year. The higher frequency of second litters in 1982 than in 1981 at Sandy Point was associated with a higher body weight of females in November 1982.
Identification of Rock-Wallabies, Petrogale-Penicillata (Gray, 1825), From the Grampians, Victoria, and Comparison With Conspecifics by Examination of Chromosomes, Blood Proteins, Cell-Surface Antigens, Parasites and Morphology
Authors: Close RL , Ingleby S , Vanoorschot RAH , Gooley AA , Briscoe DA , Sharman GB
Published: June 2005

Two rock-wallabies were captured in the Victoria Range of the Grampians, the first specimens obtained from Victoria for scientific study. Their chromosomes identified them as Petrogale penicillata and, although the animals appeared to be smaller than their nearest studied conspecifics from Jenolan Caves, N.S.W., 800 km to the north-east, analysis of blood proteins, red blood cell epitopes and parasites indicated little genetic divergence. This lack of differentiation is unusual in a genus in which, further north along the Great Dividing Range, nine chromosomally distinct forms occur within 1500 km.
One animal was heterozygous for presence and absence of a major C-band on the second largest chromosome; chromosomes without this band have not been found in other mainland P. penicillata. No electrophoretic variation was detected at 23 genetic loci, even though one allele was unique among P. penicillata so far studied.
Although only one extant colony was found, other disused sites were located 30 km further north. Despite the apparent low numbers of animals, there is some evidence that additional colonies may be found.
Population Maintenance of Lucilia-Cuprina (Wiedemann) in the Arid Zone
Authors: Anderson PJ , Shipp E , Anderson JME , Dobbie W
Published: June 2005

For 3 years numbers and species of blowflies breeding in carcasses and on live merino sheep were studied at the University of New South Wales Arid Zone Research Station at Fowlers Gap, to determine which species initiated blowfly strike on sheep and how Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) maintained its population throughout the year; particularly whether it could complete its life cycle on carcasses.
Larvae taken from struck sheep showed L. cuprina to be the dominant species in >87% of strikes. Native calliphorids, Calliphora nociva Hardy, Calliphora augur (Fabr.), and Calliphora stygia (Fabr.) were present in about 7% of strikes sampled, usually in association with L. cuprina.
In a regularly inspected small mob (c. 70) of sheep, incidence of covert strike was higher than incidence of overt strike, supporting the view that a grazier's estimate of flystrike in the flock would almost always be an underestimate.
On carcasses, the secondary strike native blowfly, Chrysomys rufijacies (Macquart), was produced in very large numbers. Some native primary strike Calliphora spp. were produced from some carcasses in the colder months, but no L. cuprina was produced from either small or large carcasses (sheep, kangaroos, rabbits) at any time. However, larvae of L. cuprina were recovered from live sheep at all times of the year, indicating that L. cuprina is an obligate parasite of live sheep in the arid zone.
Observations on Zelleriella-Antilliensis (Protozoa, Opalinata) From the Cane Toad Bufo-Marinus in Australia
Authors: Delvinquier BLJ , Freeland WJ
Published: June 2005

Zelleriella antilliensis (Metcalf, 1914) was found in Australia in the cloaca of the introduced American cane toad, Bufo marinus (Linnaeus, 1758). Drawings and measurements (length, width) were made with the help of a camera lucida. Other measurements were performed with the help of a digitiser. The presence of some native anuran Protoopalina spp. was noticed. 657 native Anura in 61 species and 4 families checked for Z. antilliensis were negative. Experimental infections of various anuran tadpoles of the genus Limnodynastes, Litoria and Xenopus, show that the opalinid can only survive for a limited time in these unnatural hosts. Cyst viability seems not to exceed three weeks in water. Gamonts and gametes were not observed during experimental infections. It is suggested that a protrophont (mononucleate) excysts and within 24 hours after infection of the host becomes a young trophont (binucleate). Mononucleate forms observed in the adults are recognised as Z. antilliensis and not as a species of Hegneriella.
Adult Reproductive-Biology of Geitoneura-Klugii and Geitoneura-Acantha (Lepidoptera, Satyrinae) Near Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Braby MF , New TR
Published: June 2005

Adult Geitoneura klugii klugii (Guerin-Meneville) and G. acantha ocrea (Guest) were collected throughout the 1985-86 flight season. Females were dissected to determine mating state and ovarian development on each occasion. Fecundity and duration of egg development were measured. Most females mate when pre-reproductive. Females were predominantly monogamous, and few instances of multiple insemination were revealed by spermatophore counts. Both sexes are reproductively active soon after emergence and neither species experiences any major delay in ovarian development. Oviposition occurs over an extended period with most eggs deposited singly. Fecundity of the two species is similar: follicle counts gave estimates of 200-280, and females laid similar numbers of eggs, up to 399 (G. klugii) or 323 (G. acantha). Eggs of G. acantha hatched, at a range of temperatures, within 2-5 weeks. In contrast, eggs of G. klugii developed but did not hatch, and it is likely that this species has a pre-hatching diapause. We suggest that this major difference between the two closely related co-existing species may reflect adaptations to preferred larval food-plants.
Cold-Acclimation in the Marsupial Antechinus-Stuartii - Thyroid-Function and Metabolic-Rate
Authors: Withers KW , Hulbert AJ
Published: June 2005

Metabolic rate and food energy intake of Antechinus stuartii at 5�C and 25�C, and thyroid iodine secretion rate of A. stuartii and Mus musculus were compared after acclimation to 5�C or 25�C for 6-8 weeks. Acclimation to cold increased minimum metabolic rate of A. stuartii at 25�C but not at 5�C and had no significant influence on daily metabolic rate and food energy intake at 5�C or at 25�C. Thyroid secretion rate of A. stuartii was 0.47�0.07 �g I day-' and 0.15�0.02 �g I day-' in animals acclimated to cold and warm conditions. In M. musculus, there was no significant effect of long-term exposure to cold on the rate of thyroid iodine secretion, it being 0.18�0.02 �g I day-' and 0.15�0.01 �g I day-' in the cold and warm conditions respectively. The large increase in thyroid activity in A. stuartii following acclimation to cold could explain the increase in metabolic rate. No periods of torpor in A. stuartii were detected in this study.
Aspects of the Form and Function of the Kidney of the Honey Possum, Tarsipes-Rostratus
Authors: Slaven MR , Richardson KC
Published: June 2005

The morphology and concentrating-diluting capacity of the kidneys of the honey possum, Tarsipes rostratus, is appropriate for its nectarivorous diet. The cortex is wide with many glomeruli, the medulla is thin and undivided. Calculated maximal urinary concentration (1469 mOsm kg-' H2O) agrees closely with actual urinary concentrations measured under conditions of low water availability (1350 mOsm kg-' H2O). The honey possum appears to be naturally polydipsic and polyuric, and capable of ingesting 2000 ml kg-' bodyweight day-' and urinating 800 ml kg-' bodyweight day-' in order to maintain fluid homeostasis. Comparative renal morphology of seven other species of small mammals with different diets was also determined. Except for Cercartetus concinnus, which may be partially nectarivorous, the renal medulla of other small marsupials and eutherians is thick and subdivided.
The Life-History, Population-Dynamics and Polymorphism of Cernuella-Virgata (Mollusca, Helicidae)
Authors: Baker GH
Published: June 2005

The terrestrial snail, Cernuella virgata, was sampled over 3 years in a permanent pasture and adjacent roadside vegetation at Mt Benson, S.A. C. virgata has an annual life cycle, breeding from autumn to winter. Shell size and the presence of a rib which forms on the inner margin of the shell aperture of large snails during early autumn were used to separate the two cohorts of snails (adults and their young) present during winter.
Snails (>6 mm shell diameter) were most abundant in the pasture in spring and in the roadside vegetation in summer. I discuss the importance of dispersal between habitats in contributing to these changes in abundance. C. virgata was aggregated within the pasture at all times of the year, but especially during summer when large proportions of the population (>50%) aestivated on the weed Marrubium vulgare. C. virgata and another abundant snail, Theba pisana, were rarely found together in large numbers in small areas (0.25 m2) within the pasture although both had similar general distributions.
Shell sizes and banding patterns of C. virgata varied geographically throughout south-eastern Australia. No correlations between climate and size and banding were found. Size was, however, inversely related to population density. At Mt Benson, unbanded snails were slightly more prevalent in the pasture compared with the roadside vegetation. Shell growth and formation of the marginal rib of C. virgata were advanced by exposure to warm, moist conditions in a glasshouse in summer, but maturation of the albumen gland, and hence reproduction, was not.
Formation of the Paruterine Capsules and Embryonic Envelopes in Cylindrotaenia-Hickmani (Jones, 1985) (Cestoda, Nematotaeniidae)
Authors: Jones MK
Published: June 2005

The development of embryonic envelopes and paruterine capsules in Cylindrotaenia hickmani (Jones 1985) Jones, 1987 were studied using transmission electron microscopy. The embryonic envelopes of C. hickmani form in a similar way to those of other cyclophyllideans. The extant embryonic envelopes in fully developed eggs are: the thin, featureless outer envelope; the inner envelope, which forms an oncospheral membrane; embryophore; and an electron-dense peripheral cytoplasmic layer that lies immediately internal to the external plasma membrane of the inner envelope. Processes of uterine epithelial cells envelop the outer capsule of early embryos. Both the uterine envelope and outer capsule are lost as eggs develop. Paruterine organs are complex, paired structures that form lipid and flattened cellular processes for inclusion within paruterine capsules. Paruterine capsules are complex parenchymal structures containing eggs and the products of the paruterine organs. The possession of such complex paruterine envelopes suggests that the life cycles of nematotaeniids are terrestrial. The sequence of events in paruterine capsule formation in nematotaeniids is unlike that seen in other cyclophyllidean groups with paruterine capsules and it is unlikely that nematotaeniids are closely related to such cestodes.
Monotreme Cell-Cycles and the Evolution of Homeothermy
Authors: Watson JM , Graves JAM
Published: June 2005

We have studied the effects of temperature on the phases of the cell cycle in cells derived from the monotreme mammals, platypus and echidna, which have the unusually low body temperature of 32�C. We report here that M phase and the cycle time conform to expectations, but in the case of cycle time this is due to different effects of high and low temperatures on GI, G2 and S phases. The finding that the G2 and S phases apparently have an inverse linear relationship with temperature up to 37�C (the upper lethal temperature) suggests that the low body temperature of the monotremes is not primitive, but rather has been the result of a lowering of the body temperature during their evolutionary history.
Morphology of Calydiscoides-Nemipteris, Sp-Nov (Monogenea), With a Redescription and Revision of the Genus
Authors: Thoney DA
Published: June 2005

Calydiscoides nemipteris, sp. nov., was recovered from the gills of Scolopsis temporalis (Nemipteridae), collected near Heron I., Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Close examination of the squamodiscs on the opisthaptors of C. nemipteris, C, indianus, and the type-species, C, australis, revealed the structure of the squadmodiscs to be quite different from that in the genus description. Lamellae form a skeletal framework for the sucker-like squamodisc. The seven posterior band-shaped lamellae overlap each other, with their open ends facing outward forming a cavity within the disc with an opening to the exterior. The anterior three lamellae are in the form of complete concentrically arranged circular bands that telescope anteriorly at an angle into the body. In the original description, there was no mention of the sucker-like morphology, and all the lamellae were described as being complete concentric rings that telescoped into each other. Therefore, the genus is redescribed to reflect the morphology of the worms more accurately. In addition, Lamellodiscus japonicus has squamodiscs more similar to those of Calydiscoides than to Lamellodiscus; hence, it has been combined with Calydiscoides. The shape of the male copulatory apparatus, medial transverse bar and other characters differentiate C. nemipteris from its congeners.
2 New Kidney Flukes (Digenea, Renicolidae) From Marine Birds of Heron Island, Australia
Authors: Ching HL
Published: June 2005

Four members of the family Renicolidae are described from Heron I., Australia. Adults of two new species are found in the kidneys of the black noddy, Anous minutus. Of these, Renicola foliata, sp. nov., differs from related species in the position of the ovary and testes, in the lobate gonads, in egg size, and in the presence of an oesophagus. R. caudescens, sp. nov., is distinguished by its body size, the lobation and position of the testes, the distribution of the vitellarian follicles and the size of the oral sucker. Also described are a renicolid metacercaria from the musculature of an atherinid fish, and a renicolid cercaria (cercaria F of Rohde, 1981) from the gastropod Planaxis sulcatus.
Colobomatus-Icopaius (Copepoda, Philichthyidae), a New Species Parasitic on Lethrinus-Chrysostomus (Pisces, Lethrinidae), From the Great-Barrier-Reef
Authors: West GA
Published: June 2005

Colobomatus icopaius, sp. nov., was collected from the cephalic canal system associated with the preopercular bones of the sweetlip, Lethrinus chrysostomus Richardson, caught off Heron I. on the Great Barrier Reef. The female differs from those of all other described species in having a chitinised cephalic transverse process, a spinose oral pad, and bifid thoracic lobes, features which are suggested to function in maintaining the female in its feeding position.
Population and Conservation Genetics of Marsupials
Authors: Sherwin WB , Murray ND
Published: June 2005

This article summarises current knowledge of marsupial population genetics, and discusses its relevance to the conservation of marsupial species.
It has been suggested that there is much lower genetic variation within marsupial populations than in eutherian mammals. This trend is not evident in the electrophoretic data summarised here. However, genetic differentiation between populations, subspecies, and species of marsupials appears to be slightly lower than comparable values for eutherians. Genetic estimates of migration between populations are scarce at present, but show values that are comparable with eutherians.
Some studies of marsupial population genetics have used non-electrophoretic characteristics, or have addressed the possibility of selection on the characters analysed. Although few, these studies indicate the suitability of marsupials for such investigations.
Recent debate over the theories and applications of conservation genetics has made it clear that more research is required on individual species. Given the record of extinction of marsupials in the last 200 years, it is important to test the applicability of these theories to individual marsupial species. Several examples are discussed emphasising the need for ecological studies that estimate the effective number of reproducing individuals per generation. This figure, called the effective size, is the corner- stone of conservation genetics theory, being an important determinant of both the rate of loss of variation between individuals, and the rate of inbreeding. The effective size of the mainland population of the eastern barred bandicoot, Perameles gunnii, appears to be only about one-tenth of its census number. This result is comparable with estimates made in other vertebrates, and demonstrates that many marsupial species which appear to have an adequate census size on ecological grounds may face genetic problems resulting from small effective size.
The Gray Short-Tailed Opossum (Monodelphis-Domestica) as a Model Didelphid Species for Genetic Research
Authors: Vandeberg JL
Published: June 2005

The gray short-tailed opossum (Monodelphis domestica) has been established as a laboratory animal that can be produced economically in large numbers under simple husbandry conditions. The high fecundity of this species has enabled it to be widely distributed to laboratories in the U.S.A. and Europe, and to be exploited experimentally in a diverse array of scientific disciplines. Partially inbred strains produced by full sib matings have reached the F8 generation. Several genetic markers have been identified, and further work in this area will enhance the value of the species as a model didelphid marsupial for basic and biomedical genetic research.
Prospects for the Artificial Manipulation of Marsupial Reproduction and Its Application in Research and Conservation
Authors: Rodger JC
Published: June 2005

Techniques to manipulate reproduction and productivity are well established features of the husbandry of domestic animals and the treatment of human infertility. Similar approaches are feasible in marsupials, but little work has been done to apply our considerable basic knowledge of marsupial reproduction to produce practical artificial breeding. If the reproduction and productivity of marsupials could be more effectively controlled it would greatly aid research and profoundly change both current practice in the management of zoo animals, and the strategies employed for the breeding and conservation of rare or endangered species. The present paper sets out the likely agenda, reports progress to date and discusses short and long-term prospects for the artificial breeding of marsupials. Topics discussed include: induced ovulation and superovulation, oocyte and embryo collection, semen collection and the frozen storage of sperm, artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, frozen storage of embryos, and the use of surrogate mothers in supporting both pregnancy to term, and the development of young in the pouch.
Hybrids in Marsupial Research
Authors: Close RL , Lowry PS
Published: June 2005

Many species from the superfamily Macropodoidea hybridise in captivity despite chromosomal and/or morphological differences. Details of such hybrids were collected from the literature or by personal communications from researchers or breeders of macropods. A Table of known hybrids and notes on their fertilities is presented, which includes the chromosome numbers and differences in gross and C-banded karyotypes of each parental species. Also included in the table are the numbers of proteins known to differ in electrophoretic mobility between each pair of parental species, and the number of proteins which are polymorphic in either of the two parental species. This table, therefore, can be used in gene mapping studies for assessing which hybrids carry suitable chromosomal and genetic markers and might be fertile. Four different interspecific crosses have already been reported as fertile, and artificial methods of increasing fertility could increase the likelihood of producing fertile hybrids. Moreover, the variety of hybrids and their different degrees of fertility show that they are potentially valuable for studying the effects of genic and chromosomal heterozygosity on growth and development, meiotic processes and spermatogenesis.
DNA-DNA Hybridization Studies and Marsupial Phylogeny
Authors: Westerman M , Janczewski DN , Obrien SJ
Published: June 2005

DNA-DNA hybridisations using 'unique' DNA sequences have been done on 11 marsupial species representing seven of the major families. The phylogenetic reconstruction of the branching sequence of the species studied is largely consistent with previous taxonomic predictions. This technique will be important in resolving some of the currently outstanding problems of marsupial taxonomy.
Chromosome Evolution, Phylogeny and Speciation of Rock Wallabies (Petrogale, Macropodidae)
Authors: Sharman GB , Close RL , Maynes GM
Published: June 2005

Twenty-one taxa of rock wallabies presently grouped in 11 species were studied at their type localities and elsewhere. All were chromosomally distinct except for Petrogale xanthopus and P. x. celeris, and all taxa appear to have evolved from an ancestor with a karyotype like that of Thylogale billardierii. The chromosomal structural rearrangements that distinguish the karyotypes of the various taxa of rock wallabies from that of T. billardierii provided a set of derived characters from which a phylogenetic arrangement has been constructed. Chromosome rearrangements that apparently contribute to reproductive isolation were found at hybrid zones between taxa of parapatric distribution. The reproductive capacity of laboratory bred hybrids was assessed in relation to their chromosomal heterozygosity. It is concluded that reproductive isolation in parapatry was sometimes increased by the establishment of different chromosome fusions involving one ancestral chromosome common to both parapatric taxa.