bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Wildfire on the Avifauna of Kings Park, Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Recher Harry F.
Published: August 2004

In January 1989, a wildfire burnt 120 ha (45%) of the 267 ha of native
vegetation in Kings Park, Perth, Western Australia. The area burnt included a
transect along which birds had been censused during 1986 for comparison with
censuses on the same transect during 1928–37 and 1952–55. Counts
of birds along the transect from 1989 to 1995 indicate a slow recovery in
numbers for 11 (38%) of 29 species present in 1986. Two species
disappeared from the transect, but one of these was found elsewhere in the
park. There are many reasons for the changes in the avifauna of Kings Park,
including changes to the structure of the vegetation, the increasing isolation
of the park from other native vegetation, and changes in the distribution and
abundance of species outside the Perth region. The long-term trends in the
avifauna and the impact of the 1989 fire indicate that a new approach to the
management of the Park’s vegetation may be required. For example, to
avert continuing declines in the Park’s avifauna, it may be helpful to
re-establish a canopy of eucalypts and to create a more open understorey with
some bare ground. However, the impact of the 1989 fire and the slow recovery
of the avifauna illustrate the sensitivity of small reserves to major
disturbances and the difficulty of conserving the original biota without
intensive intervention.
A study of dung decay and plot size for surveying feral pigs using dung counts
Authors: Hone Jim , Martin Warren
Published: August 2004

The effects of dung decay and plot size on counts of dung pellets of feral
pigs (Sus scrofa) were investigated in south-eastern
Australia. Greater understanding of both could potentially improve survey
accuracy and field interpretation of dung counts by managers. Dung pellets
persisted for up to 16 months, with over 50% disappearance within
2–5 months, depending on season. The long persistence suggests the need
for caution in infering recent presence of feral pigs from the presence of
intact pig dung. Partial correlation analysis showed the survival rate of
pellets during the first month to be significantly negatively correlated with
measures of temperature and rainfall in the month. There was a significant
(P < 0.005) interaction of plot size, over the range
5–20 m2, and month on the average number of
pellets per square metre per month, and a significant (P
< 0.01) effect of year on average counts. The largest plot size always
detected at least one dung pellet but smaller plots did not.
Population change among Pacific, kelp and silver gulls using natural and artificial feeding sites in south-eastern Tasmania
Authors: Coulson Ruth , Coulson Graeme
Published: August 2004

The kelp gull, Larus dominicanus, which is widely
distributed around the southern hemisphere, has become established in
Australia only in the past half-century. The greatest numbers of kelp gulls in
Australia are now found in south-eastern Tasmania in sympatry with the two
endemic species, the morphologically similar Pacific gull,
L. pacificus, and the smaller silver gull,
L. novaehollandiae. We examined populations of the three
species in this area. We surveyed large refuse tips and specific shoreline
sites in the Hobart area regularly during the winter months in 1981 and again
in 1992, recording numbers of each species, and age classes of kelp and
Pacific gulls. Between the two survey periods, the number of Pacific gulls and
the total number of all gulls present at refuse tips remained unchanged. There
was, however, a marked increase in the number of kelp gulls at tips,
equivalent to an annual rate of increase of 22.8%, and a corresponding
decrease in the number of silver gulls. Kelp gulls of all ages were
over-represented at refuse tips, while adult Pacific gulls fed preferentially
at more natural shoreline sites. At shoreline sites, adult Pacific gulls
appeared to exclude kelp gulls from small bays in 1981, but kelp gulls were
present in most of these bays eleven years later. Reducing access to food at
refuse tips may be an effective means of controlling the kelp gull population
in this area.
Estimating the hatch dates of Australian brush-turkey embryos by candling
Authors: Wong Sharon
Published: August 2004

There are several techniques available for quickly assessing the age of
developing avian embryos, all of which rely on determining air cell growth
within the egg. As megapode eggs do not form a fixed air space, these methods
cannot be used. This study presents a method for estimating the hatching date
of Australian brush-turkey (Alectura lathami) embryos
quickly and reliably using a candling technique. Eggs were candled using a
hand-held torch. The percentage of eggshell covered by the chorioallantois was
recorded several times throughout the incubation period for each egg. These
percentages and their corresponding values for ‘days until
hatching’ (calculated by counting back from the actual hatch date to the
date of observation) were used to construct a simple linear regression
equation. The reliability of this method was tested by predicting hatch dates
of eggs from the 1997/98 breeding season using the regression graph and
comparing the estimated hatch dates with the actual hatch dates.
Iophenoxic acid as a serum marker for red deer (Cervus elaphus scoticus)
Authors: Sweetapple P. J. , Nugent G.
Published: August 2004

As part of a study investigating the efficacy of toxic foliage baits for
controlling red deer in New Zealand, a pen trial was conducted to determine
whether red deer could be marked by oral dosing with the serum marker
iophenoxic acid. The doses required to mark red deer, retention times, and the
relationship between dose and serum concentration of the marker were also
investigated. Three groups of three deer were fed baits containing 0.26, 2.32,
and 6.10 mg iophenoxic acid per kilogram of bodyweight. Mean serum iodine
concentration was significantly greater in deer fed marked baits for at least
40 days after dosing than in deer fed unmarked baits. The level of marking in
each group was proportional to the dose, suggesting that iophenoxic acid may
be used to quantify the amount of bait consumed by red deer. Iophenoxic acid
is, therefore, an effective serum marker for red deer and could be used in
short- and medium-term ecological and bait technology development field
trials.
A comparison of cane toad and native tadpoles as predators of native anuran eggs, hatchlings and larvae
Authors: Crossland Michael R.
Published: August 2004

Few quantitative data exist regarding the impact of the introduced cane toad,
Bufo marinus, on native Australian fauna. This study
investigated predation by tadpoles of B. marinus and two
native anurans (Limnodynastes ornatus and
Litoria rubella) on eggs, hatchlings and larvae of
native anurans that co-occur with these tadpoles in temporary and
semi-permanent water bodies in northern Queensland. During controlled
laboratory experiments, neither small nor large
B. marinus tadpoles were significant predators of native
anuran eggs, hatchlings or tadpoles. Small tadpoles of
L. ornatus also did not prey significantly upon native
anuran eggs, hatchlings or tadpoles. However, large tadpoles of
L. ornatus and, to a lesser extent,
L. rubella were often significant predators of native
anuran eggs and hatchlings, but were not significant predators of native
tadpoles. The results suggest that native tadpoles are often likely to have a
greater impact on the survival of early life history stages of native anurans
via predation than areB. marinus tadpoles.
Population and demographic patterns of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) at Roxby Downs in arid South Australia and the influence of rabbit haemorrhagic disease
Authors: Bowen Zoë , Read John
Published: August 2004

Rabbit populations and demography were surveyed at Roxby Downs in arid South
Australia from 1989 to 1997. Rabbit numbers typically peaked in late summer
following breeding from late winter to early summer. After initial declines
attributable to burrow flooding and increased populations of virus vectors,
rabbit numbers increased by approximately 400% after significant rains.
Introductions of Spanish rabbit flea, a vector of Myxoma
virus, did not influence rabbit numbers but rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD)
had a dramatic and sustained influence on rabbit numbers. The optimum times
for release of RHD are discussed.
Distribution and identity of species in the Antechinus stuartii - A. flavipes group (Marsupialia : Dasyuridae) in south-eastern Australia
Authors: Sumner J. , Dickman C. R.
Published: August 2004

This study describes genetical differences between three morphologically
similar species of Antechinus in south-eastern
Australia, and uses the climatic model BIOCLIM to clarify their expected
geographical distributions. Allozyme electrophoresis revealed Nei’s
distances of >0.2 between A. flavipes and
A. stuartii and A. flavipes and
A. agilis, the latter a newly recognised species in
south-eastern Australia. Fixed allele differences were determined in five
proteins between A. stuartii and
A. flavipes from an area of sympatry in northern New
South Wales, confirming their genetic distinctness. A smaller distance (0.08)
separated A. stuartii from
A. agilis, but fixed allele differences in albumin and
mannose phosphate isomerase distinguished these species clearly. Locality
records for the three species were compiled from the electrophoretic results,
museum specimen records and published data, and used to generate expected
distributions for each species. A. flavipes is predicted
to occur primarily in warm, inland areas of south- eastern Australia with a
mean annual rainfall of 785 mm, but to occur along the coast in South
Australia and southern Queensland. In contrast, the distributions of
A. stuartii and A. agilis are
predicted to be broadly coastal, with the former occurring in northern New
South Wales and southern Queensland in areas with high mean annual rainfall
(1430 mm) and temperature (16.0°C), the latter in southern New South Wales
and Victoria in cooler areas (11.8°C annual mean) with intermediate
rainfall (1071 mm). Sympatry appears to be limited between
A. flavipes and its two congeners;
A. stuartii and A. agilis are
predicted to be parapatric with only two small areas of overlap being evident.
Repertoire and Geographic Variation in Underwater Vocalisations of Weddell Seals (Leptonychotes weddellii, Pinnipedia : Phocidae) at the Vestfold Hills, Antarctica
Authors: Pahl B. C. , Terhune J. M. , Burton H. R.
Published: August 2004

The underwater vocalisations of Weddell seals
(Leptonychotes weddellii) near Davis, Antarctica, were
many and varied. A total of 11029 vocalisations recorded throughout and
immediately after the breeding season were analysed. Vocalisations were
classified by cluster analysis techniques, based on differences in frequency,
duration, call shape, waveform and number of elements. Thirteen broad call
categories (many with subdivisions) were identified. Twelve call types
(belonging to nine categories) made up 91· 9% of the
vocalisations and were present at all seven study sites within the Vestfold
Hills, and a single site at the Larsemann Hills approximately 150 km away. A
further eight call types (five categories) made up another 6·7%
of the vocalisations. These were not detected at every recording site. An
additional 29 call types (11 categories) were infrequent and probably reflect
the diversity of individual seals. This study strengthens the case for
macrogeographic variation in underwater Weddell seal vocalisations around
Antarctica. Microgeographic differences, between sites within 150 km, were
weak and not consistent between sites or years. Some adult females move to
different breeding sites within the Vestfold Hills area between years. This
would probably preclude the establishment of site-specific (microgeographic)
repertoire differences.
Seasonal Phenology and Developmental Biology of Amorbus obscuricornis (Westwood) and Gelonus tasmanicus (Le Guillou)(Hemiptera : Coreidae)
Authors: Steinbauer M. J.
Published: August 2004

Detailed studies of the seasonal phenology and developmental biology of two
eucalypt-feeding coreid species,Amorbus obscuricornis
and Gelonus tasmanicus, were undertaken over three years
in Tasmania. Both species are univoltine, their active season being from
spring to autumn, with the adults being the overwintering stage. Adults of
A. obscuricornis andG. tasmanicus
emerge during spring to feed, mate and oviposit. Periods of peak copulatory
activity and gravidity of females in both species correspond to times when the
proportion of males to females is slightly male biased. Eggs of
A. obscuricornis did not hatch at temperatures below
15˚C while the number of eggs of G. tasmanicus
hatching at 13˚C remained high. The minimum developmental threshold
temperature and number of degree-days (DD) required for hatching by eggs of
A. obscuricornis and G. tasmanicus
were estimated to be 11·8 and 10·8˚C and 147 and 136 DD,
respectively. Embryonic developmental rates are considered to reflect
differences in the evolved temperature preferences of each species. During
spring and summer the nymphs develop through five instars to eclose in autumn
just before overwintering. Second-instar mortality for both species was high,
suggesting that the initiation of feeding may be a crucial developmental
stage.
DNA-hybridisation Studies of Marsupials and their Implications for Metatherian Classification
Authors: Kirsch John A. W. , Springer Mark S. , Lapointe François-Joseph
Published: August 2004

We review past DNA-hybridisation studies of marsupials and present a reanalysis of the data, utilising
results from our and additional studies to formulate and rationalise a new classification of Marsupialia. In the reanalysis, 13 individual DNA-hybridisation matrices, many lacking some pairwise comparisons, were
sutured in stages to provide the basis for generating a tree of 101 marsupials plus an outgroup eutherian; a fourteenth matrix provided data for a tree including eight additional eutherians and a monotreme. Validation was achieved by jackknifing on taxa for each matrix as well as on tables combining two or more matrices generated during assembly of the 102-taxon data set. The results are consistent with most conclusions from the individual studies and dramatise the unevenness of hierarchical levels in current classifications of marsupials. In particular, the affinities of the American marsupial Dromiciops gliroides with, and the distinctness of marsupial bandicoots from, Australasian metatherians are reaffirmed, while opossums are shown to be as internally divergent as are most members of the order Diprotodontia. Calibration of the 102-taxon tree and dating of the major dichotomies suggest that no extant marsupial lineage originated before the latest Cretaceous, and that all of them together with most South American and all Australasian fossils should be recognised as a monophyletic group contrasting with a largely Laurasian (if possibly paraphyletic) taxon. These inferences, together with the details of the phylogeny, mandate that the misleading ‘Australian’ v. ‘American’ distinction be abandoned, even as a geographic convenience.
Allozyme Evidence for the Phylogeny of Giant New Caledonian Geckos (Squamata: Diplodactylidae: Rhacodactylus), with Comments on the Status of R. leachianus henkeli
Authors: Good D. A. , Bauer A. M. , Sadlier R. A.
Published: August 2004

The phylogenetic analysis of allozyme characters within the New Caledonian
giant geckos, genus Rhacodactylus, yields a pattern of
relationships that is largely congruent with that derived from morphological
data. A ‘total evidence’ approach, incorporating 13 allozyme and
29 morphological characters, yields a single most-parsimonious tree with the
pattern: R. auriculatus
((R. leachainus (R. ciliatus,
R. chahoua)) (R. sarasinorum,
R. trachyrhynchus)). A phenetic analysis based on
Nei’s genetic distance data results in a similar branching pattern. The
genus Pseudothecadactylus is tentatively regarded as
valid because allozyme data conflict strongly with morphological data that
suggest that these geckos evolved from within
Rhacodactylus. Allozymes and available morphological
data do not support the recognition of the recently described subspecies
R. leachianus henkeli.
Thermal Biology and Metabolism of the Greater Long-eared Bat, Nyctophilus major (Chiroptera :Vespertilionidae)
Authors: Hosken D. J.
Published: August 2004

Nyctophilus major is the largest member of its
Australian-centred genus. Flow-through respirometry was used to investigate
the thermal and metabolic physiology of adult N. major
from south-western Australia. Oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production,
respiratory quotient, evaporative water loss and thermal conductance were
measured at ambient temperatures of 5–40C.
N. major was thermally labile and could be euthermic or
torpid at low Ta.
N. major entered into and spontaneously aroused from
torpor at Tas as low as 5C, and
became torpid at Tas as high as
23C. Like other temperate-zone Australian vespertilionid bats, some torpid
N. major maintained a relatively high
Tb at low
Ta. Body mass and the duration of
captivity had no detectable effect on the thermal responses of bats. The basal
metabolic rate (BMR) of N. major was 85% of
predicted, and falls within the the range of mass-specific BMRs reported for
vespertilionid bats. While mean torpid á VO2 was
reasonably high, torpor still facilitates substantial metabolic savings.
However, because of the high á VO2 ,
N. major may not be able to remain torpid for more than
about 60 days, relying solely on fat reserves. The evaporative water loss
(EWL) of euthermic and torpid N. major was also high,
although EWL during torpor was reduced compared with euthermy. Wet conductance
was lower than predicted and probably relates to the solitary, tree-roosting
habits of N. major. As has been reported for other bats,
conductance values during torpor were lower than those during euthermy, but
when torpid bats maintained a large (
Tb –
Ta) differential at low
Ta or became torpid at relatively
high Ta , conductance values
approached euthermic levels.
Molecular Phylogeny and Biogeography of the Tasmanian and New Zealand Mudfishes (Salmoniformes : Galaxiidae)
Authors: Waters J. M. , White R. W. G.
Published: August 2004

The phylogenetic affinities of the diadromous Tasmanian mudfish,
Galaxias cleaveri, have long been problematic. Some
systematists have suggested that this species is closely related to the
morphologically similar but non-diadromous New Zealand mudfish genus,
Neochanna, while others argued that the similarities
represent convergent evolution. Most recently, the Tasmanian mudfish was
allocated to Neochanna on morphological grounds. The
current paper presents sequence data from two mitochondrial genes that support
this decision, revealing a close phylogenetic relationship between Tasmanian
and New Zealand mudfish. Molecular clock calibrations are used to examine
hypotheses of mudfish evolution and biogeography. Estimated divergence times
are consistent with the suggestion that
Neochanna burrowsius and N. apoda
were separated by the uplift of New Zealand’s southern Alps about five
million years ago. In addition, the divergence of the Tasmanian and New
Zealand mudfish appears to postdate the rifting of Gondwana and is best
explained by marine dispersal during the Pliocene.
Molecular phylogeny and biogeography of the Tasmanian and New Zealand mudfishes (Salmoniformes : Galaxiidae)
Authors: Waters J. M. , White R. W. G.
Published: August 2004

The phylogenetic affinities of the diadromous Tasmanian mudfish,
Galaxias cleaveri, have long been problematic. Some
systematists have suggested that this species is closely related to the
morphologically similar but non-diadromous New Zealand mudfish genus,
Neochanna, while others argued that the similarities
represent convergent evolution. Most recently, the Tasmanian mudfish was
allocated to Neochanna on morphological grounds. The
current paper presents sequence data from two mitochondrial genes that support
this decision, revealing a close phylogenetic relationship between Tasmanian
and New Zealand mudfish. Molecular clock calibrations are used to examine
hypotheses of mudfish evolution and biogeography. Estimated divergence times
are consistent with the suggestion that
Neochanna burrowsius and N. apoda
were separated by the uplift of New Zealand’s southern Alps about five
million years ago. In addition, the divergence of the Tasmanian and New
Zealand mudfish appears to postdate the rifting of Gondwana and is best
explained by marine dispersal during the Pliocene.
Reproduction and the Female Reproductive Cycle of Nyctophilus geoffroyi and N. major (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) from South-western Australia
Authors: Hosken D. J.
Published: August 2004

The reproductive cycles of female Nyctophilus geoffroyi
and N. major from south-western Australia are described
from capture records and histological examination of tissue from fixed
specimens. The sequence of reproductive events for both species was similar to
that described for other vespertilionid bats from south- western Australia.
Mating commenced between March and May. Sperm were stored in the caudal
isthmus of the oviduct and in endometrial glands near the utero-tubal
junction. Ovulation and fertilisation occurred in late August or September and
twinning was common. Parturition occurred between late October and November,
with volant young first captured during December, but it appeared not all
N. geoffroyi females were reproductively active every
year. Lactation had generally ceased by February, which was when the last
detectably juvenile bats were captured.
Variable Energy Demands in Pseudomys hermannsburgensis: Possible Ecological Consequences
Authors: Predavec Martin
Published: August 2004

The energy metabolism of Pseudomys hermannsburgensis, a
native Australian desert rodent, was investigated with animals captured in the
field. Animals showed large variation in basal metabolic rate between two time
periods [November 1991 (1·40 ± 0·38 mL 0
2 g-1 h-1 )
and September 1992 (3·58 ± 0·24)], producing values
that generally differed from those predicted from body mass.
P. hermannsburgensis also entered torpor, which has not
been demonstrated previously in an Australian rodent. Environmental stimuli
for changes in metabolic rates are not clear. Possible ecological advantages
of the observed patterns of energy metabolism are conservation of energy and
water and increased longevity. All three factors may be considered adaptations
to the variable desert environment.
Cellular Components of the Milk of the Tammar Wallaby (Macropus eugenii)
Authors: Young L. , Basden K. , Cooper D. W. , Deane E. M.
Published: August 2004

The cellular components of colostrum and milk of the tammar wallaby
(Macropus eugenii) have been investigated over the
period of oestrus, lactation and weaning. Macrophages, neutrophils,
lymphocytes and other vacuolated mononuclear cells were identified. The total
number and diversity of cells were higher in colostral secretions and in
secretions from post-lactational mammary glands. Neutrophils were the
predominant cell type in early secretions. Macrophages were more prevalent in
the milk of animals that no longer had young attached to the teat. These
observations are consistent with suggestions that phagocytic cells play a role
in post-lactational repair of the mammary gland but also suggest that
non-specific phagocytic protection plays a role in protection of the neonatal
marsupial.
Aspects of the Ecological Energetics of Development in Rainbow Bee-eaters
Authors: Lill Alan , Fell Peter J.
Published: August 2004

Prefledging developmental energetics of rainbow bee-eaters were investigated
by comparing the mass, water fraction and energy density of the egg, hatchling
and fledgling, determining the growth rate and pattern of the nestling and
documenting the reproductive time investments of breeders. The incubation and
nestling periods greatly exceeded allometric predictions. On average, the egg
contents contained 26% yolk, 80% water and had an energy density
of 25·82 kJ g -1 dry mass. The 3·3-g
hatchling contained 83% water and had an energy density of 21·28
kJ g-1 dry mass; its size and composition suggested that
it was not exceptionally mature and thus that embryonic growth was inherently
slow, but no extra energy loading was evident in the egg to meet the predicted
high maintenance costs. Nestling growth was also inherently slow,
K for the logistic growth model being 0·266 and
t10-90 16·5 days. Nestlings
attained asymptotic mass after about two- thirds of the nestling period had
elapsed, exceeded adult mass by up to 3·5-g and then underwent a
15% prefledging mass recession. Fledglings contained 67% water,
had a mean energy density of 23·33 kJ g -1 dry
mass and were capable of efficient flight. Nestling growth was highly labile
and intrabrood mass hierarchies and brood reduction through nestling
starvation were common and may be adaptations to short-term food shortages.
The mean incubation constancy (54% of daytime) and the mean nestling
feeding rate of 4 meals per nestling h of breeders were comparatively low; the
former probably reflects the insulation of the burrow from ambient temperature
oscillations and the latter the slow nestling growth rate. Members of breeding
pairs often contributed to feeding the brood quite disparately and
auxiliaries’ contributions in the 24% of breeding units that
contained them were relatively small. The unpredictable nature of the
species’ aeroplankton diet may have favoured slow nestling growth
through its influence on breeders’ food gathering capacity and by
favouring a relatively high degree of physiological maturity and
self-sufficiency in fledglings.
Relationships within the Australo-Papuan Fairy-wrens (Aves : Malurinae) : an Evaluation of the Utility of Allozyme Data
Authors: Christidis Leslie , Schodde Richard
Published: August 2004

Allozyme variation at 39 presumptive loci was screened across 180 specimens
representing 18 species of Australo-Papuan fairy-wrens (Maluridae). The
results identified two major clusters within Malurus.
One comprised M. cyaneus,
M. splendens, M. coronatus,
M. melanocephalus, M. leucopterus
and M. alboscapulatus. The other
comprisedM. lamberti, M. amabilis,
M. pulcherrimus and M. elegans.
M. grayi and M. cyanocephalus were
variously associated with these two assemblages. Most analyses aligned
Clytomias with Malurus relative to
Stipiturus. The findings from the present study indicate
that allozyme data are well suited to phylogenetic inference whether analysed
as distances or as discrete characters, provided that only relatively robust
branches are accepted. When only such branches were considered there was
complete congruence between the analyses. Nevertheless, congruence
per se between analyses was not necessarily a reflection
of robust branching patterns, as illustrated by the position of
Clytomias. Of analyses with discrete characters, those
that treated loci as characters and the commonest allele as the state appeared
to be a particularly effective approach, provided that the distribution of
discarded alleles in the initial topology is considered a
posteriori. The allozyme data confirmed several
previously accepted lineages, and identified surprising new links between
several taxa as well. These links were supported biogeographically and, in
some aspects, morphologically. Those phylogenetic nodes that were poorly
resolved can now be tested by more sensitive DNA-based approaches. By using
allozymes to establish robust clades and then to identify areas in need of
further resolution, DNA-based studies can be focused better on phylogenetic
problem areas, thereby promoting more efficient use of time and resources.
Community Organisation, Biogeography and Seasonality of Ants in an Open Forest of South-eastern Queensland
Authors: Vanderwoude C. , Andersen A. N. , House A. P. N.
Published: August 2004

The biogeography and structure of ant communities were examined over a
12-month period at a dry open eucalypt forest in south-eastern Queensland.
Three sites were monitored, each with a distinct long-term burning history:
burned annually since 1952, burned periodically since 1973, and unburned since
1946. A total of 89 species from 42 genera was recorded over all trapping
periods, with the richest genera being Iridomyrmex,
Camponotus and Pheidole, each with
eight species. Site species richness was 74, 63 and 43, respectively, at the
annually burned, periodically burned and the unburned site. We compared the
ant community in this forest with those at other forested sites in eastern
Australia. Overall, the south-eastern Queensland community was located on the
overlap between the Bassian and Torresian zones (not dominated by either
element), while the functional-group composition resembled those of both
tropical savannas and cool-temperate woodlands. There were readily discernible
differences between sites in terms of biogeographical and functional-group
composition; and between the unburned site and both burned sites in terms of
abundance and species richness. The relative abundance of
Iridomyrmex spp. increased with burning frequency while
the relative abundance of Bassian species decreased with burning frequency.
Species richness and abundance at the burned sites were similar, but
substantially higher than at the unburned site. The community characteristics
of the three sites were readily distinguishable, indicating that ant
communities may play a valuable role in detecting ecological changes in
forested landscapes in south- eastern Queensland.
Development of Spines and Sensory Setae on the Tailfan of the Southern Rock Lobster (Jasus edwardsii Hutton, 1875) (Crustacea: Decapoda)
Authors: Stuart Tobi , Macmillan David
Published: August 2004

The pattern of development of setae on the dorsal surface of the telson of
juvenile southern rock lobsters (Jasus edwardsii) was
followed in individual animals through the first six post-settlement stages by
collecting and examining their exuviae by scanning electron and light
microscopy. The commonest seta is long and plumose, closely similar in
appearance to the hydrodynamic receptors of other crayfish and rock lobsters.
These occur only on spines raised above the surrounding surface. The spines
are arranged in longitudinal columns. New spines are mostly added posteriorly
so that the rostral ones are the oldest and largest, although they can also
develop in midcolumn. The rate of addition of setae to spines is constant on
all spines within and between animals. These two modes of addition occurring
together result in an ordered pattern of setal density grading from anterior
to posterior and from the midline laterally. This pattern of setal development
differs from those described on the tailfan of crayfish and has not been
described previously in any crustacean. Because the number of neurons that
innervate setae of this type is constant, the developmental pattern may
provide insight into the way in which integumental innervation develops.
Morphology and Function of the Gastrointestinal Tract of Australian Folivorous Possums
Authors: Crowe Olivia , Hume Ian D.
Published: August 2004

Museum specimens of seven Australian Pseudocheiridae (ringtail possums and
greater glider) and six Australian Phalangeridae (brushtail possums and
cuscuses) were examined to assess the extent of possible differences in
gastrointestinal tract morphology and function within and between these two
families of Australian folivorous possums. Although there were no differences
between the two families in gut segment lengths, the Pseudocheiridae had less
relative tissue mass in the small intestine (P <
0·05) and greater relative tissue mass in the caecum
(P < 0·05) than the Phalangeridae. Total
nitrogen concentrations of stomach, caecum and proximal colon digesta were
greater in the Pseudocheiridae than in the Phalangeridae
(P < 0·05), but in the distal colon they were
similar. These differences suggest that the colonic separation mechanism
previously documented in two pseudocheirid species is probably characteristic
of the family Pseudocheiridae, but not of the Phalangeridae. They also reflect
the more folivorous nature of the Pseudocheiridae, as leaves are generally
higher than fruit in total nitrogen concentration. Among members of the
Phalangeridae, there were no significant differences in any of the parameters
measured, and it is concluded that the digestive strategy of the common
brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) is probably
representative of the family. In contrast, there were several notable
differences among members of the Pseudocheiridae, indicating that the common
ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus) is not
representative of all pseudocheirids. In particular, the digestive strategy of
the rock ringtail possum (Petropseudes dahli) should be
examined in relation to its unusual habitat, to its relatively simple caecum,
and to the unusually low nitrogen concentrations found throughout its
gastrointestinal tract.
The Incidence and Relative Abundance of Amorbus obscuricornis and Gelonus tasmanicus (Hemiptera : Coreidae) in Southern Tasmania and Their Performance on Selected Eucalyptus Species
Authors: Steinbauer M. J.
Published: August 2004

Comprehensive records of the host-plant associations of
Amorbus obscuricornis (Westwood) and
Gelonus tasmanicus (Le Guillou), undertaken over three
years at field sites in southern Tasmania, are presented for the first time.
Also presented are the results of performance experiments conducted
predominantly with native Tasmanian Eucalyptus species.
Both insect species were found to be oligophagous for
Eucalyptus. However,
A. obscuricornis was found to feed more widely than
G. tasmanicus; that is, the former species fed upon
eucalypts belonging to the ash, gum and peppermint groups whilst the latter
was confined to the ash and gum species of Eucalyptus in
Tasmania. On the basis of collection records,
A. obscuricornis was found to be abundant in both wet
and dry sclerophyll forest habitats whilst G. tasmanicus
was more abundant in wet sclerophyll forests. The wider degree of oligophagy
exhibited by A. obscuricornis than by
G. tasmanicus is suggested as being related to this
species’ preference for floristically diverse habitats, for example dry
sclerophyll forest. In addition, inter- and intraspecific host selection in
the exclusively shoot- feeding A. obscuricornis was found to be positively
influenced by the architecture, in particular the coppicing phenology, of
hosts. The significance of factors such as plant architecture, resource
abundance and nutritional quality to the host-plant associations of both
species are discussed in relation to secondary chemistry and habitat
preferences.
The incidence and relative abundance of Amorbus obscuricornis and Gelonus tasmanicus (Hemiptera : Coreidae) in southern Tasmania and their performance on selected Eucalyptus species
Authors: Steinbauer M. J.
Published: August 2004

Comprehensive records of the host-plant associations of
Amorbus obscuricornis (Westwood) and
Gelonus tasmanicus (Le Guillou), undertaken over three
years at field sites in southern Tasmania, are presented for the first time.
Also presented are the results of performance experiments conducted
predominantly with native Tasmanian Eucalyptus species.
Both insect species were found to be oligophagous for
Eucalyptus. However,
A. obscuricornis was found to feed more widely than
G. tasmanicus; that is, the former species fed upon
eucalypts belonging to the ash, gum and peppermint groups whilst the latter
was confined to the ash and gum species of Eucalyptus in
Tasmania. On the basis of collection records,
A. obscuricornis was found to be abundant in both wet
and dry sclerophyll forest habitats whilst G. tasmanicus
was more abundant in wet sclerophyll forests. The wider degree of oligophagy
exhibited by A. obscuricornis than by
G. tasmanicus is suggested as being related to this
species’ preference for floristically diverse habitats, for example dry
sclerophyll forest. In addition, inter- and intraspecific host selection in
the exclusively shoot- feeding A. obscuricornis was found to be positively
influenced by the architecture, in particular the coppicing phenology, of
hosts. The significance of factors such as plant architecture, resource
abundance and nutritional quality to the host-plant associations of both
species are discussed in relation to secondary chemistry and habitat
preferences.
Physiological Adjustments during Aestivation by the Australian Land Snail Rhagada tescorum (Mollusca : Pulmonata : Camaenidae)
Authors: Withers Philip , Pedler Scott , Guppy Michael
Published: August 2004

Specimens of the camaenid snail Rhagada tescorum were
collected from Barrow Island, Western Australia, where they typically
aestivate underground during the long dry season and emerge after heavy
rainfall. Aestivation is associated with a profound decrease in metabolic rate
(from 50 to 5 µL g-1
h-1 ) and evaporative water loss (from 11 to 0.3 mg
g-1 h-1). Even after approximately
10–12 months of aestivation in the laboratory, aestivating snails had
only a slightly lower body-water content (82.1% of shell-free mass)
than rehydrated individuals (84.5%), but a significantly higher
haemolymph sodium concentration (94 cf. 55 mM) and osmotic concentration (233
cf. 134 mOsm); the difference in haemolymph potassium concentration (3.7 cf.
2.6 mM) was not significant. The haemolymph pO2 was
lower for aestivating snails (6.25 kPa) than awake snails (10.8 kPa) but there
was no hypercapnia (pCO2 = 1.4 cf. 1.3 kPa) or
acidosis (pH = 7.64 cf. 7.62) in aestivating snails. These
physiological adjustments of Rhagada tescorum during
aestivation are similar to those of other arid-zone land snails, except for
the absence of hypercapnia and acidosis, and indicate that this snail is well
adapted to withstand the metabolic and hygric demands of extended periods of
drought.
Evolution of the Spermatozoon in Australasian Rodents
Authors: Breed W. G.
Published: August 2004

The head of the spermatozoon in eutherian mammals contains a nucleus,
acrosomal cap and cytoskeleton. It is generally spatulate, paddle-shaped or
pear-shaped, but in most murid rodents it is hook-shaped with the anterior
region of the nucleus surrounded by an elaborate acrosome and an extension of
the subacrosomal cytoskeleton as a perforatorium. This type of spermatozoon is
present in Australasian Rattus, together with several
other New Guinean genera. However, in most Australasian hydromyine rodents a
far greater complexity of structural organisation of the sperm head has
evolved in which two further elaborate processes extend from its upper concave
surface. These processes contain a huge extension of the cytoskeleton within
which filamentous actin is present. By contrast, the form of the sperm head in
a few species of Pseudomys,
Notomys and Solomys is highly
divergent and is either truncated, spatulate or pear- shaped. The evolutionary
trends of change in sperm head shape are discussed and it is suggested that
the falciform sperm head with the two extra processes in most of the
hydromyine rodents is one of the most morphologically complex sperm head types
to have evolved in eutherian mammals; it contains a far more extensive
development of the cytoskeleton than that of any other mammalian spermatozoon.
Intraspecific Variation in Reproductive Mode within the Scincid Lizard Saiphos equalis
Authors: Smith S. A. , Shine R.
Published: August 2004

Although viviparity (live-bearing) has evolved from oviparity (egg-laying)
more frequently in squamate reptiles than in any other vertebrate lineage,
there are few well-documented cases of taxa that either (i) exhibit a
‘transitional’ reproductive state (i.e. with a reproductive mode
intermediate between ‘normal’ oviparity and viviparity) or (ii)
contain both oviparous and viviparous populations within the same species.
Although rare, such taxa offer exceptional opportunities to test hypotheses
concerning the evolution of viviparity in reptiles. Our data show that the
scincid lizard Saiphos equalis displays both of the
characteristics listed above. These small semi-fossorial skinks from
south-eastern Australia exhibit geographic variation in reproductive mode, and
some populations show an ‘intermediate’ mode. We examined the
reproductive mode of Saiphos equalis over the geographic
range of the species using preserved museum specimens, and we gathered
detailed information on reproductive output of captive lizards collected from
a high-elevation site (Riamukka, in the northern highlands of New South Wales)
and from a coastal area (Sydney, southern New South Wales). Lizards from
Riamukka were viviparous (i.e. they produced fully formed young enclosed in
membranous sacs), whereas Sydney lizards produced incompletely developed
embryos inside partially calcified eggshells. Incubation periods of the eggs
from Sydney lizards were very brief (5.5 1.7 days v.
>35 days in sympatric oviparous skinks), indicating that oviparous
S. equalis represent a true evolutionary intermediate
between ‘normal’ oviparity and viviparity.
Ion Transport and the Effects of Moulting in the Freshwater Crayfish Cherax destructor (Decapoda : Parastacidae)
Authors: Zare Samad , Greenaway Peter
Published: August 2004

Sodium and chloride were maintained in approximate equilibrium by intermoult
Cherax destructor but net uptake from the water began
the day before ecdysis and continued for several days in postmoult. Sodium
transport in postmoult was four times as much as that during the intermoult.
The apparent affinities of the Na and Cl transport mechanisms, 0.5 ±
0.12 and 0.3 ± 0.04 mmol L-1, respectively, were
relatively low compared with other reported values for freshwater crustaceans.
Calcium flux was negligible in intermoult animals and net efflux was evident
in premoult as calcium resorbed from the skeleton was excreted. Following
ecdysis, calcium net influx was high and persisted for many days into
postmoult as the new exosketon was calcified. An apparent affinity
(Km) of 0.3 ± 0.04 mmol
L-1 Ca and a maximal net transport rate
(Jmax) of 1.8 ± 0.29
µmol Ca g-1 h-1 were
measured in postmoult animals. The gills contained a high-affinity
Ca2+ ATPase (K
m= 0.040.05 µmol L-1)
with a low transport capacity
(Jmax = 5.6 nmol
mg-1 protein min -1) that did not
change during the moulting cycle. It is suggested that postmoult Ca transport
was facilitated by Na–Ca exchange driven by elevated branchial Na
+ K+ -ATPase activity.
Seasonal Testicular Development and Sperm Storage in Tropical and Subtropical Populations of the Brown Tree Snake (Boiga irregularis)
Authors: Bull Karina H. , Mason Robert T. , Whittier Joan
Published: August 2004

The seasonal pattern of testicular development of tropical and subtropical
brown tree snakes, Boiga irregularis, was investigated.
We also examined sperm storage in the reproductive tracts of both sexes. Males
in south-eastern Queensland had a testicular cycle that was strongly seasonal,
with testicular regression during the wet summer. Males from Papua New Guinea
had a continuous testicular cycle, in which sperm was present in some animals
every month.
Females from south-eastern Queensland had no stored sperm or sperm storage
receptacles in their oviducts. Sperm was found in only one of 28 female
reproductive tracts. The sperm was located in the lumen, suggesting recent
insemination. In contrast, the presence of sperm in the ductus deferens of
most males in both populations indicated that males store sperm. This
facilitates the apparent dissociation between the male and female reproductive
cycles that has been reported previously in south-eastern Queensland
populations. Male B. irregularis must store sperm for at
least six months, from the time of maximal testicular development in autumn,
until ovulation occurs in spring and early summer. This pattern of
reproduction in B. irregularis fits neither a
postnuptial nor a prenuptial pattern, as has been observed in a few other
tropical snakes.
The breeding behaviour of the endangered regent honeyeater, Xanthomyza phrygia, near Armidale, New South Wales
Authors: Oliver Damon L.
Published: August 2004

The regent honeyea ter, Xanthomyza phrygia, is an
endangered woodland bird whose range and population size have decreased in the
last thirty years. Suggested reasons for this decline include abnormal
breeding behaviour, poor reproductive output, and excessive inter- and
intra-specific aggression. This study investigated the breeding behaviour and
aggressive interactions of regent honeyeaters during the nest construction,
incubation, nestling, and fledgling stages in two consecutive breeding seasons
in the Bundarra–Barraba region near Armidale, New South Wales. The
female was entirely responsible for nest construction and incubation, which is
typical of many honeyeaters. Both parents fed the nestlings, and at a similar
rate, although only the female brooded chicks on the nest. Both parents fed
the fledglings. The mean frequency at which nestlings (23 times per hour) and
fledglings (29 times per hour) were fed is the highest published rate of any
non-cooperative honeyeater. Breeding males were involved in significantly more
aggressive interactions with conspecifics and other nectarivores than were
females, although the overall percentage of day-time spent in aggression for
both sexes was low (2.5%). It appears that abnormal breeding behaviour,
poor reproductive effort, or excessive aggression are not experienced by this
species in northern New South Wales, and that other factors are likely to be
responsible for its current low population level.
An electrophoretic comparison of the Australian paralysis tick, Ixodes holocyclus Neumann, 1899, with I. cornuatus Roberts, 1960 (Acari : Ixodidae)
Authors: Jackson Janey , Chilton Neil B. , Beveridge Ian , Morris Michelle , Andrews Ross H.
Published: August 2004

An electrophoretic study was conducted on ticks morphologically identified as
either Ixodes cornuatus or
I. holocyclus from Tasmania and several localities on
mainland Australia. Ticks were characterised genetically at 27 enzyme loci
encoding 24 enzymes. The extent of genetic divergence (52–69%
fixed differences) between ticks from Tasmania and those from the mainland was
equivalent to that found between these two groups and two morphologically
distinct species, I. hirsti and
I. fecialis. The Tasmanian ticks therefore represent a
different species from the specimens from the mainland and the electrophoretic
data show that the morphological characters currently used to distinguish
I. holocyclus from I. cornuatus
are inadequate. Genetic heterogeneity was detected in samples from different
localities on the mainland. This could represent either population variation,
or the existence of cryptic species, but more ticks from these mainland
localities need to be examined electrophoretically to resolve this.
Morphology of the buccal apparatus and related structures in four species of Carapidae
Authors: Parmentier E. , Chardon M. , Poulicek M. , Bussers J. C. , Vandewalle P.
Published: August 2004

The aims of this study were (1) to compare the morphology of the buccal
apparatus, the suspensorium and the opercle in four species of Carapidae
(Carapus acus,
Encheliophis boraborensis,
Encheliophis homei and
Encheliophis gracilis) and (2) to investigate the
relationships between their cranial anatomy, their carnivorous diet, and their
well known ability to enter holothurians.
The complex and strong dentition and the wide hyomandibular with thickenings
that seem to suit the constraints of the adductor mandibulae muscles partly
inserted on the neurocranium are signs of a carnivorous diet.
C. acus, E. boraborensis and
E. homei have extremely strong buccal pieces and can
protrude their upper jaws. However, in E. gracilis, the
jaws are more slender, and the insertions of the A 1 along the entire length
of the maxillary associated with the lack of mobility between the maxillary
and the premaxillary prevent buccal protrusion. These differences could be
related to the diet: C. acus,
E. boraborensis and E. homei can
feed on fishes and crustaceans, whereas E. gracilis
feeds only on holothurian tissue.
The cephalic morphology of the four species is not incompatible with entering
the host. However, the neutralisation of the suboperculum spine by
‘cartilaginous’ tissue could be considered to be a particular
adaptation to this behaviour.