bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth of the parma wallaby, Macropus parma Waterhouse
Authors: Maynes GM
Published: June 2005

Data are presented for growth in length of head, ear, arm, leg, foot, head and body, and tail, and growth in weight of M. parma from birth to maturity. Foot and ear have ceased growing by 2 years of age in both males and females. Growth measured by other parameters has ceased in females by about 3 years of age, but males continue growing in arm length and leg length until about 4.5 years. Adult size is taken as the size of animals 3 years of age and older.
The changing relative sizes of the body parts during pouch life are considered. These are discussed in terms of their functional and adaptive significance during development in the pouch. Growth in weight during pouch life can be divided into two phases based upon changes in the instantaneous relative growth rate (k). During the first phase of growth (to about 84 days) k declines rapidly from a mean value of 12.51% per day during the first week to a mean of 2.93% per day for the interval 63-84 days. It is suggested that this phase may represent a continuation of embryonic organogenesis and differentiation. The second phase of growth is a period during which k is constant and extends from about 84 days until almost the end of pouch life. Values of k for individual animals are normally between 2.15% per day and 2.60% per day. This period of growth is considered to be essentially a period of maturation and growth in size of the organ systems developed during the gestation period and first phase of growth.
Young first leave the pouch for short periods when they weigh between 7.5 and 10% of the mean adult female weight. They permanently leave the pouch at a mean weight of 21.3% of the adult female value. Comparison with other macropodids indicates an apparent high degree of uniformity in relative sizes of macropodid young at permanent exit from the pouch. Parma young are finally weaned at about 50% of the mean adult female weight.
Females raised in captivity reached sexual maturity at about 70% of the adult female weight. Males are larger than females, but sexual dimorphism becomes statistically significant only after males become sexually mature. The forearms of males are shown to be remarkably elongated compared with those of females and it is suggested that this is an adaptation for holding the female during copulation.
Laboratory Biology of Phaenocarpa Persimilis Papp (Braconidae: Alysiinae), a Parasitoid of Drosophila.
Authors: Prince GJ
Published: June 2005

P. persimilis is a recently discovered Australian parasitoid of several cosmopolitan and native species of Drosophila. It can be reared in the laboratory, and has a life cycle similar to that of other Hymenopterous insect endoparasites. An egg is laid in the host larva, and the adult wasp emerges from the host puparium.
Various aspects of the wasp's behaviour and physiology, especially those features which may affect its relationship with its host in the field, were investigated in laboratory experiments. The results indicate that P. persimilis has many attributes which (potentially) allow it to be a very efficient parasitoid.
The parasites of Antechinus stuartii Macleay from Powelltown, Victoria, with observations on seasonal and sex-related variations in numbers of Helminths
Authors: Beveridge I , Barker IK
Published: June 2005

A detailed examination of helminth and arthropod parasites was made in association with a study of male mortality in A. stuartii from Powelltown. The prevalence and population sizes of Woolleya spp., Capillaria rickardi and Peramelistrongylus skedatos rose sharply in the period June-August, male A. stuartii being significantly more heavily parasitized than females. It was considered unlikely that the parasites encountered are directly involved in the seasonal mortality of male A. stuartii.
Inheritance of Striped Elytral Pattern in Coelophora Inaequalis (F.) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae).
Authors: Hales DF
Published: June 2005

In the ladybird C. inaequalis, the striped elytral pattern (C. inaequalis var. veranioides) is shown to be dominant over the pattern of partly fused spots which is more common in the Sydney region. A pattern in which the spots were fused in a zig-zag manner was also obtained in the laboratory and appears to be caused by a third allele recessive to both the others.
Influence of temperature acclimation on Oxygen consumption, Haemodymanics and oxygen transport in bullfrogs
Authors: Weathers WW
Published: June 2005

The effect of temperaure acclimation on oxygen transport by the circulation was studied by comparing the responses of bullfrogs held at 5 or 20�C for several weeks during the winter. Blood flow (Q) to the hind legs of restrained unanaesthetized frogs was measured at 20�C with an electromagnetic flow meter. Measurements of arterial and venous pressure and oxygen content were made simultaneously with the flow determinations, and oxygen delivery to the hind legs [T(O2)D] was calculated as the product of Q and arteriovenous oxygen difference. Determinations of T(O2)D are compared with values for oxygen consumption [V(O2)] of normal frogs measured in a closed-circuit respirometer.
Acclimation to 5�C resulted in a significant decrease in V(O2) of normal frogs as compared with 20�C-acclimated frogs, and a reduction in T(O2)D due to a significantly lower Q. Blood flow to the hind legs measured at 20�C averaged 33.9 ml kg-1 min-1 in 5�C-acclimated frogs, and 50.9 ml kg-1 min-1 in 20�C-acclimated frogs. Arteriovenous oxygen difference was not significantly different in warm and cold acclimated frogs, averaging 2.28 and 2.78 ml per 100 ml, respectively. T(O2)D averaged 53.1 and 68.8 ul g-1 h-1 for cold and warm acclimated frogs, respectively. Thus bullfrogs respond to thermally induced alterations in oxygen consumption by altering blood flow, arteriovenous oxygen difference remaining unchanged.
Values of Q determined for bullfrogs largely represent Q to skeletal muscle and fall within the range of values reported for resting skeletal muscle Q of mammals. These data confirm earlier reports which suggested that amphibia have higher rates of blood flow than would be expected from known rates of V(O2).
Ecology of Australian chats (Epthianura Gould) season movements, metabolism and ecaporative water loss
Authors: Williams CK , Main AR
Published: June 2005

The four species of Australian chats differ in their utilization of arid regions.
Comparisons were made between the rates of metabolism and evaporative water loss of three species at moderate and high ambient temperatures, after trapping in the field during winter and after acclimation in the laboratory to 22�C and 14�C.
When acclimated to winter temperatures the three species had similar rates of metabolism at moderate and high ambient temperatures. The rates of evaporative water loss at moderate temperatures were similar, but at temperatures above the thermoneutral zone the rates were lower in the more xeric than the more mesic species.
When acclimated to summer temperatures the more xeric species had lower rates of metabolism and evaporative water loss than the more mesic species at temperatures within and above the thermoneutral zone. Variation in the rates of metabolism and evaporative water loss in field populations was greatest in the most mesic species and least in the most xeric species. Rates of metabolism and evaporative water loss were lower in all species after acclimation to 22�C than after acclimation to 14�C. The rates of metabolism and evaporative water loss tended to be lower than the rates predicted on the basis of body weight. In thermoregulation at high ambient temperatures the more xeric species evaporated relatively less body water in dissipating body heat than the more mesic species, apparently without a greater increase in body temperature. The ability of Australian chats to utilize semiarid and arid regions is explained by distributions and seasonal movements which complement the physiology of evaporative water loss and thermoregulation in a manner that enhances survival at high ambient temperatures.
A Study of Helminth Parasites in the Gastrointestinal Tract of the Swamp Buffalo, Bubalis Bubalis Lydekker, in the Northern Territory.
Authors: Bryan RP , Bainbridge MJ , Kerr JD
Published: June 2005

Sixty buffalo and 12 cattle (all feral animals less than 2 years old) were slaughtered on Marrakai Station in the Northern Territory and their gastrointestinal worms were identified and counted. The abomasal nematode Skrjabinagia bovei was recorded in Australia for the first time, at similar frequency in the two hosts. The nematodes Haemonchus placei, Strongyloides papillosus, Cooperia spp. and Oesophagostomum radiatum, the stomach fluke Calicophoron calicophorum, and the tapeworm Moniezia benedini were all found in both hosts. The hosts were grouped by age and type of grazing area, and the intensities of infection with the various nematode species were related to these factors. Severe inflammation of the buffalo small intestine over the sites normally occupied by parasitic nematodes was frequent, and O. radiatum nodules were more frequent in the caecum and colon of buffalo than of cattle.
The Amphibolurus barbatus species group (Lacertilia : Agamidae)
Authors: Badham JA
Published: June 2005

The subspecies A. barbatus barbatus as currently recognized comprises two distinct marginally sympatric morphs. Differences in external and skeletal morphology and the apparent absence of hybrids in the narrow zone of overlap imply that each morph is genetically distinct and not a particular phenotypic expression of one genotype. The low density of one morph in the region of overlap, and hybrid inferiority as suggested by laboratory cross-mating, may each be partly responsible for the apparent lack of hybridization.
On this basis each morph is given full species status, one being the typical form A. barbatus (Cuvier) while the other is referred to A. vitticeps Ahl. With the morphological differences between these two species as the criteria for species status, the other described subspecies of A. barbatus are examined and likewise elevated to species rank as follows: A. minor Sternfeld, A. minimus Loveridge and A. microlepidotus Glauert. Two additional new species A. mitchelli, sp. nov., and A. nullarbor, sp. nov., are described within the species-group.
Observations on oetrus and the oestrous cycle in the marsupials Isoodon Macrourus and Perameles nasuta
Authors: Lyne AG
Published: June 2005

Observations have been made on oestrus and the oestrous cycle in the bandicoots I. macrourus and P. nasuta caged indoors. Oestrus was diagnosed from a number of criteria, particularly the sexual behaviour of the males. Attempted matings, non-fertile matings and matings leading to pregnancy were restricted to one day of the oestrous cycle, except on one occasion when a male I. macrourus attempted to mate on two consecutive days. The lips of the urogenital opening of the female were usually greatly swollen at oestrus but pouch changes at this time were not detected. Vaginal smears at oestrus usually showed an increase in the number of partly and fully cornified epithelial cells and few, if any, polymorphonuclear leucocytes.
During the winter and spring of 1972 and spring of 1973, over 1000 vaginal smears were taken from 29 P. nasuta and about 700 smears were taken from 21 I. macrourus. Information on the length of the oestrous cycle in P. nasuta, using all criteria, was obtained from only nine cycles in eight animals. The cycle length averaged 21 days but the range was from 10 to 34 days. Considerably more information on the length of the cycle was obtained from the smaller number of I. macrourus; the average length of 39 cycles in 15 animals was 20 days, the range being 9-34 days.
Distribution of Two Forms of the Meat Ant Iridomyrmex Purpureus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) on Kangaroo Island and in the Yorke Peninsula.
Authors: Greenslade PJM
Published: June 2005

The geographical distributions of the meat ants Iridomyrmex purpureus, s.s., and a blue form of uncertain specific status were surveyed on Kangaroo I. and the Yorke Peninsula. The climate is mediterranean with dry summers, moderated in the south-west of land masses by maritime influences. The blue form occurs in areas of low rainfall; purpureus, s.s., is found in more humid areas but reaches a wet limit in western Kangaroo I. In the Yorke Peninsula, annual and summer rainfall determine three climatic zones. Only the blue form was found in the zone of lowest rainfal1, purpureus predominated in the high-rainfall zone, and both forms occurred in the intermediate zone where their relative frequency depended on soil properties, especially depth and texture.
Studies on populations on Potorous Desmarest (Marsupialia) I.Morphological variation
Authors: Johnston PG , Sharman GB
Published: June 2005

Considerable morphological variation exists in potoroos (genus Potorous) from south-eastern and south-western Australia. This has resulted in as many as five species being named by various workers.
Univariate morphometric analyses on potoroos other than P. platyops revealed longitudinal clinal variation in body size across northern Tasmania and latitudinal clinal variation in muzzle proportions in populations from southern Queensland to southern Tasmania. Two multivariate techniques, the Penrose measure of distance and canonical analysis, based on 10 skull and dental measurements, supported the univariate analyses and also suggested the occurrence of clinal variation. On morphological grounds, it was not possible to distinguish separate taxa from south-eastern or south-western Australia. It is concluded that apart from P. platyops all potoroos belong to a single highly variable species, P. tridactylus.
A Revision of the Anomaloninae (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) of Australia.
Authors: Gauld ID
Published: June 2005

Extensive collections of Australian Anomaloninae have been studied and the 17 described species
considered valid are redescribed. Six new species are described and two new synonymies proposed.
A neotype is erected to stabilize the usage of the name Anomalon coarctatum Brulle. Lectotypes
are designated for three species. Variation is discussed briefly and notes on recorded hosts included. Characters to differentiate the Anomaloninae from other subfamilies of Ichneumonidae are given.
Fine structure of cortical barrels in the mouse
Authors: Hinrichsen CFL , Stevens GE
Published: June 2005

Electron micrographs of sections of mouse neocortical layer IV, cut tangential to the pial surface, show the detailed organization of neuronal groups or 'barrels', which are related functionally to single facial vibrissae. Cortical barrels comprise 'sides' of stellate and small pyramidal neurons, groups of myelinated axons, and apical dendrites. The 'cores' comprise a neuropil of thalamic afferents, sparse neurons, converging basal dendrites of pyramidal cells and stellate cell dendrites. Some neurons of the 'sides' are attached through puncta adherentia.
Adaptation to anoxia on snakes: Levels of glycolytic enzymes in skeletal muscle
Authors: Baldwin J , Seymore RS
Published: June 2005

The specific activities of the enzymes lactate dehydrogenase, phosphorylase, phosphofructokinase
and hexokinase were determined in skeletal muscle from a range of aquatic and terrestrial snakes.
The results are interpreted as reflecting a gradation in adaptation to temporary muscle anoxia, and this view correlates well with the life styles and activity patterns of the animals.
Adaptation to temporary muscle anoxia in Anurans: Activities of glycolytic enzymes in muscles from species differing in their ability to produce lactate during exercise
Authors: Baldwin J , Friedman G , Lillywhite H
Published: June 2005

Specific activities of the enzymes lactate dehydrogenase, phosphorylase, phosphofructokinase and hexokinase were determined in hind leg musculature taken from four species of anuran having different capacities for producing lactate during exercise. The specific activities of phosphorylase, phosphofructokinase, and the ratio phosphorylase: hexokinase were highest in animals having high increments of lactate following exercise, and lowest in those showing low increments. The specific activities of these glycolytic enzymes could possibly be used as an index of the reliance of different species on anaerobic energy production. Lactate dehydrogenase activity was not well correlated with anaerobic capacity.
Relation of oxygen consumption to temperature and time of day in tropical anuran amphibians
Authors: Weathers WW , Snyder GK
Published: June 2005

Oxygen consumption was examined in three species of tropical frogs, Rana blythi, R. chalcanota and R. nicobariensis, at ambient temperatures between 20 and 35�C. Oxygen consumption varied directly with temperature over the entire range studied. The thermal coefficient (Ql0) for oxygen consumption for the three species averaged 2.67 (range 2.49-2.84), which is similar to that of temperate zone amphibians. At 25�C, the resting oxygen consumption of the tropical frogs averaged only 30% of that predicted for ranids on the basis of body weight. Oxygen consumption of R. nicobariensis and R. chalcanota, determined at 30�C in continuous darkness at 15-min intervals for 26 consecutive hours, exhibited an endogenous rhythm with a period of approximately 12 hours. Thus, while these tropical anurans resemble their temperate relatives in some respects, they possess greatly reduced levels of resting oxygen consumption.
Chromosomal and morphometric variation in the gekko Diplodactylus vittatus (Gray)
Authors: King M
Published: June 2005

Chromosomal and morphometric analysis has shown that there are five distinct races of Diplodactylus vittatus: 2n = 38 EA, 2n = 34 SA, 2n = 36 WA, 2n = 38 WA A and 2n = 38 WA B. The 2n = 34 SA, and 2n = 36 WA races have evolved independently in Eastern and Western Australia and are interpreted as the products of chromosomal fusions. Each of the five races is morphologically distinguishable, has an extensive and discrete distribution and is chromosomally constant throughout its range; each is regarded as a biological species. The present-day distribution suggests that the fusion races may have evolved by stasipatric speciation.
A Re-Evaluation of Introgression Between Dacus Tryoni and Dacus Neohumeralis (Diptera: Tephritidae).
Authors: Vogt WG
Published: June 2005

The humeral calli in D. tryoni range from completely yellow to almost entirely brown. This variation is largely genetic and the character responds readily to selection in the laboratory. In field populations, selection favours flies with little or no brown pigment on the calli (around 3% brown) and there is a strong natural selection against the darker forms. However, field populations of D. tryoni show only a limited response to this selection, since flies with dark calli are regularly present in field samples. One possible explanation is that the loss of genes through selection is balanced by recurrent gene exchange with D. neohumeralis, a species in which selection favours flies with dark calli. Gene exchange between the two species is restricted, because their periods of sexual activity do not coincide. This mating barrier is incomplete however, since limited gene exchange can be induced in the laboratory. D. tryoni is sympatric with D. neohumevalis for only part of its range in eastern Australia. It is shown that callus variability in D. tryoni is uniform over its entire range and is therefore independent of possible gene exchange with D. neohumeralis. An alternative mechanism is proposed to explain the maintenance of callus variability in D. tryoni, namely, a stabilizing selection that operates against flies at both extremes of its callus range.
Immunoglobulin allotypes in some Australian wild rabbit populations
Authors: McCluskey J , Olivier TJ , Curtin C
Published: June 2005

Several populations of Australian wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus, were surveyed for the distributions of alleles and phenotypes at the a and b immunoglobulin loci. Three alleles were found ateach locus. Significant genetic differentiation was found between populations separated by bothlong and extremely short geographic distances. No influences of natural selection on the geographicdistributions of allotype alleles could be detected. The high levels of heterozygosity at the immunoglobulin loci are in marked contrast to the low levels found in red cell enzymes and some other blood protein loci of Australian rabbits.
Blood-Sucking Flies Feeding on Sheep in Eastern Australia.
Authors: Muller MJ , Murray MD
Published: June 2005

An investigation was undertaken to determine the species of blood-sucking flies which feed on sheep. Engorged insects were collected by a number of methods and their blood meals were identified by precipitin and haemagglutination inhibition tests. Sixteen species of mosquitoes attacked sheep, and of these Anopheles annulipes and Culex annulirostris dominated. Twelve species of biting midges in the genera Culicoides, Leptoconops and Lasiohelea were shown to bite sheep; the dominant species were C. marksi and C. breuitarsis. The simuliid Austrosimulium pestilens and the muscid Stomoxys calcitrans also fed on sheep. Some of these species also fed on other hosts-eight on ox, five on marsupials and one on horse. Four of the most widespread Culicoides species, C. brevitarsis, C. dycei, C. marksi and C. victoriae, fed on both sheep and ox, a factor of epidemiological significance in their potential role as vectors of arbovirus diseases of livestock.
Distribution of Catch in Relation to Emergence of Adults in Some Noctuid Pest Species in South Coastal Queensland.
Authors: Persson B
Published: June 2005

The catch of some noctuid pest species in a light trap operating for 18 months in south coastal Queensland was compared with the emergence of adults in cultures reared simultaneously in a field cage in the trapping area. Generally there was a good positive correlation between the monthly catch and the rearing results. In March 1973 the catch of most species observed was high despite a small emergence of adults, probably because much of the catch consisted of moths entering or flying over the area in connection with weather fronts. A lunar periodicity was found in the catch of most species but not in the emergence of adults in the cultures. Strong illumination, however, suppressed or delayed oviposition.
Theoretically five to six generations a year can be expected in the area. None of the more abundant species are, however, adapted to both winter and summer conditions, and all are present in low numbers for some part of the year. If the weather during prolonged periods strongly departed from the long-term local average, the populations of different species could be more or less obliterated. This was, however, in most species compensated for by repeated reinfestations from other areas. Immigration also accounted for the sudden appearance of some species after prolonged absence.
The results suggest that studies of this type may provide information on population changes caused by local conditions and population movements.
A review of the genera Carystea Baly and Paralepta Baly (Coleoptera : Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Selman BJ
Published: June 2005

The genera Carystea Baly and Paralepta Baly are synonyms, with Carystea the senior synonym. Four new specific synonymies are made and Carystea now contains seven valid species, five of them with new combinations of names. Starycea, gen. nov., is described for six species including three formerly included in Carystea, and two new synonymies are made. Parastarycea, gen, nov., is described for Carystea micans Baly. Carystea sapphira (Fabricius) is found to have been incorrectly described from Australia and is a synonym of Chrysochloa tristis (Fabricius) from Europe.
Temperature regulation in the Dusky Munia, Lonchura fuscans (Cassin) (Estrildidae)
Authors: Weathers WW
Published: June 2005

Dusky munias are small (9.5 g) tropical seed-eating members of the family Estrildidae. Adaptations of munias to hot-humid conditions were examined by measuring body temperatures (Tb), rates of oxygen consumption [V(O2)] and evaporative water loss (Mwe) at night at ambient temperatures (Ta) between 17 and 44�C.
Within the zone of thermal neutrality (30-39�C) night-time Tb averaged 38.9�C (range 37.6-41.l�C). Above 30�C, Tb increased with increasing To, reaching a maximum of 44.1�C at a Ta of 43.8�C. For the most part, dusky munias were unable to maintain Tb lower than Ta at high temperatures. The mean standard metabolic rate of munias was 1.87 ml O2 g-1 h-1. This is only 51% of the value predicted for passerine birds of comparable size. Below thermal neutrality, V(O2) (in ml g-l h-1) varied with Ta (�C) in accordance with the equation V(O2) = 8.37-0.218Ta. The slope of the line relating V(O2) to Ta below thermal neutrality is 19% lower than predicted, indicating that munias are better insulated than other birds of comparable size. Dusky munias have relatively high rates of Mwe at Ta's below 34�C (mean 7.68 mg water g-1 h-1), but exhibit little capacity to increase the rate of evaporation at high Ta's.
Review of metabolic data for birds reveals that the standard metabolic rate of tropical species averages 67% of the level predicted from body mass. Thus, adaptation to hot-humid climates appears to have involved a reduction in the level of metabolism.
A revision of the taxonomy of the gennus Daphnia (Crustacea : Daphnidae) in south-eastern Australia
Authors: Hebert PDN
Published: June 2005

The taxonomy of Daphnia in south-eastern Australia has been revised on the basis of conventional morphological studies supplemented by electrophoretic analysis. Ten species are recognized; of these five have not previously been described and three others have been treated as forms of Daphnia carinata. Detailed descriptions, with figures of the females of all species and of the males of eight species, are included as well as a key to the adult females. Comment is made on the ecology and distribution of the species and on the zoogeographical relationship of Australian Daphnia.
Histological Changes in the Ovary of the Hopping-Mouse Notomys Alexis During Lactation.
Authors: Breed WG
Published: June 2005

The histological structure of the ovary of the lactating hopping-mouse is described. Two sets of corpora lutea are usually present, one of which appears to degenerate fairly rapidly during lactation and is thus considered to be the corpora lutea of pregnancy. Spontaneous ovulation usually occurs after parturition; thus corpora lutea of lactation are formed which appear to remain healthy-looking throughout most of lactation. Oocytes were flushed from Fallopian tubes immediately after parturition, but then not again until at least day 10 of lactation.
Vesicular follicles were not present after post-partum ovulation, but had usually developed by day 5. In females suckling three or more young, however, maximum follicular size did appear to be somewhat inhibited, compared to that in females suckling one young, from days 5 to 11 of lactation; by day 15 larger vesicular follicles had developed and recently formed corpora lutea were present in one individual.
Origin and Decline of the 1973 Plague Locust Outbreak in Central Western New South Wales.
Authors: Farrow RA
Published: June 2005

An important outbreak of the Australian plague locust, Chortoicetes terminifera (Wlk.), occurred in 1973 in central western New South Wales. The dynamics of the outbreak could be resolved into a sequence of five principal interacting events: (1) Sustained population increases in low-density populations in northern central western New South Wales during three successive breeding periods in 1972. The increases were a result of successful, local multiplication, immigration from more northerly breeding areas and restricted opportunities for dispersal. The continuing concentration of locusts in the northern central west led to local gregarisation and swarm formation in autumn and spring 1972. (2) Massive southward displacements at night during an intense tropical disturbance between 29 January and 4 February 1973, which resulted in an invasion and concentration of infestations in southern central western New South Wales. (3) Substantial multiplication increases (10- to 30-fold), as a result of the drought-breaking rainfall in the autumn and spring of 1973 in the central-west. This resulted in an intensification of the plague with the production of numerous, slow-moving swarms. (4) Massive southward displacements during several periods of disturbed weather in spring 1973, which led to the disappearance of adult infestations from the central west and a dispersal of infestations in areas invaded further south. (5) Heavy mortality in residual populations of hoppers and eggs. The combined effects of parasites, predators and a reduced viability of eggs and hoppers resulted in a complete collapse of the plague in the central west by December 1973.Although displacement by adults at night is shown to be the principal factor regulating both population fluctuations in specific localities and the spread of plagues through southward invasions, outbreaks are ultimately determined by initial multiplication increases in relatively sedentary recession populations. Both multiplication and migration were influenced more by variations in synoptic weather than by any other factor. Diurnal swarm movements, although conspicuous, did not significantly influence the overall spread of the outbreak studied.The quality and quantity of available fresh green food did not appear to limit further successful breeding during the decline of the plague. Although influxes of locusts into the central-west continued during disturbed weather in 1974, none remained to breed and densities fell to levels (<1/ha) lower than those of drought seasons. It appears unlikely, therefore, that plagues can be sustained in any one area, even when environmental conditions remain favourable for breeding, because of: (1) mass emigration during disturbed weather; (2) increased effectiveness of natural enemies; and (3) declines in viability and fecundity in moist conditons.
The Genera and Species of the Tribe Morabini (Orthoptera: Eumastacidae: Morabinae).
Authors: Key KHL
Published: June 2005

The tribe Morabini, of four genera and ten species, is revised to the species level. The genus
Drysdalopila and species D. lamellicercus are described as new, along with Moraba walkeri, M.
darwinensis, and M. concolor, and Spectriforma spinulifera and S. transversa. Keys to the genera
and species are provided. Characters of the female genitalia are used for the first time in the taxonomy of the Morabinae; new homologies are suggested for component structures of the endophallus. Geographical and habitat relations are discussed.
Fat reserves of the wild rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.)
Authors: Martin JT
Published: June 2005

Two methods for obtaining an index of fat reserves in the wild rabbit were tested on animals collected over a period of 14 months from six locations in semiarid western New South Wales. Marrow fat appeared to have little value except when populations approach starvation, but because few of the study populations approached this point it was not fully evaluated.
Abdominal fat index, an estimator based on the weight of the fat depot which lies on the right dorsal side of the abdominal cavity extending from the diaphragm to the pelvic girdle, was found to be more useful for indicating population fat reserves than the marrow fat index. Mean values for each location could be calculated to provide a measure of relative environmental favourability. The index also reflected a population's rate of increase.
An additional chromosome race of Phyllodactyllus marmoratus (Gray) (Reptilia : Gekkonidae) and its phylogenetic implications
Authors: King M , King D
Published: June 2005

This paper describes a fourth chromosome race of P. marmoratus. Specimens from this race have 2n = 32 chromosomes and occur in an isolated pocket in the south-west of Western Australia. It is believed that this race has been derived from the 2n = 34 form by an additional chromosome fusion.
Interspecific competition between Drosophila melanogaster and D. simulans: Effects of adult
Authors: Moth JJ
Published: June 2005

The hatchability of eggs laid by D. simulans st and D. melanogaster Or-R-C in consecutive 12-hour periods was measured for the first seven days post eclosion in a replicated experiment where adult density at six levels, species frequency at two levels, and 32P tissue content at two levels were varied factorially. A similar experiment was done for D. simulans st and D. melanogaster yw. In both experiments, all unhatched eggs were classified as either dead or infertile.
Least-squares analyses of variance on arcsine-transformed percentage data indicated that the three strains produced significantly different proportions of hatched, dead, and infertile eggs. Increased adult density significantly decreased the proportion of hatched eggs (and increased the proportion of dead eggs) for D. simulans st and D. melanogaster Or-R-C, but not for D. melanogaster yw. Effects of strain frequency were not significant for D. simulans st or D. melanogaster Or-R-C, but for D. melanogaster yw higher hatchability and lower proportions of infertile eggs were obtained in pure populations. Hatchability varied between periods; changes in hatchability being random (but significant) for D. melanogaster yw, and consistent (but not significant) for D. simulans st (a decrease in hatchability with time) and D. melanogaster Or-R-C (an increase with time). The competing strain of D. melanogaster did not influence the proportions of hatched, dead or infertile eggs from D. simulans st.
Studies on populations of potorous Desmarest (Marsupialia) II. Electrophoretic, chromosomal and breeding studies
Authors: Johnston PG , Sharman GB
Published: June 2005

Geographic variation in potoroos (genus Potorous) from south-eastern Australia and Tasmania was investigated by electrophoretic and chromosomal techniques.
Six of the 10 potoroo blood proteins examined showed electrophoretic variation and the genetic basis of three of these was established by breeding studies. Levels of genic heterozygosity were similar in Tasmanian and mainland populations. Coefficients of genetic similarity based on 10 loci indicated that potoroos from Tasmania and the Bass Strait islands are similar to each other but different from those of mainland Australia. No chromosomal variation was observed in potoroos examined from south-eastern Australia and Tasmania. Crosses between animals from these regions produced fertile offspring.
It is concluded from this study and a related investigation on morphological variation that the genus Potorous should be separated into two species, P. platyops and P. tridactylus, with the further subdivision of the latter species into P.t. tridactylus from mainland Australia (including P. gilberti) and P.t. apicalis from Tasmania and the Bass Strait islands.
Australian endemic Drosophila II. Anew Hibiscus-breeding species with its description
Authors: Cook RM , Parsons PA , Bock IR
Published: June 2005

D. hibisci is a new species of the typically Australian subgenus Scaptodrosophila breeding in the flowers of two endemic Hibiscus species in south-eastern Queensland. The biology of the species based on field and laboratory observations is discussed and a description provided. The prognosis for future laboratory culture of the species is encouraging.
A Revision of Australian Rhiniinae (Diptera: Calliphoridae).
Authors: Dear JP
Published: June 2005

Australian Rhiniinae are revised. Keys are given to genera and species, with illustrations of characters of diagnostic and systematic importance, and all taxa are fully described. Where known, reference is made to their biology. The four genera included (Chlororhinia, Metallea, Rhinia and Stomorhina) contain 14 species and one species-complex. Two further genera (Idiella, Isomyia) are included in the generic key, since they will probably be found in Australia.
Four new species are described: Metallea albifacies, Metallea nigripilosa, Stomorhina norrisi and Stomorhina pollinosa. Two species are recorded for the first time from Australia (Chlororhinia fuscohirta and Rhinia apicalis). One name is raised from synonymy: Metallea insularis Malloch (= incisuralis of authors). Three lectotypes are designated.
Testis Growth and Regression in Harmful Birds in the Punjab in Relation to Some Environmental Factors.
Authors: Dang HR , Guraya SS
Published: June 2005

Testis growth and regression were studied, in relation to environmental temperature, sunshine, relative humidity and rainfall, in the house crow Corvus splendens, the common myna Acridotheres tristis and the house sparrow Passer domesticus, all of which are harmful species in the Punjab. Testis weight varied greatly during the year, but the species differed in their response to environmental conditions. The crow and the myna have active testes during May-July and April-July respectively; in the sparrow the testes are active twice in the year, February-June and September-October. The environmental factors are not sufficient to regulate the reproductive behaviour of these birds in the Punjab, and it is suggested that the reproductive state of birds is determined by a combination of exteroceptive and enteroceptive factors which varies considerably among species.
Australian endemic Drosophila IV. Queensland rain forest species collected at fruit baits, with descriptions of two species
Authors: Bock IR , Parsons PA
Published: June 2005

Australian Drosophila species attracted to fermented fruits are mainly of the subgenera Drosophila and Sophophora. With the exception of D. (Sophophora) dispar, all non-cosmopolitan species are exclusively of tropical and subtropical rain forests. Greatest species diversities occur in these and other subgenera in the floristically most complex forests, declining with increasing altitude and latitude. The cosmopolitan members of the genus are rare in rain forests, otherwise suitable niches being, presumably, occupied.
D. (Drosophila) persicae, sp. nov., and D. (Sophophora) ironensis, sp. nov., are described, both collected in complex mesophyll vine forests. Of these D. persicae is one of only four non-cosmopolitan species of subgenus Drosophila in Australia, and apparently the only one entirely restricted to Australia. Apart from the cosmopolitan species D. immigrans, members of the subgenus Drosophila are not found south of north Queensland. Only two Sophophora species are common in more southern regions: one, D. dispar, extends across Victoria into temperate rain forests, while the other, D. pseudotakahashii, does not. Predictably, these two species are common in the depauperate highland habitats of north Queensland.
The effect of developmental temperature on population flexibility in Drosophila melanogaster and D. simulans
Authors: Mckenzie JA
Published: June 2005

Ten strains each of D. melanogaster and D. simulans were derived from single inseminated females of the same population. For each strain the influence of developmental temperatures in the range 12-30�C was considered for developmental time, egg to adult development percentage, sex ratio, longevity of adults, mating speed, fecundity and fertility. The species showed similar responses for all characters, although for the latter four D. simulans was more affected by extreme temperatures. Analyses of variance demonstrated temperature, strain, and temperature x strain effects to be generally significant. For sex ratio, however, temperature effects alone were significant. The results are discussed in relation to the level of genetical integration existing in a population and how such integration allows for considerable population flexibility.
Effects of Fenitrothion and Aminocarb, at Doses Giving Low Mortality, on Surviving Eggs and Larvae of the Eucalypt-Defoliating Chrysomelid Beetle Paropsis Atomaria Ol. I. Methods, Mortality and Relative Toxicity.
Authors: Tanton MT , Khan SM
Published: June 2005

Fenitrothion and aminocarb at concentrations of 0.625-200 ppm caused mortality of Paropsis atomaria eggs of from 12 to 87%, depending on dose and material: fenitrothion was about 20 times more effective than aminocarb. Fenitrothion at doses of 20-6300ng active ingredient per gram of larval fresh body weight also caused more mortality of second- and fourth-instar larvae than aminocarb at the same doses, but the low mortalities prevented conventional probit analysis. Results confirmed that doses used were much lower than those accepted for economic control, but were in the range required for evaluating biological effects on survivors.
Effects of Fenitrothion and Aminocarb, at Doses Giving Low Mortality, on Surviving Eggs and Larvae of the Eucalypt-Defoliating Chrysomelid Beetle Paropsis Atomaria Ol. Ii. Biology of Survivors.
Authors: Tanton MT , Khan SM
Published: June 2005

Mortality of P. atomaria eggs treated with fenitrothion or aminocarb increased with the dose level, fenitrothion being the more effective. Larvae from eggs treated with fenitrothion and all but the two lowest concentrations of aminocarb died within periods of up to 10 days, depending on dosage. Fenitrothion caused higher mortality of second- and fourth-instar larvae, but aminocarb retarded their growth the more; growth was progressively retarded with increasing dose. Surviving fourth-instar larvae treated with aminocarb recovered, and by 96 h after treatment their growth was less retarded than that of fenitrothion-treated larvae. Growth retardation was due to poor utilization of food. Longevity, fecundity and fertility of adults from treated larvae were also affected. Egg and larval endoparasites were not affected.
Effects of Fenitrothion and Aminocarb, at Doses Giving Low Mortality, on Surviving Eggs and Larvae of the Eucalypt-Defoliating Chrysomelid Beetle Paropsis Atomaria Ol. Iii. Histological Changes in Treated Larvae.
Authors: Tanton MT , Khan SM
Published: June 2005

The treatment of larvae of Paropsis atomaria Ol. with low doses of fenitrothion or aminocarb caused disintegration of the cell structure of the alimentary canal, reducing food digestion and absorption [see preceding abstract, etc.]. The growth of the larvae decreased progressively as the dose increased, and the fat-body was reduced. Muscle damage was also evident.
Temporal Distribution, Biology and Life History of the Cotton Tipworm, Crocidosema Plebiana Zeller, on Cotton in the South-Eastern Queensland Region.
Authors: Bishop AL , Blood PRB
Published: June 2005

Data are presented from a three-season study of the seasonal abundance, biology and life history of C. plebeiana, which affects cotton during its establishment and early fruiting phases in the south-east Queensland region. Results suggest that if insecticidal control of tipworm is necessary it should be initiated during the egg stage.
Systematics and chromosomes of New Guinea Rattus
Authors: Dennis E , Menzies JI
Published: June 2005

Karyotypes of six endemic New Guinea Rattus species are described. They fall into two distinct types. The R. leucopus group, which is a compact group morphologically, have very similar karyotypes of 32 or 34 chromosomes and are distinct from the Australian Rattus. The karyotypes of the second type, the R. sordidus group, are related to Australian members of the same group. What has previously been regarded as a single species of the sordidus group, R. sordidus gestroi, is shown to consist of two distinct populations with different karyotypes and skull parameters; we consider that they should be regarded as two species.
Studies on the epidermis of Temnocephala III. Scanning electron microscope study of the epidermal surface of Temnocephala dendyi
Authors: Williams JB
Published: June 2005

The epidermal surface of T. dendyi is plentifully supplied with uniciliate receptors, both singly and in clusters. The receptors are thickly concentrated on the tentacles and around the mouth, and sparse or absent on the ventral face of the disc. Elongated cilia also occur, which are especially long and flagellum-like on the ventral surface. These mostly arise from the tufts of ciliate receptors and are probably accessory to the sensory system. Their activity may draw currents to the ciliary tufts and increase the effectiveness of these receptors, which probably have a chemoreceptive function. Temnocephalids evidently do not possess the locomotory ciliation of the epidermis which typifies the turbellarians.
Feeding Behaviour and Energetics of the Western Spinebill, Acanthorhynchus Superciliosis (Aves: Meliphagidae).
Authors: Collins BG , Clow H
Published: June 2005

Acanthorhynchus superciliosis shows diurnal variation in bodyweight, with morning (dawn) values significantly lower than evening (dusk) weights. These weights are stabilized by birds fed on nectar 0.82 and 0.37 mol/litre, although some difficulty seems to be experienced by birds given 0.20 mol/litre. Regardless of nectar strength, birds exhibit temporal variations in feeding behaviour, with feeding times and rates of nectar intake greater for the first 60 to 90 min of each day than later. The frequency of visits to the source of nectar is higher in the morning and at midday than in the late afternoon. In general, A. superciliosis responds to a decrease in nectar concentration by accentuating the above variations and increasing its overall rate of nectar intake, frequency of visits to the nectar source and the time spent feeding. These changes permit birds to increase their energy intake, although it would seem that, particularly for birds drinking 0.20 mol/litre, the energetic cost incurred may more than offset the additional energy gained.
Apparent Incipient speciation in the midge Chironomus oppositus Walker (Diptera: Chironomidae)
Authors: Martin J , Lee BTO , Conner E
Published: June 2005

Field collections of Chironomus oppositus from certain localities in Tasmania, in particular from Bellerive, consistently show distributions of inversions different to those found in the normal form, which is referred to as form A and occurs in mainland Australia and most other Tasmanian populations. These collections showed: (1) a marked deficiency of almost all inversion heterozygotes; (2) significant groups of associated sequences which can be used to define two additional forms, referred to as form B and form C. Since forms B and C have so far only been found together, it would appear that this represents an unusual situation in insect speciation. This karyotypic divergence must be maintained by some restriction on interbreeding, both between these two groups and also between them and form A, with which they appear to coexist in some localities.
Australian endemic Drosophila V. Queensland rain-forest species associated with fungi, with descriptions of six new species and a rediscription of D. pictipennis Kertesz
Authors: Bock IR , Parsons PA
Published: June 2005

Direct aspiration from the undersides of bracket fungi, or collections from the vicinity of soft fungi, usually on decaying logs, yielded nine Hirtodrosophila species of which three are new. Of these, five species including two new ones use the undersides of bracket fungi as courting territories. Baiting with rotted commercial mushrooms yielded 10 Scaptodrosophila species of which three are new and a fourth, D. pictipennis Kertesz, is a new record for Australia. The uniqueness of the north Queensland fauna is emphasized, since few of the species here discussed also occur in the south. By far the highest species diversities occur in the complex mesophyll vine forests of north Queensland, in agreement with previously reported collections for the subgenera Drosophila and Sophophora. Descriptions of the six new species are provided, together with a redescription of D. pictipennis.
Chaetohesma - a new genus of Australian Bees (Apoida : Colletidae : Euryglossinae)
Authors: Exley EM
Published: June 2005

The genus Chaetohesma is proposed for a group of small bees of the subfamily Euryglossinae. Ten new species are described: C. tuberculata, C. newmanensis, C. levis, C, striolata, C. infuscata, C. isae, C. robusta, C. foveolata, C. baringa and C. megastigma. Keys, line drawings and scanning electron micrographs that enable the separation of species are presented.