bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental orientation by terrestrial Mollusca with particular reference to homing behaviour
Authors: Rollo C. David , Wellington W. G.
Published: April 2009

The homing of nine species of slugs and snails was studied in field and laboratory cages. All species were able to relocate artificial shelters from > 1 m distant. When it was rainy or windy, molluscs approached shelters in a spiralling manner, but in calmer, drier weather approaches were direct. Navigational behaviour to shelters was similar among all species.An experiment with Ariolimax columbianus showed that these slugs returned to the same shelters over long periods but moved more frequently if nearby shelters were occupied by conspecifics. Unoccupied shelters were "discovered" more slowly.A seasonal trend in shelter abandonment was associated with increased movements among shelters by several species. This trend was significantly correlated with shelter temperature.In the laboratory molluscs homed several times each night, apparently by following air-borne odor gradients in still air. Following slime trails was common, and was sometimes involved in homing. However, it also serves other purposes (territorial defense, locating mates, reducing locomotor costs).In one experiment Arion ater preferentially homed to shelters containing carrot-derived faeces as opposed to those containing only carrots. A homing pheromone was suggested, contained either in their faeces or in the mollusc's slime.
Croissance, bilan d'energie et production d'eau metabolique chez la larve de Tineola bisselliella
Authors: Chauvin G. , Gueguen A. , Vannier G.
Published: April 2009

The keratophagous larva Tineola bisselliella develops better in a dry than in a wet environment at the constant temperature of 20 °C. At 95% relative humidity (RH), mortality is higher than 80% and the larval life lasts up to 341 days. At 5% RH, mortality reaches only 30% and the larval life lasts only 216 days. The study of utilization of the energy contained in 3680 μg of food (mukrat hair) at 95% RH and then at 5% RH shows the physiological reactions of the larva when the RH is modified. At 5% RH, the larva ingest the 3680 μg of food in 17 days while they ingest the same amount in 10 days at 5% RH. For the same quantity of ingested energy, the energetic value lost by respiration and silk secretion are more important at 95% RH than at 5% RH. In a very wet environment, the energy lost in the feces is reduced. At 5% RH, the production of body tissue and the storage of the ingested energy are twice as high as those at 95% RG, in spite of a loss of water which may exceed 4 μg/h. The production of metabolic water allows the larva to keep constant its quantity of body water and does not prevent the storage of lipidic substances. The weight of metabolic water produced at 5% RH is evaluated at 33% of the weight of the ingested food.
Influence of a reservoir with surface release on the life history of the mayfly Heterocloeon curiosum (McDunnough) (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae)
Authors: Kondratieff Boris C. , Voshell Jr. J. Reese
Published: April 2009

The life history of Heterocloeon curiosum was compared in the impounded North Anna River (NAR) and the free-flowing South Anna River (SAR) in Virginia, U.S.A. The study site on the NAR was 32 km below Lake Anna, a surface-release reservoir. Heterocloeon curiosum was bivoltine in both rivers with two summer generations and probable overwintering in the egg stage. It passed through 10 larval instars (range 9–12) in both rivers. The density of larvae was twice as great in the SAR as the NAR. Factors which may have contributed to the lesser success of H. curiosum in the NAR included bottom scouring produced by sudden increases in discharge, absence of the macrophyte Podostemum, quality of available food, and alterations of the temperature regime. Of these four factors, temperature probably had the most significant effect. The emergence of the second generation was 1 month later in the NAR because the reservoir delayed the normal seasonal cooling of the river. The nonoptimal temperature regime appeared to significantly reduce the fecundity of H. curiosum in the NAR. Our data indicate that surface-release reservoirs may have subtle but significant effects on the life histories of benthic macroinvertebrates.
Un cas Algérien de parasitisme de Phlebotomus (Paraphlebotomus) sergenti Parrot 1917 par Entomophthorale
Authors: Dedet J. P. , Laird M.
Published: April 2009

The objects of the present note are to describe the case of a sandfly, collected in Algeria, parasitized by organisms that we believe to be assignable to the Entomophthorales; and to suggest that "Coelomomyces" ciferrii Leão and Pedroso is really entomophthoracean too.
Activities of enzymes in cardiac energy metabolism
Authors: MacIntyre Armand B. , Driedzic William R.
Published: April 2009

The activities of enzymes of fat and carbohydrate energy metabolism were determined in hearts from a number of species. Activities of citrate synthase and 3-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase were lower in hearts from ectothermic animals than rats or pigeons. However, activities of hexokinase and phosphofructokinase in the ectothermic hearts were equal to or greater than the activities in the endothermic hearts. It thus appears that the hearts from the ectothermic species have a greater dependence upon a glucose-based metabolism than hearts from endothermic animals.
Ejaculation and spermatophore formation in Culicoides melleus (Coq.) (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: Linley J. R.
Published: April 2009

This paper describes the initial stages of sperm transfer in Culicoides melleus. A description of the male and female reproductive tracts is given and an account of events during the first 2 min of coitus. In this period the male secretes a spermatophore, which, during copulation, is held predominantly in the male genitalia. The course of ejaculation, involving passage of spermatozoa through the seminal vesicles and glutinous glands of the male accessory gland, and subsequently through the ejaculatory ducts, is described. Extrusion of the spermatophore at the aedeagus is illustrated and an explanation advanced to account for encapsulation of the sperm masses. The structure and content of the spermatophore is described with the aid of electron micrographs. A feature of particular interest is the "membrane complex," secreted prior to ejaculation by cells of the glutinous glands. The complex consists of a layer of membranes, which separates the ejaculate from the spermatophore walls.
Emptying of the spermatophore and spermathecal filling in Culicoides melleus (Coq.) (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: Linley J. R.
Published: April 2009

This paper completes the account of sperm transfer in Culicoides melleus. The events investigated here occupy the last 8 min of copulation and are concerned with transfer of spermatozoa and male accessory fluids to the spermathecae. It is proposed that transfer is effected by two complementary processes; the influx of fluid, by osmosis, into the spermatophore, and simultaneous withdrawal of fluid from the female system, principally the spermathecae. Arguments based on sperm motility as related to propagation of the flagellar wave of spermatozoa are developed to support these conclusions. Calculations show that the number of spermatozoa in the ejaculate cannot pass up the individual spermathecal ducts, by means of flagellar propulsion alone, within times that agree with observational data. The volume relationships of the spermatophore and female reproductive system are considered.
Ultrastructural characterization of superficial and deep flexor muscles in the crayfish thorax
Authors: Crabtree R. L. , Sherman R. G.
Published: April 2009

Transmission electon microscopy revealed that all of the superficial flexor muscle fibers in the crayfish thorax possess sarcomeres 8–10 μm in length, 12 thin myofilaments around each thick myofilament, no H zone, and irregular Z lines. This characterizes them as tonic. All of the deep flexor fibers possess sarcomeres 2–4 μm in length, six myofilaments around each thick myofilament, a distinct H zone, and Z lines that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the fiber. This characterizes them as phasic. Differences in the distribution of mitochondria and glycogen granules and in the organization of synaptic regions also are noted.
Identification of excitatory and inhibitory neuromuscular synapses in the crayfish thoracic deep flexor musculature
Authors: Crabtree R. L. , Sherman R. G.
Published: April 2009

Excitatory and inhibitory neuromuscular synapses in the thoracic deep flexors of the crayfish were examined using electron microscopy. Excitatory nerve terminals were found to have larger synaptic vesicles and a greater synaptic cleft distance than did inhibitory terminals. These results were confirmed by fixation enhancement of differences in synaptic vesicle morphology and the experimental depletion of vesicles in the excitatory nerve terminals.
Two new species of Alona (Chydoridae, Cladocera) from western Canada
Authors: Chengalath R. , Hann B. J.
Published: April 2009

Two new species of chydorid Cladocera, Alona lapidicola and Alona borealis, are described and compared with Alona setulosa, to which both are closely related.
Anatomy of the tail in the beaver (Castor canadensis)
Authors: Mahoney J. M. , Rosenberg H. I.
Published: April 2009

A detailed description of the caudal muscles and a review of the bones in the tail of the North American beaver (Castor canadensis) are presented as a base for future functional studies. Differences between previous and present findings are noted and discussed. All the differences indicate that the arrangement of muscles and tendons is more complex than previously indicated.
Effects of the male on growth, sexual maturation, and ovulation of young female meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus
Authors: Baddaloo E. G. Y. , Clulow F. V.
Published: April 2009

Laboratory bred female meadow voles were exposed for 21 days, from weaning at 18 ± 1 days of age, either to mature males (with or without physical contact), females (virgin or multiparous), male urine, or empty cages to assess the influences of the social environment on growth, rate of sexual maturation and ovarian function. When allowed direct physical contact with males for 2 h each day the females showed no significant weight gain but an acceleration of sexual development compared with controls was observed. Those exposed to males or male urine through a wire barrier for 24 h each day demonstrated increase in weight gain and rate of sexual development compared to controls and females exposed to females. One female, exposed to a male through a wire barrier, had corpora lutea in her ovaries when she was killed. Under the experimental conditions female conspecifics had no effect on growth or the attainment of sexual maturity. Mediation of the male influence is concluded to be pheromonal with the active compound(s) present in the urine.
Diacyclops languidus (Sars, 1863) (Copepoda, Cyclopoida), nouvelle mention pour l'Amérique du Nord
Authors: Leblanc André , Sutherland Ian , Aubin Antoine
Published: April 2009

Diacyclops languidus (Sars, 1863), a cyclopoid copepod previously unrecorded in North America, was found during a survey of Crustacea occurring in temporary aquatic pools which support populations of mosquito larvae. A detailed description of the species is given with notes on its phenology, ecology, and distribution in the bogs of Basse-Mauricie, Québec.
Annual spawning cycles and planktonic larvae of benthic invertebrates from Passamaquoddy Bay, New Brunswick
Authors: Lacalli T.
Published: April 2009

Periods of larval occurrence are reported for 19 polychaete species and 10 other common planktonic larvae. Egg sizes are given for 29 polychaete species with estimates of spawning period for 14 of these based on studies of the adult worms. Spawning periods are shown to correlate better with larval type (e.g. whether planktotrophic or lecithotrophic) than with the zoogeographic distribution of the adults. Among the planktotrophic larvae, the evidence suggests that some larvae (e.g. polynoid larvae) develop successfully only during the spring diatom bloom, and gamete wastage may result from any substantial mismatch between the diatom bloom and spawning period. The lecithotrophic larva of the tunicate Boltenia ovifera, which spawns in midwinter, is described for the first time.
Studies on the nutrition and feeding preferences of Aplysia: weight changes on artificial diets deficient in specific amino acids
Authors: Carefoot Thomas H.
Published: April 2009

Growth of the sea hare Aplysia kurodai was measured on chemically defined artificial diets, each diet deficient in 1 of 20 amino acids. In addition, a diet complete in all nutrients, a diet deficient in all amino acids, a diet of the green alga Ulva pertusa, and a control diet of agar and cellulose fibre alone were tested, and a group of animals was starved. As expected, the sea hares lost weight on the control diet of agar and cellulose, on the amino acid deficient diet, and under conditions of starvation, and gained weight on the Ulva pertusa diet. The diet complete in all nutrients and 18 of 20 diets deficient in a single amino acid maintained steady weight in A. kurodai over the 24-day experimental period (only leucine- and valine-deficient diets showed significant weight losses). If the first 4 days are omitted and only differences between weights on day 4 and day 24 are considered (many animals lost weight only at the start of an experiment), then none of the artificial diets showed significant changes. No correlation was found between rates of consumption of the different amino acid deficient artificial diets and weight change, nor was there correlation between spawn production or mortality, and presence or absence of "essential" amino acids.
Free amino acid profiles in blood during diving and recovery in the Antarctic Weddell seal
Authors: Murphy B. J. , Hochachka P. W.
Published: April 2009

The blood content of free amino acids was measured in the Antarctic Weddell seal (Leptonychotes weddelli) to assess their possible role in energy metabolism during simulated diving and recovery sequences. The total free amino acid pool size was similar to that in the common harbour seal and in man, but there were a few notable differences in amino acid contributions to the total pool. For example, in the Weddell seal alanine concentrations were unusually low. During diving, the content of free amino acids in whole blood changed hardly at all, unless glutathione levels also changed. In 5 of 10 dive sequences examined, glutathione was markedly depleted during diving, concomitant with a sharp rise in glutamate and glycine released on hydrolysis of this tripeptide. During recovery, glutathione levels were recharged quite rapidly. About half the glutamate and glycine expected from glutathione hydrolysis was expressed by elevated levels of these two amino acids; similarly, only a part of the glutathione reformed during recovery was represented by decreasing glutamate and glycine levels. The only other significant changes in amino acid levels during recovery were shown by alanine and glutamine, both of which increased in whole blood for periods of about 30–60 min. It was concluded that under most simulated diving conditions, free amino acid pools and profiles are not strongly perturbed. Metabolic conditions may arise, however, leading to large drops in glutathione levels, which in turn may perturb the free amino acid pool.
Migration and local movement of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) through Hawaiian waters
Authors: Baker C. Scott , Herman Louis M.
Published: April 2009

Aerial surveys of the population of humpback whales assembled in Hawaiian waters during the 1977, 1978, and 1979 winter seasons were carried out on a weekly to biweekly basis during the major period of residency, from mid-January through mid-April. A progressively later date for peak numbers was found over the 3 years. These annual changes in migratory timing were consistent with earlier data for humpback whales in the western North Pacific but differed from the constant migratory timing reported for South Pacific humpback whales. Regional data showed that each year the earliest peak influx was at the island of Hawaii (Big Island), with regions to the northwest showing progressively later dates for peak residency. Kauai-Niihau, the island group furthest to the northwest, but separated from other islands by extensive deep water channels, seemed to follow an independent trend. Photographic reidentification of seven whales that moved from the Big Island or from the Maui area to regions to the northwest provided supporting evidence for the southeast to northwest movement pattern indicated by aircraft data. This pattern suggested that some whales use the prevailing clockwise surface currents in the upper North Pacific to aid their migration between Alaskan feeding grounds and Hawaii.
Incrimination of natural culicine vectors which transmit Plasmodium elongatum to penguins at the Baltimore Zoo
Authors: Beier John C. , Trpis Milan
Published: April 2009

Culex pipiens and Culex restuans were determined to be natural vectors of Plasmodium elongatum which is seasonally transmitted to African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) at the Baltimore Zoo. Breeding sites for both Culex species were identified within a 1.6-km radius of the penguin exhibit. Both species were captured in penguin-baited traps from May to October, with peak biting occurring in July and August. Four of 612 (0.65%) field-collected Culex harbored infective stages of Plasmodium. Both Culex species were highly susceptible to experimental infections of P. elongatum and both were capable of supporting parasite development through the infective sporozoite stage. The course of sporogony of P. elongatum was studied in both Culex species. Experimental transmission of the parasite was achieved using both Culex species.
Observations on the lack of specificity of Spinitectus carolini and Spinitectus gracilis (Spirurida: Nematoda) for their intermediate hosts
Authors: Jilek Reid , Crites John L.
Published: April 2009

Species representing 27 different genera of invertebrate animals were utilized in determining the intermediate host specificity of Spinitectus carolini and Spinitectus gracilis. A broad co-accommodation was demonstrated, as members of several different orders of insects were experimentally infected and observed to be naturally infected with both S. carolini and S. gracilis. This study also expands the intermediate host records for both S. carolini and S. gracilis.
The transmission, life span, and population biology of Cystidicola cristivomeri White, 1941 (Nematoda: Habronematoidea) in char, Salvelinus spp.
Authors: Black Geoff A. , Lankester Murray W.
Published: April 2009

The population biology of Cystidicola cristivomeri White, 1941 was investigated in lake trout, Salvelinus namaycush, in three lakes in northwestern Ontario and in arctic char, S. alpinus, in Gaviafaeces Lake, Northwest Territories. Young lake trout fed selectively on large Mysis relicta, which were more frequently infected with C. cristivomeri (up to 5.1%) than small mysids. Pontoporeia affinis was not a suitable intermediate host in nature and there was no evidence that fish paratenic hosts were important in transmitting this nematode to lake trout.Most C. cristivomeri appear to live at least 10 years in naturally infected lake trout and arctic char. In these fishes the size of C. cristivomeri infrapopulations is determined by several factors. The feeding preferences of fish hosts and the availability of forage in individual lakes determine the extent and duration of feeding on M. relicta. Each naturally infected mysid contains only one third-stage C. cristivomeri larva. In the swim bladder of infected fishes, the proportion of female C. cristivomeri reaching sexual maturity and the length of females is inversely related to the total number of worms present. The length of mature female worms, in turn, is positively correlated with the rate at which they produce eggs. As a result, the egg output of C. cristivomeri at the infrapopulation level is density dependent.
Growth of seasonal generations in three natural populations of Peromyscus
Authors: Gyug Les W. , Millar John S.
Published: April 2009

Growth of Peromyscus maniculatus borealis, P. m. maniculatus, and P. leucopus was examined in relation to season and temperature. Average weight of P. m. borealis and P. m. maniculatus at weaning was positively correlated with average minimum temperature at that time. Growth from weaning to 40 days of age did not differ seasonally or among populations, although young P. m. borealis and P. m. maniculatus were relatively smaller and larger, respectively, than young P. leucopus. Growth after 40 days of age varied seasonally. Young mice that had the potential to mature during the summer of their birth continued to grow after 40 days of age. Young mice that could not mature during the summer of their birth stopped growing when 75–80% of adult size was reached.
Responses of nonflying moths to ultrasound: the threat of gleaning bats
Authors: Werner Tracey K.
Published: April 2009

Stationary and walking tympanate moths (Arctiidae, Geometridae, Noctuidae, and Notodontidae) exhibited discrete behavioural responses to electronically simulated bat echolocation calls. The presence of a stationary response in a given species was strongly correlated with the presence of a walking response in the same species. Some inter- and intra-specific variability in the presence of this behaviour was observed and the evolutionary implications of this variability are discussed. Such behavioural responses by nonvolant moths to ultrasound may protect them from predation by gleaning bats.
Two new species of trypanosomes (subgenus Schizotrypanum) in bats from southern Ontario
Authors: Bower Susan M. , Woo Patrick T. K.
Published: April 2009

From November of 1976 to May of 1979, the blood of 529 bats from 12 sites in southern Ontario was examined for trypanosomes using the haematocrit centrifugation technique. Trypanosoma hedricki n.sp. was found in 62 of 216 Eptesicus fuscus and Trypanosoma myoti n.sp. in 16 of 313 Myotis lucifugus. Blood forms of both species were morphologically similar to Trypanosoma cruzi. These trypanosomes were readily cultured in diphasic blood–agar medium.Cultures of T. hedricki n.sp. and T. myoti n.sp. were infective when inoculated orally or injected intraperitoneally into laboratory reared E. fuscus and M. lucifugus respectively. Pseudocysts of amastigotes were found in cardiac muscles of both bat species and in the intestinal smooth muscle of M. lucifugus. Trypanosoma hedricki n.sp. was not infective to M. lucifugus nor was T. myoti n.sp. infective to E. fuscus. Unlike T. cruzi, cultures were not infective to Mus musculus, Peromyscus maniculatus, Microtus pennsylvanicus, Mesocricetus auratus, Rattus norvegicus, and Cavia porcellus.After in vitro incubation in fresh plasma from deer mice, hamsters, laboratory rats, guinea pigs, little brown bats, and Homo sapiens, T. hedricki n.sp. could not be cultured. However, positive cultures were obtained after incubation in fresh plasma from E. fuscus and occasionally in fresh plasma from laboratory mice. Positive cultures were always obtained when the plasma was heat inactivated.
Development of Trypanosoma (Schizotrypanum) hedricki in Cimex brevis (Hemiptera: Cimicidae)
Authors: Bower Susan M. , Woo Patrick T. K.
Published: April 2009

Trypanosoma hedricki Bower and Woo from the blood of big brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus (Palisot de Beauvois)) developed in Cimex brevis Usinger and Ueshima. Approximately 24 h after the infected blood meal, the majority of the flagellates were still present in the first ventriculus of the gut but had transformed into epimastigotes. These epimastigotes divided by longitudinal binary fission. Four days after the blood meal, a few flagellates had reached the rectum of bugs held at 25 °C. These transformed into long thin metatrypanosomes. Not all bugs could be infected with T. hedricki but by 12 days after feeding, bugs with trypanosomes usually contained large numbers of metatrypanosomes in the rectum. These metatrypanosomes were infective to big brown bats when inoculated via the intraperitoneal or oral route. Little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus (Le Conte)) could not be infected. The morphology of the vector forms was similar to that of forms cultured in diphasic blood agar medium at about 21 °C and to those of Trypanosoma cruzi Chagas reported from triatomine bugs.Trypanosoma hedricki would not develop in blood-feeding mites (Steatonyssus occidentalis (Ewing)), Rhodnius prolixus Stål, or Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus).
Effect of food deprivation on the reaction of Iowa darters (Etheostoma exile) to skin extract
Authors: Smith R. J. F.
Published: April 2009

Iowa darters that have been deprived of food for 12–48 h show feeding responses when presented with a combination of food odours and conspecific skin extract. After 48 h of abundant food, the same darters show an alarm reaction to the same combination of stimuli.
Role of gravel substrate on ova survival and alevin emergence of rainbow trout, Salmo gairdneri
Authors: Witzel Larry D. , MacCrimmon Hugh R.
Published: April 2009

The role of gravel size of unigranular diameters 2, 4, 8, 16, and 26.5 mm on ova survival and subsequent emergence of rainbow trout alevins is examined using a vertical-flow incubation apparatus. Survival to emergence, time of emergence, and alevin condition at emergence were signficantly influenced [Formula: see text] by gravel size. Mean percent survival to emergence increased with gravel size from a minimum of 1% in the 2-mm gravel to a maximum of 76% in the 26.5-mm gravel. Survival of control ova from gravel-free incubator was 88% to swim-up stage. Differences in percent survival were most significant within the 2 to 8 mm range. Poor survival of trout alevins in the finer gravels (2–4 mm) was the result of insufficient void space (entrapment). Days to first (43–58 days after ova burial) and 50% emergence (49–62 days after ova burial) also increased with gravel size. At a mean incubation temperature of 10.6 °C, the total emergence days was greatest (40 days) from the 8-mm gravel and occurred prematurely on day 37 after ova burial in 2-mm gravel. Alevin length and weight varied directly with gravel size, ranging from 2.17 to 2.39 cm and 11.9 to 126.8 mg, respectively. Larger alevins, which emerged later from coarser gravels had the least yolk reserve [Formula: see text] and the lowest KD values [Formula: see text], where KD is a developmental condition factor calculated from the ratio of wet weight to standard length. Premature emergence of free embryos and shortening of the alevin îmergence period in 2.0-mm gravel is identified as a stress response.
Notholetus spicatus n.gen., n.sp. (Nematoda: Criconematidae) from Hawaii
Authors: Ebsary B. A.
Published: April 2009

Notholetus spicatus n.gen., n.sp. is described from Hawaiian orchids. Notholetus differs from Nothocriconema by having distinct lobes, spines, or deformities on the tail. Notholetus also differs from Merocriconema by having more body annules (53–86 versus 38–43) and a pointed tail. Notholetus spicatus n.sp. differs from N. spinicaudatus n.comb. in having a longer stylet (104–106 μm versus 70–82 μm) and two head annules instead of one. Other new. combinations include Notholetus corbetti, Notholetus victoriae, and Notholetus zeae. A key to the species is provided.
Morphological and biological characteristics of Taenia rileyi Loewen, 1929 (Cestoda: Taeniidae)
Authors: Rausch R. L.
Published: April 2009

The development and structure of the larval Taenia rileyi Loewen, 1929, a cestode of nearctic felids, were studied in rodents infected experimentally with eggs from strobilae from lynx, Felis lynx L. The larval stage, intermediate in form between a cysticercus and a strobilocysticercus, was found to be unlike that of any other known species of Taenia and is designated a hemistrobilocysticercus. The tissue response in experimentally infected rodents is described. Morphologic features of the strobilar and larval stages by which T. rileyi is distinguished from Taenia omissa Lühe, 1910 are defined, and observations are included concerning geographic distribution and natural cycle.
Meristic variation of four fish species exhibiting lowest median counts in Georgia Strait, British Columbia
Authors: Peden Alex E.
Published: April 2009

In contrast with other fish species, Lycodapus mandibularis (Zoarcidae), Lycodes diapterus (Zoarcidae), Nectoliparis pelagicus (Liparidae), and Lipariscus nanus (Liparidae) share ecological similarities that apparently produce low fin ray and vertebral counts in Georgia Strait, British Columbia, rather than a typical cline of lowest counts at southernmost localities such as off Oregon and California.
Ecologie et dynamique des populations de Copépodes (Cyclopoida) des principaux types de milieux astatiques temporaires de la zone tempérée du Québec méridional
Authors: Leblanc André , Maire Alain , Aubin Antoine
Published: April 2009

Investigations were made on the ecology and population dynamics of cyclopoid Copepods found in seven major types of mosquito larval breeding habitats in Lower Mauricie, Quebec. The phenology, life cycle and distribution were examined for each of the 15 species present. Results show the Copepod species were distributed according to ecological units. Diacyclops languidus and Acanthocyclops venustoïdes are characteristic of ecological units with peat moss substrate. None of the Copepod species showed a clear dominance in the riparian habitats. The samples are clearly divided among four groups according to seasons and pH values, as shown by the table of abundance–dominance indexes and a factorial analysis of correspondence.
Differential depth distribution among freshwater pulmonate snails subjected to cold temperatures
Authors: Boag D. A.
Published: April 2009

The depths chosen by four species of basommatophoran snails in response to temperatures varying between 15 and 1 °C were compared under controlled conditions in the laboratory. Three species (Lymnaea stagnalis (L.), Physa gyrina Say, and Helisoma trivolvis (Say)) moved to greater depths as temperatures declined, whereas Stagnicola elodes (Say) showed the opposite trend. The average depth exhibited by each species over this range of temperatures was significantly (P < 0.05) different, suggesting some form of segregation. Stratification was most apparent at 1 °C when S. elodes was most surficial followed, in order of increasing depth, by L. stagnalis, P. gyrina, and H. trivolvis. The ecological significance of these results is discussed.
Productivité en larves de moustiques (Diptera: Culicidae) des milieux aquatiques peu profonds d'un secteur du Moyen-Nord Québécois (LG-1, Territoire de la Baie de James)
Authors: Tessier Claude , Maire Alain , Aubin Antoine
Published: April 2009

The LG-1 area (53°46′ N; 77°30′ W) is located on La Grande Rivière, 28 km upstream of its mouth at James Bay. It is a Middle Subarctic landscape. The ecological distribution of mosquito larval populations of 21 species is analyzed. For each ecological unit the following data are taken into account: the density of the larval community (larvae per metre cubed) and relative frequency (percentage) of the species per sample.The larval productivity of snowmelt Aedes mosquitoes is evaluated for each ecological unit from the percentage of the area covered by water (percentage), the average depth of the shallow pools (in metres) and the mosquito larval density. The mean number of larvae (log x) per hectare and the standard error of mean range from 4.77 ± 0.255 (33 000 < 59 000 < 106 000) in the Carex rostrata unit with peat bog substrate up to 7.12 ± 0.413 (5.1 × 106 < 1.3 × 107 < 3.4 × 107) in the silty Carex aquatilis unit. The mapping of a typical area of 2 500 ha in which 626 ha are mosquito-productive wetlands, shows an average productivity (log x) of 5.29 ± 0.146 (140 000 < 200 000 < 280 000). These data are compared with quantitative results published from similar northern localities.
Body weight, litter size, and energetics of reproduction in Clethrionomys gapperi and Microtus pennsylvanicus
Authors: Innes Duncan G. L. , Millar John S.
Published: April 2009

A forest vole, Clethrionomys gapperi, and a field vole, Microtus pennsylvanicus, were examined for differences in a number of reproductive traits, including the energy required to raise a litter. Average postpartum weight, litter weight, and neonate weight of C. gapperi were significantly less than those of M. pennsylvanicus. Although C. gapperi had a significantly larger litter size than M. pennsylvanicus, the latter species used more energy to raise a litter than C. gapperi. Only one of three measures of physiological reproductive effort showed a significant difference between species. We conclude that there is no clear pattern between reproductive traits and habitat. Many traits appear to vary with body weight.
Systematic variation in the tristis group of the bent-winged bats of the genus Miniopterus (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae)
Authors: Peterson Randolph L.
Published: April 2009

Within the genus Miniopterus, a group of taxa represented by M. tristis of the Philippine Islands and its allies occurring farther south in the western Pacific constitute a distinct evolutionary lineage. Representative specimens have been examined, measured, and subjected to univariate, bivariate, and multivariate statistical analyses. A number of qualitative characters that could not be adequately quantified for statistical analysis also have been studied. Miniopterus robustior from the Loyalty Islands, the smallest member of the tristis group, is regarded as a possible ancestral prototype for the species group. Populations from the islands east of New Guinea, from Papua, and from West Irian are described as three distinct geographic races of a new species. Specimens from Sulawesi (Celebes) are described as a large race of M. tristis.
The effect of a juvenile hormone mimic on development of the metathoracic release site of the Brindley's glands of Rhodnius prolixus
Authors: Barrett F. Michael
Published: April 2009

The development of the metathoracic release site of Brindley's glands in adult Rhodnius prolixus has been investigated by treating larvae with juvenile hormone (JH) mimic at different times during the last instar and observing the extent of development in this region in the subsequently emerging insects. The results demonstrate a critical period of JH mimic sensitivity for release-site development comparable to that previously established for other adult morphological characteristics.
Hexamermis glossinae sp.nov. (Nematoda: Mermithidae), a parasite of tse-tse flies in West Africa
Authors: Poinar Jr. George O. , Mondet Bernard , Gouteux J. P. , Laveissiere C.
Published: April 2009

A new mermithid, Hexamermis glossinae sp.n., is described as a parasite of tse-tse flies in West Africa. Nematode parasites were reared from adults of Glossina palpalis, G. p. pallicera, and G. n. nigrofusca from the region of Vavoua in the Ivory Coast. This is the first description of mermithids from these important hosts.
Influence of habitat structure on the nesting height of birds in urban areas
Authors: Savard Jean-Pierre L. , Falls J. Bruce
Published: April 2009

The influence of habitat structure on the nesting height of five species of birds in an urban area was investigated. All rock dove (Columba livia) nests were on two-story buildings. The nesting height of house sparrows (Passer domesticus) and starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) was influenced by building height being higher in two-story residential areas than in areas with bungalows. House sparrows were more versatile than starlings in the selection of nest sites. They occasionally nested in coniferous foliage but preferred man-made structures. The height of American robin (Turdus migratorius) nests ranged widely in response to vertical distribution of foliage. The largest number of nests in a given plot always occurred in the layer of foliage just below the layer with the largest volume of foliage. Robins nested in coniferous foliage early in the breeding season but switched to deciduous foliage as the season progressed. Common grackles (Quiscalus quiscula) nested exclusively in coniferous foliage and their nesting height was also influenced by the vertical structure. Habitat structure was found to be the main determinant of nesting height of birds in the urban environment and height in itself was not an important feature in the nest site selection of the species studied. Disturbance as measured by house density had a relatively minor influence.
The ischnoceran lice (Phthiraptera) of the oystercatchers (Aves: Haematopodidae)
Authors: Clay Theresa
Published: April 2009

The oystercatchers may be parasitized by up to three species belonging to two genera of Ischnocera: Saemundssonia and Quadraceps. Saemundssonia is known from 10 taxa of Haematopus and Quadraceps (auratus group) from 11, all of these belonging to the species Saemundssonia haematopi (Linn., 1758) and Quadraceps auratus (Haan, 1829), with the exception of those parasitic on Haematopus leucopodus. On this host both the Saemundssonia and the Quadraceps are new and described here. Host–parasite relationships of the above species as well as those of Quadraceps ridgwayi (Kellogg, 1906) are discussed. A table of Haematopus taxa, their distribution, and the ischnoceran species recorded from them is included.
A revision of the genus Monopylephorus and redefinition of the subfamilies Rhyacodrilinae and Branchiurinae (Tubificidae: Oligochaeta)
Authors: Baker H. R. , Brinkhurst R. O.
Published: April 2009

The genus Monopylephorus Levinsen, 1884 is revised, and divided into three genera. Monopylephorus includes rubroniveus, limosus, kermadecensis, parvus, irroratus, aucklandicus, and the new species cuticulatus and evertus. Rhizodrilus Smith, 1900 includes lacteus, africanus, pacificus, lowryi, and arthingtonae, the last two being transferred from Torodrilus Cook, 1970 and Rhyacodrilus Bretscher, 1901 respectively. Peristodrilus gen.nov. contains the single species montanus. Two other species (M. longisetosus and M. frigidus) will be referred to a new genus within the Phallodrilinae rather than the Rhyacodrilinae. The single member of the Branchiurinae, Branchiura sowerbyi Beddard, 1892 is related to both Rhizodrilus and Bothrioneurum Stolc, 1888 and is included with the Rhyacodrilinae. Telmatodrilus multiprostatus does not usually have its spermathecae in IX but in X as normal, and is not related to Rhizodrilus.The diffuse prostates in some Rhyacodrilinae may have groups of cells penetrating the muscle layers of the atria, somewhat resembling the clustered cells of the Telmatodrilinae, but with the cell bodies still forming a continuous atrial covering.The forward relocation of the spermathecae in Rhizodrilus and their absence in Bothrioneurum seems to be related to the development of large copulatory bursae in XI and the occupation of much of X by atria and vasa deferentia.
The effect of age and the influence of the relative size of the heart, brain, and blood oxygen store on the responses to submersion in mallard ducklings
Authors: West Nigel H.
Published: April 2009

Three newly hatched mallard ducklings showed profound bradycardia on head submersion. Heart rate fell from 485 beats∙min−1 predive to 75 beats∙min−1 after 30 s. Resting heart rates in a group of eight ducklings retested at weekly intervals fell from 430 ± 13 beats∙min−1 at one week after hatching to 183 ± 27 beats∙min−1 at 12 weeks. In spite of the wide difference in resting heart rates, the proportional fall in heart rate by 30 s after head submersion was very consistent, to some 20% of the predive rate. The absolute fall in heart rate during early submergence was much greater at 1 week than at 4 weeks. Previous experience with voluntary head submersion during feeding did not affect the heart-rate response.Predive mean arterial blood pressure, which rose from 77.1 mmHg at 1 week to 180.2 mmHg at 12 weeks was maintained constant, or rose slightly, during submersion in all the animals tested. The tolerance to prolonged submersion was markedly poorer in younger ducklings; birds at 1 week only tolerated some 67 s of apnoeic asphyxia before a breakdown of the circulatory adjustments, while at 12 weeks the same birds tolerated submersion for 240 s with no ill effects. This is partially due to the changing allometric relationships during development between the mass of the brain and the heart, major components of the oxygen sink during submergence, and the blood volume, a major component of the self-contained oxygen store.
Asynchronous hatching and sibling competition in western grebes
Authors: Nuechterlein Gary L.
Published: April 2009

Observations of western grebe broods during the 3–4 day period of asynchronous hatching revealed brief but intense bouts of pecking occurring between siblings. Feeding experiments conducted on two live-captured pairs and their newly hatched broods showed that older chicks suppressed the responses of their younger siblings to playbacks of the parental food call. Subordinate chicks that emerged from the parent's back feathers and begged simultaneously with their older siblings usually were pecked, and soon refrained from emerging until the older sibling was satiated. Control experiments that involved separating the two chicks and placing one on each of the parents eliminated suppression by the dominant chick. Possibly, asynchronous hatching in grebes provides a means by which parents can create initial asymmetries in the fighting potential of their newly hatched chicks, thereby promoting rapid formation of a self-regulating dominance system among their offspring.
Weight in relation to sex, age, and season in Columbian ground squirrels (Sciuridae: Rodentia)
Authors: Boag D. A. , Murie J. O.
Published: April 2009

Annual weight gain in Columbian ground squirrels (Spermophilus columbianus) was studied over a period of 7 years in a large colony in southwestern Alberta. Juveniles approximately tripled their weight during the period from emergence to immergence, achieving about 60% of adult weight at onset of their first hibernation. Males were heavier than females and the weight gain in both sexes varied significantly among years. The weight characteristics of the age-classes up to 3 years were different from one another. Full potential weight was not achieved until squirrels were in their fourth summer. Males were always significantly heavier than females in nonjuvenile squirrels and the amount of weight gained by these classes varied significantly among years.
Slowed motion analysis of stridulation in the grasshopper, Xanthippus corallipes (Acrididae: Oedipodinae)
Authors: Frase Barbara A. , Willey Robert B.
Published: April 2009

Sounds were produced by male Xanthippus corallipes (Haldeman) during courtship by rubbing a ridge on the inside of the hind femur against a linear series of nodes on a raised forewing vein. The visual component included the motion of the hind femur exhibiting its bright coral-red medial surface and the red hind tibia as a semaphore. Analysis of ultra-high-speed motion films, video tapes with synchronized oscillotrace, sonagrams, and oscillograms showed that the two femora were consistently out of phase with one another during a single up–down motion of the chirp, the signal of one modulating that of the other. The resulting sound significantly differed from that produced by only one femur. A buzz produced only by vibration (almost 70 up–down motions per second) of a single femur. Different signals may be caused also by the use of different portions of the file having different nodal densities.Xanthippus corallipes is noted for the frequent occurrence of distinctive-appearing populations. Comparison of X. c. corallipes, the subspecies used here, with a published report on X. c. pantherinus (Scudder), revealed striking differences in the color of the femoral medial surface and in signalling sequences during courtship.
Demography of Peromyscus maniculatus populations in seral stages of coastal coniferous forest in southeast Alaska
Authors: Horne Beatrice Van
Published: April 2009

Population dynamics of Peromyscus maniculatus hylaeus in seral stages of spruce–hemlock forest in southeast Alaska were investigated during three consecutive reproductive seasons. Two types of high density population were observed. Breeding activity in both types ended early in the season. The first type consisted of a largely adult population with high year to year constancy in overall density and associated breeding and survival parameters. Adult female survival was high. Adult breeding males were heavy. Survival of pretrappable animals was low, although growth and survival rates of juveniles were similar to or higher than those in the other populations.The second type of high density population occurred on two grids in late summer of 1979, and consisted largely of nonbreeding juvenile young of the year. It resulted from unusually early breeding by a small population of overwintered adults. Despite large differences in habitat type and population density, home range size was similar between years and grids. Adult males had larger home ranges than did adult females or juveniles.
Ilyocypris dentifera Sars, 1903 versus Ilyocypris angulata Sars, 1903. A taxonomic study of two species of Ilyocypris Brady and Norman, 1889 (Crustacea, Ostracoda) described from China
Authors: Victor Reginald , Fernando C. H.
Published: April 2009

The syntype specimens of Ilyocypris dentifera Sars, 1903 and Ilyocypris angulata Sars, 1903 were reexamined to reevaluate whether they are two different species or variants of the same species. The discussion on taxonomic discrimination, using the morphology of valves and appendages leads to the conclusion that both I. dentifera and I. angulata are variants of a single taxon. As first revisers, the authors select the name Ilyocypris dentifera to have precedence over Ilyocypris angulata. Lectotype and paralectotype are designated for I. dentifera and a detailed redescription is provided. The form angulata is also illustrated to compare the similarities and differences observed both in the valve and appendage morphology.
Diaphanosoma birgei n.sp. (Crustacea, Cladocera). A new species from America and its widely distributed subspecies Diaphanosoma birgei ssp. lacustris n.ssp.
Authors: Kořínek Vladimír
Published: April 2009

The name Diaphanosoma leuchtenbergianum Fischer, 1854 is included in the synonymy of the species Diaphanosoma brachyurum (Liévin, 1848) and cannot be used as a valid name for the American populations of the genus. The populations described under this name have been identified as a new species, Diaphanosoma birgei n.sp., and populations from Europe, Asia, and Africa with conspecific characters as Diaphanosoma birgei ssp. lacustris n.ssp. A comparison with other species ocuring within the area of its distribution is given.
High intertidal spawning under rockweed, Fucus distichus, by the sharpnose sculpin, Clinocottus acuticeps
Authors: Marliave Jeffrey B.
Published: April 2009

Near Vancouver, Canada, Clinocottus acuticeps spawns circular monolayer egg masses on rock surfaces at the 3.0- to 3.7-m tide levels from January through April. At these tide levels, air exposure occurs about half the time and most egg masses have clumps of Fucus distichus lying over them during low tides. Controlled removal of the F. distichus demonstrated a role of this plant in reducing egg mortalities and a preference by adult fish to spawn under macrophytic algae.Early embryonic stages were most susceptible to mortalities resulting from removal of cover plants in the field. In laboratory air-exposure tests, desiccation was more important than temperature elevation in causing mortalities.