bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Biology of the Cacao Webworm, Pansepta Teleturga Meyr. (Lepidoptera: Xyloryctidae) in Papua New Guinea.
Authors: Bailey P
Published: June 2005

The cacao webworn occurs on the main islands of New Guinea, New Britain and New Ireland.
Originally inhabiting native trees, this species has become adapted to a number of introduced species,
including cacao. Trees are damaged by larvae channelling into branches; this restricts the growth of
young trees, but the effect on the yield of mature trees is difficult to assess.
The non-feeding adult stage lasts 3 days, the egg stage 3-5 days, the larval stage within the range
of 8-12 weeks and the pupal stage about 3-4 weeks. The dynamics of larval populations at four sites
in New Britain were studied for two years. Distinct larval generations occurred at the rate of about
2.5 per year, each generation lasting about 16-20 weeks. Their occurrence could not be readily related
to environmental factors. The main mortality appeared to be during the free-living stage, after egg
hatch and before establishment of a larval channel. Larvae were highly aggregated on trees. A small
number of trees in the field appeared to be resistant to webworm attack. The possibility of selecting
cacao clones for resistance to webworm attack is discussed. Removal of shade from cacao increased
webworm numbers but this factor alone could not explain the pest status of cacao webworm.
A Taxonomic Revision of the Genera Macropostrongyloides Yamaguti and Paramacropostrongylus Johnston & Mawson (Nematoda: Trichonematidae) From Australian Marsupials.
Authors: Beveridge I , Mawson PM
Published: June 2005

The genera Macropostrongyloides Yamaguti, 1961, and Paramacropostrongylus Johnston & Mawson, 1949, are revised. Species of Macropostrongyloides recognized and described are M. lasiorhini (Mawson, 1955), M. baylisi (Wood, 1930), M. dissimilis (Johnston & Mawson, 1939) and M. yamagutii. sp. nov., the last species being found in Macropus fuliginosus. Two species are described in the genus Paramacropostrongylus, P. typicus Johnston & Mawson. 1940, and P. toraliformis, sp. nov., the latter found in Macropus giganteus.
Energy Requirements and Sodium and Water Turnovers in Two Captive Marsupial Carnivores: the Tasmanian Devil, Sarcophilus Harrisii, and the Native Cat, Dasyurus Viverrinus.
Authors: Green B , Eberhard IH
Published: June 2005

Captive Sarcophilus harrisii and Dasyurus viverrinus were fed on rats and provided with water ad libitum. Apparent dry matter digestibility was about 80% and apparent energy digestibility was about 88% in both species. The daily water turnover rate was approximately 130 ml per W*0.82 in both species, but S. harrisii obtained substantially more water by drinking than D. viverrinus. Sodium turnover rates were closely correlated with food consumption.
The Reproductive Rate of the Hopping-Mouse Notomys Alexis and Its Ecological Significance.
Authors: Breed WG
Published: June 2005

In the male hopping-mouse, spermatozoa first appeared in seminiferous tubules on day 60 and were present in the epididymis a few days later; ventral prostates markedly increased in weight between days 56 and 60. Some females had large Graafian follicles, stimulated uteri and perforate vaginae on day 40; corpora lutea were first observed on day 44, but most females did not spontaneously ovulate until after day 54. Gestation in post-partum mated, non-suckling females lasted about 32 days, with implantation on day 7 or 8. When four or more young were suckling, gestation increased to 39 days (mean); implantation took place between days 11-13 and 14-17 when there were either three or four, or five, suckling young respectively. From one to three unfertilized oocytes surrounded by cumulus cells were found in the Fallopian tubes between days 7 and 17 in some pregnant females. Post partum, the most common ovulation rate and litter size was 4; 72% of these litters fully survived to weaning; 10-15% of litters were of five or six young and nearly half of these fully survived to weaning; in the natural environment litters were of four or five young. Without post-partum mating and without suckling young, females had ovulated spontaneously by days 9-11. Significantly fewer females suckling from four to six young had oocytes at this time, but the percentage had increased by days 15-18. This indicates a delay, but not prevention, of spontaneous ovulation during lactation. Field-caught females from the southern Northern Territory were reproductively inactive on three out of four occasions. The fourth time, when there had been > 50 mm of rain in the preceding few weeks, all adult females caught had corpora lutea and some were pregnant. Greatest ovarian inhibition coincided with high population density. When compared to data for small northern temperate-zone rodents, most of the above reproductive parameters do not indicate a high reproductive rate, but data for closely related, apparently non-cyclic, Australian species appear to be similar except for, possibly, age of puberty and spontaneous ovulation during lactation. The significance of these results to r-strategy in this species is discussed.
Abundance and Temporal and Spatial Distribution of Culicoides Brevitarsis Kieffer (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) on Cattle in South-East Queensland.
Authors: Campbell MM , Kettle DS
Published: June 2005

Numbers of C. brevitarsis on cattle in south-east Queensland increased rapidly from zero at 0.5 h before sunset, to a peak during the half hour after sunset, then decreased to zero in the following 5-6 h and remained at zero throughout the day. On standing animals abundance was greatest on the ridgeline at the tail, decreasing rapidly down the flank and less rapidly towards the head. On mature animals abundance after sunset halved with each increase of 0.53 m s-1 in wind speed, each increase of 6.4�C, each decrease of 158 Pa vapour pressure deficit, and each additional 38 min after sunset. Only females were collected from cattle; 97% of nullipars were mated. They did not always feed at their first attempt and were much less likely to feed on some hosts than others. Close shaving did not alter the number of flies on small areas and did not prevent feeding. Before sunset C. brevitarsis were observed more frequently on hosts in the absence of direct sunlight. In direct sunlight, abundance was influenced most by wind speed (positive), minutes before sunset (negative) and temperature (negative), in order of decreasing importance. Without direct sunlight, the factors were minutes before sunset (negative), temperature (positive), and wind speed (negative); after sunset the factors were wind speed (negative), vapour pressure deficit (positive), minutes after sunset (negative) and minor effects from time of year and temperature.
A review of the Australian genera Xuthotrichia Mosely and Hellyethira Neboiss decriptions of new species
Authors: Wells A
Published: June 2005

The taxonomy of the Australian genus Xuthotrichia Mosely is examined, and three of the four known species are transferred to Hellyethira Neboiss. Twelve new species of Hellyvethira are described, bringing the total to 15, with females included for seven. A key to adult males is provided.
Karyotypic Evolution in Gehyra (Gekkonidae: Reptilia) I. The Gehyra Variegata-Punctata Complex.
Authors: King M
Published: June 2005

A karyotypic analysis of populations of the gekkos Gehyra variegata and G. punctata reveals three chromosome races in G. variegata (2n = 44; 2n = 40a; 2n = 40b), and three in G. punctata (2n = 44; 2n = 42; 2n = 38). The chromosome races have differentiated by a series of chromosome fusions. The ordered nature of these changes suggests that the phylogenetic relationships of the races cut across the current taxonomy, and it is argued that there is but one 2n = 44 race, occurring as a number of morphologically distinct populations, two of which were erroneously described as the separate Gehyra species. Isolated populations within a number of the chromosome races show pronounced morphological differences. It is believed that these gekkos are an ancient Australian group which differentiated chromosomally during a number of colonizing radiations. Since then, populations within each race have been isolated by geographic barriers and have speciated allopatrically. This suggests that the chromosome races are at least good species and may be of a higher taxon.
Electrophoretic, Chromosomal and Morphometric Studies on the Red-Necked Wallaby, Macropus Rufogriseus (Desmarest).
Authors: Johnston PG , Sharman GB
Published: June 2005

Geographic variation in island and mainland Australian populations of M. rufogriseus was investigated by electrophoretic, chromosomal and skull morphometric studies. Electrophoretic variation was observed at 9 of the 21 genetic loci examined. The mean proportion of polymorphic loci per population was 0.230 and individuals were on the average heterozygous at 6.5% of their loci. Coefficients of genetic similarity between populations ranged from 0.925 to 0.986, which is indicative of little genetic differentiation between populations. No chromosomal variation was observed in animals from the mainland, Tasmania and the Bass Strait islands. Preliminary data on breeding patterns suggest that females from King I. and Flinders I. are seasonal breeders, as has been reported for M. rufogriseus from Tasmania. It is concluded that M. rufogriseus should be divided into two subspecies: M. r. rufogriseus from Tasmania and the Bass Strait islands; M. r. banksianus from mainland Australia.
Studies on the Epidermis of Temnocephala Iv. Observations on the Ultrastructure of the Epidermis of Temnocephala Dendyi, With Notes on the Role of the Golgi Apparatus in Autolysis.
Authors: Williams JB
Published: June 2005

The epidermis of Temnocephala dendyi is a patchwork of several syncytial epithelia with different structural and functional characteristics. Adjacent epithelia are limited by lateral plasma membranes and cohere by junctional structures. Cell processes which protrude into the epidermis appear to function in the transport of metabolites. Small vesicles fuse to form the double isolation membranes of autophagosomes: larger, Golgi-derived vesicles, interpreted as primary lysosomes, are enclosed with the sequestered cytoplasm. The formation of autolysosomes from autophagosomes is described. A possible mode of formation of myelin figures in autolysis is suggested. Autolysosomes form linear sequences and may occur in close association with Golgi cisternae. Advanced autolysosomes or residual bodies are transported elsewhere by phagocytic cells of the parenchyma. Starvation evidently induces a greatly enhanced autophagy, with presumed diminution in volume, in the temnocephalid epidermis. [For part III see Hm/A 48, 1332.] [AS]
The effect of captivity on fighting by Rattus villosissimus (Rodentia : Muridae)
Authors: Carstairs JL
Published: June 2005

Fifteen-min encounters were staged between adult male R. villosissimus in a neutral cage. Rats (F0) which had been trapped in the wild from a dispersed and declining population were quicker to start fighting and spent more time in the offensive sideways posture and fighting each other than did rats (F1) which had been born and raised in captivity. This result may support Chitty's hypothesis on the natural selection of self-regulatory behaviour. The differences between F0 and F1 encounters were not so great when the F0 rats were retested after a further 4 months in captivity. Possible explanations are discussed.
Bioluminescent Australian Earthworms II. Taxonomy and Preliminary Report of Bioluminescence in the General Spenceriella, Fletcherodrilus and Pontodrilus (Megascolecidae:Oligochaeta).
Authors: Jamieson BGM , Wampler JE
Published: June 2005

Bioluminescence is demonstrated in four species of Spenceriella, in Fletcherodrilus fasciatus and F. unicus, all being megascolecines from eastern Australia, and in the circummundane megascolecine Pontodrilus bermudensis, and is compared with that of the North American acanthodrile Diplocardia longa. The four Spenceriella species are placed in a new cormieri species-group in the subgenus Spenceriella. Of these, S.(S.) cormieri, S.(S.) curtisi and S.(S.) noctiluca are new species and S.(S.) minor (Spencer) is redescribed. The subgenus Spenceriella is redefined to include species lacking calciferous glands, and the subgenus S. (Austroscolex) is distinguished in lacking buccopharyngeal or other tufted nephridia anteriorly. Fletcherodrilus is redefined and a key to its four species provided. The synonymy and world distribution of Pontodrilus bermudensis Beddard is given. On electrical or tactile stimulation the seven described species, in Spenceriella, Fletcherodrilus and Pontodrilus, all exhibit spontaneous luminescence which is enhanced by addition of peroxide and which cross-reacts with Diplocardia longa luciferase and, usually luciferin. It is suggested that the luminescent system resides in the free chloragogen cells (elecocytes) in the coelomic fluid, in all except P. bermudensis in which luminescence is not cell-bound. Five species studied in the megascolecine genera Heteroporodrilus, Spenceriella (Austroscolex) and Digaster, and the glossoscolecid Pontoscolex corethrurus, are non-luminescent. Possible functions of luminescence are discussed.
Bone Abnormalities in Two Groups of Macropod Skulls: a Clue to the Origin of Lumpy Jaw.
Authors: Miller WA , Beighton D
Published: June 2005

Eighty-one skulls of Macropus giganteus from the Yan Yean collection and 38 from the Greymare collection were examined grossly and radiographically for bony abnormalities; six Yan Yean and two Greymare skulls were diseased. Post-functional molar teeth showed unexpectedly high amounts of alveolar bone loss around the necks of the teeth. Food packing into these, and other interdental defects, was observed. It is believed that this kind of functional defect may represent the early stages of lumpy jaw in those macropods which exhibit molar progression. It is probable that an opportunist oral microorganism can invade the underlying connective tissues via such a break in the oral integument. Two animals, which had osteomyelitis associated with residual gunshot pellets in the dentary, did not have signs of early or late lumpy jaw, but neither did the lesions have contact with the oral cavity, although dental development had been grossly disturbed. Examination of the distribution of mineralized deposits on the teeth (dental calculus) showed them to be heavy even on partly erupted teeth, less so on functional teeth, and again heavy on post-functional teeth. An electron microprobe study of their elemental composition leads us to believe that the dark brown pigmentation of this calculus is due to manganese.
Laboratory hybridization of Australian Rattus fuscipes and Rattus Lutreolus and its karyotypic confirmation
Authors: Fox BJ , Murray JD
Published: June 2005

This paper reports successful laboratory hybridization of R. lutreolus lutreolus (2n = 42) and R. fuscipes assimilis (2n = 38). Hybrid offspring grew rapidly (hybrid vigour) to age 24 days. Only one individual survived past 50 days but is fertile. Although intermediate for many characteristics the hybrids resemble R. lutreolus more than R. fuscipes. The hybridization indicates a closer relationship between these species than previously accepted, but there is no evidence of natural hybrids, perhaps due to an ecological separation observed in the field and to behavioural obstacles to mating observed in the laboratory.
Hybrid animals (2n = 40) have single fused chromosomes from each of the two pairs of submeta- centrics in the R. fuscipes karyotype. Chromosome arm length measurements and rankings show that one centric fusion (CF1) comprises two longer chromosomes (4 + 8) and the second fusion (CF2) comprises the two shorter chromosomes (10 + 12). These fusions appear to be identical with those we observed in other R. fuscipes populations in New South Wales.
The chromosome numbering determined by measurement of unbanded chromosomes in this study appears to differ from the numbering convention currently in use. This emphasizes the need to establish a standard sequence of chromosomes for Australian Rattus.
Population Dynamics of the Australian Plague Locust, Chortoicetes Terminifera (Walker), in Central Western New South Wales. I. Reproduction and Migration in Relation to Weather.
Authors: Farrow RA
Published: June 2005

On three adjacent experimental plots in central western New South Wales, from 1971 to 1974, population fluctuations of the Australian plague locust were interpreted in terms of the interactions between reproductive rates (Ro) between generations and net migration losses or gains (M plus or minus ) within generations. Changes due to variations in net migration fluctuated over a greater range than those due to variations in reproductive rates, and were the major cause of the population fluctuations during the 16 generations studied. Variations in rainfall during breeding accounted for nearly 90% of the variance in reproductive rates, provided rain followed relatively dry periods. Changes caused by migration resulted from episodic, often long-range and generally southward displacements of adults at night in the gradient wind during disturbed weather. The frequency and intensity of migration depended primarily on the availability of potential emigrants and secondarily on the incidence of weather favourable for takeoff and prolonged flight. The incidence of rainfall before periods of migration was higher than expected. Adults thus migrated into areas already favourable for successful breeding. Long-term median rainfall during breeding at Trangie gave mean reproductive rates greater than 1 per generation. Hence, population surpluses tend to be produced and generally disperse south to areas less favourable for breeding. There was close correspondence between the occurrence of heavy drought-breaking rains, leading to substantial population increases and migrations, and the observed incidence of outbreaks in this area. Changes in the relative importance of reproduction and migration in the drier breeding areas further inland are discussed in relation to historical changes in the distribution and abundance of the plague locust.
Revision of the genus Beryllophantis Meyrick (Lepidoptera : Tortricidae)
Authors: Horak M , Sauter W
Published: June 2005

The male genitalia of the tortricinid genus Beryllophantis Meyr. are described and figured for the first time for the type-species B. cochlias Meyr. and three other species. Six new species of Beryllophantis - alphophora, microtera, asticta, poicila, allochlora and phaioptera - are described and figured. So far the genus is known only from the mountains of New Guinea, all seven species inhabiting the montane rain- forest region.
Gamasine Mites Associated With Australian Scarabaeid Beetles. I. The Genus Paradoxiphis Berlese, Symbionts of the Bolboceratini.
Authors: Costa M , Allsopp PG
Published: June 2005

The following species of Paradoxiphis Berlese associated with Australian Bolboceratini (Scarabaeidae : Geotrupinae) are described and figured: rotundus. sp. nov., dimorphus. sp. nov., black- bolbi, sp. nov., gigas, sp. nov., circumsetosus. sp. nov., longisetosus, sp. nov., bolboceras (Womersley), comb. nov., armstrongi (Womersley), comb. nov., longanalis, sp. nov., tenuibrachiatus Berlese, brevisetosus, sp. nov., womersleyi, sp. nov., matthewsi, sp. nov., brevisternum, sp. nov. and waterhousei. sp. nov. Schizolaelaps Womersley is synonymized under Paradoxiphis. Species of Paradoxihis are apparently host-specific at the generic level: rotundus and dimorphis with Bolboleaus Howden & Cooper; blackbolbi and gigas with Blackbolbus Howden & Cooper; circumsetosus, longisetosus, bolboceras and arnzstrongi with Elephastomus Macleay; longanalis, tenuibrachiatus and brevisetosus with Blackburnium Boucomont; and womersleyi, matthewsi, brevisternum and waterhousei with Bolborhachium Boucomont.
Critical Thermal Maximum Temperatures in Australian Scincid Lizards: Their Ecological and Evolutionary Significance.
Authors: Greer AE
Published: June 2005

The critical thermal maximum temperature (CTMAX) has now been determined for representatives of 16 of the 21 genera of scincid lizards in Australia. Taxa from the warm interior of the country generally have a mean CTMAX greater than 39.5�C regardless of their behaviour or habitat. Taxa from the cooler periphery of the continent fall into two groups based on their behaviour and habitat: diurnal, surface- dwelling forms generally have a mean CTMAX above 39.5�C whereas crepuscular to nocturnal. or cryptozoic to fossorial forms, have a mean CTMAX below 39.5�C. The skinks of the interior probably evolved from ancestors occupying habitats most similar to ones now occurring on the periphery. In these more equable habitats. diurnal surface-dwelling forms, with their high CTMAX, would have been preadapted to invade the habitats of the interior, whereas crepuscular to nocturnal. or cryptozoic to fossorial forms, with their low CTMAX, may have had to overcome a thermal barrier to enter these habitats. This may account in part for the paucity of crepuscular to nocturnal or cryptozoic to fossorial skink lineages in the interior.
Unlike most other lizard families, most skinks do not pant when heat stressed. The reasons for this are unknown.
Revision of the Genus Caprithrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), With Descriptions of Two New Species From India and Australia.
Authors: Bhatti JS
Published: June 2005

The genus Caprithrips Faure is revised, with descriptions of two new species, C. ajanta from India and C. moundi from Australia. C. insularis Beshear is reported for the first time outside North America, from Trinidad, Surinam and Australia. A key is provided for the separation of the six known species.
Observations on the Morphology and Histochemistry of the Venom Glands of a Scorpion, Urodacus Novaehollandiae Peters (Scorpionidae).
Authors: Halse SA , Prideaux PL , Cockson A , Zwicky KT
Published: June 2005

Sixteen specimens of U. novaehollandiae were examined by histological techniques; one scorpion and the ejected venom of another were examined by electron microscopy. The venom glands are complex and contain two types of secretory epithelial cells: goblet and columnar or bottle-shaped cells. Of the four histologically distinct secretory products, two are found in the goblet cells only, one occurs in the columnar and the bottle-shaped cells, and one is found in both types of cells. The secretory products contain proteins, indole compounds, PAS-positive and acidic mucosubstances. The composition of U. novaehollandiae venom is compared with that of two other species of Scorpionidae. The venom from milked glands is replaced within 6 h.
Field and Laboratory Studies of Water Metabolism in Sminthopsis Crassicaudata (Marsupialia : Dasyuridae).
Authors: Morton SR
Published: June 2005

S. crassicaudata is a small insectivorous marsupial which inhabits xeric to mesic habitats in southern Australia. Field and laboratory studies of the water metabolism of this species were carried out to determine the extent to which physiological adaptations contribute to its ability to inhabit arid environments. S. crassicaudata can subsist without drinking water when fed a diet of insects; this independence is made possible primarily by the high water content of the food, and not by physiological restriction of the rate of water usage as in many granivorous desert-dwelling rodents. Mean daily water turnover rates in the laboratory were 50-75% body water, and in the field were 110-190% body water. These high rates are interpreted in terms of lack of selection for water conservation in an animal subsisting on a moist diet; in such animals water turnover rate primarily reflects metabolic rate. These conclusions were supported by comparative studies of the water and energy metabolism of Planigale maculata. This species withstood water deprivation better than did S. crassicaudata, even though it inhabits much wetter environments; this was almost certainly due to its lower metabolic rate and, therefore, lower water turnover rate. These studies suggest that use of insect food by a desert-dwelling small mammal virtually removes the physiological problem of water conservation.
Total Body Lipids of the Budgerigar, Melopsittacus Undulatus (Psittaciformes: Platycercidae) in Inland Mid-Eastern Australia.
Authors: Wyndham E
Published: June 2005

In budgerigars in inland mid-eastern Australia, water content was 66% of live weight, and lipids in post-juveniles averaged 4% of live weight, i.e. in the range of that occurring in small sedentary birds. Chicks in nests deposited lipids which were used as reserves in the first few weeks after leaving the nest. Both sexes had similar amounts of lipids. Lipids in starved chicks at death averaged 0.07% of live weight. Caged birds had large lipid deposits, on average 25% live weight. Lipid deposits remained almost uniform throughout the year and there was no detectable deposition before movements, or decline in deposits during oogenesis. With lipid deposits of about 4% live weight, budgerigars had a non-stop flight range of about 100 km. Lipid metabolism in the budgerigar is compared to that in Quelea quelea.
Australian Trichopterygini (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) With Descriptions of Eight New Taxa.
Authors: Dugdale JS
Published: June 2005

Three genera and 14 species of Trichopterygini (Lepidoptera : Geometridae : Larentiinae) are recognized from mainland Australia; no species is known from Tasmania. Eight of the taxa are new. Episteira Warren is recognized in the Australian fauna, including E. nigrifrons protima (Turner), comb. et stat. nov. Tympanota Warren is regarded as a distinct genus; most species are Malesian, and T. p. perophora (Turner), comb. nov., and T.p. podocarpi, subsp. nov., are Australian members. Sauris Guenee in Australia consists of three species-groups: lichenias group - S. lichenias Meyrick; commoni group - S. commoni, sp. nov.; hirundinata group - S. cirrhigera Warren. S. dentatilinea Warren, S. malaca (Meyrick), S. melanoceros (Meyrick). S. vetustata Walker, S. brevipalpis, sp. nov., S. melanosterna, sp. nov., S. nebulosa, sp. nov., S. plumipes, sp. nov.; and S. rectilineata, sp. nov. One different female with which no males were confidently associated is mentioned and figured but not named. Keys to species are given, and wing, leg and genital specializations are figured. The scanty locality records indicate a predominantly eastern and northern distribution. Host plants are known for S. malaca, S. cirrhigera and T podocarpi; larvae of these species are arboreal. The appendix lists all species that have been included in Sauris.
All three genera are found in the Oriental Region and the Pacific, with Sauris extending to Niue I., and Episteira to the Tongan group. There are no close relationships with New Zealand Tatosoma Butler or the neotropical genera; this lack and the predominantly rain-forest habitat indicates a northern, post-Cretaceous origin.
The Morphology and Occlusion of the Molariform Cheek Teeth in Some Macropodinae (Marsupialia: Macropodidae).
Authors: Sanson G
Published: June 2005

The morphology and functional occlusion of the cheek teeth of Wallabia bicolor and Macropus giganteus are compared. W. bicolor seems to be essentially a browser and M. giganteus is predominantly a grazer. W. bicolor has a large sectorial premolar, weakly developed links, a plane tooth row with all the teeth in occlusion simultaneously in the adult, and no molar progression. M. giganteus has a reduced premolar, strongly developed links, a curved lower tooth row which meets the upper tooth row at a tangent allowing only a few teeth to be in occlusion at one time, and molar progression. The reconstruction of the occlusal cycles is interpreted mainly by examination of wear facet development and striae patterns. Occlusion in W. bicolor involves a strong anteroposterior action bringing the opposing surfaces together across a broad area. M. giganteus teeth occlude with an initial forward motion, followed by a lateral movement which avoids large surface-area contact. M. giganteus teeth seem to be more adapted to cutting fibrous, abrasive material. Species of Dorcopsis, Dorcopsulus, Dendrolagus, Thylogale and Setonix show the same general masticatory features as W. bicolor, but species of Macropus and Megaleia more approximate the M. giganteus condition.
An Autoradiographic Study of Visual Pathways of the Australian Rodents Notomys Alexis, Pseudomys Australis and Rattus Villosissimus.
Authors: Mayner L , Pearson LJ , Sanderson KJ
Published: June 2005

In three species of Australian rodents, Notomys alexis, Pseudomys australis and Rattus villosissimus, primary optic centres were mapped by observing the distribution of autoradiographic label in the brain following injection of one eye with 3*H-proline or 3*H-leucine. Five regions receive a primary optic input in the three species: the lateral geniculate complex, the pretectum, the superior colliculus, the hypothalamus and the three terminal nuclei of the accessory optic system. The retinal projections are generally similar in the three species, except that in N. alexis and P. australis the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGNd) is subdivided into two, and the pattern of ipsilateral retinal input to it is similar; but in R. villosissimus the LGNd is not apparently subdivided, and the pattern is slightly different. It is concluded that the pattern of primary optic inputs is likely to be similar in other Australian rodents.
Two secondary optic centres were shown in Notomys alexis, using the method of transneuronal transport of 3*H-proline. Autoradiographic label was observed in the visual cortex and in the parabigeminal nucleus 20-25 days after eye injection.
A Comparison of Anaerobic Energy Metabolism in Mantle and Tentacle Muscle of the Blue-Ringed Octopus, Hapalochlaena maculosa, During Swimming
Authors: Baldwin J , England WR
Published: June 2005

The blue-ringed octopus Hapalochlaena maculosa uses both the mantle and tentacles for swimming. Activities of octopine dehydrogenase. lactate dehydrogenase and alpha-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase in mantle and tentacle muscles indicate that both tissues depend on anaerobic glycolysis during swimming. with octopine rather than lactate accumulating as an end product. Following swimming. both mantle and tentacles show a decrease in arginine phosphate, an increase in octopine. and a fall in energy charge. On the basis of ATP equivalents per grain of muscle obtained from arginine phosphate and anaerobic glycolysis, the two tissues are similar, but when the relative muscle weights are taken into account ATP production is at least 10-fold greater in the tentacles than in the mantle.
Morphological Divergence in the Genus Eptesicus (Microchiroptera: Vespertilionidae) in Western Australia: a Multivariate Approach.
Authors: Campbell NA , Kitchener DJ
Published: June 2005

Analyses of morphological divergence in male and female Eptesicus in Western Australia are detailed. Phenetic differences between individuals at each locality, or nearby groups of localities, are examined for males and females separately, by canonical variate analysis. Populations can be roughly grouped into those of the South-west, North-west-Desert, Pilbara, Kimberley and the Peninsulas. Trends are evident from the analysis of the regional data for external morphological measurements. The South-west populations are referable to Eptesicus regulus Thomas, 1906. The moderately large Northwest-Desert populations are considered part of a general cline of Eptesicus pumilus extending north through the intermediate-sized Pilbara populations to the small Kimberley populations. The Peninsula populations have their greatest phenetic affinities with Eptesicus douglasi. In all populations examined, female Eptesicus tend to be larger than males.
The Composition and Abundance of the Spider Fauna in South-East Queensland Cotton.
Authors: Bishop AL
Published: June 2005

In unsprayed cotton grown in 2 regions of south-eastern Queensland in 1973-77, 10 families, 19 genera and 25 species of spiders were represented. Of these, Cheiracanthium mordax L. Koch (diversum L. Koch), Achaearanea veruculata (Urquhart) and Theridion sp. made up 80-86%. Comparisons of population abundances, stage and sex ratios were made, and although some differences were recorded there were similarities between successive seasons. The seasonal distributions of the most abundant species are given, and their relation to the average crop phenology is discussed.
A Unigue Jaw Mechanism in the Echidna, Tachyglossus aculeatus (Monotremata)
Authors: Murray PF
Published: June 2005

The specialized tongue of the echidna functions in both capturing and grinding food. These processes
can occur simultaneously because the echidna opens and closes its mouth by rotating the mandibles
about their own long axes. This action translates the curvature of the attached rami into a downward
movement commencing from a point just posterior to the corner of the mouth. Orthal hinge movements
of the mandible are prevented by short ligaments which attach the horizontal ramus to the maxilla,
and the position of the jaws is unchanged.
The Spatial Dispersion of Spiders in a Cotton Ecosystem.
Authors: Bishop AL
Published: June 2005

In a cotton field in south-eastern Queensland, the spider species Cheiracanthium mordax L. Koch (diversum L. Koch), Archaearanea veruculata (Urquhart) and Lycosa sp. were equally distributed in the outer, middle and inner portions. However, A. veruculata was more abundant in the western side of the field late in the season, apparently in response to a more favourable habitat. In sampling, the variance was greater than the mean and overdispersion was apparent. C. mordax and A. veruculata were most abundant in the top one-third of plants, and Oxyopes mundulus L. Koch was evenly distributed over plants. The consistency with which these spiders were recorded in levels of vertical strata was enhanced by the formation of the crop canopy, and the eventual vertical distribution of C. mordax was apparently influenced by rainfall. Among crop spacings, most spiders of 4 species preferred the highest density (12 plants/m). The ecological consequences of the distribution characteristics are discussed in relation to current sequential decision plans for the management of cotton pests and beneficial species in the region.
Laboratory Rearing of the Garden Weevil, Phlyctinus Callosus Boheman (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), and the Effect of Temperature on Its Growth and Survival.
Authors: Walker PL
Published: June 2005

Age-specific life and fecundity studies on the weevil Phlyctinus callosus (Boh.) (a polyphagous pest in gardens in parts of southern Australia, especially Victoria) revealed that mortality was greatest in the immature stages and that high temperatures were lethal to eggs (>30 deg C) and larvae (>25 deg C). The intrinsic rate of natural increase was greatest at 20 deg C, and the greater proportion of its value was accounted for early in the egg-laying period. Larvae could be reared on carrot roots in the laboratory; 76% of larvae reared in this manner to the pupal stage passed through 7 instars, 12% through 6, and 12% through 8. Head-capsule width was a suitable criterion for identifying the instars. Eggs could be stored for as long as 12 weeks at 5 deg C with no loss of viability. These results are discussed in relation to control measures against the weevil.
The Systematic Status of the Genus Australocrinia Heyer & Liem (Anura:Leptodactylidae)
Authors: Thompson MB
Published: June 2005

Australocrinia Heyer & Liem was erected to accommodate the species riparia Littlejohn & Martin and
tasmaniensis Gunther. Here I examine these species and determine the systematic status of Australocrinia.
Multivariate numerical techniques were employed to sort specimens of the 14 species
examined. Ranidella Girard (sensu Heyer and Liem 1976) was shown to be a group of closely related
species. Although A. riparia and A. tasmaniensis differ from this group in a number of respects the
differences are considered insufficient to warrant the recognition of a genus to accommodate them.
Accordingly I refer them to Ranidella. Three species-groups were recognized in Ranidella. One contains
all the species referred to Ranidella by Heyer and Liem (1976), whereas R. riparia and R. tasmaniensis
are monotypic groups.
Taxonomic Separation of Eptesicus (Chiroptera:Vespertilionidae) in South Eastern Australia by Discriminant Analysis and Electrophoresis
Authors: Tidemann CR , Woodside DP , Adams M , Baverstock PR
Published: June 2005

Eptesicus from south-eastern New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory were used in a
combination of multivariate (discriminant) analysis of skeletal dimensions and isozyme electrophoresis
of liver, plasma and red cell proteins. Both techniques separated the bats unequivocally into three
groups. The groups identified by discriminant analysis were the same as those derived by the electrophoretic
method and almost certainly belong to distinct biological species, for even when they occur
sympatrically there are many fixed gene differences between them. The three groups are shown to
correspond to the species E. vulturnus, E. regulus and E. sagittula. Structural differences between these
species and methods of identifying them are discussed.
Nitrogen Metabolism and Nitrogen Requirements of the Brushtail Possum, Trichosurus Vulpecula (Kerr).
Authors: Wellard GA , Hume ID
Published: June 2005

Nitrogen metabolism was studied in adult Trichosurus vulpecula maintained on semipurified diets of
different nitrogen and fibre contents. The maintenance nitrogen requirement was estimated to be 203
mg per kg W*0.75 per day on a dietary basis, and a mean of 189 mg per kg W*0.75 per day on a truly
digestible basis. Both are low compared with estimates from most eutherians, and are similar to
estimates from macropods adapted to arid zones. Metabolic faecal nitrogen (mg per 100 g dry matter
intake) was directly related to dietary fibre level, viz. 336 on 41% neutral detergent fibre (NDF) diets,
184 on 17% NDF diets, and 78 on 9.5% NDF diets. Dry matter intakes were low compared with those
of the rabbit, suggesting that, as with nitrogen, the maintenance energy requirement of the brushtail
is below that of most eutherians.
Digestion and Digesta Passage in the Brushtail Possum, Trichosurus Vulpecula (Kerr).
Authors: Wellard GA , Hume ID
Published: June 2005

Digestion and digesta passage rate were studied in brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) fed on semipurified diets of 2 different fibre values. Increasing fibre in the diet from 17 to 41% neutral detergent fibre (NDF) depressed digestibility of DM (P<0.01), energy (P<0.001) and NDF (P<0.05). Within the high-fibre diets, but not the low-fibre diets, there were negative correlations between apparent digestibility of DM and DM intake (P<0.005) and between NDF digestibility and DM intake (P<0.001). Caecectomy had no effect on intake or digestion of DM or fibre. The average mean retention time in intact animals was 64 h for fluid and 71 h for particulate digesta. Caecectomy increased the mean retention time of fluid to 120 h (P<0.025) and of particles to 125 h (P<0.01). This increase in retention time was used to explain the lack of any significant effect of caecectomy on fibre digestibility. There was no significant differentiation in passage rate of fluid and particulate digesta. Results are discussed in relation to the role of the caecum in digestion in the brushtail possum.
Gamasine Mites Associated With Australian Scarabaeid Beetles Ii. The Genus Cosmetolaelaps Womersley, Symbionts of Onthophagus Latreille.
Authors: Costa M , Allsopp PG
Published: June 2005

The following species of Cosmetolaelaps Womersley associated with Australian Onthophagus Latreille
(Scarabaeidae : Scarabaeinae) are described and figured: microsetus, sp, nov., reticulatus, sp. nov.,
oligosetus, sp. nov., desecti, sp, nov., wallacei, sp, nov. and dolicacanthus (Canestrini). Species of Cosmetolaelaps
show a degree of host-specificity at the species-group level: microsetus with the atrox group
and O. consentaneus Harold; reticulatus with the atrox and declivis groups; oligosetus with the atrox
group; desecti with the declivis group; wallacei with the auritus group; and dolicacanthus with the
atrox and conspicuus groups and O. consentaneus.
Water and Sodium Turnover in Coastal and Inlnad Populations of the Ash-Grey Mouse, in Western Austrlia
Authors: Morris KD , Bradshaw SD
Published: June 2005

The water and sodium turnovers of a coastal and an inland population of P. albocinereus were studied
seasonally. Although the inland habitat receives considerably less rain and sodium than the coastal
habitat, water turnover rates were significantly lower only in May and sodium turnover lower only
in August. Water influx rates were lowest at both locations during the summer months, positively correlated
with the water content of the vegetation and positively correlated with the amount of rain
received in the 30 days before each sampling period. Water efflux rates were negatively correlated
with urine osmolality. Sodium influx rates were highest during the summer months and were correlated
with the sodium content of the vegetation but not with the sodium deposited in the study areas. Sodium
efflux rates were positively correlated with the urine sodium concentration. During the dry months,
water and sodium influxes are linked; this is not apparent during the wetter months. The utilization
of arthropods for food during the summer months is seen as contributing to the maintenance of water
balance during a period when the vegetation is low in water. Both populations breed in late spring,
with young animals growing during the summer months, and water and sodium influx rates exceed
efflux rates during this period.
Earthworms (Annelida : Oligochaeta) of Vanua Tu (New Hebrides Islands).
Authors: Lee KE
Published: June 2005

Twenty-one species of earthworms, one including two subspecies, are recorded from Vanua Tu (New Hebrides). They comprise 18 species of the 'Pheretima' group of genera, including Amynthas (five spp.), Metapheretima (eight spp.), Polypheretima (one sp.), Pheretima (two spp.) and Pithemera (two spp., one with two subspecies), and three common pantropical species, Dichogaster bolaui, Ocnerodrilus occidentalis and Pontoscolex corethrurus. Seven new species are described. The systematics of the earthworms of Vanua Tu are reviewed, and species in the 'Pheretima' group are classified according to the revisions of Sims and Easton (1972) and Easton (1979). A key is provided for identification of all species. Vanua Tu earthworms show little evidence of niche separation or local speciation and it is concluded that most, if not all, the species have been introduced to the archipelago by pre-European and European man. Relationships between Vanua Tu earthworms and those of other Pacific islands are discussed, and it is shown that a large proportion of the species belong to a widely distributed 'Pacific basin' group. The affinities of this group are with south-east Asian and Indo-Malayan forms, and they are considered to be a group analogous to the small group of European lumbricid species that have been spread by man through much of the temperate regions of the earth.
Early Embryonic Development and Ovarian Activity During Concurrent Pregnancy and Lactation in the Hopping-Mouse Notomys Alexis.
Authors: Breed WG
Published: June 2005

In the hopping-mouse, following a postpartum mating, embryos enter the uterus on about day 5.
Implantation occurs on about day 7 if there are no suckling pups, but zona-free blastocysts may remain
up to day 18 if from four to seven suckling pups are present. Implantation is eccentric and initially
involves interdigitation of trophectoderm and uterine epithelial cells, followed by epithelial cell displacement.
The orientation is antimesometrial and, during further development, the embryo invaginates
into the yolk-sac cavity. In the ovary, corpora lutea develop during the first few days of pregnancy
and then remain unchanged in size or cellular morphology until implantation, regardless of the length
of its delay. Peripheral progesterone levels likewise show little change during the preimplantation period.
After implantation, a similar number of corpora lutea are found but they increase progressively in
size due to luteal cell hypertrophy. The cells show all the organelles typical of steroid hormone synthetic
activity and there is a corresponding increase in blood progesterone levels at this time. Vesicular follicles
are present throughout concurrent pregnancy and lactation and are larger after implantation. There
is no evidence of spontaneous ovulation except at the time of parturition.
Temperature Limits to Trailing Activity in the Australian Arid-Zone Meat Ant Iridomyrmex Pupureus Form Viridiaeneus.
Authors: Greenaway P
Published: June 2005

Trailing activity is restricted to the hours of daylight and is further limited by the temperature of the
air surrounding the ant (T*a) and by the net radiant heat load. Activity in winter begins well after
sunrise and continues until late afternoon averaging c. 7.4 h per day. Midsummer activity occupies
two distinct periods, one commencing at dawn and the other in late afternoon; the two together total
about 6.8 h per day. The upper and lower values of T*a, between which ants are active are 43.5�C
and 14�C. Radiant heat input is dissipated from the ants by convective heat loss.
Patterns of Feeding, Defaecation and Digestion in the Tammar, Macropus Eugenii, Under Laboratory Conditions.
Authors: Warner ACI
Published: June 2005

Tammars given lucerne hay pellets needed at least 4 h per day to eat enough to maintain body weight.
They scattered some food with their forepaws, so they could not be held to a constant ration. The
amount of faeces excreted per day fluctuated, with a coefficient of variation of 10-20%, so that long
collection periods were needed for reliable estimates of digestibility. Within days, the rate of faeces
excretion was greatest around feeding time, due to the influence of the preceding day's meal. Animals
fed continuously from a moving belt also showed a daily rhythm of defaecation. In periods with a
high rate of faeces excretion the dry matter concentration in the faeces fell, presumably because of
less opportunity for water absorption.
Composition of Preferred and Rejected Eucalyptus Browse Offered to Captive Koalas, Phascolarctos Cinereus (Marsupialia).
Authors: Ullrey DE , Robinson PT , Whetter PA
Published: June 2005

Browse representing 1.5 m of terminal growth from 11 species of Eucalyptus shoots or mature tree
limbs was divided into portions which were either consumed or rejected by captive koalas. The following
nutrient concentrations (dry basis) were found in preferred browse: crude protein, 5.9-17.8%;
ether extract, 5.5-19.2%; neutral detergent fibre, 16.8-37.5%; ash, 3.2-5.6%; remaining proximate
fraction [(dry matter) - (crude protein + ether extract + neutral detergent fibre + ash)], 31.7-64.8%;
calcium, 0.28-1.95%; phosphorus, 0.08-0.42%; sodium, 0.03-1.29%; potassium, 0.30-2.06%; magnesium,
0.12-0.44%; iron, 67-274 ppm; copper, 2.1-15.8 ppm; zinc, 17-54 ppm; and selenium,
0.03-0.42 ppm. Preferred browse, as compared to rejected browse, had significantly higher concentrations
of crude protein, remaining proximate fraction, phosphorus and potassium, and significantly
lower concentrations of ether extract, neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, permanganate lignin,
gross energy, calcium, iron and selenium.