bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immature stages of some Myodochini of the Australian region (Hemiptera : Lygaeidae : Rhyparochrominae)
Authors: Malipatil MB
Published: June 2005

Descriptions are given of the nymphs of 15 species (41 nymphal instars) of the Myodochini of the Australian region, together with descriptions of the eggs of 10 species. Generic and species keys are given to separate the fifth-instar nymphs. Dorsal views and line drawings are given of fifth-instar nymphs of 15 species and eggs of three species, respectively.
Multivariate morphometric analysis of Eptesicus (Mammalia : Chiroptera) in Australia
Authors: Carpenter SM , McKean JL , Richards GC
Published: June 2005

Multivariate analyses of measurements of different Eptesicus species were carried out. The results sup- ported a recent taxonomic revision based on type of baculum, and indicated criteria for identification of females, and of males lacking prepared bacula.
The Adaptation of Some Western Australian Mammals to Food Plants Containing Fluoroacetate.
Authors: King DR , Oliver AJ , Mead RJ
Published: June 2005

The tolerance to fluoroacetate of Macropus fuliginosus, Trichosurus vulpecula and Rattus fuscipes from the south-west of Western Australia is unusually high. T. vulpecula and R. fuscipes from eastern Aus- tralia are much more susceptible than conspecifics from Western Australia. This tolerance appears to be an adaptation to the presence of monofluoroacetic acid in many species of the plant genera Gastrolobium and Oxylobium, which occur within the range of these mammals in Western Australia. The co-evolution of this defence mechanism in plants and the development of tolerance to fluoroacetate by herbivores is discussed.
A review of the Australian specieso of Hydroptila Dalma (Trichoptera : Hydroptilidae) with descriptions of the new species
Authors: Wells A
Published: June 2005

The taxonomy of Hydroptila Dalman in Australia is examined. The four known species are reviewed and females of three of them described for the first time. Descriptions of five new species are given, with male and female for four and male only for the fifth. A key to adults is provided.
A revision of the genus Parastacoides Clark (Crustacea : Decapoda : Parastacidae)
Authors: Sumner CE
Published: June 2005

Since the last revision of the genus Parastacoides, greatly extended collections, many from previously inaccessible areas, have become available. Some of the new specimens exhibited characteristics intermediate between pairs of the six recognized species. Some 418 specimens were examined for 27 attributes and a numerical classificatory strategy, MULTCLAS, was used to construct a phenetic classification which was expressed as a phenogram and interpreted with the aid of a diagnostic program, GROUPER. A high degree of morphological similarity and a substantial overlapping of ranges of attributes were common. Three groups, identified only by two qualitative attributes, were defined. Accordingly, only one species, P. tasmanicus (Erichson) is recognized, considered to comprise three subspecies corresponding to the three groups. P. pulcher Riek and P. leptomerus Riek are considered synonyms of the nominate subspecies P. tasmanicus tasmanicus (Erichson). P. inermis Clark and P. insignis Clark are retained as the subspecies P. tasmanicus inermis (Clark) and P. tasmanicus insignis (Clark) respectively. P. sternalis Riek is considered a synonym of P. tasmanicus inermis. Two possible patterns of evolution of the subspecies are briefly considered.
Melanesian ants of the genus Amblyopone (Hymenoptera : Formicidae)
Authors: Taylor RW
Published: June 2005

The known Melanesian ants of genus Amblyopone are reviewed, with a key to species and comprehensive scanning electron micrograph illustrations of each. They are: A. noonadan Taylor (New Britain); A. papuana, sp. nov. (New Guinea); A. celata Mann (eastern Solomon Islands); A. gnoma, sp. nov. (Guadalcanal) and A. australis Erichson (New Guinea, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, New Hebrides; also widespread in Australia, New Zealand and Tasman Sea islands). The name 'A. australis' is currently applied to a complex of closely related, intractable, biological species.
Systematics of the spider subfamily Hexathelinae (Dipluridae : Mygalomorphae : Arachnida)
Authors: Raven RJ
Published: June 2005

Two new genera, Plesiothele and Bymainiella, are erected to receive all the Australian species of the subfamily Hexathelinae, which now comprises four genera, including Hexathele with 20 species from New Zealand, and Scotinoecus with two species from South America. Plesiothele is a monotypic Tasmanian genus, type-species Hexathele fentoni Hickman, 1936. Bymainiella comprises 12 new species: B. boycei, B. boydi, B. brindabella, B. cannoni, B. grayi, B. lugubris, B. monteithi, B. montisbossi, B. otwayensis, B. polesoni, B. tubrabucca and B. variabilis; also B. montana (Hickman, 1927), and B. terraereginae (Raven, 1976), the latter being the type-species. The typespecies of Scotinoecus, S. cinereopilosus, is redescribed, and keys to the genera of the subfamily Hexathelinae, and to the Bymainiella species, are given. Two new indices are introduced to overcome the problem of bilateral variability. Bymainiella is believed to be the sister group of Scotinoecus.
Phenology and Relative Abundance of Coleoptera on Some Australian Acacias.
Authors: New TR
Published: June 2005

Adult Coleoptera were sampled weekly by beating from four Acacia species (Acacia baileyana, Acacia dealbata, Acacia decurrens and Acacia pravissima) near Melbourne for up to 2 l/2 years. Some 34,000 individuals, representing nearly 200 'species', are used to analyse seasonal trends in occurrence and abundance on different tree species. Few species were abundant, and these (predominantly univoltine 'summer' species) occurred on all host species. Aspects of seasonal incidence and changes in similarity between beetle assemblages on different tree species are briefly discussed.
Swarming of Culicoides Brevitarsis Kieffer (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) With Reference to Markers, Swarm Size, Proximity of Cattle, and Weather.
Authors: Campbell MM , Kettle DS
Published: June 2005

Swarms of Culicoides brevitarsis Kieff. were examined in the field in south-eastern Queensland, and their markers are described. Flies swarmed over the sunward edge of an area where the intensity of reflected light was very low. The most common markers were shadows cast by clumps of living grass slightly elevated above the sward. The size and density of the shadow were not important within very wide limits. Objects that cast shadows were successfully used to induce swarming. In contrast to most other species, males appeared to fly in all directions in swarms that did not settle on or near their markers as the wind speed increased. The mean size of swarms was 49.7 males and 0.6 females. Females were present in 34.7% of all swarms. Near to cattle, swarms were significantly larger, closer together, lower, and more likely to contain females than elsewhere. The influence of cattle extended 10 m around the animal's head, with all swarms on the sunny side and within 5.4 m of the head. Swarming began about 1 h before sunset, and mostly ceased at or soon after sunset. The probability of swarming during that period exceeded 0.95 when the wind speed was less than 1.11 m/s but was reduced to nil at 1.91 m/s. Temperature, humidity, cloud cover and the presence of direct sunlight did not influence the probability that swarms would form.
Karyotypes and Meiosis of the Morabine Grasshoppers Ii. The Genera Culmacris and Stiletta.
Authors: White MJD
Published: June 2005

The genus Culmacris contains no species having the primitive XO:XX sex chromosome mechanism, as found in the tribe Morabini. Two of its species have an XY:XX sex-chromosome mechanism, due to the acquisition of an X-autosome fusion (F18) early in the phylogeny of the genus. It also includes a number of taxa with X1X2Y:X1X1X2X2 sex-chromosome systems. It is proposed that this condition arose from the XY:XX one as a result of a single Y-autosome fusion (F19). The species and races of the X1X2Y section of the genus differ from one another karyotypically in respect of the size and shape of the X2 and Y chromosomes, which are especially variable; in some of them the CD autosome has undergone dissociation into separate C and D acrocentrics (D5, D7 and D8) and in one taxon the AB has also undergone dissociation (D6). This extensive karyotypic diversification contrasts with the relative morphological uniformity of this complex. The genus Stiletta contains two species with the primitive XO:XX mechanism. Both of these have a fusion between two small autosomes (F8), and one of them has an additional fusion between small autosomes (F9), giving rise to 2n = 13, the lowest chromosome number known in the Morabinae.
Biology and Systematics of a New Limnodynastine Genus (Anura: Leptodactylidae) From North-Western Australia.
Authors: Tyler MJ , Martin AA , Davies M
Published: June 2005

The new leptodactylid genus Megistolotis and new species Megistolotis lignarius are described from localities in northern Western Australia and the Northern Territory. M. lignarius inhabits scree slopes and escarpments. The male mating call is a single note resembling the striking of timber. The spawn clump is a foam nest anchored to stones at the edge of small, temporary pools, and the tadpoles have intense black bodies and fins, and suctorial mouths. Megistolotis is most closely related to the limnodynastine genera Limnodynastes and Heleioporus.
A Review of the Globocephaloidinae Inglis (Nematoda: Amidostomatidae) From Macropodid Marsupials.
Authors: Beveridge I
Published: June 2005

The subfamily Globocephaloidinae Inglis, 1968 (Nematoda : Amidostomatidae) is redescribed and redefined. Two genera are recognized, Globocephaloides Yorke & Maplestone, 1926, and Amphicephaloides, gen. nov. Hypodontus Monnig, 1929 is removed from the Globocephaloidinae. Globocephaloides macropodis Yorke & Maplestone, 1926, redescribed from specimens from the type host, Mmropus agilis, was also found in Macropus dorsalis, M. giganteus, Petrogale inornata, P. venutula and Thylogale thetis. Globocephaloides wallabiae Johnston & Mawson, 1939, G. affinis Johnston & Mawson, 1939, and G. thetidis Johnston & Mawson, 1939, are placed as synonyms of G. macropodis. Globocephaloides trijidospicularis Kung, 1948, is redescribed. This species was found in Macropus giganteus, M. fuliginosus, M. rufogriseus, M. parryi, M. eugenii and Wallabia bicolor. Life-cycle stages are described. Amphicephaloides thylogale, gen, et, sp. nov., which differs from Globocephaloides in having a subdivided buccal capsule, was found in Thylogale billardierii, T. stigmatica and T. thetis.
Ecology of Australian Chats (Epthianura Gould): Reproduction in Aridity.
Authors: Williams CK
Published: June 2005

The four species of Australian chats differentially occupy arid regions and are considered to have problems of water balance during reproduction. They breed mainly during the winter semester, when ambient temperatures and vapour pressure deficit are lower and evaporative losses of body water are reduced. During a drought breeding is depressed; but chats breed opportunistically after abundant rainfall and exploit, by nomadism, the unpredictable rainfall in semiarid and arid Australia. The breeding season of the most mesic species, Epthianura albifrons, is reduced in the more xeric regions. In arid sympatric breeding areas the more xeric species have the more extended breeding seasons. Chats are territorial only during reproduction. The male protects the receptive female and the eggs and offspring, but not environmental resources. Territorial defence involves plumage pigmentation consistent with Gloger's rule, plumage patterns, postures and ritualized fighting displays. Territoriality and territorial behaviour are reduced in the more mesic species. This is consistent with relative rates of evaporative water loss, synchrony and apparent density of nesting, water requirements and physiological adaptation to aridity. A hypothesis is presented which suggests an adaptive hormonal mechanism relating to physiological adaptation to aridity and determining the different plumages.
Oogenesis in Lucilia Cuprina (Wied.) (Diptera: Calliphoridae). I. Development of Nurse Cell Nuclei, the Oocyte Nucleus and the Follicle Cells.
Authors: Beattie GAC , Cheney J
Published: June 2005

In investigations in the laboratory in Australia, endomitosis in the ovarian nurse cell nuclei in females of Lucilia cuprina (Wied.) was found to be initiated in stage-1 follicles shortly after eclosion, independently of a protein meal. The largest nurse cell nuclei attained a ploidy of 1024n in stage 3 and 4 follicles, shortly after the onset of vitellogenesis; after this, they could undergo a further eightfold increase in volume. Polytene chromosomes were occasionally observed during endomitosis in 16n and 32n nurse cell nuclei. Throughout stages 1-8, the oocyte nucleus steadily increased from an average diameter of 6-7 mu m to one of about 60 mu m. In early stage 9, the nuclear membrane was lost and what appeared to be a karyosphere with a diameter of about 6 mu m was visible. Later in stage 9, the oocyte nucleus was obscured by yolk, and its development beyond this stage was not traced. Follicle cells increased in number from 80 in early stage-1 follicles to 1300 in stage 2. The information presented was required to ascertain the site of action of aziridinyl chemosterilants on ovarian development [see next abstract] and to aid in current research on the production of chromosomal rearrangements by irradiation.
Oogenesis in Lucilia Cuprina (Wied.) (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Ii. The Effect of Aziridinyl Chemosterilants on Oogenesis.
Authors: Beattie GAC
Published: June 2005

Inhibition of ovarian development in L. cuprina by two aziridinyl chemosterilants, N,N'-hexamethylenebis(1-aziridinecarboxamide) and N. N'bisaziridinyl-N"-cyclohexylphosphine sulphide, was due to the direct effect of the sterilants on the ovary. The sterilants caused infecundity by interfering with mitosis in the follicle cells. Contrary to the accepted view, no evidence was obtained to suggest that infecundity resulted from inhibition of endomitosis in the nurse cell nuclei. Neither sterilant prevented the digestion of protein by the midgut, nor did they prevent the endocrine system and fat body from functioning.
Growth and Feeding in Two Species of Machaerotidae (Homoptera).
Authors: Newby R
Published: June 2005

Serial sections were used to show that the nymphs of both Pectinariophyes stalii (Spangberg) and Chaetophyes compacta (Wlk.) feed on xylem sap of their food-plants, which are species of Eucalyptus in Australia. The sap is used to derive general nutrients and calcium ions which are used in the construction of their calcareous dwelling tube. The two species live in similar habitats, but their life-histories differ markedly. Females of both species laid eggs on new shoots in early summer in Queensland; P. stalii took 6 weeks to develop and overwintered as an adult, whereas C. compacta took 40 weeks and overwintered as a juvenile. The different rates of growth and nutrient and calcium uptake are discussed in relation to observed differences in damage to the host-tree.
Proteins of beaks, possible use in taxonomy of birds
Authors: Frenkel MJ , Gillespie JM
Published: June 2005

The electrophoretic patterns of the keratin proteins from birds' beaks were studied to determine their value as an aid in classification and identification. Beak proteins from 32 individuals, representing 7 orders, 13 families and 26 species of Australian birds, have been compared by electrophoresis on cellulose acetate membranes at pH 8.9. It was concluded that electrophoretic patterns of individuals within a species are identical apart from minor differences in band intensities. Several cases of species-specificity were observed, although birds from different species within a genus did not invariably have dissimilar patterns. Different genera within a family had significantly different patterns, although there was no constant level of difference between related genera. The study was not sufficiently comprehensive to provide taxonomic information, being heavily weighted towards psittacine birds. Nevertheless it appeared that electrophoresis of beak proteins is a more discriminating tool for distinguishing taxonomic differences than is electrophoresis of feather proteins, and might conceivably provide an additional technique for taxonomists.
A Review of the Genus Larrisson Menke (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae).
Authors: Menke AS
Published: June 2005

A key and illustrations are provided for the identification of the four species in the endemic Australian genus Larrisson. Three of the species are described as new: azyx, nedymus and rieki.
Multivariate Assessment of Phenetic Relationships Within the Tribe Luciliini (Diptera: Calliphoridae).
Authors: Brown KR
Published: June 2005

A multivariate assessment of phenetic relationships within the Luciliini was carried out. The canonical group means were derived from analysis of wing morphometric characters and assessed by considering the minimum spanning network superimposed on the three-dimensional ordination diagrams and by cluster analysis. Small subsets of taxa were analysed to clarify relationships within and between genera. Although there was some overlapping between species of Lucilia and Hemipyrellia, 4 basic groups emerged corresponding to the genera Dyscritomyia, Hypopygiopsis, Hemipyrellia and Lucilia. There was no support for Phaenicia and Francilia being accorded generic status. There was some doubt as to the synonymy of L. calviceps Bez. and L. papuensis Macq.
Reclassification, Phylogeny and Zoogeography of the Australian Species of Cicindela (Coleoptera : Cicindelidae)
Authors: Freitag R
Published: June 2005

Australian components of the subfamilies Collyrinae and Cicindelinae, tribes Collyrini, Megacephalini and Cicindelini, and genera Tricondyla Latreille, Megacephala Latreille, Distipsidera Westwood, Rhysopleura Sloane, Nickerlea W. Horn, and Cicindela Linne are distinguished in a key. For each of the first five genera, numbers of Australian species, geographical distributions, and habitats of the adults are described. Diagnostic characteristics are provided for the genus Cicindela Linne. Twenty-nine Australian species are arranged in seven species-groups as follows: the iosceles group, six species; the nigrina group, two species: the carnarvona, group (=subgenus Grandopronotalia W. Horn, genus Prothyma), one species, C. carnarvona, sp. et comb. nov.; the tetragramma group, seven species, including C. levitetragramma, sp. nov. (type locality, Western Australia, Port Hedland); the ypsilon group, four species; the igneicollis group, five species, including C. gairdneri, sp. nov. (type locality, South Australia, Lake Gairdner, south-west gulf); the semicincta group, four species, including C. parasemicincta, sp. nov. (type locality, South Australia, Wobna Mound Spring about 8km south-east of Coward Spring). Placement of the iosceles and carnarvona groups is discussed. A key is provided for all species and five subspecies. Species-groups, species, and subspecies are revised, described and illustrated, and the ranges of species indicated by maps. A history of the Australian species of Cicindela is derived, which comprises a reconstructed phylogeny, based on adult characteristics, and zoogeography based on patterns of geographical distributions of species-groups, ecological requirements, vicariance relations of sister groups, and climatic events of the past. It is concluded that five species-groups are endemic to Australia. Their origins are unknown, though geographical distributions indicate that four (iosceles, nigrina, tetragramma, carnarvona) are relicts of extinct Oriental lineages, and one (igneicollis) is relict of a south ancient lineage. Two species-groups (ypsilon, semicincta) are southernmost extensions of extant Oriental groups. Zoogeographical evidence suggests that most founding stocks invaded northern Australia through New Guinea during the Tertiary and Pleistocene, and speciation in the Pleistocene has been generated in the north-east by periodic retreats and invasions of the sea in the Gulf of Carpentaria during glacial and interglacial phases.
Standard Metabolism of Monotremes and the Evolution of Homeothermy.
Authors: Dawson TJ , Grant TR , Fanning D
Published: June 2005

The standard metabolic rates (SMR) of species from all extant monotreme genera were determined together with body temperatures. The echidnas, Zaglossus bruijni and Tachyglossus aculeatus, of the Family Tachyglossidae, both had an SMR 25-30% of predicted eutherian levels. The platypus Ornithorhynchus anatinus, however, had a much higher SMR. The weight-independent values (watts, kg*-075) were 0.86, 0.98 and 2.21 respectively for Z. bruijni, T. aculeatus and 0. anatinus. Body temperatures were similar, however, with means in the range 31.3-32�C. The data are suggested to support the idea of a gradual evolution in metabolic capability rather than marked jumps in metabolic levels.
A Comparison of Metric and Protein Variation in the Australian Bush-Rat, Rattus Fuscipes Greyii.
Authors: Schmitt LH , White RJ
Published: June 2005

A study of 18 skull and body characters in 13 reproductively isolated populations of R. f. greyii reveals significant heterogeneity between populations for all characters. For most characters, there is no statistically significant difference between small, island populations and large populations. The variance in each character is generally less in small populations than in large ones, but this difference is not statistically significant in most cases. A previously reported study of electrophoretically detected protein variation in these populations revealed fewer polymorphisms in small populations than in large ones. The relationships between the populations, as described by multivariate analyses of the metric and protein data, are similar. The distance between populations, as measured by the metric variation, regresses significantly on the time of isolation of the populations but not the geographic distance between them. However, both of these latter variables account for significant parts of the interpopulation protein variation.
The Australian species of Orthotrichia Eaton (Trichoptera : Hydroptilidae)
Authors: Wells A
Published: June 2005

The genus Orthotrichia Eaton. newly recognized from Australia, is represented here by 25 species of diverse structure, arranged in four species-groups based primarily upon the male genitalia. Twenty-four of the species are new while the remaining one is transferred to Orthotrichia from the monotypic Targa- trichia Neboiss, which is thus synonymized. The scope and diagnoses of Orthotrichia and some other hydroptilid genera are discussed briefly, with special reference to the relative importance of wing and genitalic characters.
Karyotypic Studies on Cyclorana and Associated Genera of Australian Frogs.
Authors: King M , Tyler MJ , Davies M , King D
Published: June 2005

The taxonomic relationships of frogs from the genus Cyclorana are uncertain, for they share similarities with both the Leptodactylidae and the Hylidae. Karyotypic comparisons were made between seven species of Cyclorana and three species from the leptodactylid genera Notaden, Neobatrachus and Heleioporus. All Cyclorana species have 2n = 26, whereas the other species have 2n = 24. The position and type of secondary constrictions subdivide the species of Cyclorana into three groups. The similarity of chromosome morphology in these three groups with that of hylids suggests a close phylogenetic relationship. The major chromosome differences between Cyclorana and representatives from the leptodactylid genera suggests a fundamental dichotomy masked by adaptation to a fossorial mode of life.
Redefinition and Evolutionary Origin of the Australopapuan Hylid Frog Genus Nyctimystes Stejneger.
Authors: Tyler MJ , Davies M
Published: June 2005

The genus Nyctimystes is a relatively homogenous group characterized here by cranial and post-cranial osteological and myological features, and exhibiting a series of reproductive adaptations to montane conditions. The genus has been redefined on the basis of a suite of 39 characters. Its phylogenetic relationships are with several groups of species in the genus Litoria. It seem likely that the numerous points of morphological and reproductive resemblance to montane species of Litoria reflect a common origin of Nyctimystes and the montane Litoria.
New Australian Ants of the Genus Orectognathus, With Summary Description of the Twenty-Nine Known Species (Hymenoptera: Formicidae).
Authors: Taylor RW
Published: June 2005

The new species Orectognathus kanangra (New South Wales), Orectognathus alligator and Orectognathus coccinatus (Queensland) are described. Notes are given on variation and distribution of some previously described species. These include the first Western Australian record of the genus. O. sarasini Emery (New Caledonia) is illustrated, and coded descriptions of all 29 known Orectognathus species are presented.
The Genus Austroxestus Woodward (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae: Rhyparochrominae).
Authors: Woodward TE
Published: June 2005

The lethaeine genus Austroxestus Woodward, 1962, and its type-species A. carnarvoni Woodward are redescribed. The type locality of this species is the Carnarvon Range, Queensland; new records are from eastern New South Wales. The following are described: A. australiensis, sp. nov., from Tasmania, Victoria and eastern Queensland, A. taylori, sp. nov., from New South Wales, and A. westraliensis, sp. nov., from south-west Western Australia. The variation and distribution of A. australiensis are discussed. The four species are keyed out.
The Helminth Parasites of Rattus Fuscipes (Waterhouse) From Victoria, Including Description of Two New Nematode Species.
Authors: Obendorf DL
Published: June 2005

In R. fuscipes from seven Victorian localities: 15 nematode and five cestode species were found; Bertiella anapolytica, Capillaria gastrica and Stammerinema suffodiax represented new host-parasite records for R. fuscipes, and the latter two were new helminth records for Australia. Capillaria praeputialis, sp. nov., and Paraustrostrongylus ratti, sp. nov., are described. Insight into the feeding habits and the interrelationships of R. fuscipes with other fauna was sought from the parasite data. One cestode (Choanotaenia ratticola) and two nematode species (Dipetalonema johnstoni and Stammerinema suffodiax) also occur in marsupials. Two helminth genera (Bertiella and Paraustrostrongylus) with extensive radiations in marsupial hosts are recorded from R.fuscipes. It is proposed that these data present further evidence for the concept of secondary transfer of parasite faunas between indigenous marsupials and rodents.
Delayed gestation in the Potoroo Potorous tridactylus (Kerr)
Authors: Shaw G , Rose RW
Published: June 2005

The histological changes in the corpus luteum and uteri of P. tridactylus throughout delayed gestation are described. Early in gestation there appears to be a unilateral stimulus of the uterus ipsilateral to the corpus luteum. Late in gestation there appears to be a foeto-placental stimulus of the pregnant uterus. Embryonic development is closely associated with the uterine changes. At about day 29 after removal of pouch young the foetus is born via the median vagina. A model is proposed to explain the apparently great discrepancy between the length of delayed and undelayed gestation in this species.
Growth and development of Rattus lutreolus (Rodentia : Muridae) in the laboratory
Authors: Fox BJ
Published: June 2005

A laboratory breeding colony of R. l. lutreolus was used to obtain data on the growth in the length of head, hind foot, tail, head and body, and body weight during the first 130 days of life. The development of external body features was compared to that known for other Australian Rattus. The young are blind and naked at birth and are not fully furred until 13 days. Incisors are visible at day 8 (5-11) and erupt about day 12 (8-15) with the eyes opening at 17 days (15-18). Independence was achieved at about 25 days (23-30) with the first signs of reproductive maturity at about 60-70 days. Five stages of growth can be related to developmental features from teeth eruption to puberty and reproductive maturity. The onset of hearing (14-15) days appear to be as important in development as does the opening of the eyes. Body measurements show sigmoid relationships to a linear equivalence of weight (W*0.33), except for head and body length which is linear. R. l. lutreolus belongs to the fast-growing group in Australian murids. Measurements from laboratory-bred animals are in agreement with those for field animals, with head and body length the best single parameter for obtaining approximate ages.
Observations on the chromosomes and reproductive systems of four macropodine interspecific hybrids (Marsupialia : Macropodidae)
Authors: Smith MJ , Hayman DL , Hope RM
Published: June 2005

Four interspecific hybrids (male parent first), Macropus robustus X M. rufus (a female), Wallabia bicolor X M. rufogriseus (a male), M. agilis X M. rufogriseus (a male) and M. eugenii X M. dorsalis (a male), have been verified by their chromosome number and morphology. In the hybrid W. bicolor X M. rufogriseus mosaicism occurred in the lymphocytes for the number of Y chromosomes present. The pelage and skull of each hybrid showed some characteristics of each of the parent species. All hybrids were sterile. The male hybrids had scrotal testes with abundant tubules but no spermatogenesis. The female hybrid lacked the left ovary and had an otherwise complete reproductive system. The potential use of the hybrids involving M. rufogriseus for cell biological studies is discussed.
Changes in Numbers in the Parasitoid Complex Associated With the Diamond-Back Moth, Plutella Xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera), in Victoria.
Authors: Goodwin S
Published: June 2005

Between 1972 and 1974, a study was made of parasitoids of P. xylostella naturally infesting four successive crops of cabbages which had not received any pesticide treatment. Parasitism fluctuated in each crop, averaging 49% during the study. The major parasitoid species were Diadegma cerophaga, Thyraeella collaris and Diadegma rapi, which averaged 93% of parasitism over the study period. Six minor primary parasitoid and one hyperparasite species were also recorded. Parasitoid activity was high during spring and summer, although extremely high temperatures during summer reduced numbers of both the host and its parasitoids. Drought conditions accentuated this. Parasitism in autumn depended upon the severity of this depletion and on the ensuing rate of recovery. The more important larval parasitoids were closely synchronized with host numbers, with a distinct lag during the winter period.
Progradungula, a new cribellate genus of the spider family Gradungulidae (Araneae)
Authors: Forster RR , Gray MR
Published: June 2005

Progradungula carraiensis, gen. nov., sp. nov., from the Carrai Bat Cave, N.S.W., is described as the first cribellate representative of the family Gradungulidae. The phylogenetic significance of the spider is discussed and some aspects of ethology, anatomy and development of this and other gradungulid spiders outlined.
Stomach Structure and Function in Three Species of Macropodine Marsupials.
Authors: Langer P , Dellow DW , Hume ID
Published: June 2005

The topographic anatomy and the histology of the stomach are described for three species of
macropodines, Macropus eugenii, M. giganteus and Thylogale thetis. together with information on the
movement of digesta through the stomach.
The three regions of the macropodine stomach were defined as sacciform fore stomach, tubiform
fore stomach, and hind stomach. In both species of Macropus the largest region was the tubiform
fore stomach, but in T. thetis it was the sacciform fore stomach. The opening between sacciform and
tubiform fore stomachs in all three species is wide, but the two gastric regions are delimited by a permanent
ventral fold. The position of the cardia in relation to this fold differed among species, and
together with the presence (M. eugenii). reduction (M. giganteus) or absence (T. thetis) of a gastric sulcus,
could be correlated with the initial distribution and subsequent dispersion of barium sulphate in radiographic
studies.
The wall of the sacciform and tubiform fore stomachs is differentiated into taeniae and nonpermanent
haustra and semilunar folds. From this and earlier studies it appears that these structures are
mainly responsible for the separation within the macropodine stomach of particulate from liquid
digesta.
Observations on the Structure and Function of Cephalic Skin Glands in Bandicoots (Marsupialia: Peramelidae).
Authors: Stoddart DM
Published: June 2005

Bandicoots (Marsupialia : Peramelidae) of the genera Isoodon, Perameles and Macrotis possess either
subauricular or interauricular cephalic skin gland complexes. The pig-footed bandicoot Chaeropus is
the only genus apparently lacking cephalic skin glands.
Skin gland complexes consist of enlarged sebaceous acini and sudoriferous tubules. though the latter
are less apparent in Macrotis than the other genera. The surface of the gland complex has a pockmarked
appearance with a small depression surrounding each guard hair shaft. The complex increases
in activity very markedly during the breeding season in both sexes. but particularly in males. The
most noticeable aspect of the pre-breeding hypertrophy is an expansion of the sebaceous element, which
presses the sudoriferous element down into the deeper layers of the dermis. It is suggested that the
pungent odour secreted by these complexes plays a calming and reassuring role in the courtship
behaviour of these solitary and pugnacious small marsupials.
The Chromosomes of a Rat-Kangaroo attributable to Bettongia tropica (Marsupialia:Macropodidae)
Authors: Sharman GB , Murtagh CE , Johnson PM , Weaver CM
Published: June 2005

A male specimen of brush-tailed bettong taken near Cairns in north Queensland and attributable to Bettongia tropica Wakefield, 1967, has 22 chromosomes, i.e. 20 autosomes plus X and Y sex chromosomes. The autosomes are seemingly identical in size and shape to those of Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi (Waterhouse). The larger size of X and Y chromosomes in the tropica specimen is due to the presence of extra constitutive heterochromatin (C-banding material). It is concluded that there is no chromosomal basis for the specific distinction currently afforded to the north Queensland brush-tailed bettong.
Biogeography of Australian Sepsidae (Diptera).
Authors: Colless DH
Published: June 2005

Comparison of the distributions of Sepsidae using, inter alia, numerical methods shows that the Australian fauna includes three groups of species: (1) southern temperate (cool-adapted), endemic to Australasia; (2) northern tropical (warm-adapted). also endemic to Australasia; (3) northern tropical widely distributed in the Oriental Region also. Analysis of seasonal occurrence yields a different grouping, two species of Sepsis showing an anomalously early (and still unexplained) peak of abundance in spring. It is considered likely that group 1 above represents stocks that reached Australia well before the Pleistocene, one of them later spreading to New Guinea; species in group 2 originated in or near New Guinea, migrating to Australia in, perhaps, the Pleistocene; and those in group 3 are of Oriental origin, having reached Australia at various times during or since the Pleistocene; some may be quite recent arrivals.
Geographic Variation and Taxonomy of the Spinifex Pigeon, Geophaps Plumifera.
Authors: Crome FHJ , Carpenter SM , Frith HJ
Published: June 2005

Geographical variation in 12 characters in G, plumifera was examined statistically. Three subspecies are recognized: a brown-bellied western subspecies. G. plumifera ferruginea; a north-western white- bellied subspecies, G.p. plumifera; and a central-eastern white-bellied subspecies, G.p. leucogaster. A hybrid zone between G.p. ferruginea and G.p. plumifera was discerned in the western Kimberley; clinal variation observed in several characters was interpreted as being due to gene flow between the three groups, particularly between G.p.ferruginea and the other two. The sexes could be discriminated by size (males larger than females) or size and colour but not by colour alone.
Comparisons of Different Methods of Determining Affinities for Nine Ant Species of the Genus Camponotus.
Authors: Burgman MA , Crozier RH , Taylor RW
Published: June 2005

Phenograms and cladograms were constructed by use of allozyme electromorph frequencies, and compared with a preliminary dendrogram based on an examination of the external morphology of nine ant species (Camponotus spp.) collected from 14 colonies. The phenetic and classical approaches were highly concordant in their placement of colonies into groups corresponding to currently recognized species, but although the phenograms and cladogram were also highly concordant in the relationships suggested between species, there were significant differences between the classical, morphological dendrogram and the others. This result could either suggest that there are significant differences between the morphological and molecular levels during the course of the evolution of these ant species, or reflect the fact that for none of the three approaches is it possible to estimate how robust are the solutions obtained.
Seasonal Changes in Organ Weights of Rattus villosissimus during the 1966-69 'Plague' at Brunette Downs, Northern Territory
Authors: Carstairs JL
Published: June 2005

Six samples of R. villosissimus were collected at Brunette Downs, N.T., between December 1967 and April 1969. The body weight of both sexes showed marked seasonal variation. It was highest in March 1968, when there was plenty of green grass for the rats to eat, but as the grass dried off, it fell to a minimum in November 1968 and rose again after the 1968-69 wet season. There is some evidence that the growth of the rats in the paddocks was retarded during 1968 because of lack of food. The weight of most organs was strongly correlated with body weight and therefore showed the same seasonal fluctuations. The pattern persisted even when the variates were adjusted for differences in body weight. In March 1968 the rats of both sexes had large spleens, perhaps in response to a high ectoparasite load. Adrenal weight showed the same seasonal trends as the other organs. Chronic inanition apparently did not cause adrenal hypertrophy. High adrenal weights of female rats coincided with the 1967-68 and 1968-69 breeding seasons.
Ultrastructure of Luteal Cells in Fully Formed and Regressing Corpora Lutea During Pregnancy and Lactation in the Marsupials Isoodon Macrourus and Perameles Nasuta.
Authors: Hollis DE , Lyne AG
Published: June 2005

Corpora lutea (CL) collected from 23 bandicoots (I. macrourus and P. nasuta), from day 5 of pregnancy (gestation 12.5 days) to day 53 of lactation (lactation c. 60 days), were examined with the electron microscope. The luteal cells of fully formed CL (from day 5 of pregnancy to day 44 of lactation) were large and contained spherical nuclei with distinct nucleoli. The amount of heterochromatin increased during the latter part of this period. The cytoplasm contained numerous lipid droplets and abundant smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER). Granular endoplasmic reticulum (GER) was less common. Mitochondria were most numerous from day 16 to day 44 of lactation and some of them contained large osmiophilic inclusions. Several types of granules and inclusions were present in the cytoplasm. During pregnancy, small dense-cored granules were common in P. nasuta and sparse in I. macrourus. They were still present in small numbers during early lactation in P. nasuta but were absent throughout lactation in I. macrourus. A special type of cell junction associated with endoplasmic reticulum was present between the luteal cells in P. nasuta but not in I. macrourus. The luteal cells of regressing CL on days 48, 50 and 53 of lactation were markedly reduced in size, with small irregularly shaped nuclei containing clumps of heterochromatin and indistinct nucleoli. The cells still contained numerous lipid droplets, and osmiophilic inclusions were still present in some of the mitochondria, which were reduced in number (and absent in the animal at day 50). Lancet-shaped spaces, which probably initially contained cholesterol crystals extracted by solvents during processing, were present in some of the regressing luteal cells. Organelles, including SER and GER, were either sparse or unrecognizable in luteal cells at advanced stages of regression. In general, the ultrastructural features of the luteal cells in fully formed and regressing CL of bandicoots were similar to those described in active and regressing CL of eutherian mammals.
Drosophilidae of Australia. 4. Mycodrosophila
Authors: Bock IR
Published: June 2005

The Australian Mycodrosophila fauna comprises 21 species distributed in northern and eastern Australia
to southern New South Wales. Only one species, M. argentifrons Malloch, is previously described from
Australia; the south-east Asian species M. separata (de Meijere) is recorded for the first time. The
remaining 19 species are new: adequate material has been available to permit the description and
naming of 18 of them.
The Structure and Radiographic Anatomy of the Alimentary Tract of the Tammar Wallaby, Macropus Eugenii (Marsupialia) 1. The Stomach.
Authors: Richardson KC
Published: June 2005

A description is given of the gross and radiographic anatomy of the stomach of Macropus eugenii. The stomach is in the form of a sigmoid tube beginning at a blind sac on the left side and ending at the caudally directed pylorus on the right side. It is haustrated over the whole length of the proximal compartment and most of the middle compartment. The distal part of the middle compartment, and the distal compartment, are not haustrated. The time, but not the pattern, of distribution and mixing with digesta of orally administered barium sulphate is shown to be different in wallabies which had been recently fed and those which had not been fed for 24 h. The contrast agent was carried from the cardia towards the caudal gastric flexure along the ventricular groove. The barium sulphate first dispersed both cranially and caudally from the ends of the groove and was subsequently mixed with digesta. Gastric emptying was difficult to determine radiographically. No radiopaque material was seen in the duodenum, and digesta were therefore assumed to have passed rapidly through into the jejunum.
Resistance of Species of the Drosophila Melanogaster Subgroup to Environmental Extremes.
Authors: Stanley SM , Parsons PA , Spence GE , Weber L
Published: June 2005

Resistance to the extreme stresses of high temperature-desiccation and low temperature were compared among six species of the melanogaster species subgroup of Drosophila. D. melanogaster was the most resistant to all stresses. The cosmopolitan species, D. melanogaster and D. simulans, were more resistant to cold stresses than the four endemic species, D. mauritiana, D. teissieri, D. yakuba and D. erecta. D. simulans, D. mauritiana and D. teissieri showed similar resistance to heat and desiccation, while D. yakuba and especially D. erecta were sensitive to these stresses. A prerequisite for the spread of the cosmopolitan species into temperate zones thus appears to have involved a level of resistance to cold stress exceeding that of the endemics. A greater resistance to heat and desiccation stresses, such as that found in D. melanogaster, may also be necessary for the invasion of more extreme environments. All species with the exception of D. erecta and to a lesser extent D. yakuba can survive 6 h at the extreme temperature of 34�C at 95% RH, and in addition most of those flies surviving stresses of this type are fertile. This suggests that these species can survive short stress periods in a humid microhabitat in the wild.
Observations on Nematodes From West and Central Australian Snakes.
Authors: Jones HI
Published: June 2005

Host and distribution records are presented of Spironoura fordoniae (Oxyuroidea), Camallanides cerberi (Camallanoidea) and Heliconema longissima (Physalopteroidea) in aquatic colubrid snakes, and of Ophidascaris pyrrhus (Ascaridoidea) in elapid snakes in Western Australia. In the case of O. pyrrhus highest prevalence of infection, and largest worms, were in the south-west part of the State, and the epidemiological evidence presented suggests that amphibians and reptiles may be intermediate hosts. Concurrent infection of O. pyrrhus and Abbreviata spp. was moderately significant in Notechis ater (P = 0.038) and in Echiopsis curta (P = 0.099). Hastospiculum drysdaliae, sp. nov. (Diplotriaenoidea) is described from Drysdalia coronata. It differs from other species in the genus in the absence of papillae at the anterior end, and in the number and conformation of pedunculate papillae at the posterior end in the male. A key to the species of Hastospiculum is provided.
Aspects of the Ecology of Calliphora Augur (Fabricius) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), a Native Australian Blowfly.
Authors: Callinan APL
Published: June 2005

The ecology of C. augur, an Australian sheep blowfly, was studied in western Victoria in 1976-77. Some larvae pupariated at all times of the year. Percentages of pupariation and development to adults were lowest in midsummer and midwinter. Time to pupariation varied from 13 to 142 days; C. augur overwintered as both pupae and larvae. Adult flies emerged in all months, though most overwintered pupae and larvae resumed development in September. Rate of population increase was highest in October and November, when mean monthly maximum and minimum air temperatures were 15-22�C and 5-8�C. and mean monthly relative humidity at 0900 h was 70-87%.
A Revision of the Australian Atractomorphini
Authors: Key KHL , McE.Kevan DK
Published: June 2005

The taxonomic and biogeographical relations of the two previously described species of Australian
Atractomorphini, Atractomorpha similis and A. australis, are examined with the aid of discriminant
functions. They are found to overlap and intergrade morphometrically in a 'region of intermediacy'
in south-eastern Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales. Further studies of karyotypes and
reproductive relations are needed to settle the question of their specific status. A more divergent new
species, A. hypoestes, with an unusual habitat and foodplant, is described. A key to the species is
supplied.
Rates of Development of the Immature Stages of the Buffalo Fly, Haematobia Irritans Exigua De Meijere (Diptera: Muscidae), in Relation to Temperature.
Authors: Cook IM , Spain AV
Published: June 2005

The rates of development of the immature stages of the buffalo fly were determined under a range
of constant temperatures. At near-optimum moisture conditions, the rates of development of all immature
stages bear a negative asymptotic relationship to temperature. Lower and upper threshold temperatures
and the relationships of the rate of development with temperature differ among the immature
stages. In a separate preliminary study, suboptimal levels of moisture in the larval breeding medium
were shown to reduce the rate of development.