bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of lengthy storage on the palatability and efficacy of zinc phosphide wheat bait used for controlling house mice
Authors: Twigg L. E. , Martin G. R. , Stevens T. S.
Published: September 2002

The palatability and efficacy of 2.5% zinc phosphide (ZP) wheat bait that had been in dry storage for about 3.5 years was tested against house mice in canola crops in the central wheatbelt region of Western Australia. Before baiting, mouse numbers in these crops were around 90 mice ha-1. Mouse numbers were reduced by 89% in the crop where the stored bait was applied at 1 kg ha-1 by aerial broadcast. The palatability of the stored bait was also determined in additional crops by comparing the amount taken with that of `fresh' ZP wheat bait. Bait (200 g) was offered in two different types of bait station: (1) in 45-cm lengths of 50-mm-diameter plastic agricultural drainage pipe, and (2) on 40-cm-diameter plastic saucers. Regardless of station type, mice often consumed significantly more of the stored product than the `fresh' bait, particularly on Day 1. This was attributed to the stored product lacking the typical, strong ZP odour that was initially present in the fresh bait. Mouse numbers on the bait station grids (1.28 ha each) were reduced by approximately 65% after 4 days of baiting. The shelf-life and palatability of ZP wheat bait seem to be relatively unaffected by prolonged storage. If any decrease in palatability occurs, then this seems to be transient and did not reduce the overall effectiveness of the stored bait.
The longevity of 1080 egg-baits in a regularly baited nature reserve in south-western Australia
Authors: Twigg Laurie E. , Kok Neville E. , Kirkpatrick Winifred E. , Burrow Geoff
Published: September 2002

The longevity of 1080 in egg-baits (4.5 mg 1080 per egg) used for fox control
was monitored at the Corackerup Nature Reserve, Western Australia.
Irrespective of season, most egg-baits (94%) were found to retain
sufficient 1080 to be theoretically lethal to all foxes for at least 42 days,
and 75% of baits contained an LD50 of 1080 at Day 63. Exponential decay
curves also predicted that these baits would remain toxic to most foxes for up
to 32 weeks, depending upon environmental conditions. Sealing the injection
hole with wax, or using sterile techniques to prepare some egg-baits, appeared
to have little effect on the longevity of 1080 in these baits compared with
that of unsealed eggs.
Bait take, and identification of those species taking bait, were monitored
over 12 days at 216 permanent bait stations in the reserve. Track plots were
present for 3–6 days on 83 of these stations in spring and summer but
not in winter. In spring and summer, of those species likely to take bait,
goannas were the most frequent visitors to the track plots and they were also
responsible for most of the baits taken at this time (59% and
90% of baits taken). Foxes accounted for 27% (spring), 8%
(summer) and 75% (winter) of the egg-baits taken. No egg-baits were
taken by goannas in winter, but the overall bait take was also low at this
time (28 of 211 baits laid; 13%). Overall bait take after 12 days in
spring and summer was 64% (135 of 211) and 68% (145 of 212) of
baits laid. Except for goannas, birds and other non-target species (e.g.
bob-tail skink) took relatively few baits in any season. The implication of
these findings for 1080-based predator-control programs are discussed.
An assessment of the accuracy and reliability of hair identification of south-east Australian mammals
Authors: Lobert Bertram , Lumsden Lindy , Brunner Hans , Triggs Barbara
Published: September 2002

The aim of this experiment was to quantify the accuracy and reliability of
identifying mammals from hair samples, using two highly skilled practitioners.
Hair samples were collected from 37 mammal species occurring in south-eastern
Australia. This material was divided into 252 samples, which were then used in
a blind test to determine the accuracy of the technique. The taxa were then
grouped into reliability categories based on the accuracy and consistency of
the practitioner’s identifications. In all, 23 taxa, including 19
species, were regarded as being reliably identified from hair analysis.
Identification of the remaining 18 species involved at least some level of
error. Several factors influenced the accuracy of identifications in this
study, principally (1) the need to identify samples to species level wherever
possible, rather than not making an identification, and (2) the diverse range
of species used (from across Victoria) and the lack of collection locality.
Target species have been grouped into reliability categories, as a guide to
aid evaluation of field-derived data. We emphasise the need for practitioners
to gain considerable personal experience of the technique, the diagnostic
characteristics used to identify hair of different species and intra-specific
variation, in order to maximise the reliability of identification results.
Diet of a large carnivorous lizard, Varanus varius
Authors: Guarino Fiorenzo
Published: September 2002

The diet of a population of lace monitors,
Varanus varius, at Lake Burrendong was examined over the
spring, summer and autumn seasons. Carrion dominated the diet; it was eaten
consistently in all seasons by all the monitors and was generally supplemented
by live mammalian kills and invertebrates. Nestling birds and rabbits as well
as bird and reptile eggs were eaten mainly during the flush periods of the
spring and early summer. The data reported here agree with other reports for
the genus Varanus: that they are generalist carnivorous
predators and scavengers.
Rodents of the arid Northern Territory: conservation status and distribution
Authors: Cole Jeffry R. , Woinarski J. C. Z.
Published: September 2002

At the time of European entry, 18 species of rodent occurred in the arid zone
of the Northern Territory, including two endemic species,
Zyzomys pedunculatus and
Pseudomys johnsoni. The tally is somewhat inflated, as
the arid Northern Territory is on the margins of the distribution for seven of
these species.
The historical record for this fauna is generally reasonably good, due to
important collections around the end of the nineteenth century, some landmark
studies (notably by H.H. Finlayson) earlier this century, documentation of
Aboriginal knowledge, and the recent discovery and analysis of fossil and
sub-fossil deposits. Notwithstanding this good historical baseline, recent
research has added three native species to the fauna, and re-discovered one
species, Z. pedunculatus, earlier feared extinct.
Over the last 200 years, four species
(Leporillus apicalis,
Notomys amplus, N. longicaudatus
and Pseudomys fieldi) have disappeared, and a further
five species (N. cervinus,
N. fuscus, P. australis,
Rattus tunneyi and
Z. pedunculatus) have declined considerably, with
several of these perhaps no longer present in the area. The decline in this
rodent fauna is matched, or indeed surpassed, by declines in the arid-zone
bandicoots, small macropods and large dasyurids. But notably the small
dasyurids have generally suffered few declines. There has been differential
decline within the rodent fauna, with declines mainly affecting larger
species, species with the most idiosyncratic diets, and species occurring
mainly in tussock grasslands and gibber plains.
The main conservation and management actions required to safeguard what is
left of this fauna are carefully targetted studies examining the effect of
threatening processes, complemented by landscape-wide amelioration of these
threats. Additional autecological studies are also needed for some species,
and some exceptionally poorly known areas should be surveyed. Current work
examining the distribution, ecology and management requirements of the
endangered Z. pedunculatus is a major priority.
The status and conservation of native rodents in Western Australia
Authors: Morris K. D.
Published: September 2002

This paper examines the conservation status of Western Australia’s
native rodent fauna using IUCN criteria and compares this with their current
status under State and Commonwealth legislation, as well as that recommended
in the Rodent Action Plan. Of the 35 native rodent taxa known in Western
Australia, four (11%) are currently listed as extinct, and six
(17%) as threatened under Western Australian legislation. Nine are
listed as threatened under Commonwealth legislation. It is proposed that two,
currently unlisted, island sub-species should be regarded as threatened. Some
decreases in conservation status are also proposed. Predation by feral cats,
habitat destruction and the use of surface shelter structures are suggested as
primary factors in the decline of native rodents. Conservation programs are
underway for most threatened taxa in Western Australia, including the
implementation of recovery plans for the Shark Bay mouse and greater
stick-nest rat. The heath rat is the only threatened rodent lacking a
conservation program in Western Australia. The work planned or required for
rodent conservation is presented and includes survey for the critically
endangered central rock-rat, and translocation programs for other threatened
taxa. The distribution of most taxa is relatively well known; however, there
is a need to commence, or complete, taxonomic assessment of some.
Status and conservation of the rodents of Victoria
Authors: Seebeck John , Menkhorst Peter
Published: September 2002

Nineteen species of rodents, in two families, have been recorded from Victoria
in the modern era. Eighteen are of the family Muridae, represented by 15
native and 3 introduced species. The other species, now extinct in Victoria,
was the introduced Sciurus carolinensis. Six of the
native species are extinct, one is classified Critically Endangered, one
Endangered and four Lower Risk – near threatened. Four of the extinct
species were restricted to the semi-arid far north-west; these were
Leporillus apicalis, L. conditor,
Pseudomys bolami and P. desertor.
The two other extinct species, Conilurus albipes and
Pseudomys australis, inhabited open forest/woodland,
and grassy ecosystems. Extant species include
Rattus fuscipes and R. lutreolus,
both in the sub-family Murinae; both are widespread and common, particularly
in southern Victoria. The remaining seven species are in the sub-family
Hydromyinae. Hydromys chrysogaster is widespread in
waterbodies throughout the state. Notomys mitchellii and
Pseudomys apodemoides occur in dry habitats in the
north-west of Victoria; they are uncommon, but most of their habitat is
reserved. Mastacomys fuscus, found in higher-rainfall
areas of southern and eastern Victoria, from coastal dunes to alpine
snowfields, is uncommon. The distribution of
Pseudomys fumeus is disjunct, in four widely separated
areas. It is classified as Endangered. P. shortridgei is
restricted to the Grampians and south-western Victoria, where it may be
locally common. The most geographically restricted rodent species in Victoria,
Pseudomys novaehollandiae, is Critically Endangered and
is the subject of special conservation measures. The most critical threats to
rodent populations in Victoria are considered to be (1) the lack of active
habitat management for those species that require early seral stages in
vegetation, (2) predation by introduced carnivores, and (3) the fragmentation
of species into small genetically isolated populations.
Ecological attributes and conservation of native rodents in New South Wales
Authors: Dickman Christopher R. , Lunney Daniel , Matthews Alison
Published: September 2002

In New South Wales, at least 28 species of native rodents have been recorded
since European settlement. Four of these are extinct nationally, six are
extinct in the State, six are vulnerable and four are endangered; only eight
remain non-threatened. Declines and losses have been greatest in central and
western New South Wales and least in the State’s north-east. Neither
body weight nor habit are associated with status, but taxa such as
Rattus species with broad diets and habitat preferences
remain generally less threatened than ecological specialists. Threatening
processes affect all vulnerable and endangered species, with predation from
introduced carnivores, grazing from livestock, clearance of vegetation and
changed fire regimes being among the most severe. No species occur entirely on
reserved land, while two endangered species have no secure land tenure. A
program of survey, research, management and education is proposed to help
achieve recovery.
An evaluation of two methods of assessing feral cat and dingo abundance in central Australia
Authors: Edwards G. P. , de Preu N. D. , Shakeshaft B. J. , Crealy I. V.
Published: September 2002

We evaluated the efficacy of spotlight surveys
and passive track surveys conducted along roads for assessing the relative
abundance of feral cats and dingoes in a semi-arid rangeland environment in
central Australia. Track surveys were more time-efficient than spotlight
surveys and offered higher precision. We cover a range of issues that need to
be considered when using track-based surveys to assess population change. We
also discuss the merits of other techniques used to monitor the abundance of
mammalian carnivores.
Road upgrade, road mortality and remedial measures: impacts on a population of eastern quolls and Tasmanian devils
Authors: Jones Menna E.
Published: September 2002

The impact of road mortality on local
populations of wildlife has rarely been quantified. In June 1991, the access
road into the northern end of the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair
National Park in Tasmania was widened and sealed. This occurred part-way
through an ecological study of the dasyurid carnivore guild, during which
populations were being monitored. In 17 months, the resident population of 19
eastern quolls became extinct and the devil population, of 39 individuals,
halved. Concurrently, there was a dramatic increase in the number of
road-kills. The main causal factor was probably an increase in modal speed of
about 20 km h–1 and a greater increase in maximum
speed. Measures were implemented to reduce the incidence of
vehicle/wildlife collisions. Measures directed at people included
physically slowing traffic speed (using ‘slow points’) and
increasing driver awareness (signs and pamphlets). Those directed at wildlife
included deterring wildlife from crossing the road in the path of approaching
vehicles (wildlife reflectors), and encouraging escape off the road (ramps
across gutters and banks, and pipes for shelter). The ‘slow
points’ were effective in reducing vehicle speeds by 20 km
h–1. Wildlife used the ramps and pipes. The
eastern quoll population was re-establishing within six months, and after two
years, had recovered to 50% of its former level. There was some
indication that devil populations were recovering.
Movement patterns of honey possums, Tarsipes rostratus, in the Fitzgerald River National Park, Western Australia
Authors: Garavanta C. A. M. , Wooller R. D. , Richardson K. C.
Published: September 2002

The movements of marked honey
possums,Tarsipes rostratus, were studied using
mark–recapture with pitfall traps in heathland on the south coast of
Western Australia. Most individuals moved less than 30 m even over several
months, with no evidence of marked dispersal. We suggest that this lack of
mobility is associated with a detailed knowledge of the locations of those
plants that supply all the species’ food. Males moved slightly further
than females, possibly to search for mating opportunities and possibly because
females exclude males from rich nectar sources. In consequence, the home
ranges of males (1277 m2) were significantly larger, on
average, than those of females (701 m2).
Use of sap trees by the yellow-bellied glider in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales
Authors: Goldingay Ross L.
Published: September 2002

This study examined the use of sap trees by
yellow-bellied gliders (Petaurus australis) at 33 sites
scattered through approximately 10 000 ha of forest. In all, 62 grey gum
(Eucalyptus punctata) trees were assessed during seven
visits over a 2-year period for use by gliders in sap feeding (either
currently or during the previous month). About 40% of trees had been
used prior to each visit, indicating a very high pattern of use. About
29% of trees were used prior to many visits while 18% were not
used at all. Gliders made small incisions on trees, apparently to test their
suitability for sap feeding. These test incisions were seen several times on
all the sap trees that remained unused during this study. They were made on
about 60% of trees that were not used for sap feeding within the month
prior to a visit. At 23 of the 33 sites, test incisions were also observed on
E. punctata non-sap trees. These observations show that
gliders actively check sap trees and non-sap trees. This study confirms the
importance of sap trees to the yellow-bellied glider and highlights the need
for further research that aims to identify the key parameters of these trees
to which gliders respond. This would greatly facilitate the management and
conservation of the yellow-bellied glider.
The range and habitat characteristics of the thick-billed grasswren (Amytornis textilis) in the Shark Bay region, Western Australia
Authors: Brooker Belinda
Published: September 2002

The thick-billed grasswren
(Amytornis textilis) has a disjunct distribution in the
Shark Bay region, with one population confined to Peron Peninsula and the
other further inland on Woodleigh Station and the north-eastern corner of
Hamelin Station. Grasswrens were found in several vegetation types, including
acacia shrublands, Triodia spinifex and the dense
vegetation in drainage depressions. Vegetation characteristics that appeared
important determinants of grasswren presence were recumbent acacias and low
shrubs within the 0–1-m height category, and shrub clumps of high
foliage density. These shrub clumps comprised climbers and recumbent low
shrubs with interwoven branches, often in association with other plant
species. Habitats with this shrub structure may provide the grasswren with
ideal nesting sites. The possible effects of grazing and fire on this shrub
structure are discussed.
Acute toxicity of cholecalciferol and gliftor baits to the European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus
Authors: Henderson R. J. , Eason C. T.
Published: September 2002

Alternatives to sodium monofluoroacetate
(1080) and pindone are required for control of wild rabbits. The palatability
and toxicity of cereal baits containing either cholecalciferol or gliftor were
assessed on captive domestic rabbits. Although rabbits showed considerable
variation in their individual response to cholecalciferol, they were very
susceptible to the toxicant (LD50 = 4.4 mg
kg–1) and it would be lethal to almost all rabbits
ingesting doses greater than 15 mg kg–1. However,
concentrations of 0.04% and 0.18% cholecalciferol in bait were
not readily eaten by rabbits, suggesting that further research is required to
mask the taste and/or smell of the toxicant. The
LD50 of gliftor in cereal bait to rabbits was 2.2 mg
kg–1. Rabbits showed no measurable aversion to
baits that contained 0.2% w/w gliftor. A lower concentration of
0.1% gliftor in bait should be tested on wild populations of rabbits.
Factors affecting pitfall capture rates of small ground vertebrates in arid South Australia. I. The influence of weather and moon phase on capture rates of reptiles
Authors: Read J. L. , Moseby K. E.
Published: September 2002

The effect of temperature, humidity, cloud cover, wind and rainfall on capture
rates of small reptiles in pitfall traps was assessed in the South Australian
arid zone. Capture rates increased significantly with increased ambient
temperature. Captures of diurnal reptiles were highest when the minimum
temperature was greater than 26°C, while captures of nocturnal reptiles
peaked when maximum temperatures exceeded 34°C. Dark nights, particularly
those with cloud cover, yielded higher captures of nocturnal reptiles than
moonlit or cloudless nights. Representative sampling periods to record a wide
range of reptile species should extend for at least 8 days, which is the modal
period of a major change in daily temperature during the summer months.
Factors affecting pitfall capture rates of small ground vertebrates in arid South Australia. II. Optimum pitfall trapping effort
Authors: Moseby K. E. , Read J. L.
Published: September 2002

Pitfall trapping is widely used for sampling small terrestrial vertebrates.
This study investigated the influence of trapping period, number of trap sites
and drift fences on the capture rates of small vertebrates in order to
ascertain optimum pitfall trapping efficiency. Capture rates at fenced pits
were five times higher than at unfenced pits. Our study indicates that one
fenced site established in chenopod shrubland in the Olympic Dam region and
trapped for four nights yielded less than one third of the local chenopod
shrubland reptile inventory. Capture rates of reptiles at Olympic Dam in arid
South Australia were significantly higher on the first three nights of
trapping than on the seven subsequent nights. The most efficient number of
trap nights for maximising the number of reptile species captured was five
nights. Trapping only a single pitfall site per habitat type for 5 nights
captured approximately 30% of the reptile species in that habitat
compared with 55%, 65% and 73% for three, five and ten
sites respectively.
Typically, approximately 70% of the reptile species in chenopod
shrubland were captured by trapping 5 sites for 7 nights, a method recommended
for thorough surveys of species present in chenopod shrublands. Captures of
mammals were more variable than those of reptiles and, as a result, sampling
of mammal species benefited from more trapping nights than did sampling of
reptiles. New mammal species continued to be recorded at a high rate for 8
nights and even 10 sites trapped for 10 nights typically yielded only
60–80% of the species present in chenopod shrubland. Standard
4-night trapping periods adopted by most surveys will fail to detect many rare
species, or those that are difficult to trap. Repeated 7-night trapping
sessions for up to 21 nights are recommended for surveys where more accurate
species inventories are required.
Effect of inoculation route and ambient temperature on the survival time of rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.), infected with Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus
Authors: Cooke B. D. , Berman D.
Published: September 2002

A factorial experiment using survival time as
a response variate was used to test the effects of inoculation route and
ambient temperature on the pathogenesis of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD)
in adult wild rabbits. Although ambient temperature had no effect on survival
time, the route of inoculation was significant, with orally dosed rabbits
dying about 21 h later than intramuscularly or intradermally dosed rabbits.
Sex was a significant factor, with male rabbits dying 12 h later than females.
Body weight (but not age) was also important because heavier rabbits died
before lighter ones. The amount of virus detectable in the livers of cadavers
decreased with increasing survival time; consequently, heavy rabbits, which
died first, had the highest levels of virus.
For future studies involving survival time as a response variate (e.g. testing
the virulence of field strains of RHD in wild rabbits), it will be important
to consider sex, body weight and route of inoculation as factors influencing
survival time. Wild rabbits were highly susceptible to Czech (strain 351)
virus that initially spread across Australia, with a mortality of over
90% being observed among the animals used in this experiment.
Sometimes the simple way is best: an evaluation of total body electrical conductivity (TOBEC) and a morphological index as predictors of total body water in the northern brown bandicoot, Isoodon macrourus
Authors: Parker A. K. , Krockenberger A. K.
Published: September 2002

Total body electrical conductivity (TOBEC) can be used as a non-invasive measure of body water and/or lean mass, but there are no validations of this technique in small marsupials. The ability of TOBEC to describe body water content in the northern brown bandicoot, Isoodon macrourus, was compared with that of a morphologically based index. The TOBEC Index, E, was significantly related to total body water, calculated using tritium dilution, by a cubic polynomial. Using this relationship TOBEC was able to predict total body water to within 3.9 16.8 g (s.e., n = 13) and percentage total body water to within 0.4 1.8% (s.e., n = 13) of the values calculated by tritium dilution. The ratio of mass to hindleg length gave the best predictive power of the morphological indices tested for total body water and was significantly related to body water by a quadratic polynomial. Total body water predicted from the mass to hindleg-length ratio averaged 2.9 14.0 g (s.e., n = 13) lower, and the percentage total body water averaged 0.2 1.6% (s.e., n = 13) lower, than that derived from tritium dilution. Both techniques were able to make very strong predictions of body water, well within the ranges of variability that might be expected to be ecologically significant in this species. Contrary to expectations, the morphological index was as good a predictor of body water as TOBEC in this calibration set of animals.
Ecological correlates of folivore abundance in north Queensland rainforests
Authors: Kanowski John , Hopkins M. S. , Marsh Helene , Winter J. W.
Published: September 2002

The ecological factors controlling the distribution and abundance of the
folivorous marsupials endemic to the rainforests of northern Australia are not
understood. In this study, we surveyed folivore abundance at 40 sites
stratified by altitude and geology in rainforests of the Atherton Tableland,
north Queensland. All five species of folivore that inhabit the study area
were more abundant in highland (800–1200 m) than in upland
(400–800 m) forests. Allowing for the effects of altitude, four species
of folivore were more abundant in forests on nutrient-rich basalts than in
forests on nutrient-poor acid igneous or metamorphic rocks. The abundance of
two folivore species also varied inversely with rainfall. Altitudinal
variation in folivore abundance in the study area has been attributed to
habitat destruction, Aboriginal hunting, the distribution of host plants and
climate; however, none of these hypotheses has been tested. Variation in
folivore abundance with geology is plausibly explained as a response to the
nutritional quality of foliage. Foliage quality may also explain the inverse
relationship between two of the folivores and rainfall. The results of this
study show that only a relatively small proportion of north Queensland
rainforests support abundant populations of the endemic folivorous marsupials.
Evaluation of the impact of time of day, weather, vegetation density and bird movements on outcomes of area searches for birds in eucalypt forests of south-western Australia
Authors: Craig Michael D. , Roberts J. Dale
Published: September 2002

We assessed the influence of sampling biases on estimates of absolute density.
Using area searches for birds on 1-ha plots, we showed that time of day,
weather and vegetation density (logged v. unlogged
forest) had no significant impact on the detection rates of birds. As a
consequence these environmental variables did not affect estimates of total
bird density or species richness. Amount of cloud cover was positively
correlated with abundance of three species (white-browed scrubwren, inland
thornbill and white-naped honeyeater) but negatively correlated with counts of
the western gerygone. Radio-tracking of western yellow robins showed that
about half of all birds present on a plot were detected during area searches.
However, robins moved over an area twice as large as the plot searched. These
errors compensate to give an accurate estimate of density for this species.
Collectively, these results indicate that area searches give a reliable
estimate of density in both logged and unlogged eucalypt forest.
Digestive function in Australian magpie geese (Anseranas semipalmata)
Authors: Dawson Terence J. , Whitehead Peter J. , McLean Adam , Fanning F. D. , Dawson William R.
Published: September 2002

The Australian magpie goose (Anseranas semipalmata) is
not really a ‘goose’ but an aberrant species representing the
monotypic family Anseranatidae. It is herbivorous but its ability to utilise
dietary fibre is uncertain. We examined digestive processes in tame birds fed
natural forages in metabolism cages and in wild birds. An examination of the
gross anatomy of the gut showed features similar to those in waterfowl of the
family Anatidae, the true ducks and geese.
In a total-collection feeding trial geese were fed either unhusked rice grain
or fresh aquatic grass. The aquatic grass was high in fibre (neutral detergent
fibre (NDF) was 74% of dry matter) and magpie geese could not maintain
energy or nitrogen balance on this feed. The maintenance energy requirement of
the caged magpie geese, as estimated on the rice diet, was 573 kJ
kg–1 day–1, which was
similar to that found for other species of geese. The maintenance nitrogen
requirement was 0.44 g N kg–1
day–1 or 0.52 g N
kg–0.75 day–1, which
also was similar to the average value for birds. Fibre digestion on both diets
was small, 19% and 27% of NDF for rice and grass respectively.
Rates of passage of fibrous digesta through the gut of magpie geese varied
with diet. The mean retention time for fibre was longer when feeding on the
aquatic grass than on unhusked grain, 7.7 3.0 h v. 3.7 0.6 h
Data from wild magpie geese clarified the process of digestion. The patterns
of pH and short-chain fatty acids along the gut pointed to acid and enzymic
digestion occurring in most of the tract, down to the ileocaecal junction.
Fermentation appeared restricted to the caeca, rectum and cloaca, though, of
note, the caeca contained little fibre, 5% NDF. Higher levels of fibre
digestion were indicated in wild geese but fibre still was not a major
contributor to the energy intake of these birds.
The digestive capabilities of the magpie geese were considered in relation to
their impact on the feeding and reproductive biology of these
‘geese’ in monsoonal, northern Australia
Variation in reproductive surpluses of the agile antechinus (Antechinus agilis) at different teat-number locations
Authors: Shimmin G. A. , Taggart D. A. , Temple-Smith P. D.
Published: September 2002

The teat number of Antechinus agilis can vary from 6 to
10 depending on geographical location. Previous studies have found that there
are more eggs ovulated and embryos produced than the number of teats
available; however, the full range of teat numbers has not been examined. The
aim of this study was to determine how pre- and post-embryonic loss varies
between females from different populations characterised by differences in the
number of teats. In the current study females from 6-, 8- and 10-teat
populations across Victoria were trapped during gestation. Reproductive tracts
of females were removed and the number of embryos and corpora lutea counted.
Evaluation of the reproductive surpluses in these three populations indicate
that females from the 8-teat population have the lowest level of reproductive
surplus, from both oocyte to embryo and embryo to teat. Females from the
6-teat population had few losses from the oocyte to embryo stage; however, a
maximum of only ~60% of these embryos could result in pouch young
because of the reduced number of teats. A similar pattern of high embryo loss
occurred in the 10-teat populations, despite an increased number of teats
being available, because of the excessive numbers of embryos produced.
Novel exocrine glands in the hindleg tarsi of the ant Nothomyrmecia macrops
Authors: Billen Johan , Ito Fuminori , Peeters Christian
Published: September 2002

The third tarsomere of the hindlegs of both workers and queens of
Nothomyrmecia macrops is almost entirely filled with a
hitherto unknown exocrine gland (which does not occur in the closely related
Myrmecia). Each of the approximately 30 secretory cells
is connected to the outside via a duct cell. These open individually via large
cuticular pores at the mesoventral side of the anterior part of the tarsomere.
The diameter of the duct cells is narrow near the secretory cell, but
gradually increases towards their opening site. The rounded secretory cells
show a well developed Golgi apparatus and numerous clear vesicles. The
function of this gland is not yet known, although its opening site may be
indicative of the deposition of marking substances. At the mediodistal side of
tarsomeres 2, 3 and 4 in the three pairs of legs, a glandular thickening of
the epidermal epithelium occurs; this represents another novel exocrine
structure in ants. This epithelial gland occurs in both
Nothomyrmecia and Myrmecia.
The demography and cooperative breeding behaviour of the rufous treecreeper, Climacteris rufa
Authors: Luck Gary W.
Published: September 2002

I examined the demography and cooperative breeding behaviour of the rufous
treecreeper, Climacteris rufa, in the south-west of
Western Australia. Social organisation, breeding behaviour, reproductive
success, survival and dispersal were measured over 3 years. The species lived
in cooperatively breeding groups of 2–7 individuals, which occupied a
territory year round. Most groups comprised a primary male and female
(probably breeding) and offspring from previous breeding seasons (helpers).
Territory defence was variable, particularly during the breeding season when
individuals would feed nestlings in adjacent territories. The social
organisation of the species was based on neighbourhoods of interacting
territories. All group members provisioned nestlings, and the primary male and
female significantly reduced their provisioning effort as the number of
helpers increased. Total nest success for the 3 years was 78% and mean
annual productivity was 2.1 (0.18). Fledgling and juvenile survival rates were
relatively high (0.76 and 0.46 respectively), but adult survival rate (0.76)
was comparable to that of other passerines of the temperate Southern
Hemisphere. Dispersal of juveniles appeared to be female-biased. The
demography of the rufous treecreeper was consistent with other old endemic
Australian passerines. High adult survival resulted in few breeding vacancies
for non-breeders and this is probably an important factor in the evolution of
cooperative breeding in the species. Cooperative breeding also appears to be
influenced by habitat saturation and a cost–benefit trade-off between
remaining as a helper in high-quality territories and dispersing to
poorer-quality territories where reproductive success may be low.
Prediction of marsupial body mass
Authors: Myers Troy J.
Published: September 2002

Cranio-dental variables are correlated with body mass in marsupials, using a
species data-set derived from extant australidelphian representatives, to
predict body mass in fossil species. Thirty-eight extant australidelphian
species, including 10 dasyuromorphians, 22 diprotodontians, 1
notoryctomorphian and 5 peramelemorphians, were analysed. Where sexual
dimorphism was prominent, genders were evaluated separately. Twenty-nine
cranio-dental variables were measured for each specimen and species averages
calculated. Body masses were taken as recorded for each specimen or as
published species averages. The cranio-dental measures for each morpho-species
were then regressed against average body mass in four distinct data-sets: (1)
the entire species sample, (2) only dasyuromorphian taxa, (3) only
diprotodontians, and (4) all species excluding dasyuromorphians. Each
cranio-dental variable was then ranked according to various error statistics
and correlation coefficients. Results suggest that predictors of body size in
eutherians (such as first lower molar area), commonly used to estimate body
mass in marsupials may not be reliable or accurate indicators. Significant
differences in the usefulness of predictor variables between taxonomic
data-sets were also observed. Total jaw length is the most reliable predictor
for diprotodontians, as well as for all species combined, whereas lower molar
row length appears to be more appropriate for dasyuromorphians. Multiple
variable regressions variably offer more precision than those derived from
individual parameters. On the basis of these data, body mass estimations are
provided for a number of extinct marsupial taxa.
The ecology of female receptivity in the territorial butterfly Hypolimnas bolina (L.) (Nymphalidae): implications for mate location by males
Authors: Kemp Darrell J.
Published: September 2002

Many male insects aggressively defend specific perching sites containing
larval resources. There are three main explanations for how this behaviour
could contribute to increased matings: perching males may aim to encounter (1)
eclosing or freshly eclosed virgin females, (2) previously mated, ovipositing
females, or (3) receptive females that visit these sites either specifically
to mate or for other reasons. I evaluated these hypotheses by investigating
the timing of post-eclosion female receptivity and the extent of polyandry
within an Australian population of the butterfly
Hypolimnas bolina (L.) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae). This
species represents the group of butterflies in which males defend specific,
geographically prominent, sites that overlap with the distribution of larval
resources. Freshly emerged female H. bolina refrained
from mating until their ovaries were close to maturation, resulting in a
pre-mating period of 4–8 days. The presence of this substantial
refractory period rules out the hypothesis that males defend pupation sites
with the aim of mating with eclosing or freshly eclosed females. Secondly,
almost 90% of females within the studied population carried only one
spermatophore, a finding that mediates against the possibility that most
perching males target (already mated) ovipositing females. The
‘rendezvous-site’ hypothesis is the most likely general
explanation for territoriality in H. bolina; however, it
remains unclear whether the distribution of larval hostplants
per se has a primary influence on territory selection by
males in this species.
Phylogeny of the rock-wallabies, Petrogale (Marsupialia : Macropodidae) based on DNA/DNA hybridisation
Authors: Campeau-Péloquin Antoine , Kirsch John A. W. , Eldridge Mark D. B. , Lapointe François-Joseph
Published: September 2002

DNA/DNA hybridisation analysis was undertaken to resolve the phylogenetic
relationships within the chromosomally diverse genus
Petrogale. Excepting P. concinna,
all full species and three subspecies of P. lateralis were examined; all but
four of these 16 taxa were labeled, as were four outgroup species. While
demonstrating the ability of the technique to resolve relationships at the
species level, our study confirmed that divergence of
Petrogale species is recent and occurred during the late
Pliocene to mid-Pleistocene. Our data placed the first division within
Petrogale species between the monophyletic
brachyotis group and the paraphyletic
xanthopus plus
lateralis/penicillata groups,
the latter including P. rothschildi; the subspecies
P. l. purpureicollisappears to be intermediate between
thelateralis and thepenicillata
complexes. However, our data could not resolve most relationships amongst the
eastern Petrogale radiation, except for a probable
grouping of the species
P. herberti,P. inornata,P. penicillata,
andP. sharmani. Finally, our results support recent
suggestions that Dendrolagus rather than
Thylogaleis the sister taxon to
Petrogale.
Response of silvereyes (Zosterops lateralis) to dietary tannins: the paradox of secondary metabolites in ripe fruit
Authors: Stanley Margaret C. , Lill Alan
Published: September 2002

There are many secondary metabolites in ripe fruit that are toxic to
vertebrate consumers. The most prevalent explanation for their presence in
ripe fruit is to protect the fruit against consumers that do not disperse
viable seeds. It has been hypothesised that seed dispersers are not deterred
by, or can tolerate, the consumption of secondary metabolites in ripe fruit.
We tested whether silvereyes (Zosterops lateralis),
which are known seed dispersers, were deterred by quebracho (condensed
tannins) presented in two different food types. In the first experiment,
silvereyes were given artificial fruit containing either 0% or
5% quebracho and their fruit consumption was measured. A second
experiment recorded consumption of a cereal-based, long-term maintenance diet
containing either 0% or 5% quebracho. Silvereyes did not exhibit
a significant preference for artificial fruit that did not contain quebracho:
39.9% of the fruit consumed did contain quebracho. However, silvereyes
strongly avoided the cereal diet containing quebracho, consuming, on average,
only 0.36 g (0.06 g) of cereal per 5 h compared with 17.3 g (0.23 g) of cereal
that did not contain quebracho. We suggest that because the artificial fruit
were swallowed whole by silvereyes, the quebracho may not have been detected
as easily in the time available as it would have been in the aqueous cereal
diet. Consumption of fruit containing secondary metabolites by wild silvereyes
is likely to depend on factors such as food availability, nutrient content of
the fruit and the degree of diet mixing.
Wombat coprogenetics: enumerating a common wombat population by microsatellite analysis of faecal DNA
Authors: Banks S. C. , Piggott M. P. , Hansen B. D. , Robinson N. A. , Taylor A. C.
Published: September 2002

Genetic identification of individual animals from remotely collected DNA samples provides an alternative approach for the collection of data on populations of elusive or rare species. In this study we used DNA isolated from field-collected faecal samples to estimate the size of a population of common wombats (Vombatus ursinus) surviving in suburban Melbourne parkland. A pilot study revealed that microsatellite genotypes obtained from DNA in faeces were often incorrect, but that by carrying out three replicate polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) for each sample, we were able to reliably identify individuals. We conducted a mark-recapture study using the Mh-jackknife model to estimate the size of the wombat population at Mt Lofty Reserve, and identified 17 individuals - 10 males and seven females. The interpolated population size estimate was 19 with a 95% confidence interval of 18-32. The distribution of individual wombats' scats provided information on ranging behaviour. The genotypic database obtained was used to identify five of the individuals as putative immigrants, suggesting that the population is not isolated from others in a series of reserves along the Yarra River. However, the lack of a detectable female bias in immigration differs from our previous findings in continuous populations of this species. The level of genetic variation at the five loci analysed was also inconsistent with long-term isolation of the population.
Activity patterns, movements and burrows of platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in a sub-alpine Tasmanian lake
Authors: Otley Helen M. , Munks Sarah A. , Hindell Mark A.
Published: September 2002

Adult male and female platypuses were radio-tracked in summer and winter at
Lake Lea, north-western Tasmania. They appeared to exhibit greater diurnality,
particularly during winter months, a greater degree of overland movement and
more frequent use of non-earth refuge sites than do animals inhabiting
mainland water bodies. Individuals foraged continuously for up to 16 h, with
longer foraging bouts observed during the winter tracking period. Foraging
range varied between 2 and 58 ha, with no significant differences observed
between the sexes or seasons. All platypuses foraged predominantly in the
lake; however, a number of animals were observed moving overland to and from
waterbodies and burrows. Burrows were located on lake, creek and pool edges. A
high percentage of burrows (25%) were located within dense sedge
tussocks and scrub vegetation. Both the terrestrial activity and more
opportunistic burrow-site selection may be related to reduced predation
pressure in Tasmania.
A yeast model system for functional analysis of β-catenin signaling
Authors: Lee Margaret S. , D'Amour Karen A. , Papkoff Jackie
Published: September 2002

We have developed a novel Saccharomyces cerevisiae model system to dissect the molecular events of β-catenin (β-cat) signaling. Coexpression of mammalian β-cat with TCF4 or LEF1 results in nuclear accumulation of these proteins and a functional complex that activates reporter gene transcription from constructs containing leukocyte enhancer factor (LEF)/T cell factor (TCF) response elements. Reporter transcription is constitutive, requires expression of both β-cat and TCF4 or LEF1, and is not supported by mutated LEF/TCF binding elements or by TCF4 or LEF1 mutants. A cytoplasmic domain of E-cadherin or a functional fragment of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) protein (APC-25) complexes with β-cat, reduces β-cat binding to TCF4, and leads to increased cytoplasmic localization of β-cat and a reduction in reporter activation. Systematic mutation of putative nuclear export signal sequences in APC-25 decreases APC-25 binding to β-cat and restores reporter gene transcription. Additional β-cat signaling components, Axin and glycogen synthase kinase 3β, form a multisubunit complex similar to that found in mammalian cells. Coexpression of the F-box protein β-transducin repeat-containing protein reduces the stability of β-cat and decreases reporter activation. Thus, we have reconstituted a functional β-cat signal transduction pathway in yeast and show that β-cat signaling can be regulated at multiple levels, including protein subcellular localization, protein complex formation, and protein stability.
Constitutive versus Activation-dependent Cross-Presentation of Immune Complexes by CD8+ and CD8− Dendritic Cells In Vivo
Authors: den Haan Joke M.M. , Bevan Michael J.
Published: September 2002

Murine splenic dendritic cells (DCs) can be divided into two subsets based on CD8α expression, but the specific role of each subset in stimulation of T cells is largely unknown. An important function of DCs is the ability to take up exogenous antigens and cross-present them in the context of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules to CD8+ T cells. We previously demonstrated that, when cell-associated ovalbumin (OVA) is injected into mice, only the CD8+ DC subset cross-presents OVA in the context of MHC class I. In contrast to this selectivity with cell-associated antigen, we show here that both DC subsets isolated from mice injected with OVA/anti-OVA immune complexes (OVA-IC) cross-present OVA to CD8+ T cells. The use of immunoglobulin G Fc receptor (FcγR) common γ-chain–deficient mice revealed that the cross-presentation by CD8− DCs depended on the expression of γ-chain–containing activating FcγRs, whereas cross-presentation by CD8+ DCs was not reduced in γ-chain–deficient mice. These results suggest that although CD8+ DCs constitutively cross-present exogenous antigens in the context of MHC class I molecules, CD8− DCs only do so after activation, such as via ligation of FcγRs. Cross-presentation of immune complexes may play an important role in autoimmune diseases and the therapeutic effect of antitumor antibodies.
SMEs and electronic commerce: a departure from the traditional prioritisation of training?
Authors: Barry Helen , Milner Brigid
Published: September 2002

The strong presence of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) is a key feature of the Irish economy. The sector is considered to be a crucial factor in the nation’s competitive development, particularly in recognition of its contribution to economic renewal which is primarily witnessed through employment generation, innovation and wealth creation. The organisational implementation of new technologies and electronic commerce in particular can aid SMEs in coping with their operational environment and can provide numerous organisational opportunities. However, current literature stipulates that SMEs are not proficient in their exploitation of electronic commerce and are weak in their provision of training thereof. The factors influencing this phenomenon are explored in this paper.