bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The phosphate levels of the major surface currents of the Indian Ocean
Authors: Rochford DJ
Published: November 2005

The principal surface currents of the north Indian Ocean are much richer in
phosphate (greater than 0.25 �g-atom/l) than those of the south Indian Ocean (less
than 0.15 �g-atom/I). In summer large areas of the surface waters of the south-east
Indian Ocean have a very low phosphate content (less than 0.10 �g-atom/l). These
waters are by far the lowest in phosphate of the whole Indian Ocean. Their salinity-temperature-
phosphate relations show that waters from two regions, the South Equatorial Current in the north and the high salinity belt around 30-35� S., contribute to their formation. Waters of this high salinity belt are carried northward into the low phosphate region by the West Australian Current in summer. These high-salinity waters most probably form by evaporation of an upper 50-m mixed layer of waters of the south-east Atlantic drifting eastward in the south Indian Ocean at an average rate of
15 cm per sec. In the eastern Indian Ocean north of 10�S., surface phosphate levels in
summer are governed by the circulation of the richer phosphate waters of the counter
current. In winter the circulation of richer phosphate waters of the South-west Monsoon
Current governs the phosphate level.
Diurnal changes in oxygen content of the water over the coral reef platform at Heron I
Authors: Kinsey DW , Kinsey E
Published: November 2005

Heron I., in the Australian Great Barrier Reef, is a small sand cay situated near
the western end of a reef 6.5 miles long. The area investigated was south-west of the
cay and approximately level, with extensive areas of living coral in the seaward half.
Larger algal species were common near the cay but were not in evidence in the areas
of active coral growth.
Oxygen levels were determined without sampling using a membrane-enclosed
polarographic probe. Results are presented as profiles across the platform and also
as time sequences in the main draining channel. Some deep water results are included.
Oxygen production and consumption were associated primarily with areas of rich coral
growth and hence larger algae seemed unimportant in the overall oxygen exchange.
Low tide oxygen levels in less than 1 ft of water ranged from 2.1 mg O2/l for a spring
tide after midnight to more than 10.8 mg O2/l (the limit of the instrument) in the early
afternoon. High tide levels in more than 6 ft of water ranged from 9.0 mg O2/l in the
early afternoon to 6.4 mg O2/l 2hr after sunset. High tide readings were not taken late
at night.
There is some evidence that water already reduced or enriched in oxygen content
on the previous tide was returned in significant quantities to the reef platform.
Mortality of marine invertebrate larvae in mercury, copper, and zinc solutions
Authors: Wisely B , Blick RAP
Published: November 2005

The times taken to kill 50% of their larvae were determined for some species of
bryozoans (Watersipora cucullata (Busk), Bugula neritina L.), tubeworms (Spiuorbis
lamellosa Lamarck, Galeolaria caespitosa Lamarck), bivalve molluscs (Mytilus edulis
planulatus Lamarck, Crassostrea commercialis Iredale & Roughley), and the brine
shrimp (Artemia salina L.). The molar concentrations of mercury (added as mercuric
chloride), required to kill 50 % of the larvae of the above species in 2 hr were 5.0 × 10-7M,
1.0 × 10-6M, 7.0 × 10-7M, 6.0 × 10-6, 6.5 × 10-5M, 9.0 × 10-4M, and 9.0 x10-3M, respectively. The pH of these solutions ranged from 7.8 to 8.2. For Watersipora,
Bugula, and Spirorbis, mercury was more toxic than copper and copper was more toxic
than zinc when the copper and zinc were added as citrates. The following concentrations
of copper produced 50% mortality of the larvae in 2 hr over a pH range of 7.0-8.2:
Watersipora 9.0 × 10-6M , Bugula 6.0 × 10-5M , Spirorbis 8.0 × 10-6M, Galeolaria
4.5 × 10-3M, and Mytilus 3.5 × 10-4M.
Comparable data for zinc over a pH range of 7.6-8.0 were: Watersipora 5.0 × 10-4M, Bugula 8.0 × 10-5M, and Spirorbis 7.5 × 10-5M.
During experiments with bivalve mollusc larvae in concentrated copper solutions
(5.0 × 10-2M) it was noted that the pH was sufficiently acid (3.5) to dissolve the shells
away. The effect of low pH as a mortality factor in such solutions was investigated
using Artemia larvae. It was found that the death rate of larvae in copper concentrations
of 1.0 × 10-1 to 4.0 × 10-5M, with a pH of 3.2-4.5 was similar to that of larvae in
comparable solutions not containing copper, but with a similar pH range. Therefore,
the effect of the lowered pH in concentrated copper solutions needs to be taken into
account in assessing mortality rates. Of the larvae tested Artemia appeared to have
the greatest potential as a test organism for screening potential antifouling compounds.
Experiments on filtration in plankton nets
Authors: Tranter DJ , Heron AC
Published: November 2005

Experiments were carried out in wind tunnels, in a test tank, and at sea, to
investigate the interaction between the water column and a towed plankton net.
Flow patterns about stationary nets held in a stream of air were observed and
photographed. The velocity and turbulence of the stream near the net, and the drag
upon the net, were measured. Experimental tows were made in the laboratory and in
the field to test the effect of various factors on "filtration efficiency". This interaction
between the discharge and the flow around the net leads to enhanced filtration. The
effect is accentuated by a flared mouth which increases the velocity differential. The
effect is reduced by encasing the net, which separates the interacting streams and
probably causes the stream from the net surface to lose momentum.
Filtration efficiency is independent of towing velocity, except for a gradual
decline at velocities less than 1-2 kt. Filtration efficiency is also independent of filtering
area in nets of usual length, but declines sharply in nets shorter than twice their mouth
diameter. There is a zone of turbulence and reduced velocity in the centre of a net with
bridles. At approximately one-quarter of a radius from the ring, the stream is flowing
at mean mouth velocity. This seems to be the most suitable site for a flowmeter.
Photosynthetic rate of the marine diatom Cylindrotheca closterium
Authors: Humphrey GF , Subba Rao DV
Published: November 2005

Photosynthesis in Cylindrotheca closterium was greatest in 1-day-old cells (2-4 � O2 per 106 cells per hour), declining to about 50% of this at 3 days and to about 10 % at 14 days. Due mainly to a decrease in the intensity of photosynthesis the ratio of photosynthesis to respiration fell from 6-8 at 1 day to 34 at 3 days, and to 0.6-1.6 at 14 days. The decline in photosynthesis started before phosphate or nitrate in the culture medium was exhausted, but was accompanied by a pH change from 7.4 before inoculation to 8.4 at 1 day and 9.2 at 3 days and thereafter. White light of 1000-1500f.c. (6.4-9.6 mW/cm2) saturated photosynthesis, the compensation point varying from 50 to 100 f.c. (0.3-0.6 mW/cm2). In blue light similar in spectral composition to that found at 10m below the surface of the ocean, the compensation point was 0.5-0.6 mW/cm2.
Growth of Cylindrotheca closterium var. californica (Mereschk.) Reimann & Lewin on nitrate, ammonia, and urea
Authors: Grant BR , Madgwick J , Dal Pont G
Published: November 2005

Cylindrotheca closterium var. californica (formerly Nitzschia closterium Erhrenberg),
a marine diatom, grew on nitrate, ammonia, or urea as a sole source of nitrogen. If the
initial concentration of ammonia was 5 × 10-4M or above, there was a lag period before cell
multiplication began. When the three forms of nitrogen were offered in combination,
ammonia was used first, followed by urea, and finally nitrate. In the seawater medium
used, cell multiplication was always accompanied by a rapid rise in pH of the medium,
regardless of the nitrogen source.
Rearing experiments with five species of Australian freshwater fishes. I. Inducement to spawning
Authors: Lake JS
Published: November 2005

Experimental work on the reproduction of five species of fish endemic to
Australia indicates the importance of specific water temperatures and floods as
triggering mechanisms for spawning and for subsequent survival of young. Evidence
has been obtained which suggests that the factor which stimulates the fish to spawn
is produced when water comes into contact with dry soil.
The species studied were Tandanus tandanus, Plectroplites ambiguus, Maccullochella
macquariensis, Bidyanus bidyanus, and Carassiops klunzingeri. The spawning of these
species is compared with some observations made on the heterochthonous Perca fluviatilis.
Plectroplites ambiguus and Bidyanus bidyanus spawn at water temperatures above
23°C provided there is an accompanying rise in water level; both species produce pelagic
eggs. Tandanus tandanus spawns at a temperature of 24°C and demersal eggs are laid
in a gravel nest; a rise in water level is not essential. Maccullochella macquariensis
spawns at 20°C provided there is a slight "run off" of water into the pond; eggs are laid
in hollow logs or in similar situations. Carassiops klunzingeri spawns at 22.5°C and
the eggs adhere to grass and twigs at the water's edge. Perca fluviadilis spawns at
11.5°C and all fish spawn in ponds over a short period if additional water is added,
this ensures a more uniform water temperature throughout the pond.
The biology of Acanthoclinus quadridactylus (Bloch and Schneider) (Teleostei-Blennioidea). I. Age, growth, and food
Authors: Jillett JB
Published: November 2005

Age, growth, and food of a population of Acanthoclinus quadridactylus were studied from December 1959 to December 1960. Age and growth were investigated by means of length frequencies of fish and by the analysis of growth zones shown in their sagittal otoliths. The growth rate decreases with age and growth is retarded during winter months. Fish live to a maximum age of at least nine years at which time they are approximately 20 cm long. There are no marked differences in growth or longevity between the sexes.
Analysis of gut contents showed that A. quadridactylus is an omnivorous carnivore. Diet is apparently restricted by availability rather than by selective feeding. Decapods were the most important food organisms and Petrolisthes elongatus was the most important single species. Other food organisms included (in order of importance) isopods, barnacles, amphipods, chitons, gastropods, bivalves, polychaetes, fish, and bryozoans. There is evidence of a change of diet in the first year of life.
The biology of Acanthoclinus quadridactylus (Bloch and Schneider) (Teleostei-Blennioidea). II. Breeding and Development
Authors: Jillett JB
Published: November 2005

A. quadridactylus attains sexual maturity in the third year of life, after which
there is a seasonal cycle of gonad maturation and depletion. The condition factor
of fish varies through the year and annual variation is comparable for both males
and females. Fluctuations of condition factor for males cannot be explained solely
in terms of changes in gonad weight.
Egg masses were found on the shore from July to January, although most
fish spawn between August and November. Development is described from late
cleavage to eleven days after hatching. In nature, each egg mass is guarded by a
male fish until the larvae hatch and enter the plankton. Planktonic life probably lasts
nearly three months before the juvenile fish settle and adopt the adult habit.
Oxygen depletion in Lake Macquarie, N.S.W
Authors: MacIntyre RJ
Published: November 2005

After heavy rains in 1963 Lake Macquarie showed strong stratification with
reduction of oxygen to 2.9% of saturation. The development and decline of this
condition took five weeks.
Effects of hauling speed on zooplankton catches
Authors: Tranter DJ , Kerr JD , Heron AC
Published: November 2005

Three plankton nets, similar in all respects but size, were hauled vertically
through the water column (100 m) at speeds ranging from 0.4 to 2.4 m/sec. Several
components of the catch were counted, and the counts compared to test the effect of
hauling speed. With increased hauling speed, the number of juvenile and adult
euphausiids decreased (beyond 0.6-0.8 m/sec) ; the number of small organisms
increased; and the condition of the catch deteriorated (beyond 1.5 m/sec).
It is suggested that the mesh selectivity of a net depends in part upon the
number of contacts between organism and mesh in transit from mouth to cod-end.
This could explain why fewer small organisms were taken at low hauling speeds than
at high hauling speeds.
Temperature structure in the upper 250 metres in the East Australian Current area
Authors: Hamon BV
Published: November 2005

Temperature profiles to 250 m, obtained by using a bathythermograph, are
presented and discussed in relation to geostrophic currents in the East Australian
Current Area. There is a very close relation between dynamic height and temperature
at 240 m depth in this area. Regression equations connecting the two quantities are
given. The depth of the mixed layer is shown to cover a wide range, even on a single
cruise in a relatively small area, and it is suggested that the extremes of very shallow
(< 20 m) and very deep (≥ 200 m) mixed layers are due to divergence and convergence
associated with the strong and variable circulation in the area. Seasonal warming
and cooling affect approximately the upper 70-100 m, and have a range of about 3�C.
Time and space scales of variations in the East Australian Current, from merchant ship data
Authors: Hamon BV , Kerr JD
Published: November 2005

The along-track components of current for 55 southward passages between
Cape Moreton (27�02'S.) and Sugarloaf Pt (32� 27'S.) on the east Australian coast have
been analysed. The currents are predominantly towards the south, but their variability
is stressed. At any particular time, departures from the mean current show appreciable
correlation for distances up to about 100 km. At a particular latitude, departures from
the mean current are positively correlated for time differences up to 20 days, and show a
slight negative correlation for time differences of the order of 30 or 40 days, indicating
a weak periodicity with periods of the order of 70 days. The connection between these
and other estimates of space and time scales for the east Australian current is discussed.
No evidence of alongshore movement of current patterns was found.
Suspended organic matter in the south-eastern Indian Ocean
Authors: Newell BS , Kerr JD
Published: November 2005

Measurements of suspended carbon, carbohydrate, ninhydrin-positive nitrogen,
and phosphate phosphorus were made from surface to bottom along a line of 14 stations
from 32� 00'S., 111� 45'E. to 9� 00'S., 105� 00'E. The first three properties showed minima
at 200 m and 1300 m. The minimum at 200 m was associated with horizontal advection
of oligotrophic South-east Indian High Salinity Water. The minimum at 1300 m
coincided with the boundary between the intermediate and deep circulation systems.
No systematic change in composition of the suspended matter with depth was observed.
Seasonal variations in the Indian Ocean along 110°E. I. Hydrological structure of the upper 500 m
Authors: Rochford DJ
Published: November 2005

Tropical and subtropical water masses at surface and subsurface depths were
separated by their salinity, temperature, oxygen, and nutrient characteristics. The
annual mean depths and latitudinal extent of these water masses were determined.
Annual changes in the upper 50 m were generally so small relative to those found in
other oceans that advection and mixing must have been less important in their genesis
than local climatic changes. There was a barely significant seasonal rhythm in surface
phosphate and nitrate, with peak occurrences of each some 6 months apart. At each
latitude the permanent thermal discontinuity centred around a particular isotherm varied
little in intensity during the year, but rose and fell in accordance with surface currents.
The thermocline south of c. 18�S. varied little in depth but greatly in intensity during
the summer.
The depth of the mixed layer was much less in summer and at all times shallower in
the tropics. The depth of this layer was governed more by the accumulation of surface
waters by zonal currents and eddies, than by wind stress or convective overturn. Therefore
there was little difference from south to north, or month to month, in average
nutrient values of this mixed column. The movement of the various surface waters,
deduced from salinity and temperature changes during the year, usually agrees with
geostrophic currents across 110�E, and ships' observations of surface currents in the
south-east Indian Ocean.
Seasonal variations in the Indian Ocean along 110°E. III. Chlorophylls a and c
Authors: Humphrey GF , Kerr JD
Published: November 2005

The mean concentrations for all samples analysed were 0.17 �g/l for chlorophyll a
and 0.22 �g/I. for chlorophyll c; there were 27 mg/m² of a and 35 mg/m² of c in the water
column to 150 m. June-August gave the highest values. The model depth at which
concentrations were greatest was 75 m. Diagrams of regression surfaces fitted to the
results are given. Regression analysis showed that depth, latitude, and season affected the
concentration of chlorophylls; latitude and season affected the column amount of
chlorophylls.
Seasonal variations in the Indian Ocean along 110°E. IV. Primary production
Authors: Jitts HR
Published: November 2005

Mean productivity (light saturated photosynthesis), Ps, for the meridian rose from
50 mg C/(hr m²) in August 1962 to a maximum of 62 in October, then fell to a minimum
of 4 in January, whereafter it rose slowly to 25 in April-May, then sharply to 45 in late
May, and remained at that level till August 1963. Mean Ps for the year was 37 mg C/(hr m²). The depth of the layer of photosynthetic organisms varied between 130 m in October and 60 m in January, with a mean of 85 m. Maximum Ps occurred at 25 m in 36% of the stations, at 0 m in 29 %, and at 50 m in 24%.
In January-February the whole meridian was occupied by waters of low productivity, approximately 4 mg C/(hr m²) from the centre of the south Indian Ocean.
In April-May the Ps remained uniform along the meridian but rose to 24. At other times four latitudinal intervals along the meridian, with distinctive seasonal variations of productivity characteristics, were found. From 9 to 15°S., waters with high Ps (69 mg C/(hr m²)), and sharp stratification at 50 m, caused by equatorial upwelling, occurred from May to October.
From 15 to 24 and 24 to 30°S., waters with high Ps (60 mg Cl(hr m²) and (100 m) deep layers of photosynthetic organisms were found during October-November and May-July respectively. From 30 to 32�S., waters of high productivity (70 mg C/(hr m²)) and a deep layer (100 m) were found in the period July-August.
The daily rate of primary production, Pa, of the whole meridian varied from 0.13 g C/(day m²) in August to 0.08 from October to early May, rising sharply in late May to 0.18 and again in early August to 0.27. The depth of the euphotic layer varied between 76 m in October and 63 m in July-August, with a mean of 68 m.
Seasonal variations in the Indian Ocean along 110°E. V. Zooplankton biomass
Authors: Tranter DJ , Kerr JD
Published: November 2005

Samples of the zooplankton in the upper 200 m were taken with the Indian
Ocean Standard Net and Clarke-Bumpus sampler, and their wet weights were determined.
Biomass ranged from 3 to 525 mg/m³, the general level being 25-100 mg/m³. The
average value by day was 0.6 times that by night. Biomass was fairly uniform over a
wide central region (16-27� S.), increasing further north and decreasing further south.
The biomass was greatest in September and March and least in December and June.
Seasonal variations in the Indian Ocean along 110°E. IV. Macropankton and micronekton biomass
Authors: Legand M
Published: November 2005

At about 2230 hr, samples were taken between the surface and approximately 210 m with a 5-ft Isaacs-Kidd midwater trawl (IKMT) at 91 stations. Samples were divided into four arbitrary categories-gelatinous organisms, small plankton, macroplankton, and micronekton. The last two categories were considered to be typical of the IKMT and were subdivided further. IKMT material is characterized by the dominance in weight of fishes, carids, euphausiids, sergestids, and leptocephali. Measurements were expressed as dry weight and frequency per standard haul of 10,000 m, and as average organism size. The average dry weight of 14.8 g consisted of one-third fishes, about one-quarter crustacean macroplankton, and one-quarter small plankton.
Between 0 and 200 m meroplanktonic larvae of littoral organisms were concentrated toward the northern and southern extremities of the section. Gelatinous organisms were more abundant by weight in the south while larger crustaceans were more abundant in the extreme north. The distribution of fishes tended to be bimodal. In general, groups with maxima further to the north developed these maxima later in the season. The size of cephalopods, penaeids, and chaetognaths was usually greater in the south. Fishes, euphausiids, and carids were larger in the north. Phyllosomas, stomatopods, and leptocephali (meroplankton), and annelids and pteropods (holoplankton) were larger toward the centre.
In general the highest frequencies and largest biomasses occurred from August to November. There were periods of poverty in the first part of the year. Micronekton biomass was also high in March-April. The seasonal cycle was often clearer in the south, suggesting more marked biological seasons there, and more confused in the centre, suggesting that this region was of an intermediate nature. The seasonal distribution as a whole was bimodal. A main frequency maximum with a smaller average size of organisms was preceded by a secondary frequency maximum with a greater average size of organisms. These two maxima were related, the interval between them being of the order of 6-9 months. This suggests a succession of adults and young individuals.
There were minima in abundance characterizing whole regions and cruises, suggesting that there were large-scale environmental changes, e.g. to the south of 26� S., from mid April to the beginning of June; to the north of 12� 30'S., in January to March; and, in particular, from the north towards the centre and south, in September during the richest period of the year. Except for the end of the year, when the distribution was similar from north to south, there were alternate maxima and minima along the section. Despite similarities in the distribution of the four major categories, their cycles of abundance were out of phase. The development of small plankton was earlier than that of macroplankton and micronekton.
Salinity tolerance and osmoregulation of Taeniomembers microstomus (Gunther, 1861) (Pisces: Mugiliformes: Atherinidae) from Australian salt lakes
Authors: Lui LC
Published: November 2005

Salinity tolerance and osmoregulation of a population of Taeniomembras
microstomus were studied. Results indicated that this atherinid fish is extremely euryhaline.
Probit analysis revealed that the upper and lower L.D.50 values for salinity
were 108‰ and 3.3‰, respectively. Salinity tolerance was apparently independent of
acclimation, Taeniomembras microstomus has remarkable hypo-osmoregulatory abilities.
The freezing point depression of body fluid varied from 0.558� to 2.729� when fish
were exposed to a salinity range of 5-120‰.
The ecology and distribution of Halicarcinus lacustris (Brachyura: Hymeno-somatidae) in Australian inland waters
Authors: Walker K
Published: November 2005

Halicarcinus lacustris is a small crab inhabiting inland waters in south-eastern
Australia, New Zealand, and Lord Howe and Norfolk Islands. The Victorian distribution
was investigated with reference to salinity. In the field the species occurs over
a salinity range of 0.1-9.6‰ (although scarce in fresh waters), despite a tolerance of
0.0-36.3‰ shown by adults in the laboratory. This restricted distribution is attributed
to physiological and ecological factors. Ecological notes are included on
microhabitat, associated species, food, and the breeding cycle. Consideration is given
also to the origins and overall distribution of the species. It is suggested that H.
Lacustris rafted across the Tasman Sea, after having evolved in south-eastern Australia.
Larval ecology of the Western Australian marine crayfish, with notes upon other panulirid larvae from the eastern Indian Ocean
Authors: Chittleborough RG , Thomas LR
Published: November 2005

The Western Australian marine crayfish is now regarded as Panulirus longipes
cygnus (George). Larvae could not be distinguished morphologically from those of
tropical subspecies. The identity of the various stages of phyllosoma and puerulus
larvae of the species has been established, and an outline is given of the seasonal
occurrence and growth of larvae. The eggs of P. longipes cygnus hatch during summer,
larvae being released along the coast into water of relatively high salinity (generally
exceeding 35.4‰). Offshore surface wind drift during summer is proposed as the
means by which the newly hatched phyllosoma larvae are transported away from the
coast. It is not clear how late-stage larvae return to the coast; there is some evidence
that their behaviour might change with regard to depth of occurrence and also diurnal
vertical movements. The timing of the larval cycle varies from year to year; final-stage
larvae probably cannot return to settle on the coast until the disappearance of the low
salinity tropical water which extends down the west coast of Australia each winter.
The importance of larval surveys as a means of estimating the size of the brood
stock and to forecast the strength of a year class is discussed.
Other species represented in the plankton of this area as phyllosoma larvae
are listed, and some information given on the morphology, distribution, and dispersal of
phyllosoma larvae tentatively identified as P. penicillatus.
The freshwater sponges of Australia (Porifera: Spongillidae)
Authors: Racek AA
Published: November 2005

Recent extensive collections of freshwater sponges in Australia are subjected to a detailed taxonomic study. Of the 24 species now recorded, five new species are fully described and figured, and the taxonomic criteria of three hitherto rather dubious spongillids redescribed and illustrated. Full keys to the gemmule-producing genera of Spongillidae, and to the Australian species, are included. The environment and zoogeographical distribution of Australian spongillids are discussed.
Chemical and zooplankton studies of lentic habitats in north-eastern New South Wales
Authors: Timms BV
Published: November 2005

Chemical and zooplankton data for 103 reservoirs and lakes on the northern tablelands and the central and north coast regions of New South Wales are presented and discussed. Twenty-three of the localities are natural, occur in five distinct regions, and are variable in their modes of origin. All the waters are fresh, and most have less than 200 p.p.m. total dissolved solids. In general, waters on the coastal plain are dominated by sodium and chloride ions, while those on the highlands are dominated by bicarbonate and sodium, magnesium, or calcium.
A total of 43 species of Entomostraca inhabit the lentic environments of the area, though many of these cannot be considered to be eulimnetic species. Only a few species (2.2 copepods and 1.1 cladocerans, on the average) occur in any one locality, this number being influenced by site size and age. The distribution pattern of the major species are depicted and discussed in terms of four factors. Altitudinal-related factors are important for many species, particularly calanoid copepods; water chemistry influences the distribution of at least two species-Boeckella triarticulata (Thomson)
and Calamoecia tasmanica (Smith); turbidity has a subsidiary effect on the occurrence
of species in the genera Daphnia and Ceriodaphnia; and the locality age is important
for most species. The relative dispersal powers of the more common species are assessed
from their tendency to be present or absent in new reservoirs.
The biology of Haloniscus searlei Chilton, an oniscoid isopod living in Australian salt lakes
Authors: Ellis P , Williams WD
Published: November 2005

The results of field and laboratory investigations concerning the biology of
Haloniscus searlei Chilton (Crustacea: Isopoda: Oniscoidea) are reported and discussed.
It occurs in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and Western Australia, where, although
belonging to the almost exclusively terrestrial Oniscidae, it lives only in inland salt lakes;
from these it has been collected at salinities from 8 to 159‰.
Breeding females occur throughout the year, but are most abundant in summer.
The life-cycle conforms to the typical isopodan pattern.
Laboratory investigations provided upper and lower L.D.50 values for salinity
with acclimation of 159 and < 1‰ and without acclimation of 118 and 4‰.
In resistance to desiccation, H. searlei does not seem to be significantly different from
terrestrial isopods, and in air its survival is a matter of hours. Its degree of cuticular
impermeability places it between Oniscus and Porcellio in the following series of genera
with increasing impermeability: Ligia < Philoscia < Oniscus < Haloniscus <
Porcellio < Armadillidium. The pleopods display no modifications for terrestrial
breathing.
The view that H. searlei is of terrestrial ancestry and that its forbears were
physiologically preadapted for life in inland salt lakes is upheld.
The sedimentary framework of Moreton Bay, Queensland
Authors: Maxwell WGH
Published: November 2005

Moreton Bay occupies an area of 540 sq miles on the south-east Queensland
shelf, and is bordered on the east by high barrier islands. It is divisible into a deep
northern sector and a narrower southern region in which numerous small sand islands
occur. Unusually vigorous tidal activity has resulted in tidal deltas and sand ridges
on the northern and eastern margins. The main sedimentary pattern in the Bay has been
determined by the Mesozoic and Cainozoic history of the region, particularly the tectonic
and eustatic variation. At the present time, the main sediment source is from the shelf and
barrier islands where ancient dune deposits are "feeding" the Bay. The main contribution
from the western land mass is mud, which is largely restricted to the western part of the
Bay. Relict coral reefs and existing coral communities contribute to a carbonate facies
which is very restricted in distribution. The main movement of sediment is by tidal
currents which are most effective on the eastern side of the Bay where the sediment is
predominantly quartz sand.
Growth and reproduction of Halicarcinus australis (Haswell) (Crustacea, Brachyura) in the Swan estuary, Western Australia. II. Larval stages
Authors: Lucas JS , Hodgkin EP
Published: November 2005

Larvae of Halicarcinus australis (Haswell) were collected in vertical plankton
samples from eight stations in the Swan estuary during two summers.
The majority of samples included live and dead larvae; the high proportion of
dead larvae shows that there are other important causes of mortality besides predation.
Third stage zoeae (the final larval stage) occur over more restricted salinity
and temperature ranges than earlier zoeal stages, and their temporal and spatial
distributions in the estuary are also more restricted.
Laboratory rearing of H. australis larvae at 16 chlorinity-temperature
combinations shows that larvae are less tolerant of extremes of these parameters
than crabs. Hydrological conditions unfavourable for larval development occur
throughout the estuary in winter and in upstream regions in summer. However,
during much of these periods ovigerous females are present in crab populations and
larvae are released, thus accounting for some of the mortality apparent from the
plankton samples.
Third stage zoeae are found progressively further up stream in summer
associated with the advance of favourable salinities and with a zone of plankton
abundance. Recruitment into crab populations reflects the time of completion of
larval development at each locality.
A study of the benthos of soft bottoms, Sek Harbour, New Guinea, using numerical analysis
Authors: Stephenson and Williams WT
Published: November 2005

Samples collected from 62 sites within c. 1½ sq miles by means of a van Veen
grab contained a small number of species (animal and plant), dominated by two
species of ophiuroids. Without sophisticated analyses it is possible to delimit obvious
"communities" based on dominants and subdominants, for example an Amphioplus-
Amphiacantha community and a soft coral-sponge community. Similarly areas of
high species diversities can be identified, these conforming approximately with the
recordings of species occurring in single sites.
Further analyses were made numerically after transformation of the data using
the Bray and Curtis (1957) measure of affinity and the Lance and Williams (1967b)
system of flexible sorting. Nine site groups were derived and ordinated by the
"principal co-ordinate analysis" of Gower (1966, 1967). These groups were reduced
to eight by detailed consideration of site characteristics.
A gritty area is characterized by epifauna (soft coral and sponge), a "clean"
area by a tubicolous polychaete Mesochaetopterus, and six areas by the two ophiuroids
Amphioplus and Amphiacantha. Amongst these the following can be distinguished
from a western to eastern (seawards) direction: (a) low numbers and patchy
distribution of both ophiuroids and virtually nothing else, (b) both ophiuroids with
a bivalve mollusc Tellina and a stomatopod Clorida, (c) moderate numbers of both
ophiuroids, (d) large numbers of Amphioplus with moderate numbers of Amphiacantha
and three associated species, and (e) two areas which are essentially ecotones of the
last.
The "associations" are compared in detail with others involving comparable
genera. While it was expected that in these warm waters there would be a heterogeneous
biota with indefinite "community patterns", as just indicated the situation
was relatively simple.
Data were of such complexity to be ideally suited for a comparative study of
methods of numerical analysis, and these are outlined in the Appendix. Three
standard models were used, two of which were discarded. After prior transformation
of the data (including elimination of species with a single occurrence and fusion of
sites in proximity) the final technique proved satisfactory.
Some aspects of distribution and population structure in the sand bubbler crab Scopimera inflata Milne Edwards, 1873 (Decapoda, Ocypodidae)
Authors: Fielder DR
Published: November 2005

Scopimera inflata occurs in well-defined aggregations on tropical and subtropical sandy beaches of the eastern Australian coast. Males tend to occur on the landward side of an aggregation, females on the seaward side. The density of crab holes is greatest near the centre of an aggregation and declines quite rapidly on either side. Larger animals tend to occur on the landward side of an aggregation, the average size decreasing towards the seaward margin. Aggregations probably move up and down the beach in accordance with the tidal cycle.
Variation in silicate concentration at Port Hacking station, Sydney, in relation to phytoplankton growth.
Authors: Grant BR
Published: November 2005

Data are presented to show the variation in silicate concentrations in surface
waters at a station in the Western Tasman sea, over two annual cycles. The area is
characterized by low silicate concentrations in the surface (0-20 m) waters over the
whole year with a maximum of 40 �g/litre occurring at very brief intervals in mid-winter.
In spring and summer values frequently fall below detectable limits. The subsurface
waters (20-60 m) are also usually low in silicate, but show a series of periodic intrusions
in which concentrations go as high as 120 �g/l. These variations in silicate concentration
are discussed in relation to the known variations in phytoplankton populations and the
hydrology of the area.
Temperature-salinity anomalies at depths between 200m and 800m in the Tasman sea
Authors: Boland FM
Published: November 2005

Data obtained using a temperature-salinity-depth recorder in the Tasman Sea in
1965 show salinity anomalies at depths between 200 and 800 m. It is suggested that
these are produced by an outflow of saline water from Bass Strait.
Movement and zonation of the intertidal anemone Actinia tenebrosa Farqu. (Cnidaria: Anthozoa) under experimental conditons
Authors: Ottaway JR , Thomas IM
Published: November 2005

Actinia tenebrosa Farqu, is viviparous and the juvenile anemones are ejected
from the gastrovascular cavity ready for immediate attachment to the first solid substrate
they contact. It is several days after the initial attachment before the juveniles have the
potential to move, and then it is at a rate approaching that of the adults. This may be
at least 2.5 cm/hr for 8 hr and often more. When these animals are in the preferred
zone in the intertidal region movement is much less.
The movement of Actinia may be resolved into three categories: firstly, movement
in the vertical plane, where prolonged submergence initiates negative geotaxis and
prolonged emergence initiates positive geotaxis; secondly, slight inherent activity which
continues even in the absence of environmental gradients; thirdly, directed lateral
movements in response to stimuli other than submergence, emergence, or gravity.
In the tidal tank, both adult and juvenile Actinia could be induced to form a
zone in the intertidal region which corresponded to that formed in the natural environment.
The distributions formed by adults and juveniles under identical conditions were
significantly different although the range of the distributions was very similar. The high
mortality of juveniles observed in the laboratory is attributed to the effects of dehydration
during emergence, and it is suggested that at this stage of development Actinia is very
susceptible to comparatively low relative humidities. The response of juvenile Actinia
to a humidity gradient is examined.
The zonation of Actinia tenebrosa is discussed with reference to coelenterate
behaviour patterns and to the zonation of intertidal molluscs.
The biology of a landlocked form of the normally catadromous salmoniform fish Galaxias maculatus (Jenyns). I. Life cycle and origin
Authors: Pollard DA
Published: November 2005

In contrast to most other members of the family Galaxiidae which live and
reproduce in fresh water, Galaxias maculatus, the common jollytail of Australia
and "whitebait" of New Zealand, is normaIly catadromous throughout its range
(south-eastern Australia, New Zealand, and southern South America). In some
athalassic inland lakes on the volcanic plains of south-western Victoria, however, a
number of populations apparently descended from this species have becomelandlocked.
The life cycle of the forminhabiting one of these lakes (the "landlocked jollytail" of Lake
Modewarre) may be briefly summarized as follows: Gonadal maturation in the
adult fish, which live in the slightly saline landlocked lake, begins around March and
is almost completed by about June. The final stage of maturation is not reached,
however, until these fish migrate short distances up intermittent inflowing creeks
when the latter begin to flow in late winter and spring (July-October). Spawning
takes place when the creeks are swollen after heavy rain, the eggs being deposited
amongst flooded vegetation in shallow areas of slow-flowing water along the creek
banks. Many of the spent fish die after spawning. The eggs, which are stranded when
the flood-waters subside, develop amongst the vegetation on the banks above the normal
water level. After development is complete reimmersion by the first flood to cover
them stimulates hatching. The normal developmental period is probably about
2 weeks, but in the absence of flooding hatching can be delayed up to at least a month
after fertilization. The newly hatched larvae are washed downstream into the lake
where they feed and grow to maturity. They migrate upstream to spawn in the
following late winter-early spring season at an age of approximately 1 year. The
fish grow to about 9 cm in their first year, 14 cm in their second, and 17 cm in their
third year. The average size of the females is greater than that of the males. The
general features of the life history of this landlocked form are compared and contrasted
with those of the stream-dwelling species G. maculatus and a number of other
salmoniform fishes. The geological origin of the complex of lakes in south-western
Victoria inhabited by landlocked galaxiid populations is discussed, and an hypothesis
concerning the origin of the Lake Modewarre form from an ancestral population of
G. maculatus in the Barwon-Leigh River system is advanced.
The biology of a landlocked form of the normally catadromous salmoniform fish Galaxias maculatus (Jenyns). II. Morphology and systematic relationships
Authors: Pollard DA
Published: November 2005

Following a brief outline of the systematic relationships of a number of species
comprising the Galaxias maculatus species complex, the morphology of the "landlocked
jollytail", a lacustrine galaxiid from Lake Modewarre (south-western
Victoria), is described and compared with that of the normally catadromous stream dwelling
species G. maculatus and a number of other closely related forms belonging
to this complex. The probable systematic status of the landlocked jollytail and its
relationship to the other forms included in the G. maculatus species complex are then
discussed in the light of both the above morphological evidence, and ecological and
behavioural evidence from a previous study of the life cycle and discussion of the
probable origin of this lacustrine form. The conclusion is drawn that the landlocked
jollytail should probably be regarded as no more than an isolated "ecological race"
of the normally catadromous stream-dwelling species, G. maculatus.
Reproductive biology and endocrinology of greenback flounder Rhombosolea tapirina (GÜnther 1862)
Authors: Barnett C. W. , Pankhurst N. W.
Published: November 2005

The relationship between patterns of gonadal development and endocrine changes
during reproductive development was examined in the greenback flounder
(Rhombosolea tapirina). Oocyte size–frequency
distributions showed that female greenback flounder have group synchronous
oocyte development, and that there are multiple ovulations. Plasma and ovarian
concentrations of testosterone (T) and 17β-oestradiol
(E2) were elevated in association with vitellogenesis.
Plasma concentrations of 17,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (17,20βP)
were significantly elevated in ovulated females, whereas ovarian
concentrations of 17,20βP were elevated in association with final oocyte
maturation (FOM) and ovulation. Plasma concentrations of 17,20βP-sulfate
but not 17,20βP-glucuronide were elevated in association with FOM and
ovulation. Changes in macroscopic testis stage were not accompanied by
significant changes in proportions of gamete types in the testis. Plasma
concentrations of T were elevated in spermatogenic and partially spermiated
males. No significant changes in plasma 11-ketotestosterone (11KT),
17,20βP, 17,20βP-sulfate and 17,20βP-glucuronide were detected
with change in testis stage.
A maximum-likelihood method for estimating natural mortality and catchability coefficient from catch-and-effort data
Authors: Wang You-Gan
Published: November 2005

A simple stochastic model of a fish population subject to natural and fishing
mortalities is described. The fishing effort is assumed to vary over different
periods but to be constant within each period. A maximum-likelihood approach
is developed for estimating natural mortality (M) and
the catchability coefficient (q) simultaneously from
catch-and-effort data. If there is not enough contrast in the data to provide
reliable estimates of both M and
q, as is often the case in practice, the method can be
used to obtain the best possible values of q for a range of possible values of
M. These techniques are illustrated with tiger prawn
(Penaeus semisulcatus) data from the Northern Prawn
Fishery of Australia.
Chemical composition of the Australian bull kelp, Durvillea potatorum
Authors: Madgwick JC , Ralph BJ
Published: November 2005

The chemical composition of the Australian bull kelp, Durvillea potatorum, was determined. As a percentage of the whole stipe dry weight, components were: Crude fibre, 57.40 %; alginic acid, 35.15 % ; "cellulosic" polysaccharide, 22.61 % ; laminarin, 1.79 %; mannitol, 3.20%; nitrogen, 1.21 %; ash, 28.09 %; insoluble ash, 8.81 %; Ca2+, 1.47%; Mg2+, 0.44%; Na+, 1.45%; K+, 3.36%; PO42-, 5.15%; Cl-, 5.87%; SO4-, 3.49 %; I-, 0.25%; and chlorophyll, 0.01 %.
Tissue fractionation showed that the peripheral layer contained approximately two-thirds of the total chlorophyll and three-quarters of the total phenolic compounds, but only one-tenth of the total alginic acid. In whole stipes up to two-thirds of the alginic acid was in a soluble form.
The biology of a landlocked form of the normally catadromous salmoniform fish Galaxias maculatus (Jenyns). IV. Nutritional cycle
Authors: Pollard DA
Published: November 2005

The nutritional cycle of a landlocked form of the normally catadromous streamdwelling
fish Galaxias maculatus inhabiting Lake Modewarre (south-western Victoria)
was studied by following seasonal fluctuations in its general body condition, liver condition,
visceral fat stores, and intensity of feeding. The interrelations of these parameters
of nutritional condition and the gonadal cycle (which was described in a previous paper
in the same series) are then considered. The conclusion is drawn that the landlocked
jollytail, like some of the related salmonid fishes, belongs to the nutritional category of
"fat fishes", in which lipid reserves are mobilized from fat stores other than the liver
for development of the gametes and the reproductive effort.
Rate of gonad development in the ascidian Pyura praeputialis (Heller)
Authors: Goddard CK
Published: November 2005

Morphometric studies have been carried out on Pyura praeputialis. The relationships
investigated were:
(a) weight of the visceral mass v, total body weight,
(b) total gonad weight v. weight of the visceral mass,
(c) weight of right gonad v. total gonad weight, and
(d) weight of right gonad v. weight of visceral mass.
There is evidence that spawning results in a significant decrease in gonad size and
that there are two spawning seasons per year (spring and autumn), but evidence on the
latter point is not conclusive.
It is shown that, within each of the populations studied, gonad weight bears a
rectilinear relationship to body weight. It is also shown that the rate of gonad development
is significantly lower in the littoral (i.e. intertidal) population than in the sublittoral
(i.e. permanently immersed) population. The different rates of gonad development in
the two populations are taken to indicate that the littoral is a less favourable environment,
for this species, than the sublittoral. The implications of this finding are discussed.
Brackish-water plankton and their environment in the Werribee River, Victoria.
Authors: Arnott GH , Hussainy SU
Published: November 2005

A plankton and water sample were taken at each of 10 stations on 7 April, 22 September, and 30 October 1970. Surface chlorophyll a values as high as 1220 mg/m³ were recorded, although normally they were less than 100 mg/m³.
The horizontal and temporal distribution of 16 species of calanoid and cyclopoid copepods is presented, together with their observed salinity tolerances. Four major species-Sulcanus conflictus,
Gladioferens pectinatus, Gippslandia estuarina (all estuarine), and Acartia clausii (marine)
-accounted for most of the copepod numbers.
Evidence is outlined suggesting that the males of A. clausii can penetrate upstream more readily than the females. Zooplankton numbers varied markedly with time, the influence of river flow being quite evident. Variation in egg number and body size in G. pectinatus was studied, and the importance of rate of water renewal on egg number in an estuarine population is discussed.
The results are compared with those obtained from two other Victorian ecological studies. Aspects of the Australasian genus Gladioferens are discussed.