bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Australian Blattidae (Blattodea) IX. Revision of the Polyzosteriinae tribe Methanini, Tryonicinae, and Blattinae
Authors: Mackerras MJ
Published: June 2005

Keys are given to the subfamilies of Blattidae in Australia and to the tribes and
genera of Polyzosteriinae. In Polyzosteriinae-Methanini, nine species of Methana Stal
are redescribed, and M. athertonensis, sp. nov., is described; three species of Temnelytra
Tepper are redescribed, and one new one, marksae, sp. nov., is named; one species of
Scabina Shelford is redescribed; six species of Drymaplaneta Tepper are redescribed.
In Tryonicinae, one species of Tryonicus Shaw is redescribed. In Blattinae, Austrostylopyga,
gen. nov., is proposed for four species originally placed in Stylopyga or
Neostylopyga, and A. quadriloba, sp. nov., is described. Notes are given on unnamed
species of Methana, Tryonicus, and Austrostylopyga, and on the genus Dorylaea Stal
which may occur in Australia.
The skin and hair of the Southern Elephant Seal Mirounga leonina (L.) III. morphology of the adult integument
Authors: Ling JK
Published: June 2005

The histological structure and certain histochemical features of the skin, hair
follicles, and associated glands have been studied in 57 male and 49 female elephant
seals.
The epidermis comprises only three layers, stratum germinativum, stratum
spinosum, and stratum corneum. The absence of granular and clear layers leads to a
parakeratotic condition of the horny layer which is made up of large cornified sheets
joined to lateral strands of the pelage hairs. Although pigment abounds in the interfollicular
epidermis, it does not extend into the external root sheath cells of the hair
follicles.
There are no arrector pili muscles attached to the pelage hair follicles which are
simple, unbranched, and contain only one fully developed lanceolate hair. Hairs are
firmly anchored in their follicles by means of lateral filaments insinuated between
external root sheath cells. A single, small, apocrine-type sweat gland opens into the
hair canal below the common duct of the large, bilobed, sebaceous gland on the
ental side of the follicle. The lipid-rich sebum is secreted within the lamellae of the
stratum corneum and its function appears to be the maintenance of the outer horny
layers in a pliable and perhaps water-resistant condition. The walls of the sebaceous
duct are replete with glycogen.
The dermis comprises a network of collagenous fibres and a decreasing number
of elastic fibres in aging seals, as well as histiocytes and dermal fat cells.
Problems of thermoregulation arising from loss of hair in seals exemplified by
M. leonina and compensatory features apparent in the morphology of the skin and hair
are discussed.
Origin and evolution of Parthenogenetic reproduction in the grasshopper Maraba virgo (Eumastacidae: Morabinae)
Authors: White MJD , Webb GC
Published: June 2005

The virgo group of morabine grasshoppers includes the parthenogenetic, all.
female species virgo from western New South Wales and north-western Victoria,
together with four bisexual species from arid regions of Western Australia. The karyotypes
of three of these bisexual species are compared with that of virgo and the origin of
the various kinds of genetic heterozygosity found in the latter is discussed. It has been
shown by tritiated thymidine autoradiography that virgo, in addition to being heterozygous
for various structural rearrangements, is a permanent heterozygote for certain
late-replicating DNA segments in the AB and CD chromosomes. The total amount of
DNA per diploid nucleus is slightly lower in virgo than in its bisexual relatives. It is
probable that the evolution of the virgo karyotype under conditions of parthenogenetic
reproduction has involved inactivation of some segments (as suggested by late-labelling)
and actual deletion of others.
There have been two different X-autosome fusions in the phylogeny of the virgo
group (one in the ancestry of virgo itself), two fusions between autosomes, and a
translocation (or dissociation plus fusion). A numerical system to designate these and
other chromosomal rearrangements in the morabine grasshoppers is put forward.
Studies on the histerid beetle Pachylister chinensis in Fiji, and its possible value in the control of buffalo-fly in Australia
Authors: Bornemissza GF
Published: June 2005

P. chinensis, a predacious beetle that feeds on dipterous larvae breeding in dung
of herbivores, was introduced from Java to Fiji in 1938 for the control of houseflies.
The species is confined to areas having a wet tropical climate with a well-distributed
annual rainfall exceeding 100 in. The beetle has a marked preference for
cow pads in pastures with well-drained soils, and avoids areas shaded by trees.
The female lays one or two eggs in the soil beneath a cow pad, and stays there
from 2 to 3 days. P. chinensis larvae feed on active maggots as well as on fly puparia.
Larval development occupies 16-20 days, and the pupal period some 30 days during the
Fijian winter. In Fiji, P. chinensis has at least six generations per annum, and the adults
live for more than a year.
An abundance of prey ranging in length from 5 to 15 mm is essential for the
survival of P. chinensis in Fiji, which attained a mean density ranging up to five beetles
per cow pad in some localities. Laboratory tests at this density indicated that, due to the
limited searching ability of the beetles and their larvae, only about 30-50 % of maggots
in cow pads were destroyed.
Because of its irregular density distribution and limited searching ability, no
reliance should be placed on this predator for the control of the buffalo-fly in Australia.
It is suggested that the efficiency of histerids in controlling flies could be enhanced by the
introduction of dung beetles which would substantially reduce the breeding habitat of
dipterous pests, thereby making them more vulnerable to predation.
The evidence obtained during the course of this study did not suggest that
P. chinensis influenced the abundance of houseflies in Fiji.
The three dimensional gallery structure of the nest of the meat ant Iridomyrmex Purpureus (SM.) (Hymenoptera : Formicidae)
Authors: Ettershank G
Published: June 2005

A study of the gallery structure of the nest of I. purpureus is reported, using a lead-casting technique to obtain three-dimensional relationships. Each entrance on the low, gravel-covered mound was found in almost all cases to open into a separate set of galleries. The structure is described and the significance of the arrangement is discussed. Statistical analysis shows that the nest entrances are not randomly disposed.
Incubation of eggs of three species of Chelid tortoises, and notes on their embryological development
Authors: Goode J , Russell J
Published: June 2005

Incubation periods and nest contents of three species of chelid tortoises in
northern Victoria were recorded. Mean incubation period for eggs of Emydura macquari
(Cuvier) was 75 days and average number of eggs per nest was 15.7; for Chelodina
longicollis (Shaw), 138 days and 10.7 eggs per nest; for Chelodina expansa Gray,
normally exceeding 324 days and 15.4 eggs per nest. In abnormal seasons C. expansa
hatchlings may emerge from the nest in less than 193 days or more than 522 days after
eggs were deposited.
Eggs artificially incubated at 30�C consistently develop more quickly than those
at lower temperatures under natural conditions. In the field nest temperatures closely
approximate the mean daily air temperature.
Embryos of C. expansa are tolerant to nest temperatures ranging from 4.9�C
minimum to 29.6�C maximum. The other species are subject to variations of about
15 degC with up to 8.5 degC variation being recorded in 1 day.
Development of early embryos approximated that recorded for cryptodire
tortoises. However, there are large individual differences in the period of incubation
needed for specific stages to be reached, especially between embryos of the short-necked
and long-necked species of these pleurodire tortoises.
It is suggested that differences in the anatomy of their eggs are the main factors
in the different incubation periods between short-necked and long-necked species.
A histochemical study of the condylar secondary cartilage of the mouse, Mus musculus (Mammalia : Rodentia)
Authors: Hall BK
Published: June 2005

The histochemistry of the secondary cartilage of the mandibular condyle of the
mouse has been described and compared with the adventitious cartilage of the chick.
Both adventitious and secondary cartilage have the histochemistry of primary hypertrophic
cartilage and both cartilages calcify. The cells of the secondary cartilage are
capable of producing both bone and cartilage and their histochemistry is consistent
with this dual potentiality.
Dormancy in the land snail, Helicella virgata (Pulminata : Helicidae)
Authors: Pomeroy DE
Published: June 2005

H. virgata and other introduced snails of the family Helicidae spend much of
their time in a dormant state. In winter, dormancy usually occurs daily, and lasts for
a few hours only. In summer, when rainfall is rare, it may last for many days or even
weeks, and is then referred to as aestivation. H. virgata aestivates in conspicuous
positions, often fully exposed to the sun, at heights of up to 11 m from the ground.
No appreciable heat is lost by evaporative cooling, and the temperatures of dormant
snails may exceed the ambient temperature by as much as 10 degC, the amount of the
excess being a function of height above the ground. Estimates are given of the temperatures
experienced by aestivating snails over a whole summer; these exceed 30�C for
three-quarters of the summer, and 40�C is reached quite commonly. The positions where
H. virgata aestivate are discussed in relation to temperature, and it is concluded that
their behaviour, which presumably evolved in their native European range, is less
appropriate in the climate of South Australia; but despite this, their populations reach
high densities in places.
Aspects of the post-larval life history of Limnadia stanleyana King (Crustacea : Conchostraca)
Authors: Bishop JA
Published: June 2005

L. stanleyana occurs in some rainwater pools near Sydney, N.S.W.. A study of
the life history permits description of some aspects of the growth and morphological
variation of the species.
No growth rings are formed on the carapace during the initial stage of post-larval
development. After this a ring is formed at each moult. Animals moult at regular
intervals during the period of rapid growth which continues until after maturity.
Moulting then occurs less frequently and eventually ceases in aged animals. The increment
in size during each moulting cycle varies. It is greater in immature than is adult
animals so although the increase in number of growth rings is linear the increase in
size at this time is near exponential. The maximum size attained varies from generation
to generation even in the same pool. There are sexual differences in the proportions of
the carapace and damage due to injury increases markedly in aged animals.
At 7.5�C third- and fourth-stage nauplii did not mature and scarcely grew during
incubation for 336 hr. At 16, 20, and 25�C similar larvae grew to maturity in about
349, 161, and 109 hr respectively.
The mean number of spines on telsons of animals from one pool is different
from that of those from other pools. This situation merits further examination since the
biological characteristics of the species facilitate the study of this quantitative, probably
genetically determined, character in reproductively isolated populations.
Home range in feral water buffalo, Bubalus bubalis Lydekker
Authors: Tulloch DG
Published: June 2005

Buffalo are very restricted in their movement and establish a very strong "site
attachment", i.e, they have a well-defined "home range". Inside this are a number of
"fixed points". Pathways, trails, or pads are numerous within each home range, and
run from one fixed point to another.
Because each animal exhibits this strong site attachment, many animals die each
year as the result of thirst, or starvation, or both.
The primary types of the Australian Pyrgomorphidae (Orthoptera : Acridoidea)
Authors: Key KHL
Published: June 2005

The type material of the nominal species-group taxa of Australian Pyrgomorphidae
was examined and lectotypes and one neotype designated as required.
Comprehensive information on the primary types is given, including the results of
comparisons with published descriptions and figures, usually also with selected
topotypic or near-topotypic specimens in the Australian National Insect Collection,
and often with other types. Provisional conclusions on synonymy are summarized
in a synonymic list and a provisional classification of the 22 species accepted as valid.
Studies on gametogenesis and fecundity in the lampreys Mordacia praecox and M. mordax (Petromyzonidae)
Authors: Hughes RL , Potter IC
Published: June 2005

The pattern of histological changes occurring during gametogenesis in the non-parasitic lamprey, M. praecox, is described and compared with that of the closely related parasitic species, M. mordax. The gonads of M. praecox undergo extensive development during, and immediately after, metamorphosis whereas only relatively slight changes occur at the same stage in M. mordax.
Oogenesis in M. praecox is similar to that found in northern-hemisphere lampreys except that the advanced oocytes are surrounded by a single, rather than a double, vitelline membrane. Spermatogenesis in M. mordax differs in that spermatids are produced continually over a period of several months.
The ultrastructure of the advanced spermatid of M. praecox reveals the presence of an intranuclear filament and a parallel orientation of the centrioles similar to that described for the northern-hemisphere species, Lampetra planeri.
Histological evidence indicates that M. praecox breeds in late winter or early summer. The limited data available suggest a similar breeding season for M. mordax.
Oocyte counts from transverse sections of ammocoetes are greater for M. mordax than M. praecox, although some overlap occurs. Massive atresia of oocytes, after the onset of metamorphosis, results in the absolute fecundity of M. praecox being substantially less than that of adult M. mordax.
Argohesma - A new genus of the Australian bees (Apoida : Colletidae)
Authors: Exley EM
Published: June 2005

The genus Argohesma is proposed for a group of small bees of the subfamily
Euryglossinae. Four new species are described: A. eremica, A. deloschema, A. euxesta,
and A. lukinsiana. A key for the separation of the species is presented.
Revision of the subgenus Xenohesma Michener (Apoida : Colletidae)
Authors: Exley EM
Published: June 2005

The subgenus Xenohesma Michener, 1965, of the genus Euryglossa Smith, 1853,
is revised. Seventeen species are recognized including seven which are described as new:
E. (X.) stagei, E. (X.) chrysea, E. (X.) melanoclypearis, E. (X.) hirsutoscapa, E. (X.)
fasciata, E. (X.) clethrosema, and E. (X.) sigaloessa. In addition, the males of E. (X.)
clypearis Michener are described for the first time and three species are redescribed.
Keys that enable the separation of all species are presented.
The parasitic life-cycle of the swine kidney worm Stephanurus dentatus Diesing
Authors: Waddall AH
Published: June 2005

Third-stage larvae of S. dentatus exsheath in and invade the tissues of a variety
of animals.
After oral infection of guinea pigs and pigs, third-stage larvae migrate principally
from the small and large intestine via the portal blood, mesenteric lymphatics, and, to
a lesser degree, the peritoneal cavity. Large numbers of larvae invade the liver, and
it was shown that some larvae can escape from the liver and lungs.
After infection via the skin, third-stage larvae migrate mainly to the lungs.
There was evidence that some larvae undertake a tracheal migration from the lungs
and subsequently penetrate the digestive tract.
The third moult occurs in a variety of tissues, and by using transplantation
techniques, it was shown that fourth-stage larvae are capable of extensive migration.
The liver is the most suitable organ for the development of fourth-stage larvae and
immature adult worms.
The migratory behaviour of mature adult worms was studied by transplanting
adult worms into the peritoneal cavity. One patent infection was established using
this technique, but it appeared that most worms migrated randomly throughout the
carcass.
Studies on the marsupial glider, Schoinobates volans (Kerr) I. Reproduction
Authors: Smith RFC
Published: June 2005

Field data were obtained during the period September 1962-January 1965 from
710 greater gliders, S. volans, in a natural population. Histological changes were
observed in the reproductive tracts of another 129 animals shot during this period.
S. volans has a short breeding season in March, April, and May, after which
involution of the reproductive organs occurs in both sexes. The species is monovular
and polyoestrous. Sexual maturity is attained by both sexes in the second year,
following which breeding probably occurs annually.
The female reproductive system shows several primitive and anomalous features,
among which is the retention of the Wolffian ducts in the adult.
The histology of ovaries, uteri, and vaginae at various stages of the reproductive
cycle is briefly described.
Population ranges of Miniopterus schreibersii (Chiroptera) in south-eastern Australia
Authors: Dwyer PD
Published: June 2005

In south-eastern Australia banding of M. schreibersii has been concentrated
in four areas: north-eastern New South Wales, south-eastern New South Wales, south-eastern
Victoria, and south-western Victoria and south-eastern South Australia. The
present paper analyses 2083 reported movements. Only 17 of these are from one of the
four areas to another with the longest movement being 810 miles.
Biologically and geographically separate populations of M. schreibersii are
recognized in both north-eastern and south-eastern New South Wales. Each population
has its basis in dependence upon a specific nursery site which is used annually by nearly
all adult females in that population. Boundaries of population ranges in New South
Wales are considered to be prominent features of physiography (i.e. divides). Bats
move between population ranges less often than they move within population ranges.
This cannot be explained solely in terms of the distances separating roosts. Available
movement records from Victoria and South Australia are consistent with the pattern
described for New South Wales. Two biologically recognizable populations (i.e, different
birth periods) occur in south-western Victoria and south-eastern South Australia but
these may have overlapping ranges. Only one nursery colony of M. schreibersii is known
from south-eastern Victoria. On present evidence it remains possible that the apparent
integrity of the population associated with this nursery is merely a consequence of
distance from other areas of banding activity.
Detailed analyses of movements in bats may provide direct evidence as to the
kinds of cues by which a given species navigates. Thus the physiographic basis described
for population ranges in New South Wales is consistent with the view that M. schreibersii
may orientate to waterways or divides or both. The probability that there are area
differences in the subtlety or nature of navigational cues is implied by the different
physiographic circumstances of south-western Victoria and south-eastern South
Australia. It is suggested that knowledge of population range boundaries may aid
planning of meaningful homing experiments.
Variation of shape and of discrete anatomical characters in the morabine grasshoppers
Authors: Blackith RE , Blackith RM
Published: June 2005

Within the Morabinae (0rthoptera : Eumastacidae) there is some variation of
discrete characters including the midgut diverticula, the ovariole count, and the number
of eye stripes. The midgut diverticula, numbering 12, 15, 18, 20-24, and 36 are of
systematic interest, and the eye stripes reflect the number of moults undergone. The
ovariole count is almost constant within some species, but in others geographical clines
are apparent. One of these has been followed in detail and the ovariole counts shown
to be under genetic control with the high numbers of ovarioles dominant in reciprocal
crosses between individuals having high ovariole counts and those having low counts.
Twelve morphometric measurements were made on over 1450 adult morabine
grasshoppers and on over 100 nymphs. The lengths of the subgenital plates of the adult
males and the ovariole numbers of the adult females were analysed separately and the
remaining 10 measurements were subjected to a canonical analysis to discover how
many contrasts of form exist within the Morabinae and what the biological nature of
these contrasts may be.
Six biologically meaningful contrasts of form were found among the adults,
including one which distinguishes between the broad groups of morabines with 12, 18,
and 36 midgut diverticula.
The patterns of growth of the nymphs were also studied morphometrically. Those
females which will become adult in six instars begin to diverge from the males in the
fourth instar whereas those which will become adult in seven instars do not diverge
until the fifth.
The genus Perissomma (Diptera : Perissommatidae) with new species from Australia and Chile
Authors: Colless DH
Published: June 2005

Three new species of Perissomma are described, two from Australia and one
from Chile; also, further observations concerning the two species known previously,
including biological, morphological, and cytogenetic information on Perissomma fusca,
and descriptions of the male and presumed larva of P. mcalpinei are given; the larva
proves to be remarkably different from that of P. fusca, and adapted to a quite different
habitat.
Acid secretion in the Pacific Ocean gastropods
Authors: Thompson TE
Published: June 2005

Acid secretion is recorded for 22 species of Pacific Ocean gastropods. Pleurobranchus
peroni, Cypraea clandestina, C. spadicea, and Lamellaria sp. were investigated
in detail. It was established that the "empty" epidermal cells of P. peroni elaborate and
secrete the acid and it is suggested that cells of similar appearance in the other species
have the same function. The acid is discharged, following abrupt disturbance, by rupture
of the epidermal acid cells in most species, but through permanent pores in Lamellaria sp.
Tests suggest that the secretion is predominantly sulphuric acid.
The structure of the epidermal acid cells was investigated with the electron
microscope and the formation and coalescence of acid vacuoles are described. A second
type of epidermal cell, found in P. peroni and C. spadicea, contains longitudinally striated
material and is believed to play a mechanically supporting role. Mucous goblet cells
and sparse epidermal cilia were also identified in various species.
Seasonal variation in the plasma and the urine electrolyte concentration of the arid zone kangaroos Megaleia rufa and the Macropus robustus
Authors: Dawson TJ , Denny MJS
Published: June 2005

The seasonal variation in the plasma and urine electrolyte concentration and
osmolality of the arid zone kangaroos Megaleia rufa (red kangaroo) and Macropus
robustus (euro) has been examined. The urine osmolality of both species appeared
to be influenced by environmental temperatures and also the status of feed. The
osmolality of urine from red kangaroos was generally higher than that from euros.
However, the relative medullary thickness of euro kidneys was greater than that of
red kangaroo kidneys, indicating that euros may have the greater urine-concentrating
capability.
The pattern of sodium and potassium excretion indicated that species of
Atriplex (saltbush) and Kochia (bluebush), which are high in sodium relative to
potassium, may comprise a major part of the diet of the red kangaroo and euro in
western New South Wales.
Reproduction in the pseudomyine rodent Mesembriomys gouldii (Gray) (Muridae)
Authors: Crichton EG
Published: June 2005

M. gouldii is polyoestrous and polyovular. In the non-pregnant female the oestrous
cycle is 26 � 3.5 days (range 21-35 days). Mucus appears irregularly during the
dioestrous interval and seems to be derived from epithelial cells of the vagina. Ovulation
is spontaneous and usually alternate, one to four corpora lutea being formed. The corpora
lutea of the unmated female are functional until the 15th-17th day of the cycle.
Gestation lasted from 43 to 44 days, a "placental sign" occurring between the
22nd and 33rd day. A post-partum oestrus and mating occur but no delay in implantation
was recorded. Litter size ranges from one to three. The young are well developed
at birth, and cling tenaciously to the teats for the first few weeks. Growth is rapid and
the young can be weaned after 42 days.
This pattern of reproduction is compared with the limited data from other Australian
Muridae.
Life-cycle of the bronze orange bug Musgraveia sulciventris (Stal) (Hemiptera : Tessaratomidae)
Authors: McDonald FJD
Published: June 2005

The bronze orange bug is a minor pest of citrus in the cooler coastal regions
of eastern Australia. The life history is described and involves a quiescent period in
the second instar. Nymphal descriptions and measurements are given.
Histological study of external budding in Taenia crassiceps
Authors: Bilqees FM
Published: June 2005

The life cycle of T, crassiceps, which grows to the adult worm in the intestine
of dogs and other canids and to a cysticercus in the laboratory mouse and other
rodents, deviates from the usual pattern for taeniids because the embryo not only grows
but later reproduces asexually by exogenous budding either subcutaneously or in body
cavities. Differentiation of the bud was followed by removing cestodes at various
stages of development. Living specimens, whole mounts, and serial sections, fixed and
stained by various methods, were used. The subtegumental cells appear to dominate the
process of budding at the abscolex end of the metacestode. Usually the bud separates
from the budder after the lacuna is formed. The study demonstrates the importance
of the subtegumental cells in the growth and differentiation of buds.
Ultrastructural studies on the development and form of the principal piece sheath of the bandicoot spermatozoon
Authors: Sapsford CS , Rae CA , Cleland KW
Published: June 2005

The first components of the sheath to develop are two longitudinal columns, characterized by alternating light and dark bands. The columns, which lie on opposite sides of the future principal piece, are initially associated with the axial filament complex but soon make contact with the plasma membrane. Subsequently a layer of moderately dense material grows outwards from the lateral aspects of each column. The outgrowths lie just beneath the tail plasma membrane and contain evenly spaced filaments which are connected with the dark bands of the columns. The outgrowths from corresponding sides of each column eventually meet each other and the filaments they contain join end-to-end. Some parts of the sheath, separated from the plasma membrane by an expansion of the cytoplasm of the intraspermatid tail, become invested by membrane bound vacuoles. The filaments form into groups, and filaments within groups converge to produce the anlagen of the ribs of the mature sheath. The filaments lose their identity in these anlagen, which, like the columns, develop much finer filamentous structures. The ribs, and subsequently the columns, lose contact with the tail plasma membrane. The mature sheath, the ultrastructure of which is described in detail, is developed by further modification of the rib anlagen and longitudinal columns.
Some aspects of the life history, host selection, dispersal and ovipostion of adult Cardiaspina densitexta (Homoptera : Psyllidae)
Authors: White TCR
Published: June 2005

C. densitexta, a psyllid sometimes present in epidemic numbers on Eucalyptus
fasciculosa in parts of South Australia, has three generations a year. The adults exhibit
a characteristic mating behaviour including stridulation by the males. Normally C.
densitexta is found only on E. fasciculosa, but when the psyllids are extremely abundant
they attack several other species of Eucalyptus with varying success. There is evidence
suggesting that adults emerging in the spring disperse actively while those emerging in
the summer and autumn do not. Most eggs are laid on the basal end of the lower side
of mature leaves and against irregularities on the surface of the leaf; mature leaves
seem to become less attractive as they age.
Leaves on the north face of the crown are preferred to those on the south face.
It is suggested that both the physiological condition of the host tissue and the texture of
the leaf surface influence the selection of oviposition sites.
Mathematics of populations of the quokka, Setonix brachyurus (Marsupialia) I. A simple deterministic model for quokka populations
Authors: Niven BS
Published: June 2005

A deterministic model is given for populations of the quokka, S. brachyurus,
at the West End of Rottnest I., W.A. A mathematical imitation of the quokka is
defined. The mathematical "animal" is then required to breed in order to produce
a population. Computer simulation has been used: thus the population is observed
as output from the computer. Results include population numbers, age distributions,
and the effects on the population of two different kinds of catastrophe.
The utilization of roughages by sheep and kangaroos
Authors: Forbes DK , Tribe DE
Published: June 2005

The utilization of good-quality and poor-quality roughages (lucerne hay and oat straw) by red and grey kangaroos, Megaleia rufa and Macropus giganteus, compared with sheep was investigated by means of digestibility trials in individual metabolism cages. On average the kangaroos ate slightly less per unit metabolic body weight than the sheep when fed ad libitum, but the differences were not significant. They digested a similar percentage of lucerne dry matter but digested straw much less well, mainly because of their poor ability to digest crude fibre. When nitrogen intakes were low, with the straw diet, the kangaroos retained nitrogen less well than sheep although the digestibility of the crude protein was similar for kangaroos and sheep. The kangaroos appeared to have relatively low energy and nitrogen requirements, probably because of their low metabolic rate, and their weight losses were similar to sheep on the poor-quality diet despite much lower digestible dry matter intakes per unit metabolic body weight. There were no differences between red and grey kangaroos in dry matter digestibilities, nitrogen metabolism, or rate of passage.
Embryonic diapause in a hybrid between two Australian species of field crickets, Teleogryllus (Orthoptera : Gryllidae)
Authors: Macfarlane JR , Drummond FH
Published: June 2005

Contrary to the results of previous hybridization studies on Australian crickets,
diapause has been shown to occur in eggs from the T. oceanicus 9 x T. comrnodus 6
cross. The reciprocal cross develops without delay.
Diapause occurs at the same embryonic stage as in T, commodus and is
accompanied by a similar drop in respiratory rate.
In the light of our observations, the conclusion that diapause is absent from
hybrids between diapausing and non-diapausing crickets in Japan and North
America may be premature.
The nymphal stage of Cardiaspina densitexta (Homoptera : Psyllidae) on leaves of Eucalyptus fasciculosa
Authors: White TCR
Published: June 2005

First-instar nymphs of C. densitexta crawl freely from leaf to leaf on the plant,
tending to disperse from overcrowded leaves; some are carried from one tree to
another by wind. The lower side of the basal end of mature leaves is the favoured site
for settling. Survival and rate of growth in both winter and summer are greater on
the north than on the south side of trees.
In the laboratory, nymphs can be successfully reared on disks cut from
E, fasciculosa leaves and floated on distilled water. Under high light intensity the initial
favourability of sun leaves over shade leaves is quickly lost, but disks from old leaves
continue to be less favourable than those from mature leaves. Mortality is much
greater on leaf tissue exposed to dim light, and disks of sun leaves are then less favourable
than those of shade leaves. Isolated individual nymphs have a lower chance of
survival and grow more slowly than when there are several nymphs in close proximity.
The feeding of nymphs causes discoloration and eventual death of the leaf
tissue immediately surrounding the feeding site, and there is, possibly, a secondary
systemic toxic effect on the host. These results seem to support the hypothesis that
the phloem sap of the host plant-and specifically its soluble nitrogen content is, for
most of the time, an inadequate source of food for the nymphs.
Diapause in the aestivating egg of Halotydeus destructor (Acari : Eupodidae)
Authors: Wallace MMH
Published: June 2005

The occurrence of an aestivating diapause in the eggs of the red-legged earth mite, H. destructor, is established. The production of diapause eggs in females is influenced by the increasing maturity of food plants in the spring. Morphogenesis is resumed following exposure to early summer conditions for 4-6 weeks in the field. In the laboratory, diapause development was achieved by exposing the eggs to various combinations of temperature and relative humidity. The most effective treatment was exposure for 32 days to 52DC and 50% R.H., although diapause development occurred within the temperature range 15-70DC and relative humidity range 10-100%, and even when the eggs were completely immersed in water. It was most successfully promoted in atmospheres having vapour pressures of about 40 mmHg, at all temperature and humidity combinations. At 20% R.H., diapause development was relatively slower than at humidities above and below this, whereas tolerance to high temperatures was greatest at this humidity. Diapause eggs were not harmed either by complete immersion in water or by periodical desiccation and re-moistening.
The ultrastructure of the saccus vasculosus of teleost fishes I. The coronet cell
Authors: Lanzing WJR , van Lennep EW
Published: June 2005

The ultrastucture of the coronet cell of a large number of teleosts belonging to
different orders was investigated. Tubular and vesicular components of the smooth
endoplasmic reticulum occur in coronet cells and in globules of all the species
examined. Cell organelles such as lysosomes, Golgi systems, and mitochondria are
predominantly located in the basal region of the cell. Modifications of the endoplasmic
reticulum include whorls and vacuoles as well as honeycomb systems. In malacopterygian
teleosts rootlets and filaments instead of microtubules occur frequently.
The possibility of interconversion between these organelles is discussed. Acid
phosphatase is found mainly in the lysosomes, but the granules contained in the
stalked globules often contain acid mucopolysaccharide. It is suggested that new
globules are formed by a process of pinching off of parts of the apical protrusion
and the simultaneous growth of a modified cilium into it.
Thermal relations and water balance in the day frog, Taudactylus diurnus, from an Australian rain forest
Authors: Johnson CR
Published: June 2005

Body temperatures, critical thermal maxima, tolerance to water loss, and
rehydration rates were measured for T. diurnus in the rain forest on Mt. Glorious,
south-eastern Queensland. Body temperatures ranged from 13.6 to 22.8'C (mean
1 8 . 4 i l .g�C) for adults and from 14.0 to 23.8"C (mean 19.852.4"C) for juveniles.
Body temperatures were significantly higher in juveniles. The critical thermal maximum
for T. diurnus was 31 . l i l . 2 " C and ranged from 28.4 to 33.7"C. Minimal activity
temperatures appear to be reached in winter months. The mean lethal water loss for
T. diurnus was 26.2 & 4.3 % of the original weight; this species shows less tolerance
to desiccation than other Australian anurans that have been studied.
The distribution of Halotydeus destructor and Penthaleus major (Acari : Eupodidae) in Australia in relation to climate and land use
Authors: Wallace MMH , Mahon JA
Published: June 2005

The red-legged earth mite, H, destructor, is restricted to the southern parts of
Australia having a Mediterranean-type climate, with warm dry summer and cool wet
winter. The northern or inland distribution agrees closely with the 205-mm isohyet for
the growing season May-October inclusive. The eastern distribution is limited by
the quantity of midsummer (December-March) rainfall and agrees closely with the
225-mm isohyet for this period. Other limitations to distribution within these isohyets
are imposed by high summer temperatures (mean monthly maximum of hottest month,
33�C).
The blue oat mite, P. major, can tolerate a drier climate, reaching a May-October
isohyet of about 190 mrn, and a higher proportion of summer rain. This enables it to
survive on the south coast of New South Wales and on the northern tablelands of New
South Wales as far as southern Queensland, but not in north coastal areas where the
midsummer rainfall exceeds about 500 mm.
On the evidence available, the likely future movements of these mites both
within Australia and overseas are discussed. Vigilance will be needed to prevent
H. destructor from becoming a pest in the Americas and in the Mediterranean region.
Size and growth of viscer in the southern elephant seal, Mirounga leonina (L.)
Authors: Bryden MM
Published: June 2005

Relative size and relative growth of the viscera of elephant seals ranging in age
from birth to 16 yr were studied. Individual organs were measured and weighed within
an hour of death. The data were subjected to regression analyses, making use of the
logarithmic transformation of the allometric equation. Fat-free body weight was the
independent variable in the analyses, to avoid apparent growth patterns which could
be attributable to large fluctuations in the body fat only.
The relative weight data established normal values for organ weight in elephant
seals in different phases of growth, although it was recognized that relative weight did
change within growth phases in some organs, i.e, those whose growth coefficient was
significantly greater or less than 1.000. Changes of relative weight of some organs were
particularly marked in phase 1 of growth (suckling phase), when very rapid body weight
growth occurred.
The relative size of most organs was similar to that in other mammals. The
stomach was relatively smaller than other carnivore stomachs, and the liver was relatively
larger than in terrestrial mammals but similar to that in cetaceans. The relative length
and weight of the small intestine were very much greater than in other carnivores. The
spleen was relatively very large. The possible reasons for the difference in relative size
of these organs in elephant seals and other mammals are discussed.
Growth gradients of most organs did not alter significantly between or within
growth phases. Exceptions to this pattern were noted and illustrated for the stomach,
liver, pancreas, heart, reproductive tract, and eyes. The interpretation of the growth
patterns of different organs was that changes in growth gradients occurred in those
organs whose functional significance changed during postnatal life. The functional
significance of most organs did not alter markedly within or between growth phases, and
in those organs no change in growth pattern occurred throughout postnatal life.
Influence of host hormones on nematode parastism in rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.)
Authors: Dunsmore JD
Published: June 2005

The presence of an oestrogen implant significantly increased the numbers of
Trichostrongylus retortaeformis naturally acquired by grazing rabbits of both sexes.
The injection of luteinizing hormone at 18-day intervals to induce pseudopregnancies
in the pre-breeding period caused a reduced number of T, retortaeformis to
be acquired by grazing females relative to that acquired by normal females and males.
The experimental manipulations did not influence numbers of Graphidium
strigosum in the same rabbits; but numbers of G. strigosum acquired by rabbits
in different experimental enclosures differed significantly.
Progesterone decreased and ACTH increased the numbers of T. retortaeformis
that matured following a standard experimental infection of previously worm-free
rabbits.
Observations on the dispersal of the European rabbit flea, Spilopsyllus cuniculi (Dale), through a natural population of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.)
Authors: Williams RT , Parer I
Published: June 2005

The dispersal of the European rabbit flea, S. cuniculi, through a population
of wild rabbits in a 550-acre enclosure was studied. It took 18 months (June 1968
until November 1969), and two rabbit breeding seasons before S, cuniculi was found
throughout the population. The number of fleas observed on individual rabbits
was much higher during each rabbit bieeding season than in the non-breeding periods.
In most cases, the spread of fleas into the various social groups of rabbits
occurred during the rabbit breeding season, and appeared to take the form of fleas
from an infested group of rabbits being dispersed to a neighbouring uninfested one.
This dispersal of S, cuniculi coincided with the dispersal of juvenile rabbits, which
were most heavily infested with rabbit fleas at the end of each rabbit breeding season.
Three instances of fleas being dispersed to non-neighbouring social groups
of rabbits were observed, and these occurred between the 1968 and 1969 rabbit
breeding seasons. It is possible that in these cases the fleas were introduced by the
dispersal of adult rabbits from warrens infested with S, cuniculi.
The data support a previous suggestion that these fleas, on a non-breeding
rabbit population, spend most of their time away from the host. in the rabbit
burrows.
Development of the egg if the stick insect Didyuris violescens with particular reference to diapause
Authors: Readshaw JL , Bedford GO
Published: June 2005

The paper provides a comprehensive account of the development of the egg of the
phasmatid D, violescens, a serious defoliator of Euca~ptus forests in the highlands of
south-eastern Australia. The occurrence of parthenogenesis and the incidence of the
two diapauses are compared in several spatially isolated populations. The observed
differences are consistent with the hypothesis that D. violescens has tended to lose its
capability for parthenogenesis while developing its competence for diapause as the
species extended its range from subtropical to temperate regions. This hypothesis
receives strong support from a recent discovery that there are at least seven genetically
distinct races of D. violescens in south-eastern Australia.
The influence of constant temperatures on diapause development and embryogenesis
is described for several geographic populations. Irrespective of the origin of the
populations, the optimum temperature for diapause development is about 2"C, and
embryogenesis proceeds more rapidly as temperatures increase from a lower threshold of
about 7" to 27�C. Both processes can occur simultaneously at temperatures between
the two optima.
The following section shows the total effect of genotype and environment on
the pattern of development and hatching in the field. In the southern outbreak areas
the populations are of two kinds: highland populations, in which the occurrence of the
two diapauses ensures that the eggs overwinter at least twice before hatching; and
foothill populations, where the absence of the first diapause means that the eggs may
overwinter either once or twice before hatching, depending on when they were laid
during the summer. This partly explains how a particularly cool summer can initiate
the 2-year cycling of population which is the most obvious characteristic of the outbreaks
of D, violescens in south-eastern Australia.
A comparison of the population growth potential, in California red scale, Aonidiella aurantii (Maskell), and yellow scale, A. citrina (Croquillet) on citris
Authors: McLaren IW
Published: June 2005

Successful biological control of A. aurantii and A. citrina has been achieved on many citrus properties in the region of Mildura. A project was undertaken to devise methods for augmenting and extending the natural control of red scale in Victoria. A, aurantii and A. citrina were compared by compiling age-specific life and fecundity tables over a range of temperature and humidities. A mathematical analysis of these data showed that the upper thermal death point was similar for both species, A. citrina multiplied more rapidly than A. aurantii over the median range of temperatures, and the threshold of population growth occurred at about 15260C for A, aurantii and 18260C for A, citrina. An earlier study of the settling behaviour of crawlers indicated that most A. aurantii crawlers settled on the upper surfaces of leaves, due to negative geotaxis, and that crawlers of A. citrina were negatively phototropic and therefore settled on the shaded under surfaces of leaves. In A. aurantii, delayed mating caused a high initial natality. This was thought to result from continuing ovulation in the unfertilized female, a postulate reinforced by the results of an examination of the developing embryos in females mated at various ages. On the basis of this study an improved approach to red scale control is proffered, namely, that attempts be made to increase the mortality of the over- wintering insects.
Nesting behaviour and larval stages of some Australian nyssonine sand wasps (Hymenoptera : Sphecidae)
Authors: Evans HE , Matthews RW
Published: June 2005

Study of the nesting behaviour and larval structure of several nyssonine sand
wasps in eastern Australia reveals that these species closely resemble related species in
the northern hemisphere. Austrogorytes bellicosus (Smith) makes multicellular nests
in coarse sandy soil and provisions them with eurymelid bugs, laying the egg longitudinally
on the topmost bug in the cell. Use of the hind legs in digging the nest, as well as
certain features of larval structure, suggest that Austvogorytes is properly considered a
very generalized nyssonine wasp.
Clitemnestva plomleyi (Turner)(= Astaurus hylneoides Rayment, new synonymy),
regarded as a structurally primitive sand wasp, preys upon leafhoppers (Cicadellidae)
and is believed to utilize pre-existing vertical holes in hard soil. Sphecius pectoralis
Smith, on the other hand, digs a long burrow in friable sand and makes up to 12 cells,
provisioning them with cicadas. The larva of this species closely resembles that of
other members of its genus.
Members of the genus Bembecinus also prey on homopterous insects but exhibit
two major behavioural specializations: the egg is laid in the empty cell on a pedestal
of sand grains and provisioning is progressive. Four members of this genus were
studied: egens (Handlirsch), antipodum (Handlirsch), hirtulus (Smith), and an unindentified
species.
Studies on rates of development and reproduction of California red scale, Aonidiella aurantii (Mask.) (Homoptera : Diaspididae) on citrus
Authors: Willard JR
Published: June 2005

Red scale were reared in the laboratory on disks cut from lemon leaves floated on distilled water in plastic vials. Scales could be reared to maturity on the disks and females would produce crawlers. Rates of development measured at four temperatures using the leaf disk method were similar to data reported by earlier authors. Unfertilized females were found to remain alive and could be fertilized up to 16 weeks after the second moult. On the average, the longevity of unfertilized females was shown to be 3.5 weeks longer than that of fertilized females. The fecundity of females collected from the field was measured at a series of constant temperatures. Estimates of the capacity for increase (rc) and the innate capacity for increase (rm were obtained at four temperatures. Both these statistics were shown to be greatly influenced by temperature; rc was found to be an underestimate of rm at higher temperatures.