bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of body temperature in the Budherygah, Melopsittacus undulatus
Authors: Weathers WW , Schoenbaechler DC
Published: June 2005

The standard metabolic rate of budgerygahs, determined during October and November, was 30% lower at night (1.96 ml O2 g-1 h-1) than during the day (2.55 ml O2 g-1h-1 ). The zone of thermal neutrality extended from 29 to 41�C. At ambient temperatures (Ta) below 29�C, oxygen consumption [V(02)] increased with decreasing Ta according to the relation V(02) (ml O2 g-1 h-1) = 5.65 - 0.127Ta. At Ta's between 0 and 16�C, body temperature (Tb) averaged 37.7�C (which is low by avian standards) and was independent of Ta. Above 20�C, Tb increased with increasing Ta, and within the zone of thermal neutrality Tb increased by approximately 4�C. The relation between V(O2) and Tb within the zone of thermal neutrality is described by the equation V(O2 = 6.29 - 0.105 Tb. This ability to decrease metabolic heat production while Tb rises could contribute to the water economy of budgerygahs. At moderate Ta's the rate of evaporative water loss of budgerygahs is only 60% that predicted for a 31 g bird. At Ta's below 14�C budgerygahs can balance evaporative water loss with metabolic water production. At 45�C Tb was between 1.0 and 5.0�C below Ta, and evaporative cooling accounted for up to 156% of metabolic heat production. At high Ta's budgerygahs appear to augment evaporation by lingual flutter.
Diel and Lunar Flight Periodicities in the Light Brown Apple Moth, Epiphyas Postvittana (Walker) (Tortricidae) and Their Possible Adaptive Significance.
Authors: Danthanarayana W
Published: June 2005

Field observations on the flight activity of E. postvittana showed a die1 and a lunar periodicity of flight. There was a single daily flight peak at 21 h (Australian Eastern Standard Time); further analysis clearly showed two peaks, one large, 2-3 h after sunset, and one small, 3-4 h after sunrise. Males were active longer than females at both flight periods. Peak activity occurred shortly after new moon, around full moon, and shortly before new moon. As flight activity is controlled by light intensity, it is argued that the flight 2-3 h after sunrise and the peak in nocturnal flight activity at full moon are behavioural adaptations towards wind-assisted dispersal.
A multivariate approach to variation in microfilariae: examination of species Wuchereria lewisi and Demes of the species W. bancrofti
Authors: Campbell NA
Published: June 2005

Morphological differences between W. lewisi and demes of W. bancrofti result primarily from differences in the size of the individual microfilaria. A canonical analysis shows complete separation of the species. Because of the poor correlations between the characters, shape differences are not consistent and are not revealed by this analysis. Shape differences may be postulated on the basis of the ratios of the means. However, these ratios tend to be highly variable within populations because of poor correlations between the characters, and there will be considerable overlap of the ratios between the two species.
An assumption of high correlations (and hence consistent ratios) between characters results in two canonical variates which may be interpreted as reflecting shape differences. The relatively low correlations between the measurements tend to give a result similar to that by a principal components approach on the population means. Correlations within populations are generally low and therefore have little influence in determining between-population differences. Under these circumstances principal components and the more efficient canonical variates give similar results. The different assumptions implicit in the two approaches are discussed.
Breeding Biology and Current Status of the Grey Kangaroo, Macropus Fulginosus Fulginosus, of Kangaroo Island, South Australia.
Authors: Poole WE
Published: June 2005

A distinct large dark brown kangaroo first attracted the attention of Europeans during the early exploration of Kangaroo I. in 1802-03. Although specimens were collected and the kangaroo ade- quately described, its subsequent taxonomic history was confused, and its origin long held to be Tasmania. This fallacy was not corrected until 1923-24. Subsequently the kangaroo has been re- cognized as a subspecies of the western grey kangaroo.
Reproduction and growth of the young were examined in both wild and captive kangaroos. Males and females became sexually mature from age 20 months, the oestrous cycle was 34.6+ 3.2 (SD) days and the length of gestation 30.8 � 1.8 days. Births occurred on all months of the year but were more frequent in summer. The pouch life was just over 300 days, while loss of such young usually resulted in return to oestrus after an interval of 6.3 � 0.1 days. Disparity in sex ratio of the young was not significant.
During their first year, young were measured each week. Growth curves are presented and linear or quadratic regressions fitted where applicable, together with 95% confidence limits.
Reproduction, Growth and Survival of Young in the Mountain Possum, Trichosurus Caninus (Marsupialia)
Authors: How RA
Published: June 2005

The biology of T. caninus was examined in the field and in captivity over a 4-year period. The season of parturitions is restricted, with more than 87% of births between February and May. The sex ratio of the pouch young did not differ from parity and there was no significant difference between frequency of suckling of right or left teat, alternate teats being used during successive lactations.
Measurements of 10 known-age individuals showed that head length (y) had a linear relationship to age (t) up to 210 days (regression, t = 2.917y - 19.355). Ear length and pes length were not linearly related to age. The young emerge from the pouch 175-200 days after birth, remain physically dependent on their mothers for the next 2-3 months and are weaned at > 240 days. Individuals in the field could be assigned to 1-year-old, 2-year-old or adult categories by a combination of head length, body weight and condition of external reproductive organs. Females may mature at 2 years old, although only 50% produce young at this age. The testis approximates adult size in the latter half of their third year. Survival of the dependent young is low, only 51.8% and 37.9% reaching 175 days and 1 year old respectively.
The Dispersal, Age-Structure and Natural Enemies of the Long-Tailed Mealybug, Pseudococcus Longispinus (Targioni-Tozzetti), in Relation to Sampling and Control.
Authors: Furness GO
Published: June 2005

Pseudococcus longispinus (Targioni-Tozzetti) had three discrete generations a year. To detect this it was necessary to have at least one count, preferably more, in each developmental stage. Dispersion of mealybugs changed with age: first-instar crawlers dispersed over the whole tree; some second-instars were found in exposed positions but most second- and all third-instar larvae sought sheltered living sites; adults reproduced in protected sites. The presence or absence of fruit affected the places to which the adults moved. Natural enemies were collected and identified and their effectiveness estimated from observations on number and behaviour.
Grooming behaviuor and birth in the Dasyurid marsupial Dasyuroides byrnei
Authors: Hutson GD
Published: June 2005

A birth observed in D. byrnei is described. A detailed record of grooming behaviour and activity was made over two 24-h periods, one of which included birth. There was a reduced level of activity in the 12 h before parturition. The birth position differed from other marsupials; the head was curled tightly underneath the body and the cloaca braced 2-3 cm from the floor by the tail, which extended behind the body. There was an increase in pouch cleaning after birth, due to isolated bouts of cleaning rather than to increased grooming in sequences, but no change in the performance of other grooming movements. The increase is interpreted as a response to an external stimulus - the presence of young in the pouch.
Changes in the Haematology of Antechinus Stuartii (Marsupialia), and Their Association With Male Mortality.
Authors: Cheal PD , Lee AK , Barnett JL
Published: June 2005

Seasonal changes in the blood parameters of A. stuartii show that most males and a few females are anaemic immediately preceding the post-mating mortality of males. Gastrointestinal haemorrhage and intravascular haemolysis, possibly resulting from infections of Babesia sp., appear probable causes of the anaemias.
The marked lymphopenias and neutrophilias observed in males, but not females, are consistent with other evidence of a severe stress response in males at this time.
The reduction in haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit detected in most anaemic animals was correlated with an increase in the resting oxygen consumption and a reduction in aerobic scope. These changes coincide with a time of considerable energy expenditure by males and may contribute to their demise.
Sexual dimorphiam and other sources of variation in a sample of dugong skulls from north Queensland
Authors: Spain AV , Heinsohn GE , Marsh H , Correll RL
Published: June 2005

A biometric analysis of 26 variables measured on 32 adult dugong skulls (16 males, 16 females) describes the nature of the sexual dimorphism present. Further sources of variation include the expected size variation and the continuance of attenuated allometric growth patterns into adulthood.
The effect of age on the female reproductive tract of the hopping-mouse Notomys alexis
Authors: Telfer S , Breed WG
Published: June 2005

The effect of age on the female reproductive system of N. alexis was investigated in the following age groups: (1) 2.5-6 months; (2) 1-2 years; (3) >2 years old. Oestrous cycle length was slightly reduced in group 2 females relative to group 1, but most group 3 females showed either constant dioestrus or constant oestrus. Body, ovarian and uterine weights all tended to increase with age, and Graafian follicles and corpora lutea were present in females in all groups although the latter were significantly fewer in group 3. Cytology of uterine epithelial cells of females in dioestrus indicated that numbers of microvilli in old animals were somewhat variable but generally decreased, some cells appearing almost devoid of them, whereas numbers of secondary lysosomes and multi-vesicular bodies tended to increase. The effect of these differences on possible infertility have, however, yet to be proved.
Morphological variation in the white-tailed black cockatoo, Calyptorhynchus baudinii, in Western Australia: A multivariate approach
Authors: Campbell NA , Saunders DA
Published: June 2005

A multivariate statistical study is made of morphological divergence in external body dimensions and in skull shape between two forms of C. baudinii - the long-billed form, C.b. baudinii, and the short-billed form, C.b. latirostris. Complete separation of the two forms is established, based on external morphology and on skull morphology. The degree of morphological divergence poses the problem of assigning taxonomic status to the two forms; the complete morphological separation revealed by the multivariate approach is greater than that normally associated with subspecific status, and, together with documented ecological differences, may indicate full biological species status. A comprehensive study is under way (by D.A.S.) to establish the reproductive behaviour and breeding ranges of the two forms.
A Re-Examination of the Development of Castes in Mastotermes Darwiniensis Froggatt (Isoptera).
Authors: Watson JAL , Metcalf EC , Sewell JJ
Published: June 2005

The developmental pathways in mature field colonies of Mastotermes darwiniensis are morphologically distinguishable after the moult to the second instar. One pathway leads through a total of six larval stages to the first worker stage. Later stage workers can moult to presoldiers or neotenics. The second pathway leads through 11 reproductive nymphal stages to the alate.
The larvae and early workers in field colonies are smaller than those of the same instar in incipient colonies; the instar is best judged from antenna1 segmentation. Workers may continue to moult indefinitely without differentiating. Soldiers in field colonies can develop from workers of an age equivalent to 2 years in laboratory culture at 32�C, and neotenics after the equivalent of approximately 18 months.
Larvae are short-haired, but the first eight nymphal stages bear dense, long hair. The nymphal integument becomes pale brown by the sixth stage; wing buds are evident in the fourth nymphal stage. Eye pigment first appears in sixth-stage nymphs. The ninth and later stages have whitish integument and short hair. The alate has sparse, short hair, but the neotenic is long-haired; the integument of both is pitted.
The working caste of Mastotermes is not pseudergate, nor are those of many other lower termites, including some kalotermitids; the working castes of lower termites should be referred to as workers.
An Analysis of the Orientation of 'magnetic' Termite Mounds.
Authors: Grigg GC , Underwood AJ
Published: June 2005

North-south pointing tendency is very strongly developed in mounds of a 'magnetic' termite, Amitermes laurensis, in northern Australia. Determination of orientation in 248 termitaria in Arnhem Land showed a total range from 349 deg to 030 deg (true). Angular means from each of four separate study sites were 007 deg 39' (n = 47), 010 deg 35' (n = 101), 006 deg 56' (n = 50) and 008 deg 34' (n = 50). Orientation of mounds built among trees of savannah woodland is not less accurate than that of mounds built on open plains. The shape of mounds in plan view is variable. They may be symmetrical, or show concavity of either eastern or western face. Shape-frequency distributions for each locality were heterogeneous, even between localities in close proximity. It is suggested that mound shape may be determined genetically rather than by environmental factors.
Studies on the epidermis of Tamnocephala II. Epidermal sensory receptors of Temnocephala novae-zealandiae
Authors: Williams JB
Published: June 2005

Uniciliate receptors occur on the body, tentacles and attachment disc of T. novae-zealandiae, often grouped in tufts or clusters. The free ends of the associated nerve processes project above the epidermal surface. Elongated microvilli are associated with the ciliary tufts. The receptive cilium has the typical 9+2 fibre pattern and a striated rootlet.
Black pattern polymorphism and tadpole growth rate in two Western Australian frogs
Authors: Bull CM
Published: June 2005

Two back pattern morphs are common in populations of the Western Australian frogs Ranidella insignifera and R. pseudinsignifera. Tadpoles of the ridged morph develop to metamorphosis faster than lyrate tadpoles, at no expense of size at metamorphosis.
Ridged tadpoles appear to have an advantage in drier years when the breeding ponds dry quickly, before all tadpoles have finished development.
Australian endemic Drosophila I. Tasmania and Victoria, including descriptions of two new species
Authors: Parsons PA , Bock IR
Published: June 2005

The endemic Drosophila fauna of southern Australia consists principally of species of the typically Australian subgenus Scaptodrosophila. In Tasmania and Victoria (but less so further north), the inornata group of species within the subgenus predominates. With one exception, none of the southern species is found further north than the upland forest regions of the Queensland-New South Wales border, this being the most northern extension of floral elements of the temperate rain forests of the south.
Species diversities increase with decreasing latitude, presumably because of the dependence of Drosophila species on the flora which itself becomes more diverse with decreasing latitude. Evidence is presented for a progressive reduction of niches available or exploited with increasing latitude. In very marginal habitats interspecific variability is low, paralleling low genetic intraspecific variability often found in such habitats. Species distributions are probably highly dependent upon density-independent factors of the climate, so that past climatic shifts would have been important in leading to distribution patterns found today of Drosophila populations in 'insular islands of vegetation' surrounded by unsuitable habitats.
The Biology and Main Causes of Changes in Numbers of the Rose Aphid, Macrosiphum Rosae (L.), On Cultivated Roses in South Australia.
Authors: Maelzer DA
Published: June 2005

In South Australia, M. rosae is anholocyclic on Rosa, reproducing parthenogentically and viviparously all year round. It feeds mainly on the young leaves and developing flower-buds of hybrid tea roses. The fate of a colony of aphids on a single bud is a function of temperature, rainfall, predation, the time for which the bud remains favourable for the aphids, and the influence of crowding on alatiform production and on dispersal of apterae by walking or dropping off.
The numbers of aphids on cultivated hybrid tea roses in a rose garden had three peaks in spring-summer which coincided with three flushes of growth of the rose. The first peak, in spring, was the highest; thereafter numbers of aphids were relatively low, mainly because of predation by three species of native predators, namely the hemerobiid Micromus tasmaniae, the syrphid Melangyna viridiceps and the ladybird Leis conformis.
The study was a prelude to computer simulation of the population dynamics of the aphid which will be used to investigate the problem of the regulation of density in natural populations of aphids.
The agnostic behaviour of Rattus villosissimus
Authors: Begg RJ , Nelson JE
Published: June 2005

The agonistic behaviour of male-male (MM), female-female (FF), and male-female (MF) pairs of R. villosissimus was recorded and analysed. Most of the 300 observed encounters were of 15 min duration. The analysed acts and postures are described. Data are presented on: outcome of en- counters; frequency and location of injuries; response frequency and duration per encounter; temporal change in activity; analysis of sequences; principal components analysis.
Ninety-five per cent of MF encounters, 92% of FF encounters and 70% of MM encounters contained some aggressive acts or postures. MM encounters had the greatest frequency and duration of agonistic behaviour. FF encounters had more agonistic behaviour than MF encounters. Cuts in the skin were caused by 27.6% of bites in MM encounters, but not by bites in MF or FF encounters. Displacement acts were most frequent in MF encounters.
Dominant rats rarely performed acts associated with subordination and vice versa. Temporal analyses showed that encounters could be divided into three phases: (1) the activity was most intense and dominance-subordination behaviour was established, often without physical contact; (2) there was a decline in activity; (3) the animals associated less and performed more non-agonistic behaviour. Each phase can be characterized by the predominance of certain groups of behavioural patterns. A principal components analysis supported this grouping of responses.
The so-called 'submissive' posture in this species increased rather than decreased aggressive acts.
An analysis of sequences revealed many links of behavioural patterns. There was, however, no fixed chain of responses. Considerable behavioural lability exists as a result of both rats modifying their actions according to those of their opponents.
Fossil and subfossil fruit bats from the mountains of New Guinea
Authors: Menzies JI
Published: June 2005

Examination of man-made deposits of fossil bones spanning more than 10,000 years in the New Guinea highlands revealed extensive accumulation of the remains of fruit bats. Of three species represented in the deposit, one is described as belonging to a new genus and species, a second is Dobsonia moluccensis and the third is Rousettus stresemanni. The last two are compared with modern examples of these two species in New Guinea and comments are made on the relative proportions of the three species through the deposit.
Drosophilidae of Australia,. II. Scaptomyza (Insecta : Diptera)
Authors: Bock IR
Published: June 2005

Although the cosmopolitan genus Scaptomyza contains about 400 species, only two occur in Australia, the endemic S. australis Malloch (= 'Drosophila' biradiata Duda) and the cosmopolitan S. pallida (Zetterstedt). Redescriptions of both species are given. S. australis is widespread within Australia and exhibits a range of colour variability.
Studies of sexual dimorphism and other variation in nine species of Australian mullets (Pisces : Mugilidae)
Authors: Grant CJ , Spain AV , Jones PN
Published: June 2005

The nature of sexual dimorphism and other variation is examined in nine Australian mullets on the basis of external measurements. Some degree of sexual dimorphism is shown to be present in all species. In one species a form of variation unrelated to sex appears in the adults. Sexual dimorphism is expressed principally through relative variation in the placement of selected fins and the anus along the body axis. The possible prediction of sex for further individuals is considered together with implications for aquaculture.
Recurrence of Breeding After Cessation of Suckling in the Marsupial Perameles Nasuta.
Authors: Close RL
Published: June 2005

Recurrence of breeding was observed in female P. nasuta after suckling was terminated by removing young from the pouch. Animals from which litters less than 6 days old were removed came into oestrus and were fertilized 17-26 days later, as determined from the ages of young subsequently found in their pouches. When young more than 10 days old were removed, oestrus returned in 5-10 days. It is concluded that removal of litters is a feasible method for obtaining subsequent litters of known age for studies of reproductive and developmental processes. The length of the oestrous cycle of P. nasuta maintained in a 1.5-ha enclosure is approximately 20 days.
Reproduction in Australian elapid snakes II. Female reproductive cycles
Authors: Shine R
Published: June 2005

Female reproductive cycles were studied in seven species of Australian elapid snakes, and the results compared with published information on snake faunas of other continents. Of the species studied, five are live-bearing (Austrelaps superbus, Hemiaspis signata, Notechis scutatus, Pseudechis porphyriacus and Unechis gouldii) and two egg-laying (Pseudonaja nuchalis and P. textilis). The live-bearing species usually produce one clutch per year, a higher reproductive frequency than has been found in most previously studied venomous snakes. All live-bearing species show similar seasonal timing of ovulation and parturition. Gestation occupies about 14 weeks. The egg-laying species ovulate at about the same time as sympatric live-bearers, but oviposit shortly thereafter and may produce a second clutch of eggs in late summer.
P. porphyriacus shows true 'viviparity', including placental transfer of nutrients (ash content of oocytes increases during gestation, energy content decreases only slightly). The live (wet) weight of the oocytes increases up to fourfold during gestation in live-bearing species, but dry weights change very little.
Extra-uterine transfer of oocytes is common. Infertility is rare in A. superbus and P. porphyriacus, but frequent in N. scutatus. Clutch size is correlated with maternal body size in all species. The ratio of clutch weight to body weight decreased slightly with increasing maternal size in N. scutatus and P. porphyriacus. Published data on reptilian 'reproductive effort' are reviewed.
Morphometric analysis of Crocodylus porosus from the north coast of Arnhem Land, Northern Australia
Authors: Webb.G.J.W . , Messel H
Published: June 2005

Utilizing measurements from 1354 C. porosus, we have derived formulae for predicting snout-vent length from 17 other attributes. The specific problem of predicting body size from an isolated head or skull is treated separately and some data are presented on proportional tissue loss in skull preparation. Sexual dimorphism was examined, and is demonstrated in interocular width, the width at the midpoint of the cranial platform, and the length of the tail. Discriminant analysis has been used to distinguish males from females on the basis of external measurements of both the whole animal and the isolated head. Hatchling C. porosus from Arnhem Bay and the Blyth River have longer heads than those from the Liverpool River. C. porosus from Sarawak have longer tails and are heavier than those from northern Australia. Predicting the maximum size of C. porosus from large skulls in museums is difficult because of variations in basic skull shape. The body size at which mandibular teeth protrude through the premaxilla is quantified.
Biochemical correlates of flying behaviour in bats
Authors: Muller BD , Baldwin J
Published: June 2005

The activities of glycolytic and Krebs cycle enzymes, and the distribution and functional properties of lactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes, were determined in pectoral muscles from a range of bats that differ in flying behaviour. Correlations were found between flying patterns, and the degree to which the pectoral muscle depended upon anaerobic glycolysis during fight.
The Effects of Temperature on the Mosquito Pathogenic Fungus Culicinomyces.
Authors: Sweeney AW
Published: June 2005

The optimum temperatures for germination and growth in culture of an Australian isolate of Culicinomyces were 27.5 and 25�C respectively. At 30�C the fungus germinated but did not grow. Larvae of Anopheles amictus hilli and Culex fatigans in water containing conidia were killed when incubated at temperatures ranging from 15 to 27.5�C but not at 30�C. At 30�C conidia adhered to the normal infection sites of the foregut and the gut cuticle was penetrated, but hyphae did not invade the haemocoel and the infection was discarded at the next moult. The fungus was lethal to larvae maintained at 30�C for 8 h and at 25�C for 16 h each day, but not to those reared at 30�C for 16 h and at 25�C for 8 h per day.
Temperature should not limit the utilization of Culicinomyces for mosquito control, provided that the temperatures of breeding sites are below 30�C. The fungus might not be effective against larvae living continuously at 30�C, but it might be effective if the temperature were at this level during only part of each day.
The Effects of Salinity on the Mosquito Pathogenic Fungus Culicinomyces.
Authors: Sweeney AW
Published: June 2005

An Australian isolate of the fungus Culicinomyces grows best on nutrient medium without additional salt. Conidial germination and hyphal growth are progressively reduced as the salinity of the culture medium is increased, with very restricted growth at 1.5 times the salinity of sea water. In the laboratory, the fungus will kill mosquito larvae reared at a salinity half that of sea water, but not those reared in sea water, and it appears that the ability of conidia to invade the infection sites of the gut is impaired under the latter conditions.
Tooth onoteny in Didelphis virginiana (Marsupialia : Didelphidae)
Authors: Berkovitz BKB
Published: June 2005

The ontogenetic development of the teeth was studied in a series of seven specimens of Didelphis virginiana whose crown-rump length varied from 11 to 49 mm. Though all developing teeth showed undifferentiated lingual downgrowths of dental lamina, there was no evidence of any non-functional teeth. No more than five upper incisors were present at any one time. The metacone was the first cusp to calcify in the upper deciduous and fist permanent molar teeth. The protoconid was the first cusp to calcify in the lower molar teeth. The results were compared with findings from a recent study of tooth ontogeny in Antechinus flavipes.
Temporal Distribution and Abundance of the Coccinellid Complex as Related to Aphid Populations on Cotton in South-East Queensland.
Authors: Bishop AL , Blood PRB
Published: June 2005

Population abundance data are given for coccinellid species as related to aphid presence on cotton in south-east Queensland. Coccinellids (and other aphidophagous species) have been observed to effectively maintain aphid numbers below crop-damaging levels in unsprayed cotton for three consecutive cotton seasons, two of which are reported here. Six species were recorded, forming a continuous and generally uniformly distributed species-complex which exhibited several functional characteristics necessary for successful aphidophagous predation in agricultural ecosystems. Five of these species responded to aphid presence by producing offspring. Insecticidal treatments for aphid control under similar circumstances in commercially grown cotton fields would be unwarranted.
The litoria ewingi complex (Anura : Hylidae) in south-eastern Australia V. Interactions between northern L. ewingi and adjacent taxa
Authors: Watson GF , Littlejohn MJ
Published: June 2005

A small area of overlap with hybridization characterizes the interaction between northern L. ewingi and L. paraewingi. Although significant levels of postmating isolation exist between the taxa, no evidence of reproductive character displacement in mating-call structure is apparent within the contact zone. No obvious environmental features appear to correlate with the position of the zone. Northern L. ewingi and L. verreauxi alpina also form a hybrid zone where their ranges meet, and the position of the zone appears to be correlated with altitude. The taxa are characterized by a high level of genetic compatibility and no mating-call differentiation is evident.
However, despite hybridization with adjacent taxa, the distinctness of northern L. ewingi is maintained away from the areas of interaction, and hence it is considered specifically distinct from L. paraewingi and L. v. alpina.
No natural interaction between northern L. ewingi and L. ewingi has been located. However, they are considered to be conspecific because of: their morphological resemblance; the high level of genetic compatibility between them; and, the similarity of each of their interactions with L. paraewingi and with L. v. alpina.
Entobdella Australis, Sp. Nov., A Skin-Parasitic Monogenean From the Queensland Stingrays Taeniura Lymma and Amphotistius Kuhlii.
Authors: Kearn GC
Published: June 2005

A description is given of Entobdella australis, sp. nov., a monogenean parasite from the skin of the stingrays Taeniura lymma and Amphotistius kuhlii, caught respectively at Heron Island and in Moreton Bay, Qld. Particular attention has been paid to the reproductive system, which is compared with those of other representatives of the genus.
A comparison of spermiogenesis and spermatozoal ultrastructure in Megascolecid and Lumbricid earthworms (Oligochaeta : Annelida)
Authors: Jamieson BGM
Published: June 2005

Spermiogenesis of six species of megascolecid earthworms has been investigated by electron microscopy. Numerous spermatids are joined to a central anucleate mass, forming a morula. Connection is made by a filament-clothed bridge, the zonula collaris. At least nine mitochondria are observed in a young spermatid but in all cases only six persist, with their juxtaposed surfaces radiating from a central axis, in the middle piece. A stack of golgi cisternae is present distally and is associated with the immature acrosome, which is subsequently transported proximally and interposed between nucleus and zonula collaris. Microtubules of the manchette ensheath the acrosome nucleus and incipient middle piece and, subsequently, all cytoplasm peripheral to the manchette with the exception of the plasma membrane is eliminated. Cytomorphogenetic changes, including great elongation and condensation of the nucleus, result in a free filamentous spermatozoon with a tapering tubular acrosome, an extremely elongate nucleus (total length 10 �m, cf. 20-30 �m in Lumbricus) a small but elongate middle piece (0.5 - 1.4 �m long) and long flagellum. Close agreement thus exists with spermiogenesis in the Lumbricidae, and the acrosome, which is among the most complex in the animal kingdom, shows general homology with that of Lumbricus. Significant differences from Lumbricus include the domed proximal end of the nucleus, the less discrete basal compartment, the conspicuous limen and greater separation of the outer wall of the acrosomal vesicle from the acrosome wall. A centriole with nine satellites peripheral to nine microtubules is demonstrable. A tetragon configuration in which two central fibres are added to the usual nine doublet+two central singlet microtubules is demonstrated in the proximal flagellum after a short region with a single central filament, but further distally the two fibres cease, giving the normal 9+2. Terminally the doublets are replaced by singlets and the number of microtubules is reduced. Glycogen granules are conspicuous, peripheral to the microtubules through much of the proximal axoneme as in lumbricids. A species of Cryptodrilus shows an asymmetrical 3+2 arrangement of satellites in a peripheral circlet, which exemplifies the taxonomic value of spermatozoal ultrastructure. It is confirmed that oligochaete spermatozoa are fundamentally different from those of polychaetes and archiannelids.
The caceum of the Koala, Phascolarctos cinereus: Light, scanning and transmission electron microscopic observations on its epithelium and flora
Authors: McKenzie RA
Published: June 2005

The pseudostratified columnar epithelium of the koala caecum is surmounted on its luminal border by a tall palisade fringe of bacteria of different types including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacilli, cocci and actinomycete-like organisms. Ultrastructure of the epithelium indicates that it absorbs water and nutrients from the caecal lumen, and secretes mucus to lubricate the passage of ingesta.
Reproduction in female Eptesicus regulus (Thomas) (Vespertilionidae), in south-western Australia
Authors: Kitchener DJ , Halse SA
Published: June 2005

The reproductive cycle of female Eptesicus regulus is outlined from histological techniques on museum specimens collected in south-western Australia over the last 15 years. E. regulus is monoestrous and gives birth to a single young in November or December. It copulates in autumn and stores sperm over winter. Ovulation and fertilization is at the end of winter. Both ovaries are functional but pregnancy occurs only in the right horn.
Paleopathology of a fossil macropod population
Authors: Horton DR , Samuel J
Published: June 2005

A number of bones of Macropus titan and a Protemnodon species from a Pleistocene fossil site at Lancefield, Vic., show pathological conditions. The diseases indicated are 'lumpy jaw', osteoarthritis, periostitis and osteomyelitis, some of which may be the result of slight injuries. In addition there were two healed fractures and four jaws with a dental abnormality of a previously undescribed kind. The presence of lumpy jaw indicates a long history for this disease (the site is 26,000 years old). Calculations of the prevalence of disease at this site provides further data relevant to hypotheses about the cause of death of the animals and the reasons for the bone accumulation.
The Growth and Voracity of Larvae of Leis Conformis (Boisd.) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) Fed on the Rose Aphid Macrosiphum Rosae (L.) (Homoptera: Aphididae) in the Laboratory.
Authors: Maelzer DA
Published: June 2005

The ladybird Leis conformis is one of the commonest predators of the rose aphid, and of other aphids in South Australia. When fed a surfeit of M. rosae the mean weights of larvae during development could be described by the equation: y = 0.45 exp[(O.0313t-0.2751)x] where t is temperature in degrees Celsius such that 15 < t < 29.2, and x is time in days, such that y < 40.6 mg. The mean weights could also be described by: y = exp (0.0347x-0.8551), with x in day-degrees above 10�C. The voracity of larvae could be described in third-instar aphid equivalents (TIES) by: y = exp(0.0347x+ 0.6219) where y is cumulative number of TIES eaten, and x is less than 131.4 day-degrees. The TIE units used to convert predator wet weight to aphid units eaten were based on the numbers of aphids of each instar that had to be eaten for a predator larva to gain one milligram of wet weight. It is suggested that the voracities of different ladybirds feeding on different aphids can be compared when voracity is expressed as the cumulative number of aphids eaten per stadium. The quantification of voracity in the field, and the possible use of L. conformis for pest control, are briefly discussed.
The Australian Gomphomacromiinae (Odonata : Corduliidae)
Authors: Theischinger G , Watson JAL
Published: June 2005

The Australian Gomphomacromiinae are revised. Thirteen species are recognized in seven genera, including three species which are described as new: Archaeophya magnifica, Austrocordulia territoria and Micromidia convergens. The males of Archaeophya adamsi Fraser and Austrophya mystica Tillyard, and the females of Pseudocordulia circularis Tillyard and P. elliptica Tillyard, are described, and further details are given for other species. A lectotype is designated for Austrocordulia refracta Tillyard. The genera and species are keyed.
Observations on Spontaneous Stress-Related Mortality Among Males of the Dasyurid Marsupial Antechinus Stuartii Macleay.
Authors: Barker IK , Beveridge I , Bradley AJ , Lee AK
Published: June 2005

Splenic follicle sizes in male A. stuartii killed during the period of male mortality in 1973 were smaller than those of females killed at the same time. In 1974, all 17 males and two of four females held in the laboratory died during the period of male mortality in the field. Significant findings in some moribund animals included moderate anaemia, associated with heavy parasitaemias by Babesia sp. and elevated plasma corticosteroid levels. At autopsy, a high proportion of animals had haemoglobinuria, focal hepatic necrosis, and gastrointestinal haemorrhage due to gastric and duodenal ulcers. Males dying spontaneously had severely involuted splenic follicles. Listeria monocytogenes was recovered from four livers with focal necrosis but not from six livers with no necrotic foci. Splenic follicles were smaller in one group of males treated experimentally with a high level of exogenous corticosteroid. Deaths were related mainly to gastrointestinal haemorrhage, listeriosis and possibly babesiosis, considered to be associated with an adrenocortical response to stress, and concomitant reduction in resistance to infec- tion or latent disease. The probability that this syndrome is involved in mortality in the field is discussed.
Rates of Water Turnover in Marsupials and Eutherians: a Comparative Review With New Data on the Tasmanian Devil.
Authors: Nicol SC
Published: June 2005

Water turnover rates of Tasmania devils, Sarcophilus harrisii, were measured under standardized conditions by use of tritiated water. Total body water of lactating females was lower than in non- lactating animals, while water turnover rates per kilogram were not significantly different, due to a higher rate constant for lactating animals. Mean water turnover rates were considerably higher than predicted from other marsupial studies. Statistical analysis of data from 13 species of marsupial and 27 eutherian species showed habitat to have a far greater effect on standard water turnover rate than phylogeny.
The ontogeny of the pancreas in macropodid marsupials
Authors: White AW , Harrop CJF
Published: June 2005

The development of the endocrine pancreas in kangaroos was examined histologically with tissue from three kangaroo species, the red kangaroo Megaleia rufa, the euro Macropus robustus erubescens, and the grey kangaroo Macropus giganteus. The relative size of the pancreas of the pouch young was found not to differ significantly from that of adults. Stages of pancreatic development were described from the frequency of the occurrence of the pancreatic epithelial ducts and the B or insulin-secreting cells, while the development and distribution of the A2 or glucagon-producing cells was also observed. In pouch young of less than 22 days of age the pancreas is dominated by ductular epithelial and undifferentiated pancreatic cells. From days 42 to 97 of pouch life B endocrine cells tend to be concentrated together and ductular tissue encroaches into areas previously dominated by connective tissue. After 120-135 days the first A2 cells are apparent and are usually located at the periphery of the islets, which now take on a distinctive appearance as the acinar tissue expands and separates them. After 135 days of pouch life A2 cells outnumber B cells; the endocrine tissue assumes an adult appearance after 150-160 days.
The major difference between the development of pancreatic tissue in foetal sheep and pouch-young kangaroo is the prolonged dominance of connective tissue and the slow development of endocrine tissue in the former.
Reproduction and development of the spider Nephila edulis (Koch) (Araneidae : Araneae)
Authors: Austin AD , Anderson DT
Published: June 2005

The sexually dimorphic Nephila edulis breeds during the autumn (February-May), the large female producing one egg-sac per season, containing an average of 383 eggs. The web of immature females sometimes incorporates a stabilamentum. Mating behaviour can result in the death of the male and is different from the ritualized mating behaviour of N. maculata. The male of N. edulis always begins its mating sequence after a female has caught prey.
N. edulis in the study site fed predominantly on leafhoppers, dealing with its prey by a stereotyped attack sequence.
The egg-mass of N. edulis is laid in a complex egg-sac of yellow silk. Each 1.14-mm diameter egg is coated with minute, regular particles which may have water-resistant properties. The prehatching development time is long; 29 days at 20�C and 42-87 days in the field. The external embryonic stages are similar to those of other araneomorph spiders. Pigmentation, developed in embryos of N. edulis after the germ band stage, is believed to be associated with the breakdown of yolk. The external changes during the first three posthatching instars are described. The emergence from the egg-sac at the third instar is correlated with the depletion of yolk reserves at this stage. The function of the egg-sac of N. edulis is not related to protection from extremes of temperature or humidity. The function is discussed in relation to protection of the eggs from predators and parasites.
Control of the Two-Spotted Mite in a Victorian Peach Orchard With an Introduced Insecticide-Resistant Strain of the Predatory Mite Typhlodromus Occidentalis Nesbitt (Acarina: Phytoseiidae).
Authors: Field RP
Published: June 2005

A strain of the phytoseiid mite Typhlodromus occidentalis, introduced from North America and known to be resistant to azinphos-methyl and various other pesticides, was released into a commercial peach orchard at Undera, Vic., in December 1974. Its effect on the two-spotted mite, Tetranychus urticae, was studied under various spraying programs for three successive seasons. The predator quickly established itself on the release trees and controlled T. urticae in each season under spray programs which included azinphos-methyl or phosmet for controlling Oriental fruit moth, pirimicarb for aphids, ziram for leaf curl and rust, mancozeb for rust, captan and triforine for brown rot, and ethephon for promoting even fruit ripening. However, it did not establish on trees treated with benomyl for the control of brown rot. The predator rapidly spread throughout the orchard and only one acaricide application was required on non-release trees during the three seasons.
Native coccinellids (Stethorus spp.) were important predators of T. urticae in the early part of the second season but not in the other two seasons.
A Taxonomic Revision of the Genera Phascolostrongylus Canavan, and Oesophagostomoides Schwartz (Nematoda: Trichonematidae) From Wombats.
Authors: Beveridge I
Published: June 2005

The genera Phascolostrongylus Canavan, 1931, and Oesophagostomoides Schwartz, 1928, are revised and maintained as valid, distinct genera. Phascolostrongylus becomes monotypic with its single species P. turleyi Canavan, 1931, from Vombatus ursinus. The original description of this species does not correspond with the deposited holotype, which is clearly a different nematode. The species is redescribed from the holotype and from new material corresponding with it, and a new name, Oesophagostomoides longispicularis, sp. nov., proposed for Canavan's species. Oesophagostomoides contains three species, the type-species 0. giltneri Schwartz, 1928, from Vombatus ursinus, 0. stirtoni (Mawson, 1955), comb. nov., from Lasiorhinus latifrons, and 0. longispicularis, sp. nov., from Vombatus ursinus, the last species being that originally described under the name, Phascolostrongylus turleyi.
Nematoda (Oxyuroidea: Thelastomatidae) From Australian Passalid Beetles (Coleoptera: Passalidae) With Descriptions of New Species.
Authors: Clark WC
Published: June 2005

Three new genera are proposed for nematodes recovered from the hindgut of Aulacocyclus mastersi, a passalid beetle collected in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, N.S.W., Australia. Anuronema (type-species A. kuringa n.sp.) is characterized by the virtual absence of a tail (only a rounded body terminus) in the female. Males are unknown. Phalacronema (type-species P. ardleyi n.sp.) has a conspicuous offset head, annulated cuticle without spines or scales, well developed lateral alae terminating behind the anus, and a didelphic reproductive system. Only females are known. Sprentia (type-species S. australis n.sp.) is characterized by head polymorphism with a conspicuous, campaniform head region in the female, but an inconspicuous, rounded, not offset head in the male; annulated cuticle, without spines; well developed lateral alae in both sexes; posterior oesophageal bulb feebly demarcated; female didelphic, male monorchic with a single thelastomatid spicule and 4 pairs of ventrolateral posterior papillae, 2 pairs precloacal and 2 post-cloacal. [AS]
Estimation of Stomach and Caecal Volumes in the Brush-Tailed Possum, Trichosurus Vulpecula, and the Rabbit, Oryctolagus Cuniculus.
Authors: Herd RM , Harrop CJF
Published: June 2005

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Thermoregulation and activity rhythms in the hairly-nosed wombats, Laisorhinus, latifrons (Owen), (Vombatidae)
Authors: Wells RT
Published: June 2005

L. latifrons is a burrower and is nocturnal in its habits. It occupies arid and semiarid areas of South Australia. Shifts in timing of nocturnal activity reduce exposure to high air temperatures in summer and low air temperatures in winter. Laboratory studies of thermoregulation indicated a range of thermal tolerance which corresponds closely to the range of temperatures over which wombats are active in the field. The upper limit was never exceeded in the field but wombats were often active at temperatures below the lower limit. A relatively labile body temperature in the lower range suggests a tolerance of hypothermia. The standard metabolic rate is very low, being 64% of that predicted for a marsupial of the wombat's weight.
Reproductive cycles, fat body cycles and socio-sexual behaviour in the Mallee dragon, Amphibolurus fordi (Lacertilia : Agamidae)
Authors: Cogger HG
Published: June 2005

A field study of the reproductive and fat cycles of the small agamid lizard Amphibolurus fordi was undertaken in two areas of mallee in central western New South Wales. The development of the gonads, including the histology of the testicular cycle, is described, together with correlated changes in the size of the inguinal fat bodies. The males emerge from winter torpor some 4-5 weeks before the females. The sex ratio approximates unity throughout the life cycle. Mating occurs from October to December; up to three clutches each of two or three eggs are laid in a season. The eggs hatch in 7-9 weeks after laying. The construction of the nesting chamber by the female is described.
Apart from behaviour specifically geared to thermoregulation, two other behavioural types have been identified: male-female interactions involving only sexually mature individuals during the reproductive period, and non-sex-specific patterns which occur in both immature and mature individuals of either sex. Males are not territorial.