bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prey Location by 12 Australian Long-Eared Bats, Nyctophilus-Gouldi and N-Geoffroyi
Authors: Grant JDA
Published: June 2005

The sensory abilities of two species of long-eared bats were studied in captivity. Prey location trials demonstrated that Nyctophilus spp. may employ a diverse array of sensory cues, including use of prey sounds, vision and echolocation. Insects were readily captured from substrates, confirming the hypothesis that Nyctophilus can feed by gleaning, but flying insects were taken with equal ease, showing that these bats are flexible not only in their sensory behaviour but also in their mode of prey capture. Echolocation was not used for orientation except when in an unfamiliar environment, and even then was 'switched off' on approaching fluttering prey. Nyctophilus used prey sounds to capture flying insects as well as those on substrates, a feeding technique not previously reported for gleaners. Visual cues were used to capture insects from the air, but not from substrates. This mode of feeding is an effective replacement for echolocation, including the 'feeding buzz', and thereby circumvents the evasive responses of sonar-sensitive insects.
Aspects of the Use of Den Trees by Arboreal and Scansorial Marsupials Inhabiting Montane Ash Forests in Victoria
Authors: Lindenmayer DB , Cunningham RB , Tanton MT , Nix HA
Published: June 2005

The time and height of emergence from den trees occupied by various species of arboreal marsupials inhabiting the montane ash forests of the Central Highlands of Victoria, in south-east Australia, were recorded from September 1988 to January 1989. There were significant differences in emergence time among most species of arboreal marsupials. Emergence time was strongly correlated with published values of body weight, field metabolic rate and standard metabolic rate. The entrance to the nest was higher in gliding species than those which are non-volant. Small species exhibited a significant preference for den sites with a hole as the entrance. The entrance of a den occupied by large species was typically a hole in a hollow branch or spout. The selection of den sites was related to the body size of the occupant. Differences in the type and height of the entrance to the nest, together with the time of emergence from the den, indicate partitioning of the nest tree resource between the various species inhabiting montane ash forests.
A Comparison of the Morphology of the Feeding Apparatus in the Peregrine Falcon, Falco-Peregrinus, and the Brown Falcon, F-Berigora (Falconiformes)
Authors: Hull C
Published: June 2005

The jaw morphology of an 'attacking', specialist predator of birds, the peregrine falcon, Falcon peregrinus, and a 'searching' generalist, the brown falcon F. berigora, were compared. As a result of larger adducting muscles, and an increase in the rotational component of the force of muscles, F. peregrinus potentially has a stronger bite than F. berigora. Kinesis is reduced in F. peregrinus, with a consequent loss in dexterity and fine control. In contrast, F. berigora has a highly kinetic skull and a secondary articulation on the lower mandible, which permits great dexterity and rapid closing of the mandibles. These results establish a strong correlation between the foraging strategy, diet, and the morphology of these two species. They also imply that, as in many bird species, power and kinesis are not compatible within the jaw system.
Morphological Variation and Fluctuating Asymmetry Among Insular Populations of the Sleepy Lizard, Trachydosaurus-Rugosus Gray (Squamata, Scincidae)
Authors: Sarre S , Dearn JM
Published: June 2005

Morphological characteristics of island populations of the sleepy lizard, Trachydosaurus rugosus, were compared with those of three adjacent mainland populations in South Australia. An analysis of 21 morphological characters revealed greater divergence among the island populations than among those on the mainland. However, in contrast with the findings of an earlier study using allozyme electrophoresis, morphological relationships among populations showed little congruence with the relationships expected from their geographic proximity. Two measures of developmental stability (fluctuating asymmetry and percentage gross abnormalities) varied significantly among the populations. High levels of developmental instability were observed in three of the island populations. It is not possible to rule out environmental causes of the increased developmental instability but it appears more likely that it is caused by genetic drift and inbreeding resulting from small population size. These results suggest that developmental stability may be more useful in monitoring genetic changes in wildlife populations than the conventional method of allozyme electrophoresis.
The Relationship of Dromiciops-Australis to Other Marsupials - Data From Dna Dna Hybridization Studies
Authors: Westerman M , Edwards D
Published: June 2005

DNA-DNA hybridisations have been used to assess the relationship between the microbiothere, Dromiciops australis, and some South American and Australian marsupials. Although there is support for inclusion of D. australis in a separate superfamily and a slightly closer relationship with the two Australian species used, the data are perhaps best interpreted as showing a trichotomy of divergence between microbiotheres, didelphids and Australian marsupials (dasyurids and macropodids) in the early to mid-Cretaceous.
Metabolism and Water Flux of Captive and Free-Living Australian Parrots
Authors: Williams JB , Withers PC , Bradshaw SD , Nagy KA
Published: June 2005

Occupation of desert environments often requires evolutionary specialisations that minimise food and water requirements. One physiological adjustment to living in a hot, dry climate that has been found in several laboratory studies of birds is a reduced basal metabolic rate (BMR), which often translates into a diminished rate of evaporative water loss (EWL). In free-living birds, these physiological traits are thought to result in a lower field metabolic rate and water flux. We studied metabolism and water flux of a number of species of Australian parrots, both in the laboratory and in the field. After combining our laboratory data with values from the literature, we performed allometric analyses to search for evolutionary specialisation in metabolism and water flux in desert-adapted parrots. Our data do not support the idea that parrots living in arid environments have a reduced BMR. Field metabolic rates of parrots from western Australia were indistinguishable from those of other nonpasserine birds. Laboratory EWL was significantly lower for parrots living in desert environments than for those occupying more mesic habitats, and often lower than that expected from body size. Some species of parrots that live in desert regions of Australia have evolved mechanisms that reduce EWL, but this does not involve a reduction in BMR. In the field, parrots living in Western Australia had a lower water influx than predicted for nonpasserines, but this did not approach the value often found in other desert-adapted species. Values for the water economy index (water flux in free-living animals relative to their energy metabolism) were among the lowest that have been reported for desert-adapted birds.
Hematology of the Dasyurid Marsupials Sminthopsis-Crassicaudata and Sminthopsis-Macroura
Authors: Haynes JI , Skidmore GW
Published: June 2005

Various haematological parameters and morphological aspects were determined for blood collected from 52 fat-tailed dunnarts, Sminthopsis crassicaudata. Compared with those of other marsupials, the erythrocyte and leukocyte counts, haemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume were low, whereas the percentage of reticulocytes (8%) was high. Differential counts revealed a sexual dimorphism for the percentage of neutrophils and lymphocytes present. Blood cell counts, including reticulocyte and differential counts, were also performed on blood from 11 animals of a closely related species, Sminthopsis macroura. For both species mature and developing blood cells from circulating blood, bone marrow, and intestinal mucosa were examined with the light and transmission electron microscope. The unusual features of peripheral blood were: the band forms of neutrophils with annular nuclei; a high percentage of hypersegmented neutrophils; the persistence of polyribosomes in many circulating red blood cells which otherwise appeared mature; the lack of basophils; the absence of eosinophils in S. crassicaudata and the rarity of these leukocytes in S. macroura. The ultrastructure of the developing and circulating blood cells was similar to that previously described for humans, except for the later stages of nuclear maturation in some neutrophils. In these cells annular nuclei developed into rings of beads that then broke to give the typical lobulated nuclei of mature neutrophils. All three types of granulocytes were found in the bone marrow. The leukocytic granules appeared slightly different from their human counterparts.
The Taxonomic Composition of the Arthropod Fauna Associated With an Australian Rain-Forest Tree
Authors: Basset Y
Published: June 2005

The composition of the arthropod fauna foraging within the canopy of Argyrodendron actinophyllum Edlin (Sterculiaceae) in a subtropical rainforest near Brisbane, Australia, was investigated during a 2-year field study. Collecting methods included flight interception traps, restricted canopy fogging, and hand-collecting. Over 50 000 canopy arthropods were collected and about 760 species sorted, from which 660 were identified at least to the generic level by taxonomists. The arthropod fauna of A. actinophyllum is characterised by the abundance of Clubionidae, Theridiidae, Psylloidea, Phlaeothripidae, Chrysomelidae, Corylophidae, Curculionidae and Braconidae, and by the scarcity of Empididae, Symphyta, Ichneumonidae and Formicidae. The major determinants of the composition of the arboreal fauna are discussed, including biogeographical and historical constraints, rainforest mesoclimate and host phenology, host architecture and biochemistry, and intrinsic composition of the foliicolous fauna. The faunistic composition of this subtropical rainforest tree species exhibits several features common to both temperate trees (such as the high numbers of homopterans and spiders and the limited populations of arboreal ants) and tropical rainforest trees (such as the large beetle populations and the high orthopteran biomass).
Colonization of Perspex Strips by Larvae of Austrosimulium-Bancrofti (Taylor) Near Willawarin, Nsw
Authors: Ballard JWO
Published: June 2005

A total of 14 113 larvae of the taxon Austrosimulium bancrofti (Taylor) was collected from perspex strips placed in the MacLeay River. The method of multiple mixture modelling separated larvae into seven instars. Highest numbers of instar III and fewest of instar VII were collected. Significant effects influencing colonisation of the perspex strips were incorporated into a statistical model. This permitted generation of fitted estimates of the number of larvae colonising strips under defined conditions. Fitted captures indicated that higher numbers of larvae colonised strips with increasing water depths (7 less-than-or-equal-to X less-than-or-equal-to 46 cm) and when there was no vegetation beneath the strips. Strip texture, quadratic terms for distance from one river bank and their interaction significantly influenced numbers collected. Fitted estimates demonstrated fewest larvae colonised strips in midstream but this decline was most distinct for the smooth strips. Quadratic terms for water velocity and their interaction with strip thickness also influenced larval colonisation. Fitted estimates were highest when water velocity was in the range 1.05-1.25 m s-1 for each strip thickness.
Communal Nesting in Antechinus-Stuartii (Marsupialia, Dasyuridae)
Authors: Lazenby-Cohen KA
Published: June 2005

Unrelated Antechinus stuartii spend a high proportion of their time in mixed-sex communal nests. Communal nesting starts early in the year, after females have weaned their young. It appears to be driven by the need for social interactions and familiarity between all the individuals in an area. The mixed communal nests persist into the mating season, when males and females often visit more than one communal nest each day. During the mating season, males spend no more than 8 hours in a communal nest, and travel extensively between communal nests, perhaps in an effort to improve their reproductive success. Lactating females nest solitarily. To meet the needs of their litter, they increase the number of foraging trips they undertake, but do not reduce the total amount of time spent within the nest at this energetically expensive time of year.
Inheritance of Acquired-Immunity to Myxomatosis
Authors: Williams CK , Moore RJ
Published: June 2005

Male domestic rabbits mating after recovering from myxomatosis may transmit immunity to progeny born to the female in the next seven months, including progeny sired by other males lacking immunity (Sobey and Conolly 1986). In wild rabbits, Oryctolgus cuniculus (L.), we observed similar enhanced immunity in progeny of immune sires. The inherited immunity relates to the prior time of infection of the sire, and appears to be non-genetic; it complements genetic resistance and may persist into the progeny's reproductive lifetime. Inherited acquired immunity may reduce the effectiveness of myxomatosis in some wild rabbit populations.
A Systematic Analysis of the Brushtail Possum, Trichosurus-Vulpecula (Kerr, 1792) (Marsupialia, Phalangeridae)
Authors: Kerle JA , Mckay GM , Sharman GB
Published: June 2005

The taxonomic status of distinctive populations of the widespread and morphologically variable possum Trichosurus vulpecula was examined. For the analysis, morphological characters (body size, fur colour and skull dimensions), karyotypes, electrophoretic allozyme, and ecological data were compared for as many Trichosurus populations as possible. There are insufficient differences between populations of T. vulpecula to reject a null hypothesis that they comprise a single species. Tasmanian, northern and south-western Australian populations could be retained as subspecies, but insufficient data exist to resolve the specific status of Atheton Tabeland and north-eastern Australian populations. One enigmatic result is that the skull morphometrics and allozymes of T. caninus were not distinguishable from those of sympatric T. vulpecula. However, other morphological characteristics and ecological data provide adequate evidence the T. caninus is a distinct species.
Immunological Evolution of Albumin in the Estrildine Finches (Aves, Passeriformes) Is Far From Clock-Like
Authors: Baverstock PR , Christidis L , Krieg M , Birrell J
Published: June 2005

On the basis of microcomplement fixation studies, the finch Taeniopygia guttata has an albumin whose immunological properties are very different from those of other finches. Outgroup analysis, microcomplement fixation of transferrin, and electrophoretic behaviour of finch albumin, together with phylogenetic considerations based upon chromosomes and allozymes, revealed that the difference is due to rapid change in the immunological properties of T. guttata albumin rather than to a distant relationship of T. guttata to other finches. Indeed, the immunological properties of the albumin of T. guttata has undergone about 15 times as much change as would be expected for an albumin clock. The results highlight the caution that should be exercised when applying the molecular clock ad hoc to immunological data.
Effects of Water-Deprivation on Renal-Function and Plasma Arginine Vasotocin in the Feral Chicken, Gallus-Gallus (Phasianidae)
Authors: Roberts JR
Published: June 2005

Feral chickens occur on a coral atoll off the coast of Queensland, Australia, where the availability of water is limited. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured in conscious unrestrained feral chickens by means of osmotic minipumps in fully hydrated birds and in birds subjected to a four-day period of water deprivation. Plasma ionic and osmotic concentrations were measured on each day of the experiment. During water deprivation, body weight decreased and plasma ionic and osmotic concentrations increased. Haematocrit was not significantly affected by dehydration. GFR fell on days 2, 3 and 4 of water deprivation to 62% of hydrated values. The plasma levels of the avian diuretic hormone, arginine vasotocin (AVT), increased by a factor of 2.8 over the period of water deprivation. The sensitivity of release of AVT in the feral chicken is higher than that reported for domestic strains of chickens. This may be related to the ability of the feral strain to survive in regions of limited water availability. GFR was measured also by the 'constant infusion' method, which was not significantly different from GFR measured by osmotic minipumps.
Phylogenetic-Relationships of the Marsupial Mole, Notoryctes-Typhlops (Marsupialia, Notoryctidae)
Authors: Westerman M
Published: June 2005

The phylogenetic position of the marsupial mole, Notorcytes typhlops, has been difficult to ascertain with morphological characters because of its highly specialised fossorial lifestyle. On the basis of serological data, Kirsch (1977b) suggested that this species was sufficiently different from other marsupials to warrant placing it in its own suborder. Using the DNA-DNA hybridisation technique on single-copy DNA to assess sequence differences over the entire genome, I confirm that N. typhlops is not closely related to any other marsupial family, and warrants placement in its own order.
Behavioral Energetics of Overwintering in the Rifleman, Acanthisitta-Chloris
Authors: Lill A
Published: June 2005

The role of behavioural adjustments in meeting increased daily energy requirements in winter was investigated in rifleman, Acanthisitta chloris, inhabiting lowland forest in South I., New Zealand, by comparing their population density, time-activity budget and foraging behaviour in autumn and winter. Rifleman foraged for 83% of daytime in both seasons. The combined effects on the birds' winter energy budget of increased thermoregulation costs and the shorter daylength for foraging were at least partly offset by an estimated 23-29% decrease in the amount of energy expended daily on activity and a 78% increment in prey caught per day. The reduced energy expenditure on activity resulted from rifleman spending less time on expensive flying and more time roosting. The increase in prey capture rate may have stemmed from a 35% seasonal reduction in the birds' population density and reduced prey mobility at lower ambient temperatures. Marked sexual size dimorphism was not reflected in gender differences in activity budgeting or prey capture rate, but the sexes differed in their relative use of foraging substrates. Rifleman showed few seasonal changes in daily activity rhythm or microhabitat use. The behavioural energetic overwintering tactics of rifleman are compared with those of other Australasian and north temperate zone land-birds.
Energetic Significance of Torpor and Other Energy-Conserving Mechanisms in Free-Living Sminthopsis-Crassicaudata (Marsupialia, Dasyuridae)
Authors: Frey H
Published: June 2005

Factors influencing the use of energy-conserving mechanisms including torpor, as well as their energetic significance, were studied in free-living Sminthopsis crassicaudata at Werribee (Victoria) during winter 1981 and 1982. Possible correlations between behavioural or physiological condition of captured animals and climatic variables or food availability were investigated. Daily energy expenditure was calculated by combining time-budget analysis in the field (based on radio-tracking) with respirometric measurements of metabolic rates in captivity. The energy-conserving mechanisms used were torpor, reduced activity, basking, huddling in groups, use of nests, choice of a thermally favourable resting site and slightly lowered resting body temperature. Torpor and reduced activity only occurred after cold (< 6-degrees-C) and dry nights, when surface activity of prey was very low, leaving S. crassicaudata in a negative energy balance. Rainy nights increased the availability of prey (particularly slugs and earthworms), and the animals did not enter torpor. During the non-breeding season (April-June), the energy savings [compared with a reference budget (E(r)) where no energy-conserving mechanism is used] reached 20-25% of E(r) after rainy or mild and dry nights, the major contributors being huddling and use of a nest. After cold dry nights, the savings may reach 40-50% of E(r), primarily due to torpor and reduced activity. Various energy-conserving mechanisms were used, even in the absence of short-term energetic problems, resulting in spontaneous energy savings and a reduced depletion of food. More prey was then available at the onset of breeding (mid-July), when energy requirements increase noticeably, because of smaller group size, smaller nests and energy channelled into offspring. The adpative value of spontaneous energy savings is discussed and the overwintering energetics of S. crassicaudata are compared with those of some European shrews.
Life-History of the Little Pygmy-Possum, Cercartetus-Lepidus (Marsupialia, Burramyidae), in the Big Desert, Victoria
Authors: Ward SJ
Published: June 2005

Populations of Cercartetus lepidus on mainland Australia are found in heathy open-scrub and wood-land, habitats more xeric than those they occupy in Tasmania. Births of mainland C. lepidus occur throughout the year, rather than just in spring and summer, as occurs in Tasmania. Cercartetus lepidus is omnivorous, feeding on insects, and nectar and pollen, which they derive from a variety of plant species, switching onto plant species as they flower. Their food resources, particularly flowering plants, are spatially and temporally heterogeneous and, in response to this, individuals may be relatively mobile.
Determining Blubber Mass in the Southern Elephant Seal, Mirounga-Leonina, by Ultrasonic and Isotopic Techniques
Authors: Slip DJ , Burton HR , Gales NJ
Published: June 2005

The mass of subcutaneous fat was determined for 14 male southern elephant seals, Mirounga leonina, by a modified version of a previously described ultrasound model (Gales and Burton 1987). The new model took into account fat slumping and was more accurate than the first model. The accuracy of the new technique was assessed by flensing. Total body water was estimated by tritiated-water dilution, and the relationship between total body water and ultrasonically determined total blubber mass was established. Predictive relationships for total blubber mass, and the relationship between total blubber mass and total body fat were determined. This study has demonstrated the applicability of ultrasound and isotope-dilution techniques in determining the fat composition in vivo of southern elephant seals.
Ultrastructure of Spermatogenesis of Syndisyrinx-Punicea (Hickman, 1956) (Platyhelminthes, Rhabdocoela, Umagillidae)
Authors: Li MM , Watson NA , Rohde K
Published: June 2005

Spermatogenesis of Syndisyrinx punicea is described. Spermatogonia are little differentiated, with few organelles and inclusions: polyribosomes, ribosomes, small round mitochondria with few cristae and some endoplasmic reticulum. Primary spermatocytes are large and contain multivesicular bodies that are also found in the cytoplasm of spermatids in greater numbers. Spermatids contain Golgi complexes consisting of a series of concentric circles, and numerous membrane-bound, rod-shaped electron-dense bodies. A zone of differentiation develops with peripheral microtubules, followed by the appearance of a prominent intercentriolar body. Two axonemes grow out in opposite directions from centrioles adjacent and perpendicular to the intercentriolar body. The area of differentiation protrudes and elongates to form the sperm shaft into which the nucleus and mitochondria migrate. Typical rootlets were not observed, although rod-shaped structures situated on each side of the nucleus, seen in one section, may be rudimentary rootlets. Spermatocytes and spermatids are linked by different kinds of cytoplasmic bridges. Spermatogenesis of S. punicea is compared with that in other groups of turbellarians and Neodermata.
Ingestive and Digestive Responses to Dietary Fiber and Nitrogen by 2 Macropodid Marsupials (Macropus-Robustus-Erubescens and M-R-Robustus) and a Ruminant (Capra-Hircus)
Authors: Freudenberger DO , Hume ID
Published: June 2005

It has been hypothesised that large macropodids can maintain greater intakes of increasingly fibrous diets than ruminants of similar body size because of the tubular nature of the macropodid forestomach compared with the sac-like rumen. Responses to changes in levels of dietary fibre (plant cell walls) and nitrogen were examined in captive euros (Macropus robustus erubescens), wallaroos (M. r. robustus) and goats (Capra hircus). When all animals were fed pelleted isonitrogenous diets of 40, 60 and 80% barley straw, the macropodids compensated for decreasing dry matter (DM) digestibility by increasing DM intakes of the 60% and 80% straw diets. In contrast, the goats were unable to fully compensate for falling DM digestibility. Consequently, in the goat, digestible DM intakes tended (P<0.12) to decline from 43 g DM per kg0.75 per day on the 40% straw diet to 35 g DM per kg0.75 per day on the 80% straw diet. In comparison, digestible DM intakes only declined from 28 to 25 g DM per kg0.75 per day in the macropodids. When euros and goats were offered pelleted or chopped 80% straw diets, with and without dietary nitrogen (N) supplementation, pelleting improved DM intakes in both species. N supplementation had no effect on intakes of the chopped diets, but improved intakes of the pelleted diets. When euros, wallaroos and goats were fed chopped 50 and 80% straw diets, with and without N supplementation, DM and digestible DM intakes fell equally among the species on the 80% straw diet compared with the 50% straw diets. N supplementation had no effect on intakes of the 80% straw diet, but improved digestible DM intakes on the 50% straw diet. It was-concluded that the macropodids can maintain relatively greater intakes of increasingly fibrous diets if the constraint of mastication is removed by grinding and/or pelleting the feed on offer. Intakes were equally depressed among the species by increasingly fibrous chopped diets. On the 50% chopped-straw diet, maintenance dietary N requirements were 273, 364 and 413 mg N per kg0.75 per day, and truly digestible N requirements were 160, 251, 250 mg N per kg0.75 per day, in the euro, wallaroo and goat, respectively. These N requirements support the conclusion that the euro has a particularly low requirement for N, and that macropodid N requirements are often lower than those of eutherian grazers.
Biochemical Systematic Studies in the Genus Petaurus (Marsupialia, Petauridae)
Authors: Colgan DJ , Flannery TF
Published: June 2005

We report on a biochemical study investigating some aspects of the systematics of the widespread glider genus Petaurus. P. breviceps is genetically quite distinct from both P. abidi and P. norfolcensis. Within P. breviceps there is evidence of marked population structuring. Among New Guinean populations of this species, those from Tifalmin and Karkar I. are divergent, possibly at the subspecies level. However, previously named morphological subspecies from New Guinea do not correspond-to the clusters of populations identified by electrophoresis. Within Australia P. b. breviceps and P. b. longicaudatus can be distinguished electrophoretically. Our data also suggest that P. n. norfolcensis and P. n. gracilis are genetically distinct.
Socioecology of the Yellow-Bellied Glider (Petaurus-Australis) in a Coastal Forest
Authors: Goldingay RL
Published: June 2005

The social organisation of the yellow-bellied glider was examined at Kioloa in southern New South Wales. Gliders lived in family groups that initially included several adult females and, in one instance, two females in the same group lactated concurrently, suggesting that gliders at this site are capable of polygyny. Group size at this time numbered five to six individuals but later declined to three individuals (an adult pair with offspring), coinciding with three consecutive years of flower failure by Eucalyptus maculata, the major winter food resource. Mean group size between 1986 and 1989 was 4.2 individuals. Females gave birth predominantly between February and April, which is several months earlier than at other sites in southern Australia and which is presumed to be determined by the availability of certain food resources. Home ranges of glider groups were exclusive and averaged 34 ha (minimum convex polygon). Glider density averaged 0.10-0.16 individuals per ha. Parallels are drawn between the socioecology of gliders at this site and that in north Queensland and contrasted with that at other sites in southern Australia.
Influence of Host Nitrogen Levels on Development, Survival, Size and Population-Dynamics of Sugarcane Mealybug, Saccharicoccus-Sacchari (Cockerell) (Hemiptera, Pseudococcidae)
Authors: Rae DJ , Jones RE
Published: June 2005

Nitrogen levels in commercial plots of sugarcane varied over the cane-growing season. However, when adjusted for seasonal effects, nitrogen did not have a detectable effect on the size of mealybug populations on cane. In laboratory experiments, the survival of immature Saccharicoccus sacchari and the size attained at the onset of the oviposition period was influenced by the level of nitrogen fertiliser applied to potted sugarcane. Survival of S. sacchari increased to a maximum at 320 mg L-1 soluble nitrogen in sugarcane and decreased at higher levels, while size increased with increased nitrogen over the whole range of concentrations tested. Nitrogen-driven changes in the abundance of S. sacchari predicted from laboratory data indicate that normal variations in nitrogen concentrations of field-grown sugarcane have little effect on the population dynamics of S. sacchari.
Enzyme-Activities Associated With Salivary-Glands of the Froghopper Eoscarta-Carnifex (F) (Homoptera, Cercopoidae) - Possible Role of Salivary Catalase in Phytotoxicity
Authors: Rodman DH , Miller DJ
Published: June 2005

'Froghopper blight', systemic damage caused by an unidentified toxin in the saliva of various homopterans (superfamily Cercopoidea), is responsible for massive yield losses in many sugarcane-growing areas of the New World. The nature of the toxin remains unclear. In addition to lipases and several glycosidases, extracts of salivary glands of the Australian froghopper Eoscarta carnifex (F.) were found to contain high levels of catalase. The insect catalase was shown to inhibit plant peroxidase in vitro; peroxidases are induced by wounding and are central to many of the major injury responses of the plant. We hypothesise that the role of the salivary catalase in E. carnifex may be in scavenging peroxide, thus suppressing the plant injury response.
Ultrastructure of the Protonephridia of Syndisyrinx-Punicea (Hickman, 1956) (Rhabdocoela, Umagillidae) and Pterastericola-Pellucida Jondelius, 1989 (Rhabdocoela, Pterastericolidae)
Authors: Rohde K , Watson NA , Jondelius U
Published: June 2005

Many flame bulbs of Syndisyrinx punicea (Rhabdocoela: Umagillidae) are formed by one perikaryon containing many mitochondria and a reticulum of membranes mainly in its periphery. Large liquid-filled lacunae were seen in the perikaryon and adjacent to it. Flame bulbs are without junctions, without external and internal leptotriches; the weir consists of some indistinct longitudinal ribs of variable size arranged in a single row, and bundles of microtubules extend along the flame bulb. Cilia are tightly packed, with microtubules oriented identically. Many flame bulbs open into one capillary with a long convoluted, partly septate junction extending to the surface cell membrane, with many microtubules running parallel with the capillary, and lateral flames. In Pterastericola pellucida (Rhabdocoela: Pterastericolidae), flame bulbs and capillaries have a similar structure, but the reticulum is more extensive, and the ribs of the weir are more distinct. The structure of the flame bulbs supports the view (based on similar morphology and hosts) that the Umagillidae and the Pterastericolidae are closely related to each other, and are typical 'turbellarian' Rhabdocoela. Many flame bulbs connected to a single perikaryon, flame bulbs with a single row of longitudinal ribs and bundles of microtubules but lacking internal leptotriches and a septate junction are synapomorphic for the Rhabdocoela (excluding the Neodermata).
The Distribution of the European or German Wasp, Vespula-Germanica (F) (Hymenoptera, Vespidae), in Australia - Past, Present and Future
Authors: Spradbery JP , Maywald GF
Published: June 2005

The social wasp Vespula germanica (F.) occurs throughout Europe south of latitude 62-degrees-N. Its native distribution extends into northern Africa, the Middle East, northern India, China and Korea. It has been accidentally introduced into several regions, including North and South America, and South Africa. It has also been introduced to Australasia, where it became established in Tasmania in 1959 and at several Australian mainland localities during 1977-78. It is now widespread throughout Victoria, in much of southern and coastal New South Wales, and in some suburbs of Adelaide and Per-th. One nest has been recorded in Maryborough, Queensland. The observed global distribution is used here to determine the potential distribution and relative abundance of V. germanica in Australia using the climate-matching computer program CLIMEX. The results indicate that this pestiferous wasp could potentially colonise most of the eastern seaboard of Australia north to Rockhampton, Queensland. V. germanica is likely to adversely affect human activities, with accompanying environmental damage as it inevitably spreads and consolidates, and prospects for containment and control appear minimal.
Thermal-Characteristics and Sex Determination in Field Nests of the Pig-Nosed Turtle, Carettochelys-Insculpta (Chelonia, Carettochelydidae), From Northern Australia
Authors: Georges A
Published: June 2005

Carettochelys insculpta lays its eggs in shallow nests constructed in clean fine sand adjacent to water. Six nests had the following thermal characteristics: (1) core temperatures ranging from 26.1 to 33.7-degrees-C early in September, from 30.0 to 38.7-degrees-C early in October and from 28.4 to 36.8-degrees-C early in November; (2) a pronounced daily cycle in core temperatures of up to 6.4-degrees-C in amplitude, with the minimum occurring after sunrise in mid-morning and the maximum occurring in the evening; (3) a difference in the temperatures experienced by the top and bottom eggs in a single nest of up to 3.5-degrees-C at any one time. Nest heating and the maximum temperatures achieved were principally driven by solar irradiation, not ambient air temperatures. Hot nests produced females exclusively, nests intermediate in temperature produced a mixture of sexes, and the sole cool nest produced males exclusively. In nests that produced both sexes, males emerged from the deepest coolest eggs whereas females emerged from the shallowest eggs. Hence, field nests may yield both sexes either because egg temperatures are on the sex-determining threshold or because thermal gradients in nests span both male- and female-producing temperatures.
DNA-DNA Hybridization and the Position of Leadbeater Possum (Gymnobelideus-Leadbeateri Mccoy) in the Family Petauridae (Marsupialia, Diprotodontia)
Authors: Edwards D , Westerman M
Published: June 2005

The diprotodontian family Petauridae is composed of two subfamilies: Petaurinae (gliders) and Dactylopsilinae (striped possums). Leadbeater's possum (Gymnobelideus leadbeateri) has generally been placed among the petaurines on the basis of morphological, particularly dental, characters. Recent microcomplement fixation data, however, suggest that G. leadbeateri is a sister group to the Dactylopsilinae. We report DNA-DNA hybridisation comparisons among Leadbeater's possum, two dactylopsilines, two petaurines, and an outgroup pseudocheirid. Phylogenetic analysis of these data support the basic dichotomy between petaurines and dactylopsilines, and suggest that G. leadbeateri is more closely related to dactylopsilines. Resolution of this relationship, assayed by bootstrap analysis, is limited, but branch lengths on the optimal tree suggest a rapid initial diversification of three lineages within the Petauridae: dactylopsilines, petaurines and G. leadbeateri.
Influence of Larval Rearing Conditions on the Body Size and Flight Capacity of Epiphyas-Postvittana Moths
Authors: Gu H , Danthanarayana W
Published: June 2005

Effects of rearing conditions of larvae on the body weight and flight duration of the light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana (Walker), were evaluated in the laboratory. The body weight of both male and female moths at emergence decreased with increasing temperature from 15 to 28-degrees-C during larval stages; in contrast, flight duration increased with rising temperature. There was no effect of larval density on flight duration, although the body weight of moths decreased as density increased. Variation in water content of artificial diet showed a significant influence on flight duration of female moths, but not on body weight in either sex. Flight duration was different only for females when their larvae were reared on young leaves of four host plants. Female moths from larvae on Rumex crispus and Plantago lanceolata flew for significantly longer periods than those from larvae on Trifolium repens and Pyrus malus. Larvae fed on young leaves yielded adults that flew for longer periods than those fed on senescent leaves. Inconsistency in relationships between body weight and flight duration of moths with respect to influences of different environmental factors during the larval stages indicates that flight capacity is unlikely to be influenced by body size in this species.
The on-Host Temperature Environment for 2 Australian Reptile Ticks
Authors: Chilton NB , Bull CM
Published: June 2005

The temperatures experienced by the ixodid ticks Amblyomma limbatum and Aponomma hydrosauri whilst attached to sleepy lizards, Tiliqua rugosa, were examined to determine whether differences in the body temperature of the host could explain (1) interspecific differences in the feeding and mating sites of ticks on hosts, and/or (2) the position of the tick parapatric boundary near the transition from mallee to non-mallee vegetation. Attached ticks were exposed to temperatures that were related to, but often higher than, ambient temperatures. Ground surface temperature was a better predictor of lizard body temperature than was air temperature. Mean body temperatures of lizards during winter were lower than those in spring, due to lower ambient temperatures, and were consistently below the threshold temperature required to induce mating in both tick species. Low temperature can also explain the cessation of feeding by larval and nymphal ticks on hosts during winter. The selection of feeding and mating sites by ticks could not be attributed to specific temperature requirements because no attachment site was consistently warmer than another. Furthermore, no change in body temperature of the lizards was detected across the tick parapatric boundary.
Leaf Surface-Structure and the Distribution of Phytoseius Mites (Acarina, Phytoseiidae) in South-Eastern Australian Forests
Authors: Walter DE
Published: June 2005

Habitat structure, at a scale at which we do not normally perceive it, can be an important determinant of species diversity and distribution in arboreal mites. Phytoseiid mites (1552 individuals) collected from the leaves of 75 species of woody plants from 55 forest sites between Noosa Head, Queensland and the Hartz Mountains, Tasmania were found to represent 28 species in four genera: Phytoseius, Typhlodromus, Amblyseius and Iphiseius. About half (38) of the plant species from which phytoseiid mites were collected had leaves with well-developed coverings of hairs on their abaxial surfaces, especially along the veins. Species in the genus Phytoseius were the most abundant mites (46.4% of total), and they were almost entirely restricted to leaves with well-developed tomenta (714 of 720 Phytoseius mites collected from 34 of 38 plant species with hairy leaves). In a test of these observations at three sites in Victoria, phytoseiid mites in general were more abundant on leaves with well-developed tomenta, but only Phytoseius mites were restricted to hairy leaves.
Taxonomy of Rock Wallabies, Petrogale (Marsupialia, Macropodidae) .1. A Revision of the Eastern Petrogale With the Description of 3 New Species
Authors: Eldridge MDB , Close RL
Published: June 2005

The taxonomy of Petrogale has been in a state of flux for many years. The eight chromosome races of the eastern Petrogale radiation are currently placed in four species. However, several of these 'species' contain chromosomally unrelated taxa. In this paper a species definition for Petrogale is proposed that allows for some gene flow between species but requires a species to maintain a substantial and distinct genetic identity. When this definition was applied to the eastern Petrogale eight 'good' species were identified. Thus we now consider the eastern Petrogale complex to consist of P. penicillata, P. herberti (formerly P. penicillata herberti), P. inornata, P. assimilis, P. sharmani, sp. nov. (formerly the Mt Claro race), P. mareeba, sp. nov. (formerly the Mareeba race), P. godmani and P. coenensis, sp. nov. (formerly the Cape York race). Several of these taxa are cryptic species and the primary means of identification used was chromosome number and morphology. However, genic data were useful in establishing whether each taxon should be regarded as a separate species.
The Breeding Biology of a Tropical Possum, Trichosurus-Vulpecula-Arnhemensis (Phalangeridae, Marsupialia)
Authors: Kerle JA , Howe CJ
Published: June 2005

The breeding biology of Trichosurus vulpecula has been studied in some detail for temperate populations but not for the northern brushtail possum (T. v. arnhemensis), the tropical form of this species. Data for the distribution of births and sex ratio of the young, growth and development of the young and reproductive cycles of both males and females were obtained. Most data were collected from a captive breeding colony of northern brushtails and supplemented with data from wild populations. The reproduction, growth and development of T. v. arnhemensis are very similar to those already described for other populations of T vulpecula. The observed differences can be explained by variation in the size of the animals and the absence of a restricted breeding season. Neither males nor females showed any periodicity in their reproductive strategy. This continuous breeding cycle can be attributed directly to their tropical environment. These tropical possums occupy a stable habitat, mature early and have a higher reproductive effort than populations in more seasonal and unpredictable environments. This suggests that the northern brushtail has a stochastic or 'bet-hedging' reproductive strategy.
Ultrastructure of Spermiogenesis and Sperm of an Undescribed Species of Luridae (Platyhelminthes, Rhabdocoela)
Authors: Rohde K , Watson NA
Published: June 2005

Testis follicles of an undescribed species of Luridae (Dalyellioida) contain nurse cells with cytoplasmic processes branching between the spermatids. Spermatids elongate to form aflagellate and non-axonemal sperm containing an elongate nucleus, mitochondria and dense bodies. Up to 15 peripheral microtubules are longitudinally directed in mature sperm, but are arranged in a screw-like fashion in elongating spermatids. Non-axonemal sperm have evolved independently in species of several platyhelminth taxa: Monogenea, Prolecithophora, Dalyellioida, and Catenulida.
Reproduction in the Bats Vespadelus-Vulturnus, V-Regulus and V-Darlingtoni (Microchiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in Coastal South-Eastern Australia
Authors: Tidemann CR
Published: June 2005

The sequence of reproductive and associated events that occurs in Vespadelus vulturnus is similar to those that are common to hibernating vespertilionids and rhinolophids. Females become sexually mature in their first year, whereas males do not undergo their first spermatogenesis until their second year. Both sexes accumulate fat deposits in late summer and autumn, but females begin to do this earlier and accumulate more than males. These deposits are gradually depleted over the course of winter. In autumn females produce a follicle of hibernation, the rupture of which is delayed until spring, when the resultant secondary oocyte is fertilised by sperm stored in the female reproductive tract. Females are monoestrous. Both ovaries are functional, although implantation occurs only in the right uterine horn. Males also undergo an annual cycle. Plasma androgen concentration and seminiferous tubule diameter reach a peak in late summer, with subsequent release of spermatozoa, but the accessory sex glands do not reach maximum size until late autumn. Sperm are present in the epididymides of males more than one year of age for the duration of winter. Male V. vulturnus arouse from torpor during winter more frequently than females. It is hypothesised that they do this in order to copulate, even though females store sperm and a copulatory plug forms in the vagina after insemination. The behaviour of the males can be explained by three factors: (1) some first-year females are not in oestrus at the beginning of winter, (2) some females with sperm stores depleted or absent are caught flying during winter and (3) in some females copulatory plugs are voided long before fertilisation occurs, thereby removing the barrier to subsequent insemination. Vespadelus regulus and V. darlingtoni appear to have a reproductive cycle similar to that of V. vulturnus.
Underwater Nesting by the Tropical Fresh-Water Turtle, Chelodina-Rugosa (Testudinata, Chelidae)
Authors: Kennett R , Christian KA , Pritchard D
Published: June 2005

Nests of the northern long-necked turtle, Chelodina rugosa, were located by surgically implanting radio-transmitters in the oviducts of gravid females so that the transmitters were deposited in the nest with the eggs. Nests are excavated in soft substrate under shallow water in the littoral zone of seasonally flooded billabongs during the wet and early dry season. Embryonic development remains arrested until floodwaters recede in the dry season and the ground dries. Hatchling emergence presumably coincides with heavy rain or flooding at the beginning of the following wet season.
Hibernation in the Eastern Pygmy Possum, Cercartetus-Nanus (Marsupialia, Burramyidae)
Authors: Geiser F
Published: June 2005

The pattern of torpor was examined in the eastern pygmy possum, Cercartetus nanus (21 g). Animals displayed torpor regularly in the laboratory, and the occurrence of torpor increased with decreasing air temperature (T(a)). At high T(a) (18-degrees-C) animals usually exhibited daily torpor, but torpor bouts of up to 2 days were observed occasionally. The duration of torpor bouts lengthened with a lowering of T(a) and the mean bout duration at T(a) = 5-degrees-C was 17.0 +/- 2.5 days. The minimum metabolic rate (measured as rate of oxygen consumption) of torpid individuals was 0.018 +/- 0.003 mL O2 g-1 h-1, which is less than 2% of the basal metabolic rate. The body temperature (T(b)) Of torpid animals fell to a minimum of 1.3 +/- 0.4-degrees-C. These results clearly demonstrate that Cercartetus nanus is a deep hibernator.