bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cysts and tumour‐like lesions in the endocrine pancreas of the lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis)
Authors: Hardisty M. W.
Published: August 2009

Histological observations on the endocrine pancreas of the upstream migrant stage of the River lamprey, Lamperra fluviatilis, have revealed a relatively high incidence of cysts and other tumour‐like lesions, remarkably similar to the hamartomas described in the Atlantic hagfish, Myxine glufinosa. The frequency of these lesions increases throughout the migratory period from autumn to spring. In the most common type the cysts are surrounded by an intensely granular, single‐layered epithelium and both the epithelial cells and the cyst contents show a marked reaction to aldehyde‐fuchsin staining. In more extreme forms the breakdown of the epithelial walls of neighbouring cysts leads to the formation of large multi‐locular structures occupying almost the whole of the islet organ, but no consistent evidence of changes in blood sugar levels has been obtained in animals where the islet tissue is severely affected. A smaller proportion of the animals display neoplastic developments, frequently associated with hyperplasia and vacuolization of the foregut epithelium. In such cases, there is evidence of invasiveness and the development of epithelioid nodules within the adjoining islet tissue. Cavitation within these nodules leads to the formation of cyst‐like structures containing cell debris which reacts to aldehyde‐fuchsin staining. The development of cysts and hyperplasia is interpreted as a renewal in the sexually mature lamprey of inherent trends towards epithelial proliferation and vacuolization that are involved during metamorphosis in the morphogenetic processes that lead to the formation of the adult foregut and cranial islet tissue.
Blood cell formation in the River lamprey, Lampetra fluviatilis
Authors: Percy Lord Richard , Potter I. C.
Published: August 2009

Haemopoiesis has been studied throughout the life cycle of the parasitic lamprey, Lumpetra fluviatilis, with supplementary data being provided by its nonparasitic derivative, Lampetra planeri. Attention was paid to the location of the principal haemopoietic sites in both the larval and post‐larval stages and to the mode of differentiation of the blood cells. In the prolarva, the formation of blood cells takes place initially in the blood islands but, at the time when the gut starts to rotate, this role is taken over by the typhlosole. After the ammocoete has reached about 20 mm in length, division and maturation of blood cells were also clearly detected in the intertubular and fat cell region of the nephric fold. Both the typhlosole and nephric fold discharge blood cells into the circulation and throughout the rest of larval life constitute the main sites of lymphopoiesis, erythropoiesis and granulopoiesis. At the beginning of transformation, however, both these structures undergo involution and by the end of metamorphosis the haemopoietic function has been assumed by the fat column. This latter organ remains active throughout the adult phase until near the end of the spawning run at which time it undergoes massive degenerative changes.

Differentiation of blood cells from the fixed cells of haemopoietic tissues occurs only in the blood islands of the prolarva and in the typhlosole during the very earliest stages of its development. Throughout the rest of the life cycle, the mode of formation of blood cells was the same in haemopoietic tissues containing a reticular network (typhlosole, fat cell region of the nephric fold and fat column) as in haemopoietic tissue where there was no such fibrous arrangement (the intertubular tissue of the more ventral regions of the opisthonephric kidney). Haemopoietic tissues could be seen to be formed in all the above structures by the accumulation of immature cells in tissue spaces which form a suitable environment for cell division and maturation. Descriptions are given of lineages leading from small lymphocyte‐like stem cells to erythrocytes and to eosinophilic and neutrophilic granulocytes, and from large lymphocytes to macrophages.
The genus Eurydice on the west coast of India
Authors: Elefthriou A. , Jones D. A.
Published: August 2009

An ecological survey of the sandy beaches of the west coast of India revealed an important population of eurydicid isopods (Eurydice peraticis Jones; E. indicis sp. nov.) of which one species is new to science. The systematics of these isopods are described, and their distribution on the Arabian Sea coast and the Indian beaches is discussed. Differences in their horizontal and vertical distribution on the beaches are explained in relation to the prevailing environmental conditions, of which exposure is the most important.
Underwater predatory behaviour of the American mink (Mustela vison)
Authors: Poole Trevor B. , Dunstone Nigel
Published: August 2009

Fishing behaviour of the American mink (Mustela vison Schreber) was investigated in the laboratory. Data were recorded using ciné film and tape recorded commentaries. Three species of prey were presented to mink, namely, carp (Cyprinus curpio), goldfish (Carassius auratus) and minnows (Phoxinus phoxinus).

It was found to be necessary to train ranch‐bred mink to enter water and catch fish; young mink appeared to be easier to train than adults. Mink spent 5–20 sec under water when fishing; prey had usually previously been located from an aerial vantage point. Predatory behaviour was highly organized sequentially whereas fish were more prone to indulge in unpredictable stratagems; the behaviour of mink and fish were highly correlated.

The mink's efficiency in catching fish was related to prey size (smaller individuals being more vulnerable to capture) and shoaling. Minnows, which form highly organized shoals, were less easily caught when present in large numbers; this was not true of a loosely shoaling species, the carp.

Of the three species of prey presented, vulnerability to capture took the form goldfish> carp> minnow; these differences, however, may have been influenced by the fish's previous experience of underwater predators.
The thyroid and parathyroid glands in the Rhinocerotidae
Authors: Cave A. J. E.
Published: August 2009

As a contribution to rhinoceros splanchnology obsevations are submitted upon the gross and microscopical anatomy of the rhinoceros thyroid and parathyroid glands, following a particular examination of these organs in examples of the genera Rhinoceros, Didermocerus, Ceratotherium and Diceros.
The Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas): nesting on Ascension Island, 1973–1974
Authors: Simon Marlin H. , Parkes Alan S.
Published: August 2009

The collection of eggs of Chelonia mydas from beaches on Ascension Island and elsewhere for hatching at the Mariculture Ltd farm on Grand Cayman was described in a previous paper (Simon, 1975). Improved organization of these collections has made it possible to record many incidental observations which throw light on the nesting behaviour and performance of the female Chelonia, and Ascension Island, because of its small size, numerous beaches and good communications, proved to be particularly favourable for such research. The present paper records observations made in February and March 1973 and 1974. The second author has contributed only by the analysis of the data and the preparation of the paper.
Behavioural adaptations of the Jackass penguin, Spheniscus demersus to a hot, arid environment
Authors: Frost P. G. H. , Siegfried W. R. , Burger A. E.
Published: August 2009

Penguins tend to be overinsulated for life on land. A study of the Jackass penguin Spheniscus demersus was undertaken to investigate the behavioural adaptations that enable the species to cope with the exigencies of a hot, terrestrial environment.

The Jackass penguin is mainly crepuscular and nocturnal at its breeding stations. The numbers of birds present on land are highest at night and lowest during the day. The majority of birds leaving a breeding colony do so just after dawn. Birds begin to return to the colony during the late afternoon. The frequency of displays is highest at dawn and from dusk to midnight. This activity cycle enables birds not engaged in incubation or chick guarding to avoid conditions promoting heat stress.

Birds remaining in the colony during the day employ strategies such as burrow‐nesting, body‐orientation and evaporative cooling to reduce the effects of high insolation. Compared to the ambient, the microclimate of burrows is more constant; relative humidity is higher; air temperatures fluctuate less; and wind effect is negligible. Most important, birds nesting in burrows are protected from direct insolation. Egg and nest‐air temperature in a burrow are relatively constant. Burrows facing east are cooler than those facing west. However this does not influence burrow‐orientation, which is determined by the slope of the ground.

Birds exposed to high insolation orientate with their backs to the sun. The lightly feathered areas of the body are shaded. This facilitates heat loss by convection and re‐radiation from these shaded surfaces. In this position dorsal surface temperature regularly exceeds body temperature. It is suggested that heat gain from the dorsal surface is restricted by efficient insulation, primarily an adaptation to the aquatic environment. On overcast days orientation is non‐directional. In the early morning when ambient temperatures are relatively low, the birds also orientate with their backs to the sun. This is interpreted as sunbathing.

Body temperatures were significantly higher on a hot than on a cool day. The Jackass penguin appears to be relatively thermolabile. This would facilitate both energy conservation in water and resistance to heat stress on land. The overall thermoregulatory strategies of the Jackass penguin for life in two different environments are discussed.
The effects of exposure and predation on the shell of two British winkles
Authors: Heller Joseph
Published: August 2009

Changes in shell size and shell shape of the two British winkles Littorina nigrolineata and L. rudis were studied in relation to exposure and to crab‐size. In both species, shells from exposed shores are smaller and more globose than those from sheltered shores. Also, in rudis of exposed shores the mouth is relatively wider. In shores of equally sheltered conditions, shells are bigger at those localities where crabs are large than at those localities where they are small. The largest shells are found in those localities where it is extremely sheltered, and the crabs are very large.

It is argued that on exposed shores, small shells are favoured because they have more possibilities than large ones to shelter in crevices and in barnacle interspaces, from the impact of winds and waves. A globose shell could accommodate more foot muscle and thus enable a stronger adherence to the rock; and an increased mouth diameter would increase the area of foot adherence to the rock. On sheltered shores, on the other hand, large, narrow‐mouthed shells are favoured because they discourage crab predation, large crabs being abundant mainly on sheltered shores.

The possible significance of shell size and shape in relation to zonation is discussed, in view of the different predatory and physical conditions which prevail in different zones of the shore, and the different shell specializations which these conditions would require.
An investigation of individual, age and sexual differences in the play of Rattus norvegicus (Mammalia: Rodentia)
Authors: Poole Trevor B. , Fish Jane
Published: August 2009

Eight litters of Rattus norvegicus of the PVG/C hooded strain were observed in order to investigate the roles of individuality, sexuality and age in playful behaviour.

Three measures of social play, namely, initiations, numbers of play bouts and numbers of playful elements performed were all found to be positively correlated. The incidence of social and solitary play were also positively correlated so that a concept of “playfulness” appeared to be justifiable. Playfulness showed no correlation with the general level of non‐playful locomotor activity.

Male rats were more playful than females but only minor sex‐related differences were found to occur in the sequential organisation of play.

Older rats showed longer play bouts and a higher degree of temporal organisation. Considerable individual differences in playfulness were recorded and in single sex litters playful rats were found to play together.

The majority of opponents, in playfighting, alternated between the roles of attacker and defender.
Digestive absorption in Octopus vulgaris (Cephalopoda: Octopoda)
Authors: Boucaud‐Camou E. , Boucher‐Rodoni R. , Mangold K.
Published: August 2009

In Octopus, the caecum, the pancreas and the liver are involved in the absorption of 3H‐glycine‐labelled food. The caecum exhibits the highest specific activity while the liver absorbs the largest proportion of labelled material. The administration of stained food shows in vivo alternating phases of absorption and secretion in the liver and continuous absorption in the caecum.
A remarkable pyloric caecum in the evermannellid genus Coccorella with notes on gut structure and function in alepisauroid fishes (Pisces, Myctophiformes)
Authors: Wassersug R. J. , Johnson R. K.
Published: August 2009

Gross morphology and development of the gut in the circumtropical genus Coccorella Roule (Alepisauroidei, Evermannellidae; two species C. atrata (Alcock, 1893) and C. atlantica (Parr, 1928)) is described and the gut structure of this genus is compared with that of other alepisauroid and myctophoid fishes. Alepisauroids characteristically have an enormous sac‐shaped stomach and a simple, straight intestine. It appears that this gut morphology is a specialization for the ingestion of very large food particles and is an adaptation to the food‐limited midwater environment.

Coccorella is remarkable in having a medial pyloric (intestinal) appendage that extends forward from the ventroanterior margin of the intestine, passes between the cleithra, beneath the heart, dorsal to the isthmian musculature, and ends blindly beneath the first basibranchial. This caecum is surrounded by the darkly pigmented peritoneal lining of the coelomic cavity and is easily visible in the floor of the orobranchial cavity. The caecum can be seen in the smallest available larva (6.3 mm SL) but does not develop its complete cephalic extension until the larvae are 20 to 25 mm SL.

Portions of the alimentary tract in Coccorella were examined with light and scanning electron microscopy. No substantial histological differences between caecum and intestine have been found. It is hypothesized that the caecum in Coccorella has a function similar to that proposed for pyloric caeca in other fishes, viz. to increase the resportive and storage capacity of the intestine.

Although pyloric caeca vary enormously in size, number and morphology among teleosts, Coccorella is the only genus known with any appendage of the alimentary tract extending into the head. General hypotheses on the adaptive significance of pyloric caeca are reviewed but none satisfactorily explain the appearance of this unique neomorphous feature in Coccorella.
The dermal tubercles of Cranchia scabra (Mollusca, Cephalopoda); surface structure and development
Authors: Dilly P. N. , Nixon Marion
Published: August 2009

The cartilaginous tubercles of the mantle of the squid Cranchia scabra have been examined with the scanning electron microscope. Some tubercles are small, simple nodules whereas others are large with a complex Maltese cross form. The varying shapes and sizes probably represent a developmental sequence. The possible role of the tubercles is discussed.
A comparison of relative growth in Cerastoderma (=Cardium) edule, Modiolus modiolus, and Mytilus edulis (Mollusca: Bivalvia)
Authors: Brown R. A. , Seed R. , O'Connor R. J.
Published: August 2009

Relative growth has been studied in intertidal populations of Cerastoderma edule and Mytilus edulis and in a subtidal population of Modiolus modiolus. Size dimensions were generally more variable and shell thickness generally greater in the intertidal species. Total weight was correlated with shell weight in all three species but there was a progressively greater emphasis on tissue growth through the sequence Cerastoderma, Mytilus, Modiolus. These results are interpreted in terms of differences in stability between their respective habitats.

Analyses of individual year classes in Cerastoderma showed a marked pattern of alternating years of good and poor growth.
Waterfowl feather proteins: analysis of use in taxonomic studies
Authors: Brush Alan H.
Published: August 2009

S‐carboxy keratins from waterfowl feather were prepared and studied in regard to effect of preparation, individual and intraspecific variation. These results were then expanded in in an extensive intraordinal study of the waterfowl using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) to compare representatives of approximately 40 genera in regard to intra‐ and intertribal variation. The PAGE was supplemented by double diffusion and immunoelectrophoresis using antisera to SCM—keratins of Anas. The resultant patterns, especially in PAGE were useful in testing a number of taxonomic hypotheses and demonstrated the conservative nature of these proteins. The basic ordinal structure of the waterfowl was supported but specific questions, especially to the relations of a number of monotypic or intermediate genera and a proposal regarding the sea ducks, were addressed. In almost all cases the placement of such taxa were resolved.

The PAGE data were used to test a number of published proposed phylogenies of the waterfowl.

SCM‐keratins of feathers are a complex of similar sized monomers with great immunological similarity. The data presented here are discussed in regard to waterfowl systematics and the use of electrophoretic data to test systematic theory.
Biochemical and morphological observations on the wallaroos (Macropodidae: Marsupialia) with a suggested new taxonomy
Authors: Richardson B. J. , Sharman G. B.
Published: August 2009

Two discriminant functions were designed using skull measurements, one to discriminate Antilopine wallaroos (antilopinus form) and Euros (erubescens form) and one to discriminate Euros and Black wallaroos (bernardus form). These three forms separated into different areas of a scatter‐gram using the two discriminant functions as axes. Skull data from wallaroos not attributable to these forms fitted into the erubescens portion of the scattergram.

Northern wallaroos (alligatoris form), which were indistinguishable from wallaroos from southern Australia on skull data, are sympatric with Antilopine and Black wallaroos in Arnhem Land. Here Antilopine and Northern wallaroos had different gene frequencies for three of the four blood proteins studied; Northern wallaroos being most like Euros and wallaroos elsewhere. The Black wallaroo, which is confined to Arnhem Land and is morphologically quite distinctive, had a different haemoglobin type to that of all other animals studied.

On the basis of the morphological and biochemical data presented, the wallaroos can be divided into three species—Macropus (Osphranter) antilopinus (Gould, 1842), the Antilopine wallaroo; Macropus (Osphranter) bernardus Rothschild, 1904, the Black wallaroo and Macropus (Osphranter) robustus Gould, 1841. M. robustus is divisible into four subspecies—M. robustus robustus the Eastern wallaroo; M. r. erubescens, the Euro; M. r. woodwardi, the Northern wallaroo and M. r. isabellinus, the Barrow Island wallaroo.
Note on rhinoceros thyroid gland constitution
Authors: Cave A. J. E.
Published: August 2009

In the absence of direct embryological information an estimation of rhinoceros thyroid gland constitution is essayed on the basis of indirect evidence provided by a study of 22 rhinoceros thyroid lobes, representing all available rhinoceros species. It is concluded that the rhinoceros thyroid gland comprises two embryonal elements, deriving from the thyro‐glossal duct and from the 4th pharyngeal pouch, responsible respectively for its ventral and dorsal portions.
The articular surface of the temporal bone in certain fossil hominoids
Authors: Ashton E. H. , Flinn R. M. , Moore W. J.
Published: August 2009

Although quantitative variations exist between living Man (Homo sapiens sapiens) and the extant great apes (Pongo, Pan, Gorilla) in such features of the articular surface of the temporal bone (a part of the temporomandibular joint) as the proportionate development of the postglenoid tubercle, the relative prominence of the articular tubercle and the slope of its posterior face, these do not individually effect a clear differentiation between the four extant genera. But in multivariate combination of these features, although Pan and Pongo are relatively closely associated, Gorilla and Homo sapiens sapiens are distinct, and also clearly differentiated from each other. The differences between genera of extant apes are, on average, as great as those between extant Man and individual apes.

As portrayed by such multivariate compound, this anatomical region in four fossil groups displays a unique configuration differentiating Homo sapiens neanderthalensis, Homo erectus pekinensis, Australopithecus africanus and Australopithecus robustus both from one another and from extant types. The differences are such that the fossil species lie uniquely and not intermediate between extant groups.

Definable age changes in this multivariate compound occur in both Man and apes but neither these, nor overall differences between adults, appear to be associated with marked contrasts in the pattern of jaw movement. It would thus seem improbable that inferences can be made from these features about the type of jaw movement that characterized the several fossil groups.
Protein and carbohydrate histochemistry in relation to the keratinization in the epidermis of Barbus sophor (Cyprinidae, Pisces)
Authors: Mittal A. K. , Agarwal S. K. , Banerjee T. K.
Published: August 2009

The distribution of protein and carbohydrate constituents in the epidermis of Barbus sophor is described in order to give a better understanding of its cellular organization and physiology.

Various cytochemical techniques show the keratinized nature of the outer free margins of the polygonal cells in the most‐superficial layer. These contain appreciable amounts of cysteine bound sulphydryl groups, basic proteins, protein bound NH2 groups, ribonucleic acid and calcium and give a strong Papanicolaou's reaction. Absence of cystine bound disulphide groups suggests that the cornified layer in B. sophor is probably mechanically weak as adjacent keratin chains remain unbonded. The polygonal cells showing keratinization at the outer free margins remain metabolically active and are not sloughed off at the surface. This is in contrast to the keratinized epidermis of other teleosts so far reported in which the keratinized cells are dead and are sloughed off at the surface.

In addition to keratinization the polygonal cells undergo mucogenesis synthesizing sulphated acid mucopolysaccharides.

The presence of eosinophilic granular cells in the epidermis is interesting. The possible role of these cells in the protection of the epidermis has been discussed. The epidermis on the inner surface of the scale is very thin so it may not have much protective significance in these areas.
The use of natural shelter by Red deer (Cervus elaphus) in relation to weather in North‐east Scotland
Authors: Staines Brian W.
Published: August 2009

The use of natural shelter in relation to weather by Red deer on open moorland is described. Most shelter‐seeking behaviour in winter was associated with the chilling effects of wind. Although deer sheltered from both wind speed and temperature individually, the combined effect of these (i.e. “windchill”) was likely to be most important. The most important individual factor was wind. In winter, resting deer sheltered from the wind by lying on lee slopes, in long vegetation, on dry ground and in places with small amounts of geomorphic shelter; they sought very sheltered places only during blizzards. Deer were found in more shelter as windchill increased, and did not appear to seek constant conditions from day to day. They put up with worse conditions when feeding than when resting. On summer days with high temperatures and strong sun, deer were seen standing when at rest, and were found in the shade, and on wet or bare ground; they also lay in the wind, bathed in water or stood on patches of old snow.
The biology of the Bush rat, Aethomys hindei Thomas in Southern Uganda
Authors: Okia Nathan O.
Published: August 2009

Studies were made on the Bush rat, Aethomys hindei in Lunyo forest (0° 5', 32° E) on the Northern shores of Lake Victoria. Rats were trapped daily (Monday‐Saturday) for 47 weeks during November 1970 to November 1972 from 20–49 live traps set in a 40 by 100 m grid. In the laboratory they were examined for the condition of the external genitalia and for signs of pregnancy. Some pregnant rats were kept in the laboratory and their progeny measured at weekly intervals. The rate of growth (weight gain in g per day) was determined for both laboratory and field rats. Growth curves of laboratory rats were used to calculate the ages of young (<100 g) field rats, even though the results showed that at between 50 to 100 g field rats grew faster than laboratory rats and between 100 to 150 g, laboratory rats grew faster than field rats.

The weight distribution of rats in the field showed a clear weight difference between males and females; with some males weighing as much as 171 g while the maximum weight recorded for females was only 146 g. The weights obtained extend the weight range of these rats beyond that previously published.

Breeding (pregnancies) in the field occurred mostly in the wetter months of November‐ December and April whereas young animals occurred more in the drier months of December and January. Births obtained by calculation from laboratory growth curves occurred more in November.

Seasonality in the intensity of breeding was indicated although monthly breeding throughout the year was observed. The months of highest population densities were December, January and April.
Observations on the dental anatomy of piranhas (Characidae) with special reference to tooth structure
Authors: Shellis R. P. , Berkovitz B. K. B.
Published: August 2009

A study of the tissues of the teeth and jaws in piranhas, using the scanning electron microscope and various techniques of light microscopy, revealed many dental adaptations related to the specialized feeding habits of these carnivorous fishes. The dentition is primarily sectorial, although some anterior teeth may be used in grasping. The scissor‐like rows of teeth are maintained by the specialized pattern of tooth replacement. The bones of the jaws and the tooth attachment support the teeth very firmly. In its structural organization, the enameloid covering the teeth closely resembles that on the sectorial teeth of sharks and is adapted to the probable stress patterns set up in biting.
Energy consumption and growth in the suctorian Podophrya fixa (Protozoa: Suctoria)
Authors: Laybourn Johanna E. M.
Published: August 2009

Energy consumption and growth in Podophrya fixa fed on Colpidium campylum is described in relation to prey density at 15°C. The volume of food consumed was linearly related to the volume of food captured. Both energy consumption and growth increased up to a prey density of 30 colpidia per Podophrya, thereafter declining. Gross growth efficiencies ranged between 49.9%‐65.8%.
The embryonic development of the Mediterranean freshwater crab, Potamon edulis (=P.fluviatile) (Crustacea, Decapoda, Potamonidae)
Authors: Pace F. , Harris R. R. , Jaccarini V.
Published: August 2009

The mating of the crabs is described. The incubation period of the macrolecithal egg of the freshwater crab, Potamon edulis (Latr.) is 46 ± 1 days long. One of the main features of the development of the egg is its extreme abbreviation. In addition to the nauplius, metanauplius, and zoea, the megalopa stage is also imprisoned in the egg. The extent to which direct development is carried in Potamon is unique among the Brachyura. This is considered to have been a pre‐adaptation to the colonization of a freshwater habitat by the Potamonidae.
Feeding of the stem nematode, Ditylenchus dipsaci on leaf tissue of field bean, Vicia faba
Authors: DONCASTER C. C.
Published: August 2009

The behaviour of Ditylenchus dipsaci before, during and after feeding on leaf tissue of Vicia faba is described. Short‐term reactions of the food cells and functions of different regions of the pharynx are described and discussed in relation to the changing pressure relationships between nematode and cell.
The performance of the muscles involved in spitting by the Archerfish Toxotes
Authors: Milburn Oliver , Alexander R. McN.
Published: August 2009

The Archerfish Toxotes knocks aerial insects into the water by spitting at them. Spitting has been filmed and the excess pressure in the orobranchial cavity is estimated from the muzzle velocity as 7.2 kN m−2. A dissection of the head shows that the adductor arcus palatini and geniohyoideus are most likely to be involved in spitting. From measurements made of these muscles, it is calculated that stresses up to at least 210 kN m−2 must act in them during spitting. Further, it appears from the calculations that these muscles must shorten at rates of 2.4‐3.0 muscle lengths sec−1, which seems unlikely at such high stresses. It is possible that a catapult mechanism may be involved.
The structure of the embryonic external gill filaments of the Velvet belly shark Etmopterus spinax
Authors: Kryvi Harald
Published: August 2009

The purely embryonic external gill filaments of sharks consist of a single capillary loop, covered by a two‐layered epithelium with short microvilli. Towards the end of the embryonic period, the epithelial cells are filled with fibrils, about 10 nm in diameter, and mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi bodies disappear. The basal lamina increases in thickness, and collagen fibrils accumulate beneath. Numerous dense vesicles appear in the endothelial cells.
Dentition and age determination of the giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis
Authors: Hall‐Martin A. J.
Published: August 2009

Thirteen tooth eruption stages and their corresponding chronological ages are descri bed from a series of giraffe jaws. These can be used for age determination in giraffes with immature dentition. Significant correlations of the lingual crown height (r=0‐957; P < 0001) and lingual occlusal surface width (r=0‐959; P < 0001) with the number of dark staining incremental lines in the cementum of thin decalcified sections of the maxillary first molar were found. The regression equations derived from these relationships provide a further method for determining the age of a giraffe. A composite plate showing maxillary first molar wear patterns provides a means of roughly assigning an age to a particular specimen. Thin sections of undecalcified teeth, mandible measurements, various other indices of tooth wear and eye lens mass were investigated and found unsuitable for age determination in this
Growth changes in endocranial capacity in the Cercopithecoidea and Hominoidea
Authors: Ashton E. H. , Moore W. J. , Spence T. F.
Published: August 2009

On the basis of examination of 2588 skulls representing 15 genera (56 species) from the Cercopithecoidea, together with 973 skulls representing six genera (10 species) of the Hominoidea, grouped according to stages of dental development, the pattern of postnatal growth change in endocranial volume has emerged as constant throughout Old World Primates. The brain attains 80% of its adult size by the time the deciduous dentition is fully established; 90% by the time the first permanent molars erupt; 95% during the period of eruption of the premolars and second molars; and some 98 % by the time the last permanent teeth are erupting. This constancy in timing of postnatal endocranial growth contrasts with a progressive variation in parameters associated with brain weight‐body weight relationship.
The influence of rainfall on diet and reproduction in four African rodent species
Authors: Taylor K. D. , Green M. G.
Published: August 2009

Arvicanthis nitoticus was found, during two seasons of the study, to begin breeding some two to three months after the start of the rains; at this time weed seeds first appeared in the stomach contents. Breeding continued during the rains and into the early part of the dry season while weed seeds and cereals formed the major part of the diet. Breeding declined during the early part of the dry season, and fat was laid down while weed seeds and cereals were still present but less abundant in the diet. Later in the dry season, breeding ceased and the diet was switched dramatically, first to the leaves and stems of dicotyledonous plants then almost exclusively to grass, and fat deposits were rapidly utilized. Arvicanthis living in an area where cereals were artifically supplied bred almost continuously. Mastomys natalensis also bred when seeds and cereals were most plentiful, but, by ranging widely over open ground, often managed to continue to find these foods, and insects, during the dry season. Supplied cereals failed to produce a reproductive response in Mastomys–instead, unprecedented fat deposits developed. Unseasonal reproduction in this species was, however, observed in an unseasonal wheat crop. Rhabdomys pumilio bred when cereals were plentiful but was also found breeding when its diet was mainly clover–a crop that is noted for its high crude protein content. The herbivorous Otomys angoniensis bred throughout the year and was unaffected by supplied cereals. It seems clear that the food supply of grani‐vorous species is dependent on rainfall, and that prolongation of the normal rainy season may generate excess food and cover, resulting in and extended breeding season and unusually large numbers of these rodents.
The life history and post‐embryonic development of “Spirobolus” bivirgatus (Diplopoda: Spirobolida) on Aldabra, Western Indian Ocean
Authors: Spaull V. W.
Published: August 2009

Spirobolus bivirgatus, recently known as Mystalides bivirgatus, passes through 15 stadia. These were differentiated by the ocular field method. Development is anamorphic from stadia I to VIII and epimorphic from stadia IX to XV. Maturity is reached in a few males in the eighth stadium but more normally it occurs in the ninth to twelfth stadium. Females are mature in the ninth to fifteenth stadium. Adult males possess fully developed gonopods as well as soft pads on the ventral surface of the tarsi. The pads are illustrated with scanning electron micrographs. Males die after breeding but females probably breed in three or more successive years. Eggs are laid during the wet season, December to April, and these reach maturity within the second or, possibly, the first year of growth. The density, distribution and food of S. bivirgatus is briefly described.
New cases of mimicry in marine fishes
Authors: Russell BarryC. , Allen GeraldR. , RogerLubbock H.
Published: August 2009

Ten new cases of mimicry in marine fishes are described. Juveniles of Lutjanus bohar (Lutjanidae) appear to be aggressive mimics of the damsel fish Chromis ternatensis (Poma‐centridae). Both species occur together throughout the Indo‐Pacific. At Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, juveniles ofAnyperodon leucogrammicus similarly appear to be aggressive mimics of the wrasse Halichoeres biocellatus (Labridae). At One Tree Island, Great Barrier Reef, juveniles of Scolopsis bilinealus (Scolopsidae) enter into a Batesian mimic ring with Meiacanthus lineatus (Blenniidae) and an undescribed species of Petroscirtes (Blenniidae). In Fiji, S. bilineatus enters into a mimic complex with Meiacanthus atrodorsalis oualanensis and Plagiotremus laudandus (Blenniidae). At Madang, New Guinea, Scolopsis margaritifer juveniles and Cheilodipteris zonatus (Apogonidae) appear to be Batesian mimics of an undescribed species of Meiacanthus. In Samoa, Aspidontus taeniatus (Blenniidae) appears to be an aggressive mimic of a new species of Labroides (Labridae). In New Britain an unusual orange colour morph of the sabre‐tooth blenny Plagiotremus rhynorhynchos appears to aggressively mimic Anthias mortoni (Anthiidae) with which it associates. The sabre‐tooth blenny Plagiotremus tapeinosoma loosely associates with different species over its range of distribution. On the Great Barrier Reef and at Norfolk Island, it swims among aggregations of Thalassoma amblycephalus (Labridae); in south‐eastern Australia it enters into a similar loose mimetic relationship with aggregations of Trachinops taeniatus (Plesiopidae); and in north‐eastern New Zealand, it associates with an undescribed, free‐swimming species of Forsterygion (Tripterygiidae). Mimicry amongst marine fishes appears to be a general and widespread phenomenon. Present examples suggest that there may be varying degrees of resemblance; in some cases the mimic‐model relationship is loose and facultative while in others it appears to be highly co‐evolved and obligative.
An analysis of the chuffing vocalization in the Polar bear (Ursus maritimus)
Authors: Wemmer C. , Ebers M. Von , Scow K.
Published: August 2009

In an effort to determine the function of a low intensity repetitive call termed chuffing, quantitative data were analyzed for behavioural associations and contingencies, and several hypotheses were tested regarding variable call structure. Adult bears of both sexes chuff in a variety of circumstances, but the call is heard predominantly in maternal females during early stages of cub development. In the maternal situation it is most often emitted during simple behavioural changes, and with the exception of promoting mother‐cub contact it evokes no specific response. Differences in call duration do not signal qualitative or quantitative differences in the mother's behaviour, nor do they evoke different responses from the cubs. Neither distance nor visibility of the cub affects the number of sound elements composing the call. The physical structure of the call suggests its source potentially can be localized with regard to both direction and distance.
Further studies on the mechanical properties of mollusc shell material
Authors: Currey J. D.
Published: August 2009

Values of tensile strength, compressive strength, bending strength, hardness and modulus of elasticity are reported for the shell material of various species of bivalve, gastropod and cephalopod mollusc. Nacre is the strongest structural type, but crossed lamellar structure is the hardest. Possible selective reasons for these differences are discussed but no firm conclusions are drawn.
Studies on the anatomy, life history and behaviour of Marsupiobdella Africana (Hirudinea: Glossiphoniidae)
Authors: Lande Virginia M. van der , Tinsley R. C.
Published: August 2009

All glossiphoniids afford some degree of protection to both eggs and young but Marsupiobdella africana is unique in that it develops a permanent brood pouch on the ventral surface. Developmental and histological studies show that the marsupium is epidermal in origin. The pouch rudiment forms as a shallow groove before the eggs leave the ovisac and, when functional, the pouch becomes enormously distended reaching from oesophagus to anus and considerably compressing the internal organs. Its opening is a narrow sphinctered pore which apparently permits some degree of parental control over the release of the brood.

The course of the life history has been established from natural and experimental infestations of M. africana on the Clawed toad, Xenopus laevis laevis, from the Cape, South Africa. The leeches develop to maturity over a period of two to three weeks (at 22°C) whilst attached to the host, but copulate only after detachment. Present evidence suggests that the embryos are transferred externally from female gonopore to the pouch within which up to 50 young are brooded for about four weeks. The juveniles are relatively well developed at the time of their release; they can be carried in the pouch at an infective stage for up to two months and when contact with X. laevis is made they are discharged explosively. Each leech reproduces once, dying after a maximum life span of about four months. Other Xenopus toads (X. laevis victorianus and X. vestitus), were successful hosts in specificity tests, but Rana and Bufo species were not infected, nor were tadpoles of Xenopus.

Marsupiobdella has a number of unusual anatomical features in addition to the brood pouch. The oesophageal organ is described in some detail; its cells are either glands or mycetocytes. The forward displacement of the anus cannot be explained on either functional or phylogenetic grounds. The presence of the velum is unique amongst glossiphoniids and probably the most significant peculiarity in that it affords evidence for the phylogeny of the group.
The statocyst of Vampyroteuthis infernalis (Mollusca: Cephalopoda)
Authors: Stephens P. R. , Young J. Z.
Published: August 2009

The statocyst shows a remarkable combination of features of decapods and octopods confirming that Vampyroteuthis is a relic somewhere near the ancestor of both groups. The lining of the statocyst separates from the outer wall, forming an inner sac, filled with endolymph, surrounded by perilymph. This is the condition found in octopods, never in decapods. The macula is partly divided into a macula princeps and macula neglecta, as in decapods but never in octopods. There are numerous statoconia, but no large statolith has been seen. The crista has four parts as in decapods, but they are not sharply separated. There are numerous small anticristae, with the general form found in decapods, differentiated into pegs and hooks.

The wall of the inner sac contains numerous hair cells. These hairs protrude between the epithelial cells. The bases of the cells are drawn out into fine processes, presumably some dendritic and some axonal. There is thus a plexus of nerve fibres all over the wall, communicating with the crista nerve.

There is a very large posterior sac of unknown function, lying behind the crista. It contains only one large anticrista and the opening of Kölliker's canal, which is very large.
Preliminary note on the ecology of Calcinus verrilli, an endemic Bermuda hermit crab occupying attached vermetid shells
Authors: Markham John C.
Published: August 2009

Calcinus verrilli (Rathbun), evidently the only species of hermit crab endemic to Bermuda, frequently occupies vermetid gastropod shells which are cemented fast to offshore reefs and the bottoms of shallow tidepools. This choice of shells poses several interesting ecological problems for the hermit crabs.
House morphology and mechanisms of feeding in the Oikopleuridae (Tunicata, Appendicularia)
Authors: Alldredge Alice L.
Published: August 2009

The house morphology and feeding behaviour of seven species of appendicularians was observed and photographed in the field. Details of house morphology varied greatly among species. New information on the pattern of water flow through the house and on mechanisms of food collection are presented. Flow rates through the house, ranging from 36 to 1400 ml/hour, may result in substantial depletion of phytoplankton locally.
Locomotion in the Coleoptera Adephaga, especially Carabidae
Authors: Evans M. E. G.
Published: August 2009

This study considers leg structure and function in the Adephaga (Caraboidea). Many ground beetles are known to be rapid runners but does this habit account for all the characteristic features of their leg structure? To answer this question, the gaits of several terrestrial Adephagan and Polyphagan beetles have been described briefly; it was concluded that they are fundamentally similar. Thus the peculiar hind legs of Adephaga (with their greatly restricted coxal angle of swing) are not specifically suited to a running habit, but are adapted for pushing. Four basic modifications for pushing have been described in the foreleg ofCarabus problematicus.The particular type of pushing was apparent when the functions of its hind leg were considered. The enlarged metatrochanter contains a strong femoral rotator muscle which forces the hind tarsus vertically downwards (and the hindbody upwards). This movement is a necessary part of wedge‐pushing, where the wedge‐shaped head and prothorax are pushed forwards and the hindbody–the back of the wedge–is oscillated vertically to enlarge the horizontal crevice. The slightly movable metacoxa is part of the antagonistic mechanism of femoral counter‐rotation, in which an ingenious lever action swings up the hind legs (and so depresses the hindbody).

The most profound locomotory changes in the Adephaga reflect swimming adaptations. These have involved changes in the pro‐ and mesocoxal articulations, and the immobilization of the metacoxae.Trachypachusis particularly interesting, as it is a terrestrial Caraboid with immobilized metacoxae. The terrestrial Adephaga (mainly Carabidae) can be divided into two basic groups with divergent habits (if specialist burrowers, etc. are excluded). These groups (which merge) are the strong wedge‐pushers/poorer runners with relatively large metatrochanters, and the fast runners/poorer wedge‐pushers with smaller trochanters. Experimental evidence for this separation includes estimates of running speeds and the vertical forces exerted by the hind legs of several species during wedge‐pushing.
Observations on rhinoceros tongue morphology
Authors: Cave A. J. E.
Published: August 2009

The rhinoceros tongue is distinguished among perissodactyl organs by its sagittally divided intermolar eminence crowned by a dextral and a sinistral cluster of circumvallate papillae. These structures were originally noted in the Indian rhinoceros by Owen (1852) but have since remained unmentioned for this, or for any other rhinoceros form. They are here described for specimens of the Indian, African White and African Black rhinoceroses. The structural and functional nature of the intermolar eminence is established and this entity is distinguished from an hitherto unrecognized topographical component of the tongue, designated the pars elliptica linguae. The lingual morphology of the three rhinoceros forms is summarised and certain intergeneric differences are noted.
Bioluminescence in an evermannellid fish
Authors: Herring Peter J.
Published: August 2009

Bioluminescence is reported from the evermannellid fish Coccorella atrata (Alcock). Light is emitted ventrally from three regions of the intestine and along the length of the pyloric caecum. The structure of the mucosal epithelium in these regions is described.
Occurrence of microtubules during erythropoiesis in Llama, Lama glama
Authors: Goniakowska‐witalińska L. , Witaliński W.
Published: August 2009

Studies on the ellipsoid erythroblasts of Llama, L a m gluma, L. during erythropoiesis showed the appearance of the marginal band composed of approximately 29 microtubules. As the maturation of erythrocytes goes on, the number of marginal band microtubules diminishes. No microtubules were found in mature erythrocytes of Llama.
Spirorbidae (Polychaeta) collected by R. V. “Vitjas” from abyssal depths of the Pacific Ocean
Authors: Bailey‐Brock Julie H. , Knight‐Jones Phyllis
Published: August 2009

Pileolaria levensteinae sp. nov. was represented by juvenile and presumably adult stages, attached to ferromanganese substrata. None bore embryos, but the larger individuals had deep opercular cups and the species is closely related to certain shallow water forms which incubate in such cups. A second species was dextrally coiling but represented by a single fragment too small to describe. Spirorbids would appear to be preadapted for abyssal life, by having a brief, lecithotrophic larval stage.