bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Influences on the Movements of Bush Rats, Rattus fuscipes, in an Artifical Environment
Authors: Stewart AP , Barnett SA
Published: June 2005

Australian bush rats, Rattus fuscipes, were observed singly, each in an artificial environment (a plusmaze)
consisting of a central nest box with four arms radiating from it. One arm contained food,
one water, and the others were empty. Movements were recorded automatically. Each maze was kept at
a constant ambient temperature of about 22�C. Before testing, rats of group I were housed in a room
also at 22�C, with lighting altered to match seasonal changes; rats of group II were kept in natural
conditions of temperature and light, but under cover. Both groups made fewer visits to the empty
arms, and spent less time in them, in winter than in summer; but the rats of group I1 made more
visits to the empty arms, in both seasons, than did those of group I. Most visits to the arms were
brief. Long visits to food or water were followed by a series of short visits to the arms. In summer,
first short visits after eating or drinking were often to the empty arm ('exploration'); but in winter
they were more often to the food or water arms ('foraging'). It is suggested that the change in pattern
of movement between seasons represents the development of a new habit, as part of adaptation to
change of temperature, and that the habit is retained for some time in a constant, warm environment.
The Genera Oxyethira Eaton, Gnathotrichia Ulmer and Stemoxyethira Kimmins (Trichoptera:Hydroptilidae) in Australia
Authors: Wells A
Published: June 2005

The number of non-endemic genera in the Australian Hydroptilidae is raised to five with the recognition
of Oxyethira Eaton, in which four new species are described, and the referral of species to Gnathotrichia
Ulmer and Stenoxyethira Eaton. The discovery of Gnathotrichia and Stenoxyethira is significant as
evidence of Oriental affinities within the Australian Hydroptilidae; their taxonomic status is examined.
A key to males of Australian Oxyethira is provided.
The Protonephridial System of Temnocephala novaezealandiae: Structure of the Flame Cells and Main Vessels.
Authors: Williams JB
Published: June 2005

The terminal organ of the protonephridial apparatus (flame cell) of Temnocephala novaezealandiae is a cyrtocyte with processes supported by a single cylinder of long, dense rods. The rods are microtubule aggregates. The processes are linked by extracellular filaments, and are continuous with radial extensions correlated with the formation of a fluid-filled extracellular space. The axial microtubules of the luminal flame cilia occupy parallel planes. The flame cell cilium is compared with the non-motile cilium of the epidermal sensory tufts. The main protonephridial vessels are composed of epithelial cells honeycombed by tubular infoldings of the basal plasmalemma associated with many mitochondria. The probable significance of the protonephridial apparatus in osmoregulation and ionic regulation is discussed. [AS]
Prenatal Development after Diapause in the Marsupial Macropus rufogriseus
Authors: Walker MT , Rose R
Published: June 2005

Prenatal development of Macropus rufogriseus was described in eight stages ranging from a quiescent
blastocyst to a near-term foetus. Embryos and corpora lutea were induced to resume development
after diapause by the removal of suckling pouch young (RPY). The diameter of unilaminar blastocysts
ranged from approximately 260 �m at 0 days after RPY to 290 �m after 6 days. At 9 days after RPY
(330 �m diameter) the zona pellucida and mucoid coat were apparently absent and endoderm had
proliferated (early bilaminar). At 15 days, mesoderm had formed in the trilaminar blastocyst (4.8 mm
diameter). By 18 days after RPY the shell membrane had ruptured and was 3.0 �m in thickness (7.0
pm at 0 days after RPY). At this time the pre-foetal embryo had acquired forelimb ridges, mesonephric
kidneys, optic stalks and 25 paired somites; persistent features included an amniopore, posterior
neuropore and an intact stomodeal membrane; the lung buds and allantois were rudimentary; cervical,
lumbosacral and cranial flexures were present. By 20 days after RPY, digital anlagen were noted in
the forelimb paddles of the pre-foetal embryo (32 paired somites); the gonadal ridges; glomeruli and
optic cups had formed. At 25 days after RPY, the near-term foetus had forelimbs with claws on the
separate digits, hindlimb paddles, pontine flexure and cardiac valves; the metanephric kidneys, pigmented
and nervous retinas and villous intestine were present. A single birth was recorded at 26 days
after RPY (delayed gestation length).
Testicular Descent in the Marsupial Trichosurus vulpecula (Kerr)
Authors: Turnbull KE , Mattner PE , Hughes RL
Published: June 2005

In T. vulpecula testicular descent is not completed until the 10th week of pouch life. The testes are
abdominal in position during the first 2 weeks and inguinal from the 3rd to the 8th week inclusive.
The final or scrotal stage of descent requires a further 2 weeks. The left testis descends slightly before
the right.
In advance of the testis. the saccus vaginalis penetrates the transversis muscle and subsequently
the aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle to become subcutaneous in location. During passage
of the testis into the canal provided by the saccus. the testis undergoes a ventrolateral rotation about
its longitudinal axis through an angle of about 90�. Upon entry into the scrotum. the testis rotates
in a reverse direction through at least 180�. This results in the testis becoming enfolded, around its
lateral aspect, by the elongated mesorchium.
Genetical Relationships among Australian Rodents (Muridae)
Authors: Baverstock PR , Watts CHS , Adams M , Cole SR
Published: June 2005

A total of 168 specimens of 38 species of Australian native murid rodents and three species of nonnative
rodents were screened electrophoretically at 20 loci. Genetic and phylogenetic relationships among
species were assessed by means of Average Linkage Cluster and Wagner Analysis respectively. The
major conclusions of the analysis are: the genera Melomys, Leggadina, Zyzomys, Notomys and Rattus
ire each monophyletic, at least for the species we had; the genus Pseudomys is largely monophyletic;
although it may be paraphyletic with respect to Mastacomys and Leporillus; the genus Pseudomys is
nevertheless a genetically diverse group consisting of at least four groups, none of which correspond
to the earlier genera Gyomys and Thetomys; the 'Old Endemics', the water rats, and the Uromys-
Melomys groups are genetically more similar to each other than any is to Rattus. Within Rattus, the
following groupings emerge: R. sordidus, R. colletti and R. villosissimus: R. t. tunneyi and R. t. culmorum;
R. l. leucopus and R. l. cooktownensis; R. fuscipes coracius, R. f: assimilis and R. f. greyii.
Retinal Projections in the Hairy-Nosed Wombat, Lasiorhinus latifrons (Marsupialia : Vombatidae)
Authors: Sanderson KJ , Pearson LJ
Published: June 2005

Optic nerve projections were studied in one hairy-nosed wombat. Primary optic centres were mapped
by observing the distribution of autoradiographic label in the brain following injection of one eye with
3H-leucine. Retinal fibres terminate in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus, ventral lateral geniculate
nucleus, lateral posterior nucleus, pretectum, superior colliculus, suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus
and the accessory optic system. Lasiorhinus is unusual among marsupials, because the accessory
optic system receives a bilateral projection from the retina, and there is considerable overlap of
the retinal fibres from the two eyes in the superior colliculus. The dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus
(LGNd) has at least three cell layers and receives eight layers of retinal input. Layers 1, 3, 5, 6 and
8 receive ipsilateral retinal fibres and layers 2, 4 and 7 receive contralateral retinal fibres. The lamination
of the LGNd is thus as complex as that in the possums and kangaroos, and the data does not support
the hypothesis that there is a simple relationship between the lamination pattern of the LGNd and the
visual behaviour of each animal. The monocular segment of the LGNd in Lasiorhinus is about twice
that of the binocular segment; the large size of the monocular segment correlates well with the lateral
position of the eyes, which have a large lateral monocular field of vision for each eye and a small
frontal binocular field of view.
Egg and Larval Development in the Woodwasp, Sirex Noctilio F.
Authors: Madden JL
Published: June 2005

Development and survival of the immature stages of Sirex noctilio F. are dependent on active growth of the symbiotic fungus Amylostereum areolatum. In laboratory and field studies in Tasmania, suppression of fungal growth by excess moisture or temperature prolonged embryogenesis so that eclosion might be delayed until 300 days after oviposition in the base of some attacked trees (Pinus radiata), as compared with 15-30 days in warmer and drier tops of the same trees. Enhanced respiratory activity of the fungus might trigger egg development, for eggs exposed to carbon dioxide matured more rapidly than those exposed to air. Pure oxygen and nitrogen were not toxic to the eggs, and surface treatment with dilute ethanol delayed development. The development of the egg of Sirex is described for the first time. The larvae fed on fungus-infested wood; the conversion ratio of larval weight change to weight of wood displaced per instar decreased with successive instars. This reduction resulted from the progressive decline of fungal food substrate and overall moisture content. The ultimate size of adults of S. noctilio was determined by conditions that favoured fungal growth, and the fungus transported nitrogen through the wood to the feeding larvae.
Development, Longevity and Fecundity of the False Wireworms Pterohelaeus Darlingensis and P. Alternatus (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). I. Effect of Constant Temperature.
Authors: Allsopp PG
Published: June 2005

All stages of P. darlingensis and P, alternatus were reared on wheat sprouts under constant temperatures
ranging from 11.1 to 37.5�C. Eggs and larvae of both species developed between 15.8 and 33.1�C.
Threshold temperatures for P. darlingensis and P. alternatus eggs were 13.8�C and 13.2�C respectively;
77.6 and 81.5 day-degrees above the threshold, respectively, were required for development. Larvae
required 676.6 day-degrees above a threshold of 14.6�C, and 636.3 day-degrees above a threshold
of 16.8�C, for development. Pupae developed between 11.1 and 37.5�C. P. darlingensis requiring
138.9 day-degrees above l3.6"C and P. alternatus 146.2 day-degrees above 13.4�C. Weekly fecundity
and survival of adults were monitored; the optimal temperature for ovarian development was approximately
24.4�C. Survival of both sexes was similar at each temperature but longevity generally increased
with decreasing temperatures. Parameters describing the biotic potential of both species were calculated;
the capacities for increase were optimal at 28.6�C. The applicability of linear and curvilinear models
for simulating development rates is discussed.
Longevity, Resource Utilization and Larval Preferences in Drosophila: Inter- and Intraspecific Variation.
Authors: Parsons PA , Spence GE
Published: June 2005

On the basis of life-span, the threshold ranking at which ethanol and acetic acid ceased to be resources and became stresses for 3 sympatric, cosmopolitan Drosophila species was: D. melanogaster Mg. > D. simulans Sturt. > D. immigrans Sturt. The threshold ranking between larval attraction and avoidance followed the same sequence. An Adh-null mutant of D. melanogaster utilised ethanol to an extremely low threshold, while acetic acid was utilised to a threshold close to that of the D. melanogaster population; this predictable result was paralleled by larval attraction to acetic acid but not ethanol. It can therefore be concluded that there is an association between biochemical and behavioural phenotypes relating to resources commonly available in nature. Acetic acid acts as an attractant to larvae of all species at concentrations down to 1/1000 of the concentrations of ethanol attracting flies, which suggests that acetic acid may be a resource recognition compound, as well as a food resource.
A revision of the Australian Nymphidae (Insecta: Neuroptera)
Authors: New TR
Published: June 2005

The Australian Nymphidae (s.l.) are revised, and keys and illustrations provided to aid separation of
all genera and species. Of 20 species recognized (in seven genera), four (Nymphes. three; Myiodactylus,
one) are described as new. Myiodactylus nebulosus McLachlan. described from New Guinea, is tentatively
recorded from Australia for the first time, and two species of Osmylops raised by Navas are
subjectively synonymized: schraderi with sejunctus (Walker) and hulstaerti with armatus
(McLachlan).
Activity Rhythms in the Marsupials Isoodon macrourus and Perameles nasuta in Captivity
Authors: Lyne AG
Published: June 2005

Exercise wheels and closed-circuit television were used to record the activity rhythms of 34 1. macrourus
and 32 P, nasuta (1) outdoors; (2) indoors with natural light; (3) indoors with artificial light in which
the phases of night and day were normal; (4) same as (3) but with the phases of night and day reversed;
(5) continuous dark; (6) continuous light. In tests (3)-(6) a faint red light was on continuously. These
tests were made on animals caged singly or in pairs and lasted for periods of from 8 to 357 days.
When a male and a female of different body weights were tested together, the animal using the wheel
was identified by its weight.
Five I. macrourus and 23 P. nasuta exposed to normal phases of night and day were active mainly
during the dark periods. The daily activity pattern varied considerably but was fairly constant for
individuals. When the phases of night and day were reversed, the animals continued to be active during
the dark periods and, in many of them, the pattern of activity was similar to that under normal phases
of night and day. They were, therefore, entrained to the artificial lighting system. However, in 17
out of 31 P. nasuta and 5 out of 31 1. macrourus exposed to reversed lighting conditions, activity started
later each day. When the trigger for exercise began to fall close to the beginning of a light period,
no activity was taken; the animals did not run in the wheel or take other exercise for 2-5 days, feeding
and drinking were greatly reduced and some animals did not leave the nest box for 1-2 days. After
this pause, exercise began again at the beginning of a dark period.
In 10 I. macrourus exposed to continuous dark the period of the endogenous rhythm was either
more than or less than 24 h, and in continuous light (four animals), the wheel-running activity was
greatly reduced.
Ecology of Northern Australian Dacinae (Diptera: Tephritidae) II*. Seasonla Fluctuations in Trap Catches of Dacus opiliae and D. tenuifascia, and their Relationship to Host Phenology and Climatic Factors
Authors: Fitt GP
Published: June 2005

Changes in trap catches of male Dacus opiliae Drew & Hardy were studied in northern Australia by
use of permanently maintained groups of Steiner traps baited with methyl eugenol, an attractant for
males of this species. D. opiliae, which is monophagous on a wet-season host species, was common
in traps from October to February (wet season) and rare for the remamder of the year. In a second
species, D. tenuifascia (May), which is monophagous on a dry-season host, trap catches peaked during
the period from August to October after commencement of host fruit production. D. tenuifascia was
not absent from traps at any time of the year. Temporal aspects of the seasonal fluctuations of trap
catches of D. opiliae could not be explained solely on the basis of increases due to reproduction. Other
features, such as the disappearance of D. opiliae from mainland traps during the dry season, were
also difficult to explain. It is concluded that changing dispersive behaviour and variable lure response
of males. both controlled by environmental variables, may have strongly influenced the observed
fluctuations.
Drosophilidae (Insecta: Diptera) of Three Torres Strait Islands, With Description of a New Species of Drosophila.
Authors: Mcevey SF
Published: June 2005

Drosophilidae were collected from three Torres Strait islands: Thursday, Moa and Mount Adolphus.
A total of 17 species of the six genera Drosophila, Mycodrosophila, Lissocephala, Sphaerogastrella,
Microdrosophila and Leucophenga were collected, the largest island having the most diverse fauna. The
new Torres Strait records given here extend the known distributions of several Australian species and
link the ranges of other species found in Australia with south-east Asian records. A new species of
the subgenus Scaptodrosophila, Drosophila moana, is described. An unidentified taxon of the south-east
Asian nmuta subgroup, possessing entire frontal pollinosity, is also recorded.
The Psocidae (Insecta:Psocoptera) of New Guinea, including a New Coleopteriform Genus from High on Mount Wilhelm
Authors: Smithers CN , Thornton IWB
Published: June 2005

Twenty-four species of the family Psocidae (Psocoptera) are listed for New Guinea; four new genera
and 19 new species are described and keys to genera and species provided. One of the new genera,
Elytropsocus, is coleopteriform and flightless and has only been found above 3000 m on Mt Wilhelm.
Australian Anthomyiidae (Diptera).
Authors: Colless DH
Published: June 2005

The Australian fauna includes nine known species of Anthomyiidae: four of Anthomyia, two of Delia, and one each of Craspedochoeta, Paregle, and Fucellia. Of the last five, four are accidental introductions, as is one of the Anthomyia, and the fifth (D. urbana Malloch) may well be another. In addition, two species of Pegohylemyia were deliberately introduced, apparently without establishment, and another, New Guinean, species of Anthomyia might possibly occur in northern areas. The species are reviewed and a key given for their identification. Two of the Anthomyia are described as new.
The Litoria ewingi Complex (Anura : Hylidae) in South-Eastern Australia VI.* Geographic Variation in Transferrins of Four Taxa
Authors: Gartside DF
Published: June 2005

Transfenins are highly polymorphic in taxa of the L, ewingi complex. Nine transferrins with different electrophoretic mobilities occur in L. ewingi, and four in each of the other taxa studied. Populations of L. paraewingi are relatively similar for transferrin, but in L, ewingi, L. v. verreauxi and L. v. alpina there is geographic differentiation of transferrins across the range. In L. ewingi, four areas can be recognized on the basis of transferrin composition of populations and by changes in transferrin gene frequencies. In L. v. verreauxi, two areas can be recognized: a western area in which populations are monomorphic for transferrin, and an eastern and northern area in which populations are polymorphic. Two areas are recognized in L. v. alpina. Individuals from two geographic isolates have a 'fixed heterozygote' transferrin phenotype; population samples from the remainder of the range are polymorphic, but the fixed heterozygote phenotype does not occur there. Geographic isolation of L. ewingi in Flinders I. and King I. and in Tasmania for more than 9000 y has not resulted in marked differences in the transferrin compositions of these populations compared with those from the southern mainland.
Morphological Observations on the Leukocytes of the Koala, Phascolarctos cinereus (Goldfuss)
Authors: Canfield PJ , Dickens RK
Published: June 2005

Leukocytes from four mature koalas in good condition were examined with the light microscope (LM) and the transmission electron microscope (TEM). At the LM level, the leukocytes had morphological features similar to leukocytes of other marsupials and man. At the TEM level, the nuclear and cytoplasmic features of the leukocytes were compared to those of the leukocytes of man, and were found to be similar.
Development, Longevity and Fecundity of the False Wireworms Pterohelaeus Darlingensis and P. Alternatus (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Ii. Effect of Food Type.
Authors: Allsopp PG
Published: June 2005

Pterohelaeus darlingensis Carter and P. alternatus Pasc. were reared under constant temperatures on 10 different foods in the laboratory in Australia. In P. darlingensis, wheat, barley and sorghum resulted in the shortest larval development periods, longest pupal periods and lowest pre-imaginal mortality. Egg-laying rates were highest on wheat, barley and maize and lowest on oats and soyabean. No females were produced after feeding on wheat straw, and no eggs were laid after feeding on linseed and turnip weed. Only wheat, barley, maize and sorghum (in descending order) allowed an increase in population. In P. alternatus, wheat, sorghum and barley resulted in the shortest pre-imaginal development with the least mortality. Egg-laying rates were highest on wheat, maize and sorghum and lowest on barley and oats. No eggs were laid by females fed on linseed. Wheat, sorghum, maize, sunflower, barley and soyabean allowed a positive population growth. These results are discussed in relation to control of the tenebrionids by crop rotation.
The Caddis-Flies (Trichoptera) of South -Western Australia
Authors: Neboiss A
Published: June 2005

The caddis-flies of south-western Australia, the western section of Bassian province, have been examined; 48 species in nine families are recorded, descriptions of 24 new species are given and one species is synonymized; 79% of the species appear to be endemic. Only three families of the superfamily Limnephiloidea are recorded compared with 16 in the eastern section of the Bassian province. The Ecnomus continentalis species complex is briefly discussed, the lectotype male of Ecnomus continentalis is designated, figured and redefined; three new species, including one from eastern Australia, are described.
An Ultrastructural Study of the Distal Epidermis and the Occurrence of Subcuticular Bacteria in the Gutless Tubificid Phallodrilus Albidus (Oligochaeta:Annelida).
Authors: Richards KS , Fleming TP , Jamieson BGM
Published: June 2005

The typically annelid cuticle of Phallodrilus albidus has an increased population density of epicuticular projections, but this is not thought to be related to its gutless condition. The irregular outline of the apical membrane of the epidermal cells is an inherent feature, possibly enhancing an absorptive function. The cuticle-epidermal interface is characterized by multigranular bodies, rod-shaped bacteria and filiform structures. The multigranular bodies are present in the postclitellar region only, coinciding with the chalkiness of living specimens. The bacteria occur throughout the entire length of the worm, their presence exaggerating the irregularities of the apical membrane. The bacterial cytoplasmic membrane, in contrast to the limiting membrane, was difficult to resolve. Between the two membranes is an amorphous zone. Storage granules of a carbohydrate-rich complex are located peripherally and the bacterial core contains a reticulum of DNA threads. Filiform structures, ultrastructurally similar to the bacterial peripheral region, are numerous, especially where the bacteria are carbohydrate-rich. Connections with the bacterial bodies were observed, but infrequently. The non-pathologic association between the subcuticular bacteria and the gutless tubificid is discussed.
Performance of the Cabbage Aphid, Brevicoryne Brassicae (L.), On Water-Stressed Rape Plants, in Relation to Changes in Their Chemical Composition.
Authors: Miles PW , Aspinall D , Rosenberg L
Published: June 2005

Lack of water increases the total amino acid content of the leaves and phloem sap of rape plants. The concentration of proline, in particular, increases and is strongly negatively correlated with relative water content. Lack of water also causes a decrease in total carbohydrates, but appears to have no significant effect on total phenolics. Water stress increases the rate of development of aphids born on the plant. but as stress becomes pronounced, the insects become restless. No consistent effect on fecundity was observed, and survival was very high, regardless of water-regime, up to the time the plants became so wilted as to be rejected by the insects.
The Identity of the Dingo II.* Hybridization with Domestic Dogs in Captivity and in the Wild
Authors: Newsome AE , Corbett LK
Published: June 2005

The possibility that wild canids in south-eastern Australia were hybrids of Canis familiaris dingo and C.f.
familiaris was examined by breeding known hybrids in captivity and comparing eight skull measurements
in canonical analyses. The resulting distribution of the known hybrids was mainly intermediate to but
overlapping those of the calibrating samples of dingoes and dogs whose distributions were separate. The
distribution of the unknown wild canids closely resemblzd that of the known hybrids. An extra sample of
wild dingoes resembled the calibrating dingoes. Comparisons with 95% population confidence limits of
calibrating samples classified 12% of unknowns as dogs. 52% as hybrids and 36% as dingoes. The
similarities of known hybrids and wild unknowns resulted from different assemblages of skull characters,
but the two prime characters in the discrimination, bulla volume and alveolar distance of PI to P,, were
commonly reduced in size in both groups. Maxillary width was dog-like in the unknowns but dingo-like
in known hybrids. In the latter. increase in domestic dog ancestry caused an increase in the rate of change
of skull morphology; but even so small an ancestry as 0.125-0.25 domestic dog caused marked changes
compared with the eight parental dingoes. There was also evidence of skull changes due to the
domestication process. The most indicative was foreshortening of the alveolar distance from P*1 to P*4
found in 34 of the 41 known hybrids and in four of the eight parental dingoes. There was no evidence for
inheritance of the trait.
Studies on the Epidermis of Temnocephala Vi. Epidermal Topography of T. Novaezealandiae and Other Australasian Temnocephalids, With Notes on Microvillar and Coated Vesicle Function and the Evolution of a Cuticle.
Authors: Williams JB
Published: June 2005

The surface of T. novaezealandiae is subdivided by a system of grooves marking interepithelial boundaries of the epidermis. Elongated cilia occur in association with clusters of uniciliate receptors on the tentacles and body. The conspicuous mass of very long cilia characteristic of the ventral surface of T. dendyi and T. minor is lacking in T. novaezealandiae. A pair of ridges marks the lateral borders of T. novaezealandiae, and a peripheral ridge outlines the attachment disc. The dorsal epidermis shows an intricate surface geometry. Fine thread-like structures overlie the epidermal surface, a feature which may parallel early stages of cuticle development. During the evolution of a cuticle among annelids, an epidermal microvillar fringe is often lost, but epicuticular fragments representing microvillar distal segments are retained and function to stabilize a mucoid coat. The microvilli of coated epithelia probably have a similar function, and the microvillar tips represent a layer of hemidesmosomes raised above the epithelial surface. Coated vesicles are evidently involved in the formation of desmosomal structures, including microvillar tips. [AS]
Salt Gland Secretion in Saline-Acclimated Chestnut Teal, and its Relevance to Release Programs
Authors: Baudinette RV , Norman FI , Roberts J
Published: June 2005

Chestnut teal were raised on increasing concentrations of sodium chloride in their drinking and bathing water, and the response to an intravenous salt load compared with that of animals maintained on fresh water. The salt-raised birds had lower body weights, larger nasal glands and higher plasma osmotic and sodium levels than control animals. After infusion of sodium chloride, the rate of salt gland secretion was similar in the two groups, but the salt-acclimated animals produced higher concentrations. These birds also were superior in their ability to concentrate urine. Although acclimation to salt water does induce changes in chestnut teal, they remain inferior to truly marine birds in their ability to handle salt. Their observed feeding in saline environments, and their release into such areas, probably rely on access to fresh water.
Echolocation Calls and Patterns of Hunting and Habitiat Use of Bats (Microchiroptera) from Chillagoe, North Queensland
Authors: Fenton MB
Published: June 2005

The search phase echolocation calls of 12 species of microchiropteran bats were studied in the vicinity of Chillagoe. Different species were recognizable by their calls, and differences in patterns of change in frequency over time. frequencies, and call durations were useful in identifying bats in the field. Some species (Nyctophilus bifax, Hipposideros diadema, and Rhinolophus megaphyllus) made short flights from perches to intercept flying insects. while others flew continuously while hunting, reacting to targets at short (c. 1m; Eptesicus pumilus, Nycticeius balstoni) or long (over 2 m; Chalinolobus nigrogriseus, Taphozous georgiunus, the two molossids) range. By sampling echolocation calls it was possible to obtain some measure of habitat use by different species. The results are compared to data from sites in North America and Africa.
An Analysis of Geographic Variation of the Adults of the Australian Genus Diphlebia Selys (Odonata: Amphipterygidae
Authors: Stewart WE
Published: June 2005

Geographic variation of metric characters was studied in both sexes of all taxa of the genus Diphlebia (except D, hybridoides). Analyses indicated that: variation was greater between localities than between years for 3 years' data for D. lestoides tillyardi; geographic trends for most characters were similar for both sexes of a taxon; size increased with altitude for most taxa. In two taxa, a few characters showed a decrease in size towards cooler latitudes, but in other taxa, apparent trends with latitude could be associated with discontinuities in distribution or with changes in altitude. The taxa were subjectively divided into groups of similar-looking animals and comparisons were made within each major group. Data for D. lestoides lestoides and D.l. tillyardi were analysed by means of a clustering program using both metric and non-metric characters. The resulting dendrograms showed clustering of males into four but females into fewer distinct groups.
Echolocation and Feeding Behaviour of Myotis Adversus (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae).
Authors: Thompson D , Fenton MB
Published: June 2005

The echolocation calls of Myotis adversus hunting in the field over water were recorded. analysed and described. The pattern of frequency change over time in the search-phase calls is distinct from that in the calls of other species of Myotis or other echolocating bats studied to date.
Communal Nesting in the Digger Wasp Cerceris australis (Hymenoptera : Sphecidae)
Authors: Evans HE , Hook AW
Published: June 2005

Study of 39 nests of Cerceris australis at nine localities in eastern Australia has demonstrated that most nests are occupied by two or three successive generations of wasps and may ultimately contain well over 100 cells. Nests are dug deep in the soil and are provisioned with scarab beetles, which are allowed to accumulate in the burrow before from two to six are placed in a cell. Nests are usually occupied by several females, some of which are provisioners, bringing in beetles day after day and each time leaving the nest usually after only a few seconds, and others are non-provisioners, leaving the nest for a short period once a day and returning without prey. During the day, nest entrances are occupied by females (believed to be usually non-provisioners) stationed facing out; they are effective in deterring the entry of ants and mutillids.
The factors that determine what role a female will play remain obscure. Both provisioners and non-provisioners show progressive mandibular wear as well as essentially similar ovarian development; there are no consistent differences in body size between members of the two groups. In any one nest, considerable variation in the appearance of the ovaries is apparent, and oosorption appears to be common. More than one female often appears to be in egg-laying condition, and the fact that cooperating provisioners bring in enough beetles each day to provision several cells suggests that more than one female lays an egg each day. However, the presence of oocytes in various stages of resorption suggests that in some individuals oviposition is suppressed. No correlation was found between extent of oosorption and the provisioner-nonprovisioner dichotomy. The necessity to guard these large, multicellular nests from parasitoids and predators has evidently brought about selection for the development of a caste of guards which, however, continue to play a role in nest construction and presumably in laying eggs on beetles provided by other females.
Development, Longevity and Fecundity of the False Wireworms Pterohelaeus Darlingensis and P. Alternatus (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) Iii. Interspecific Hybridization.
Authors: Allsopp PG
Published: June 2005

In attempts to hybridise the polyphagous pests in Australia Pterohelaeus darlingensis Carter (D) and P. alternatus Pasc. (A), all eggs produced from matings of A females with D males were infertile. Some eggs in the D X A crosses hatched, producing adults similar to P. alternatus. These were fertile when backcrossed to each parent species and in F1 X F1 crosses. All the resultant F1 X A, A X F1 and F2 adults resembled P. alternatus, but like the F1 had different larval and pupal periods and, in A X F1, different larval and pupal survival from P. alternatus. In the D X F1 and F1 X D crosses, 68 and 74%, respectively, of the resultant adults appeared to be P. alternatus; the remainder were similar to P. darlingensis. There were differences in the development periods and survival rates from those of the parents.
The Reptilian Relationships of Archaeopteryx
Authors: Thulborn RA , Hamley TL
Published: June 2005

This paper presents a review and a re-examination of hypotheses concerning the reptilian relationships of Archaeopteryx-commonly regarded as the earliest known bird. Seven hypotheses are examined; of these only one (the hypotheses that Archaeopteryx is related to theropod dinosaurs) is considered to be supported by a substantial body of positive and objective evidence.
The Drosophilidae (Diptera) of Iron Range, Queensland.
Authors: Mcevey SF , Bock IR
Published: June 2005

A collection made in the rainforests of Iron Range. far north Queensland, in May 1981 yielded 54 species of Drosophilidae in the genera Drosophila (34 species, six described as new; first Australian record for D. menisigra Bachli), Liodrosophila (three species). Sphaerogastrella (one species), Zygothrica (one species), Nesiodrosophila (two species, both new). Microdrosophila (three species), Mycodrosophila (seven species, three new), Paramycodrosophila (one new species) and Leucophenga (two species). Seventy-six described species of Drosophilidae have now been recorded at Iron Range, and several further species are known to exist; a key to these species is provided. The 12 new species described in this paper bring the Australian drosophilid total to 234.
Australian Pheretimoid Earthworms (Megascolecidae:Oligochaeta): a Synopsis With the Description of a New Genus and Five New Genera.
Authors: Easton EG
Published: June 2005

Examination of new earthworm material from Cape York Peninsula, Queensland, revealed the presence of five new species (one with two subspecies) of the Pheretima group of genera, family Megascolecidae. A new genus, Begemius, is erected to contain the new taxa (B. gavini, jamiesoni jamiesoni, j. hornensis, lockerbiensis, raveni and yorkensis), also the species cyclops, monoperus and queenslandicus which were previously accommodated in the genus Amynthas. A key is provided to the eight species in the genus and the Australian members are described. Other new pheretimoid material from Northern Territory, Queensland, Western Australia and New South Wales consists of allochthonous species only, representing new locality records and including four species, Amynthas gracilis, A. morrisi, Metaphire bahli and Pithemera bicincta, new to the Australian list. These species and the other eight allochthonous species of the Pheretima group reported from Australia, Amynthas corticis, A. minimus, A. rodericensis, Metaphire californica, M. houletti, Pheretima darnleiensis, Polypheretima elongata and P. taprobanae are reviewed, each is diagnosed and a key is provided for their identification.
Energy Requirements and Water Turnover in Free-Living Leadbeater's Possums, Gymnobelideus Leadbeateri (Marsupialia: Petauridae).
Authors: Smith AP , Nagy KA , Fleming MR , Green B
Published: June 2005

The field metabolic rate (FMC) and water turnover rate of free-living Leadbeater's possums (Gymnobelideus leadbeateri) was estimated by means of doubly labelled water. This information was combined with field estimations of daily activity, and laboratory estimations of basal metabolism, to formulate daily energy budget. Possums emerged from their nest at dusk, but returned to them periodically throughout the night. An estimated 17.7 h of the day was spent in the nest at a total energy cost of 29 kJ (13% of FMR). Of the total 197 kJ expended during the 6.3-h active period, 10 kJ (4% of FMR) was attributable to maintenance costs, 23 kJ (10% of FMR) to thermoregulation, and 165 kJ (73% of FMR) to activity and specific dynamic action. The apparently high cost of activity is consistent with the dispersed nature of the possums' food supply and their well developed, territorial social system. Water turnover rates varied with season, sex and rainfall. Water shortage at certain periods of year may restrict exploitation of some food items (dehydrated plant exudates).
Studies on the Nutrition of Macropodine Marsupials. 3. The Flow of Digesta Through the Stomach and Intestine of Macropodines and Sheep.
Authors: Dellow DW
Published: June 2005

3. The two markers 51chromium EDTA and 103ruthenium were used to examine and compare digesta flow in the eastern grey kangaroo (Macropus giganteus), the red-necked pademelon (Thylogale thetis), the tammar wallaby (M. eugenii), the eastern wallaroo (M. robustus robustus) and in sheep fed on chopped lucerne hay, and in T. thetis and M. eugenii fed on fresh grass (Phalaris aquatica). The markers were also used to define the kinetics of digesta flow in the intestine, and to estimate the flow of fluid and DM through defined regions of the stomach and intestines of T. thetis and M. eugenii fed on the lucerne diet. The pattern of digesta flow and the degree of differential flow of the 2 markers observed in the macropodines differed markedly from those in sheep and were attributed solely to the mode of transport through the elongated stomach. In the macropodines it was apparent that total mixing of forestomach contents did not occur; rather, digesta flowed slowly along the tubiform forestomach. The relationship of this mode of transport, defined as tubular flow, to stomach structure, and the possible effects on digestion in the forestomach, are discussed.
Studies on the Nutrition of Macropodine Marsupials. 4. Digestion in the Stomach and the Intestine of Macropus Giganteus, Thylogale Thetis and Macropus Eugenii.
Authors: Dellow DW , Hume ID
Published: June 2005

4. Digestion in the stomach, small intestine and large intestine of the red-necked pademelon (Thylogale thetis), the tammar wallaby (Macropus eugenii) and the eastern grey kangaroo (M. giganteus) fed on chopped lucerne hay freely was estimated in a slaughter experiment by reference to chromic sesquioxide added to the diet. Concentrations of volatile fatty acids and ammonia, and pH, indicated that microbial activity in the forestomach and large intestine (caecum and proximal colon) was extensive. In all 3 species virtually all of the soluble carbohydrate, 17% of apparently digestible crude protein, 62 to 65% of apparently digestible organic matter and 82 to 85% of digestible acid-detergent fibre were digested in the forestomach. There was a progressive loss of dietary substrates along the length of the forestomach; readily fermentable carbohydrate was digested largely in the sacciform forestomach and cranial region of the tubiform forestomach, and the rate of apparent loss of organic matter decreased along the tubiform forestomach.
The Chromosomes of Tarsipes spencerae Gray (Marsupialia)
Authors: Hayman DL , Sharp P.J.
Published: June 2005

Tarsipes spencerae Gray (Marsupialia) has a chromosome complement of 2n = 24 (XX, XY). The chromosomes possess two unusual features. They have both autosomal and sex chromosome sites which are responsive to silver staining (nucleolar organizers), a feature previously found only in the Phalangeroidea, and all autosomes and the X chromosome show pronounced Hoechst 33258 sensitivity, a feature previously found only in the Macropodidae.
Morphological Characters of Australian Scolopendrid Centipedes, and the Taxonomy and Distribution of Scolopendra Morsitans L. (Chilopoda:Scolopendridae:Scolopendrinae).
Authors: Koch LE
Published: June 2005

Introductory remarks are given to proposed systematic revisions of Australian scolopendrid genera; subfamilies of the Scolopendridae and the Australian scolopendrine genera are keyed; and morphological characters and terminology are discussed. The Australian component of the widespread species, Scolopendra morsitans Linnaeus, 1758, is redescribed from over 1000 specimens and its distribution is mapped. Comparative taxonomic characters of S. morsitans and the closely related species S. laeta Haase, 1887, are illustrated. The variation exhibited in eight morphological characters in samples of S. morsitans from seven areas in Australia is discussed in relation to the variation in samples of S. laeta, including some of its colour-forms, and to the variation in another scolopendrid, Ethmostigmus rubripes (Brandt, 1840).
Renal Function in the Spectacled Hare-Wallaby, Lagorchestes conspicillatus: Effects of Dehydration and Protein Deficiency
Authors: Bakker HR , Bradshaw SD
Published: June 2005

Renal function was studied in a marsupial, the spectacled hare-wallaby Lagorchestes conspicillatus, and the effects of acute dehydration and exposure to a low-protein diet assessed. The rate of glomerular filtration (GFR), measured as the inulin clearance, fell significantly with both treatments but tubular function was unaffected. This reduction in GFR accounted entirely for the antidiuresis observed with both dehydration and exposure to low-protein intake and accords with field observations of the hare- wallaby, where urine volumes are characteristically low and have low osmolalities. When data from animals on both high and low-protein diets were considered together, the clearance ratio for urea (C*urea/C*in) was found to be positively correlated with the rate of urine production, and it is evident that mechanisms which invoke antidiuresis in this species will automatically enhance the reabsorption of urea.
Body Temperatures of Free-Ranging Platypuses, Ornithorhynchus anatinus (Monotremata), with Observations on their Use of Burrows
Authors: Grant TR
Published: June 2005

Body temperatures (T*h) of free-ranging platypuses were monitored by means of radiotelemetry; although fluctuations of up to 2.8�C occurred in some individuals, most T*b measured were close to 32�C, even during immersion in cold water for up to 12 h. Platypuses spent up to 51% of their day foraging in water, and during such activities 71% of the animals studied used more than one particular burrow. One platypus maintained its T*b, while swimming in water of 0�C in a partly frozen river for at least 5 h. The platypus is a competent homeotherm which maintains a constant T*b in the face of the considerable thermal stresses imposed on it during winter in the southern part of its range.
Thiamine Deficiency and Winter Mortality in Red Wattlebirds, Anthochaera Carunculata (Aves:Meliphagidae) in Surburban Melbourne.
Authors: Paton DC , Dorward DF , Fell P
Published: June 2005

Red wattlebirds are found in convulsions during winter in south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, and eventually die. We suggest that the birds suffer from a thiamine deficiency. The symptoms of the sick birds-head retraction, convulsions and anorexia-are similar to those described for animals with a thiamine deficiency, and the diet of wattlebirds is likely to be low in thiamine, particularly in winter. Furthermore, thiamine levels in the blood of convulsing birds were significantly lower than those in healthy birds and similar to levels that induce clinical symptoms in humans. Thiamine levels of healthy birds showed a seasonal pattern and were lowest in winter, suggesting a thiamine shortage during winter. However, we were unable to induce the symptoms when caged birds were fed on a thiamine-deficient diet. The high ambient temperatures used during these feeding trials may have prevented clinical symptoms from developing. Further work is needed before firm conclusions can be made about the role of thiamine deficiency in the winter mortality of red wattlebirds.
The Social and Genetic Structure of a Natural Colony of House Mice, Mus musculus, at Healesville WildlifeSanctuary
Authors: Singleton GR
Published: June 2005

A 2-year program monitored the spatial organization, genetic structure and turnover rate of an unconfined commensal colony of mice. Four demes (social breeding units) were identified; each usually consisted of one or two males and two or three females. Demes were detected simultaneously in adjoining cages of an aviary (one deme per cage). Movement between demes was rare and the life span of a deme ranged from 2 to 7 months. The adult members of each deme had genotypes compatible to the majority of the young captured in the respective cage of the aviary at the time of residence of the deme. Taken in isolation, these results suggest that social behaviour would have a major impact on the genetic structure of the aviary population. When viewed over the main breeding season, the short life span of a deme and the genetic differences between demes indicate that social organization probably had only a temporary effect on the genetic composition of the aviary population.
Orientation of the Termitaria of Two Species of Amitermes (Isoptera:Termitinae) From Northern Queensland.
Authors: Spain AV , Okello-Oloya T , John RD
Published: June 2005

The long axes of the bases of the conical mounds of Amitermes laurensis and the bases and apices of those of A. vitiosus have a consistent orientation within selected study plots in northern Queensland. This orientation varies considerably over quite small distances. Orientations of the compass mounds of A. laurensis from Cape York Peninsula are compared with published information on that of the compass mounds of A. laurensis and A. meridionalis from the Northern Territory. It is concluded that the orientation of these termitaria is neither consistent within localities nor accurately based on either geographic or magnetic north.
Variation in Sperm Head Morphology in the Australian Rodent Notomys alexis
Authors: Breed WG , Sarafis V
Published: June 2005

Scanning electron microscopy of the sperm head of the hopping-mouse indicates considerable variability in shape, much of which is probably due to the fragility of the acrosome. However, fluorescence microscopy of the sperm after staining with 4'-6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) indicates some nuclear variability as well. Such polymorphism in sperm head morphology is unusual in mammals; its functional significance remains to be determined.