bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discriminant Analysis Using Metric Data From Larval Specimens of Three Species of Odontacarus (Acarina: Trombiculidae).
Authors: Veitch LG , Southcott RV
Published: June 2005

The application of discriminant analysis procedure to metric data from larval specimens of three Australian species of Odontacarus produces results which confirm and supplement the Southcott key. In particular the lengths of the mid-dorsal and posterior-dorsal idiosomal setae provide additional information, particularly for separating out specimens, of an undescribed species, Odontacarus sp. S. Other factors not present in the Southcott key, but shown to be useful are leg size and shield size. The metric analyses indicate that four out of the seven additional specimens which have been considered as possibly O. athertonensis appear to be species other than 0. athertonensis, 0. mccullochi or species S.
The Australian Species of Cyamops Melander (Diptera: Periscelididae)
Authors: Khoo KC
Published: June 2005

The genus Cyamops, placed recently in the Periscelididae, consists of only one previously described Australian species. Five new Australian species are described: pectinatus, claudiensis, dayi, truncatus and delta; a key to their identification is provided.
Revision of the Australian Scutelleridae Leach (Hemiptera).
Authors: McDonald FJD , Cassis G
Published: June 2005

The Australian members of the Scutelleridae are revised. Twelve species are recognized. Descriptions, diagnostic measurements and keys are provided for the identification of these species. The following new synonymy is recognized: Coleotichus discrepans Walker, 1867, C. sordidus Walker, 1867, C. nigrovarians Walker, 1867, and C, testaceous Walker, 1867, as junior synonyms of Coleotichus artensis (Montrouzier, 1858); Philiafulgurans, Stal 1873, P. aerea Distant, 1892, P. femorata Distant, 1899, and P. insignis Schouteden, 1904, are junior synonyms of Lampromicra senator (Fabricius, 1803); and Calliscyta australis Distant, 1899 is a junior synonym of Choerocoris stalii (Vollenhoven, 1863). Choerocoris stalii (Vollenhoven, 1863) is transferred from Calliscyta. A new subfamily, Tectocorinae, is erected for Tectocoris Hahn, 1834.
The Number of Young Present in Sequential Litters of the Marsupial Bandicoot, Isoodon macrourus, in Captivity
Authors: Gemmell RT , Walker MT , Johnston G , Cepon G
Published: June 2005

Twenty adult female bandicoots, Isoodon macrourus, housed in outside enclosures, were examined weekly and the number, sex and teat position of young were recorded throughout 1982. Thirty-nine litters were monitored throughout lactation. The number of young declined from 107 early in lactation to 73 at weaning. Loss of young from the pouch (n = 19) was more pronounced during the colder months of the year. This reduction in litter size may enable the bandicoots to produce some young in unfavourable conditions and thus extend their breeding season.
The Water Economy of Stubble Quail, Coturnix Pectoralis, and King Quail, Coturnix Chinensis.
Authors: Roberts JR , Baudinette RV
Published: June 2005

Stubble quail (Coturnix pectoralis) occur in some of the driest regions of Australia and king quail, (Coturnix chinensis) occur naturally in more mesic areas. Both species require a source of water other than dry seed, but stubble quail have about one-tenth the minimum water requirement of king quail. Stubble quail cope better with saline drinking and water deprivation than do king quail, and are able to utilize succulent food as a water source. The proportionately greater amount of medullary tissue in the kidneys of stubble quail correlates with an increased ability to concentrate urine. The histology of the lower gut of both species suggests that post-renal modification of urine is an important aspect of their water economy.
Bill Shape and Size in Honeyeaters and other small Insectivorous Birds in Western Australia
Authors: Wooller RD
Published: June 2005

Highly nectarivorous honeyeaters, more insectivorous honeyeaters and non-honeyeater insectivores all showed a similar linear relationship between bill length and the cube root of body mass. Bill length increased with body mass at a faster rate in insectivorous honeyeaters than in insectivorous non- honeyeaters. In the more nectarivorous honeyeaters there was no clear relationship between bill length and either bill depth or body mass. It is suggested that mechanical considerations associated with taking large insects from surfaces restrict the length of the bill in both insectivorous non-honeyeaters and, to a lesser extent, in insectivorous honeyeaters. The longer bills of highly specialized honeyeaters may largely restrict them to small flying insects.
Parasites of the Millipede Ommatoiulus Moreletii (Lucus) (Diplopoda: Iulidae) in Portugal, and Their Potential as Biological Control Agents in Australia.
Authors: Baker GH
Published: June 2005

The millipede Ommatoiulus moreletii (Lucas) is an introduced nuisance pest in Australia. A survey of the parasites of O. moreletii in its country of origin, Portugal, is reported, and the potential of two, a nematomorphan worm Gordius sp. (Nematomorpha:Gordiodae) and a muscoid fly Eginia sp. (Diptera:Eginiidae), as biological control agents for use in Australia are discussed. Gordius sp. parasitized a maximum of 28.7% of O. moreletii of stadium 9 and older in a Ulex densus-Quercus coccifera shrubland. Gordius sp. castrated its male hosts and inhibited the development of mature eggs in females. Eginia sp. parasitized a maximum of 32.3% of 0. moreletii of stadium 8 and older in a Pinus spp. woodland. The incidence of parasitism by Eginia sp. increased with the stadia1 age of O. moreletii. Ectoparasitic mites (Acari) and oxyurid nematodes (Nematoda) were common on and in O. moreletii but are unlikely to be useful as biological control agents.
The Internal Parasites and Pathological Findings in Hydromys Chrysogaster (Muridae: Hydromyine) From Tasmania.
Authors: Obendorf DL , Smales LR
Published: June 2005

In H. chrysogaster Geoffroy, from eight Tasmanian localities, two nematode, one acanthocephalan, three cestode and seven trematode species were found; Diphyllobothrium dendriticum representing a new host-parasite record for H. chrysogaster. Two new species are recorded, one in Notocotylus (Trematoda:Notocotylidae) and one in Corynosoma (Acanthocephala:Polymorphidae). Two protozoan parasites, Toxoplasma gondii and Sarcocystis sp., were also detected. Pasteurella multocida bite wound infections are also described.
The Litoria ewingi Complex (Anura:Hylidae) in South-Eastern Australia VIII.* Hybridization between L. ewingi and L. verreauxi alpina in the Mount Baw Baw Area, South Central Victoria
Authors: Watson GF , Littlejohn MJ , Gartside DF , Loftus-Hills JJ
Published: June 2005

Contacts between the geographic ranges of the widely distributed species, Litoria ewingi, and the montane-adapted taxon, L. verreauxi alpina, occur at about 1200 m on the Great Dividing Range in south central Victoria. Data for adult morphology, genetic compatibility, blood proteins (haemoglobins and transferrins), and structure of male advertisement calls, were obtained from seven populations at altitudes between 640 m and 1450 m in the region of the Mount Baw Baw Plateau. The results indicate that hybrids are present at intermediate altitudes (1140-1270 m), but that the nature of the interaction differs between overlap of parental taxa together with recombination products on the south-westem slope (the Baw Baw transect), and a hybrid swarm on the northern slope of the Mount Baw Baw plateau. Results of in vitro crosses (female L, ewingi by male L. v. alpina) indicate that there is a high level of genetic compatibility between the taxa. Estimates of the width of the hybrid zone on the Baw Baw transect vary from less than 4 km for morphology and calls, to between 10 and 24 km for blood proteins.
A Revision of the Genus Australotomurus (Collembola: Entomobryidae: Orchesellinae)
Authors: Mari Mutt JA , Greenslade PJM
Published: June 2005

The genus Australotomurus Stach, endemic to Australia, is redefined and the type-species, A. echidnus
(Womersley) and five new species, barbatus, immodestus, johanni, montanus and womersleyi, are
described and figured. Variation in some key characters is analysed and comments on distribution and
biology of the genus are glven.
The Refractive State of the Eye of the Kangaroos Macropus giganteus and M. rufus
Authors: Woo GC , Sivak JG
Published: June 2005

Refractive findings were determined with a retinoscope for two species of kangaroos. The 10 eyes studied were found to be hyperopic between 1.5 and 2.0 dioptres, with and without cycloplegia. Due to the large size of the eye, the hyperopia cannot be explained on the basis of retinoscopic reflection from the vitreous-retina border. The hyperopia may be due to an as yet unexplained artefact or it may reflect indifference to optical quality.
Feeding and Digestion in the Aberrant Planarian Bdellasimilis Barwicki (Turbellaria: Tricladida: Procerodidae): an Ectosymbiote of Freshwater Turtles in Queensland and New South Wales.
Authors: Jennings JB
Published: June 2005

Bdellasimilis barwicki is an aberrant planarian, from a predominantly free-living marine family, inhabiting the limb pits of freshwater turtles in Queensland and New South Wales. It appears to feed mainly as an ectosymbiotic predator on aquatic oligochaetes and insect larvae, but laboratory observations suggest that it may also be an opportunistic commensal ingesting accidentally discarded portions of the host's food. The feeding mechanism is unique amongst triclad turbellarians in that food is taken intact into the peripharyngeal chamber, which is capable of very great expansion, and held there while the cylindrical plicate pharynx penetrates it to withdraw fragments piecemeal into the intestine. Intestinal structure is essentially the same as in other triclads, the monolayered gastrodermis being differentiated into gland cells and columnar phagocytes. Digestion, too; follows the characteristic triclad pattern; acidic proteolysis initiated in the gut lumen by endopeptidases from the gland cells is followed by phagocytosis and completion of digestion within the columnar cells by intracellular enzymes of which endopeptidases, arylamidases, and acid and alkaline phosphatases have been demonstrated histochemically. Large deposits of lipid occur in the gastrodermis, mesenchyme and vitellaria, but glycogen is found in only small amounts at these sites and in the musculature, testes and ovaries. The brain and principal longitudinal nerve cords contain large quantities of acetylcholinesterase, arylamidases and alkaline phosphatase.
A Revision of the Aname pallida Species-group in Northern Australia (Anaminae: Nemesiidae: Araneae)
Authors: Raven RJ
Published: June 2005

Eleven new species of the Aname pallida species-group - defined as having males with an elongate embolus and incrassate metatarsus I - are described; three previously described species are revised. Chenistonza giraulti Rainbow is newly synonymized with A, pallida Koch; A. atra (Strand) and A. distincta (Rainbow) are considered valid. The recent designation of a neotype of Dekana diversicolor Hogg is found to be invalid because of significant differences between the designated specimen and the original description, and the type locality is now considered to be in western Queensland. Biological and behavioural notes are given for some species. Species for which males have not been described are considered Aname species of unresolved infrageneric affinities. The following species of the A, pallida group are treated: A. pallida Koch, A. atra (Strand), A, barrema, sp. nov., A. blackdownensis, sp. nov., A. camara, sp. nov., A. carina, sp. nov., A. collinsorum, sp. nov., A. diversicolor (Hogg), A. distincta (Rainbow), A. humptjidoo, sp. nov., A. inimica, sp. nov., A. longitheca, sp. nov., A, robertsorum, sp. nov., A. tigrina, sp. nov., and A, warialda, sp. nov. A. kirrama Raven, 1984 is included only in the key.
A Revision of the Austrlian Genus Epitymbia Meyrick, with Remarks on the Epitymbiini (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: Horak M , Common IFB
Published: June 2005

Nine species of Epitymbia Meyrick are recognized in this revision: alaudana Meyrick [=periopa (Meyrick); =cydropis (Meyrick)], cosmota (Meyrick) [=heliochares (Lower), syn. nov.; =callizyga (Lower)], scotinopa (Lower), eudrosa (Turner), comb, nov. [=pyrrhocremna (Meyrick), syn. nov.], apatela, sp. nov., eutypa (Turner), sp. rev. and comb. nov., passalotana (Meyrick), comb. nov. [=semiophora (Turner), syn. nov.], dialepta, sp. nov., and isoscelana (Meyrick), comb. nov. [=thetis (Butler), syn. nov.]. One generic and three specific synonymies are confirmed and one generic and four specific synonymies are newly established. Two lectotypes are designated and four new combinations are proposed. All species except eudrosa, which is also found in New Guinea, are endemic to eastern and south-eastem mainland Australia and Tasmania, and known larvae feed on fallen leaves. Adults and genitalia of both sexes are figured, and heads, wing venation and other structures if relevant. The larval chaetotaxy is illustrated and the unusual biology is described. A tentative cladogram for the species of Epitymbia is given and the phylogeny of the genus is discussed with a view to clarifying the taxonomic status of the Epitymbiini.
The Thermal Physiology of the Feathertail Glider, Acrobates Pygmaeus (Marsupialia:Burramyidae).
Authors: Fleming MR
Published: June 2005

Feathertail gliders are small arboreal marsupials from south-eastern Australia. Laboratory studies found that body temperature was labile and varied by 3.5�C throughout the day. Body temperature (Tb) control was stricter at low ambient temperature (Ta). Within the narrow thermal neutral zone (TNZ, 34.0-35.1�C), the basal metabolic rate was 2.11 W kg-0.75 (mean body mass 14.0 g) which is 13% lower than expected for a marsupial. Mass specific thermal conductance decreased with T, and the fleshy gliding membranes did not appear to contribute to the insulation. Huddling in groups of four or eight significantly reduced an individual's energy use. During torpor, Tb fell to close to Ta, the lowest Tb being 6.9�C, but torpor rarely lasted longer than 24 h. Groups of feathertail gliders often became torpid and showed a similar pattern of oxygen use during torpor to that seen in individuals. Some groups contained both torpid and normothermic individuals. This situation may benefit the torpid animals by reducing the cost of arousal and increasing the rate of rewarming.
The Life Cycle and Biology of Opecoelus Variabilis, Sp.nov. (Digenea: Opecoelidae).
Authors: Cribb TH
Published: June 2005

Opecoelus variabilis, sp. nov., is described from the intestine of 17 species of Australian freshwater fish. The highly variable anatomy of this species highlights the closeness of Opecoelus and Opegaster. Opegaster is made a synonym of Opecoelus and a new diagnosis is proposed for Opecoelus. The first intermediate host of O. variabilis is the prosobranch snail Posticobia brazieri, and the second intermediate hosts are five species of atyid, palaemonid and parastacid Crustacea. Features of the life cycle are the production of daughter sporocysts by the mother sporocyst when only one-quarter of its full size, and the further development of the metacercaria in the second intermediate host after becoming infective to the definitive host.
Phenotypic Response to Photoperiod and Temperature in a Tropical Pierid Butterfly.
Authors: Rienks JH
Published: June 2005

Photoperiod and temperature during development were shown to control the phenotype of adults of Catopsilia pomona pomona in a population in Queensland. These environmental cues controlled pattern and colour elements of the phenotype to different extents, and the responses of males and females differed. Weather experienced in the 5th larval instar and pupal stage determined the adult phenotype. Differences in the responses of the progeny of February and July adults may have reflected differential survival of different genotypes over the dry season, through selection for the seasonally appropriate phenotype. The adaptive significance of the 2 seasonal forms is not known.
Soil Particle Size and the Pit Morphology of the Australian Ant-Lions Myrmeleon diminutus and M. pictifrons (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae)
Authors: Allen GR , Croft DB
Published: June 2005

A comparison of soil particle size and its influence on pit construction, pit morphology and capture success for Myrmeleon diminutus and M. pictifrons was undertaken. Both species constructed pits by the circuitous method, using the forelegs. The forelegs may aid in encouraging soil particles to fall from the forming pit wall and may help to direct soil onto the dorsal surface of the head for subsequent tossing. Both species showed a preference to build in fine soil (<0.3 mm) but the aversion to medium (0.3-0.6 mm) and coarse soil (0.6-1.2 mm) differed. In mixed particle size soil all ant-lion pits were lined with fine soil particles less than 0.3 mm diameter. This improved capture success by delaying the escape of prey and increasing the number of falls to the pit vertex during escape. Body weight was found to be the most important correlate of pit morphology. Pit diameter and pit depth increased linearly and pit angle increased curvilinearly with body weight. The smallest ant-lions optimize trap design by building pits close to the angle of repose of the soil, but larger ant-lions build relatively shallower, less optimal pits.
Five Species of Monogenea From Australian Bream, Acanthopagrus Spp.
Authors: Byrnes T
Published: June 2005

Five species including Anoplodiscus australis Johnston, Udonella caligorum Johnston, Haliotrema spariensis Roubal, Allomurraytrema robustum, comb, nov. (Murray), and Benedenia anticavaginata, sp. nov. are recorded from four species of Australian bream, Acanthopagrus bufcheri (Munro), A. australis (Gunther), A. berda (Forskil), and A. latus (Houttuyn). Benedenia anticavaginata is described. Murraytrema robustum (Murray), and Allomurraytrema spari (Yamaguti) are synonymized with Allomurraytrema robustum, comb. nov., which is redescribed. Udonella caligorum is recorded from Caligus epidemicus Hewitt, the first such record in Australian waters. The distribution of U. caligorum on C. epidemicus is defined. The zoogeography and host specificity of all parasites is given.
Comparison of Skull Shape in Marsupial and Placental Carnivores
Authors: Werdelin L
Published: June 2005

A set of 11 measurements on 40 species of placental (Order Carnivora) and marsupial (Order Dasyurida) carnivores is analysed by means of correspondence analysis. Dasyurida have long mandibles and tooth rows, large muscle attachment areas on the mandible, long moment arms of the temporalis and masseter, and a low occiput and short temporal fossa. Skull shape is uniform in Dasyurida, with about the same variability as in a family of Carnivora. The temporalis of Dasyurida is relatively small, but this may be compensated for by the more rounded shape and longer moment arm. The Tasmanian tiger, Thylacinus cynocephalus, is more similar in skull shape to the red fox, Vulpes vulpes, than to the placental wolf, Canis lupus. The M5 of Dasyurida occupies the same geometric position as the MI in Carnivora, providing a possible explanation for the greater variability in cheek teeth in Carnivora. The Tasmanian devil, Sarcophilus harrisii, is similar to the Hyaenidae in having a shorter distance between the ultimate sectorial molar and the condyle. It is suggested that this is an adaptation to cracking open bones, as this mandible geometry brings the main bone-cracking teeth closer to the region of greatest muscle force.
The Marsupial Blastocyst - a Study of the Blastocysts in the Hill Collection
Authors: Selwood L
Published: June 2005

Blastocysts in the Hill Collection from Trichosurus vulpecula, Pefrogale penicillata, Macropus ruficollis (= M. rufogriseus), Macropus parma, Onychogalea fraenata, Bettongia gaimardi, Perameles obesula (=lsoodon obesulus), Perameles nasuta, Dasyurus viverrinus, Didelphis aurita (=D. marsupialis) and Didelphis virginiana were examined. They ranged from incomplete unilaminar blastocysts to late bilaminar blastocysts. The mode of formation of the unilaminar blastocyst appeared to be influenced by the presence or absence of the yolk mass. A unilaminar blastocyst lined by uniform protoderm cells occurred in a wide variety of marsupials. Differentiation of the unilaminar blastocyst into embryonic and extra-embryonic areas occurred at different stages of development. In macropodids and Didelphis it was found in small blastocysts soon after blastocyst completion. In dasyurids, Perameles and some other groups it was found in larger blastocysts, at least four cell generations after blastocyst completion.
The first histological signs of differentiation of the unilaminar blastocyst into embryonic and extra-embryonic areas varied between different marsupials. In Didelphis, enlarged endoderm mother cells developed from the protoderm cells of one hemisphere. The protoderm cells of this hemisphere later differentiated as embryonic ectoderm and the endoderm mother cells gave rise to the primary endoderm. In D. viverrinus, bandicoots and T. vulpecula, the protoderm cells of one hemisphere differentiated simultaneously into cuboidal embryonic ectoderm and endoderm mother cells. In P. penicillata, M. ruficollis and M. parma the protoderm cells of one hemisphere proliferated to form a multilayered embryonic area which later differentiated into embryonic ectoderm and primary endoderm.
The Life-Cycle and Morphology of Stemmatostoma-Pearsoni, Gen Et Sp-Nov, With Notes on the Morphology of Telogaster-Opisthorchis Macfarlane (Digenea, Cryptogonimidae)
Authors: Cribb TH
Published: June 2005

Stemmatostoma pearsoni, gen. et sp. nov., is described from the intestine of Leiopotherapon unicolor (Gunther) and Macquaria novemaculeata (Steindachner) in Queensland. Stemmatostoma is placed within the Neochasminae and is distinguished by its long oesophagus, compact ovary, short caeca, pre-ovarian vitellaria, simple gonotyl and funnel-shaped oral sucker. The diagnosis of the Neochasminae is emended excluding Parspina Pearse. Telogaster opisthorchis Macfarlane is recorded from the intestine of Anguilla reinhardtii Steindachner from Victoria. The spinose oral suckers of S. pearsoni and T. opisthorchis are capable of being retracted into tegumental pockets. It is postulated that this arrangement may be widespread amongst spinose cryptogonimids. The first intermediate host of S. pearsoni is Posticobia brazieri (Smith), a prosobranch snail. The second intermediate hosts are freshwater fish: Hypseleotris galii (Ogilby), H. compressus (Krefft), Mogurnda mogurnda (Richardson), M. adspersa (Castelnau), Philypnodon grandiceps (Krefft), Gobiomorphus australis (Krefft), and Pseudomugil signifer Kner. Within the snail there is a mother sporocyst generation, a redial generation and a cercarial generation. Development of the mother sporocyst is similar to that described for other opisthorchioids. Cryptogonimid cercariae are characterized by 16 flame-cells, pre-vesicular penetration glands, dorso-ventral caudal finfolds and absence of body pigmentation. On the basis of cercarial and adult morphology it is proposed that Pseudexorchis Yamaguti be excluded from the Cryptogonimidae.
The Display Behavior of Bavia-Aericeps (Araneae, Salticidae), a Jumping Spider From Queensland
Authors: Jackson RR
Published: June 2005

Bavia aericeps Simon is a large plurident jumping spider that frequents palms and other trees in tropical Queensland, building unusually strong and spacious nests on the undersides of leaves. The display repertoire of this species is large and complex, numerous distinct visual, vibratory, and tactile signals being used. Courtship is versatile, each male using one of three different mating tactics depending on the female's maturity and location. Type 1 courtship, involving specialized movements and postures of the legs, palps, and body, occurs if the female is an adult away from the nest; apparently this type of courtship is vision- dependent. If the male encounters an adult female inside her nest, he uses Type 2 courtship, which consists of movements that cause the silk to vibrate. If the female is a subadult inside her nest, the male initially uses Type 2 courtship, then builds a second chamber on the female's nest and cohabits until she moults and matures. Other displays occur during male-male and female-female interactions. Male-male interactions are particularly ferocious, the spiders often being upended and stunned. However, cannibalism seems to be of minor importance in this species.
A Radiographic Study of the Gastrointestinal-Tract of Potorous-Tridactylus, With a Suggestion as to the Role of the Foregut and Hindgut in Potoroine Marsupials
Authors: Frappell PB , Rose RW
Published: June 2005

The gastric distribution of barium sulphate and its subsequent intestinal passage were examined by radiography in Potorous tridactylus. Barium sulphate administered in association with solid food passed to the sacciform forestomach from the tubiform forestomach. However, ingested barium sulphate suspension mainly entered the hindstomach via the gastric sulcus. Barium sulphate which entered the sacciform forestomach remained for no more than 1 h before passing to the hindstomach via the tubiform forestomach. The passage of contrast medium through the intestine was followed in adults administered barium sulphate suspension only. Contrast medium which entered the hindstomach was not detectable there after 10 min. Barium sulphate first arrived at the caecum and proximal colon after 20 min, and by 45 min the majority had reached these organs. It persisted in the caecum and proximal colon for several hours, during which there was some movement into the descending colon and rectum. These results lead towards a new interpretation of the role of the potoroine foregut and hindgut.
Annual Cycle of Physiological Stress and Condition of the Silvereye, Zosterops-Lateralis (Aves)
Authors: Rooke IJ , Bradshaw SD , Langworthy RA , Tom JA
Published: June 2005

The physiological condition of a natural population of silvereyes was monitored near Margaret River in Western Australia in each month for a complete year. Plasma samples were analysed for total corticosteroids, glucose, osmolality, urea, sodium, potassium and chloride; blood haematocrit was recorded. Carcasses were processed to yield body weight, total body water, fat content, lean dry-body weight and lean dry weight of the breast muscles. These results showed that in March total corticosteroids were high, haematocrit was low and fat contents were low. In June, fat contents were low and urea levels were high. Although breast muscle weights did not differ significantly between months, lower mean values during June may indicate that the labile protein content is 58% lower than in May. These results indicate that silvereyes are stressed in March and in poor condition in March and June. March and June may be the periods when natural mortality limits the population size, even in years when the March food supply is adequate.
The Higher Classification of Australian Buprestidae, With the Description of a New Genus and Species (Coleoptera)
Authors: Bellamy CL
Published: June 2005

An illustrated key to the subfamilies and tribes of Australian Buprestidae is presented together with a checklist of the higher taxa (subfamily to subgenus) and a description of Australorhipis aphanochila, gen. et sp. nov. The placement of Julodimorpha is reconciled with the redescription of Julodimorphini in the Chalcophorinae. Maoraxiini is synonymized under Anthaxiini.
Revision of Australian Pristhesancus Amyot and Serville (Heteroptera, Reduviidae)
Authors: Malipatil MB
Published: June 2005

Two new species, Pristhesancus nigritus, sp. nov. and P. australis, sp nov., are described from northern Australia. The following synonymies are made: Pristhesancus darwinensis Miller, 1958 with P. grassator Bergroth, 1895; P. fasciatus Reuter, 1881, P. uniformis Distant, 1903, P. luteicollis Walker, 1873, P. melitus Distant, 1903, P. ruralis Miller, 1958 and P. nigridorsum Miller, 1958 with P. plagipennis Walker, 1873. A key to the Australian species is given. A lectotype has been designated for Pristhesancus grassator Bergroth.
Mites of the Macrocheles-Glaber Group in Australia (Acarina, Macrochelidae)
Authors: Halliday RB
Published: June 2005

The mite genus Macrocheles includes a species-group known as the M. glaber group, which is characterised mainly by the pattern of ornamentation on the sternal shield of the female. Five species in this group occur in Australia. M. aestivus, sp. nov. is described from the female, male and deutonymph. All previously undescribed sexes and instars of M. glaber (Muller), M. kraepelini (Berlese), M. peregrinus Krantz and M. perglaber Filipponi & Pegazzano are also described and keyed. Data are presented on the geographic distribution of each species in Australia, with notes on their biology and phoresy on beetles where available.
The Australian Geogarypidae, New Status, With a Review of the Generic Classification (Arachnida, Pseudoscorpionida)
Authors: Harvey MS
Published: June 2005

The Geogarypidae is raised to family status, and three genera are recognised: Geogarypus Chamberlin, .Afrogarypus Beier and Indogarypus Beier; the latter is raised to generic level. The following species are recorded from Australia: G. rhantus Harvey, G. taylori, sp. nov., G. exochus, sp. nov., G. pisinnus, sp. nov. and G. connatus, sp. nov. Diagrams are provided of the pedipalps of the type-species of the three recognised genera. The taxonomic position of the Pseudogarypidae is discussed, and the Feaelloidea (Feaellidae and Pseudogarypidae) is regarded as the sister-group of the Chthonioidea (Chthoniidae and Tridenchthoniidae).
The Biology and Ecology of Heliothis-Armigera (Hubner) and Heliothis-Punctigera Wallengren (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) in Australia - What Do We Know
Authors: Zalucki MP , Daglish G , Firempong S , Twine P
Published: June 2005

The taxonomy and identification of Heliothis armigera and H. punctigera, their distribution and host plants in Australia, the effect of host plant on reproduction and on the development and survival of immature stages, their movements, population biology and dynamics, and their control, are reviewed. Areas where further study is desirable include: the nature of host plant selection and host species preference; adaptability to new cultivars; effects of host plant on development; detailed life-table studies on different host plants; the contribution of predation, parasitism and disease to mortality; factors responsible for fluctuations in populations between years, including the origins of outbreak populations; and control strategies other than insecticide treatment.
Recognition of Mates in the Portuguese Millipede, Ommatoiulus-Moreletii
Authors: Carey CJ , Bull CM
Published: June 2005

The mating behaviour of the Portuguese millipede, Ommatoiulus moreletii, was observed in the laboratory. Male attention towards females appeared to be initiated on contact. Mating activity was more frequent in the night phase of the photoperiod and was not inhibited by darkness. This suggested that a visual signal was not important in mate recognition. Females without antennae mated readily, but males without antennae did not, which suggests that males use their antennae to recognise females. Experiments in T-mazes and petri dishes showed that males were not attracted towards females, nor did they increase activity in the presence of females they could not touch, which implied that an airborne signal such as a volatile pheromone was not used. It was concluded that males use some characteristic of the female cuticle, possibly a chemical secretion, to recognise mates.
Osmylidae (Insecta, Neuroptera) From New-Guinea
Authors: New TR
Published: June 2005

The Osmylidae of New Guinea are revised, and their taxonomic and distributional relationships discussed. All are Spilosmylinae, and are referred to Spilosmylus Kolbe, s.l. Fourteen new species are described, and illustrations and a key provided to aid recognition of the 15 species so far known from the area. Comparative notes are given on S. ocellatus (Kruger) (Indonesia).
A Revision of the Subfamily Octangiinae (Platyhelminthes, Digenea, Microscaphidiidae) Parasitic in Marine Turtles (Reptilia, Chelonia)
Authors: Blair D
Published: June 2005

The subfamily Octangiinae Looss, 1902 is considered to contain two genera. Two species are recognised in Octangium Looss, 1902. These are O. sagitta (Looss, 1899) Looss, 1902 (hosts Chelonia mydas (L.); Eretmochelys imbricata (L.): synonyms Octangium hasta Looss, 1902; ?O. takanoi Kobayashi, 1921) and O. hyphalum, sp. nov. (host Chelonia mydas: synonym O. takanoi Kobayashi sensu Mehrotra 1973 and Tandon and Gupta 1981). The genus Neoctangium Ruiz, 1943 contains only N. travassosi Ruiz, 1943 (hosts Chelonia mydas; Eretmochelys imbricata: synonym ?Neoctangium trinidadi Gupta, 1962). Octangium microrchis Chattopadhyaya, 1972 (host E. imbricata) and O. elongatum Chattopadhyaya, 1972 (host C. mydas) are regarded as species inquirendae.
Comparison of Ectoparasite Pathology on Gills of Yellowfin Bream, Acanthopagrus-Australis (Gunther) (Pisces, Sparidae) - a Surface-Area Approach
Authors: Roubal FR
Published: June 2005

The number of gill filaments, length of gill filament and corresponding surface area affected by individual adults of Haliotrerna spariensis (Monogenea) and Ergasilus sp. and individual adults, subadults and larvae of Alella macrotrachelus (Copepoda) are examined in a large size range of the host, Acanthopagrus australis. The effects of these parasites are analysed as proportions of total filament length and total gill surface area. The parasites arranged in order of increasing number of filaments affected are: Ergasilus sp., larval A. macrotrachelus, H. spariensis, subadult A. macrotrachelus and adult A. macrotrachelus. For Ergasilus sp., H. spariensis and larval A. macrotrachelus, the length of filament affected was constant irrespective of host size; adult A. macrotrachelus affect greater lengths of filament in smaller fish, but subadult stages affect greater lengths in larger fish. Possible reasons for this are discussed. The relative pathogenicity is reduced when filament length is converted to surface area. This reduction is greater in smaller fish because they have a smaller surface area per unit length of filament than larger fish.
Sexual Selection in Dung Beetles .1. A Multivariate Study of the Morphological Variation in 2 Species of Onthophagus (Scarabaeidae, Onthophagini)
Authors: Cook D
Published: June 2005

Sexual dimorphism in horned beetles reflects a history of different selection pressures operating on males and females. A multivariate morphometric analysis was carried out on two scarabaeine dung beetles, Onthophagus binodis Thunberg and O. ferox Harold. There is clear structural polymorphism within O. binodis; horned males, females and hornless males were separated on the basis of body shape. Sexual dimorphism within O. ferox was established; sexes were separated according to the size of pronotal and cephalic horns. The effect of differential selection is discussed within the context of sexual selection.
A Comparison of Growth-Rates in Dependent Juveniles of Planigale-Gilesi and Planigale-Tenuirostris (Marsupialia, Dasyuridae)
Authors: Read DG
Published: June 2005

Growth rates are compared from birth to early weaning in Planigale gilesi and P. tenuirostris, by means of linear regression of body parameters plotted against age. Pouch young of each species had similar growth rates; an equation is given for the aging of pouch young of P. gilesi. Juveniles of P. gilesi grew faster than those of P. tenuirostris; in both species there was a trend for males to grow faster than females. Eye opening and the end of weaning were two important developmental stages, associated with changes to reduced growth rates. Changes in body condition of the juveniles indicated that the weaning process was initiated by the mother. The different growth rates between the species and sexes produced a range of body sizes in juveniles at independence. This has important implications for partitioning of food and for community structure.
The Sterile Insect Release Method and the Importance of Thermal Conditioning Before Release - Field-Cage Experiments With Dacus-Tryoni in Spring Weather
Authors: Fay HAC , Meats A
Published: June 2005

We present a rationale for the strategy of suppressing the fertility and hence the rate of increase of target populations in spring by the release of sterile insects. Insects for mass release are normally reared in warm conditions and are potentially unsuitable for use in cold weather. A comparison was made of the effectiveness of warm- and cold-conditioned sterile flies in experiments in large field-cages during three successive spring seasons. Sterile males and females, and wild males and females were released into the cages in the ratio 2:2:1:1, respectively. Warm-conditioned sterile flies survived poorly between release and mating. Their mating competitiveness was inferior to that of the wild flies, and they were relatively ineffective in reducing their fertility. Sterile flies released in a cold-conditioned state (equal to that of the wild flies), survived as well as wild flies, and suppressed their fertility to an extent which indicates that their mating competitiveness can be equal to that of the wild flies, if the weather is not too severe. The concept of total competitiveness is introduced. If competitiveness is calculated by means of the ratio of sterile to wild flies that exists at release (rather than at mating), the resulting value is a measure of the potential of the sterile flies to survive to mating age, and to mate in competition with the wild flies. This value is especially pertinent to situations such as a puparial release, when there is a delay between release and mating. In such circumstances, it is needed for calculating the required ratio of sterile to wild insects to achieve the desired reduction of fertility (and thus rate of increase) in the target population.
Functional-Morphology of the Alimentary-Tract of the Australian Sea-Lion, Neophoca-Cinerea
Authors: Richardson KC , Gales NJ
Published: June 2005

The form and topographic relationships of the alimentary tract of Neophoca cinerea is described based on dissection and radiography. A highly distensible oesophagus enters the dorsum of a large J-shaped stomach. The small intestine is long, circa 20 m, and the large intestine short, circa 1.2 m. Marker pellets (approximate diameter 1 or 3 mm) administered orally were generally found in faecal deposits containing, principally, coarse particles, i.e. of diameter greater than 1.2 mm. Most faecal deposits consisted of fine particles, i.e. with a diameter primarily of less than 1.2 mm. About 50% of the large markers remained in the alimentary tract for more than 6 days. A pyloric torus acting in concert with the patterns of pyloric peristalsis may prevent or restrict the passage of markers through the pyloric canal. Examination of the stomach contents from six animals showed that items of low digestibility, such as squid beaks and crayfish exoskeletons, were retained in the pyloric antrum.
Environment and Competition as Determinants of Local Geographical-Distribution of 5 Meat Ants, Iridomyrmex-Purpureus and Allied Species (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Authors: Greenslade PJM
Published: June 2005

The distributions of five species of meat ants [Iridomyrmex purpureus S.S. (P), 'yellow species' (Y), viridiaeneus (V), 'small purple species' (SP), 'blue species' (B)] were investigated in the Gawler Ranges and Eyre Peninsula of South Australia, in relation to climate, soils and vegetation. P occurred mainly in two areas of relatively high total and/or summer rainfall that were predicted a priori, and Y was limited to sandy alkaline yellow duplex soils. V, SP and B are all found in the arid Gawler Ranges and, in this order, form a sequence of increasing penetration into areas of higher rainfall on Eyre Peninsula. It is proposed that a north-to-south gradient of increasing rainfall is accompanied by a gradient of increasing diversity (species richness) of local ant faunas. By analogy with the distribution of meat ant species across habitats differing in the diversity of their ant faunas in the Gawler Ranges, it is suggested that southern limits to the ranges of V and SP are determined by intensification of diffuse competition from increasingly diverse ant communities. Within their ranges, however, the relative frequencies of SP and B depend on simple asymmetrical competition between meat ant species. Diffuse competition at the periphery of a species' range is discussed briefly as selective pressure towards evolutionary change or stasis.
Taxonomy of Some Tetraphyllidean Cestodes From Elasmobranch Fishes
Authors: Butler SA
Published: June 2005

Rhinebothrium pearsoni, sp nov., is described from Banks' shovelnosed ray, Aptychotrema banksii (Muller & Henle). PhyNobothrium orectolobi, sp. nov., is described from the wobbegong, Orectolobus maculatus (Bonnaterre). Anthobothrium amuleturn, sp nov., is described from the common shovel- nosed ray, Rhinobatos armatus (Gray). Pedibothrium ottleyi, sp. nov., is described from the zebra shark, Stegostoma tigrinum (Pennant), and the genus Pedibothrium Linton, 1909, is emended. Calliobothrium creeveyae, sp. nov., is described from the school shark, Galeorhinus australis (Macleay). Polypocephalus moretonensis, sp nov., is described from the estuary stingray, Dasyatis fluviorum Ogilby. Tylocephalum carnpanulatum, sp. nov., is described from the shark ray, Rhina ancylostomus Bloch & Schneider. Also described are a species of Balanobothrium Hornell, 1912, from S. tigrinum; a species of Cathetocephalus Dailey & Overstreet, 1973, and a species of Discocephalum Linton, 1890, from the black-tip shark, Carcharhinus spallanzani (Le Sueur), and Hornellobothrium cobraformis Shipley & Hornell, 1906, from the spotted eagle-ray, Aetobatis narinari (Euphrasen).
Sexual Maturity in the Captive Male Bandicoot, Isoodon-Macrourus
Authors: Gemmell RT
Published: June 2005

Various morphological and physiological features were examined weekly in developing male bandicoots, each housed with a mature female, from birth through to the fathering of their first litter. The first peak of plasma testosterone greater than 2 ng ml-' in the male was observed at 179.8 � 6.8 d old (mean � SE; n = 17); sperm were first observed in the male reproductive tract at approximately 200 d old and this coincided with the pigmentation of the scrotal skin at 199.5 � 8.2 d (n= 10). The first litters were sired at 349.7 � 14.0 d (n=7). Male bandicoots reached sexual maturity approximately 100 d later than females. Pigmentation of the scrotum would appear to be a useful indicator of the stage of sexual development because it occurs at the stage of development when sperm first appear in the reproductive tract in the male bandicoot. Nevertheless, the appearance of sperm and scrotal pigment, both precede sexual maturation by at least 150 d and are not good indicators of reproductive ability in the male bandicoot.
The Symbiosis of Acarid Mites, Genus Ctenocolletacarus (Acarina, Acariformes), and Stenotritid Bees, Genus Ctenocolletes (Insecta, Hymenoptera)
Authors: Houston TF
Published: June 2005

Details of the life history of acarid mites of the genus Ctenocolletacarus have emerged from studies of nests of their hosts, Ctenocolletes albomarginatus and Ce. nicholsoni, and from rearing mites in the laboratory. The mites are closely associated with their hosts at all stages and their complete breeding cycle occurs in the hosts' sealed brood cells. Only the phoretic deutonymph leaves the cells. The mites, like their hosts, are univoltine. One to a few hypopi dismount from nesting females into each new brood cell and rapidly transform through non-mobile tritonymphs to adults of both sexes. Female mites oviposit on the ceiling of the cell during the host larva's early instars, giving rise to hundreds of larvae and then protonymphs by the time the host larva has completed feeding. Protonymphs metamorphose to hypopi once the host larva has defaecated and entered the prepupal phase. Hypopi remain with the dormant prepupa until the following season when they secrete themselves beneath the terga of the newly emerged adult bee. Circumstantial evidence, suggesting that hypopi are transmitted venereally between adult bees, is discussed. Adult, larval and protonymphal mites ingest pollen and the late protonymphal stage invades the faeces of the larval host. Sanitary control is a possible pay-off for the hosts.
Feeding-Behavior and Diet of the Common Ringtail Possum, Pseudocheirus-Peregrinus, in Eucalyptus Woodlands and Leptospermum Thickets in Southern Victoria
Authors: Pahl LI
Published: June 2005

The foliage of Eucalyptus spp. contributed 61-98% of the annual diet of ringtails at sites dominated by Eucalyptus spp. or prickly teatree, Leptospermum juniperinum. Up to 45% of the Eucalyptus foliage consumed was young, and young foliage was mostly eaten during spring and summer. The remainder of the diet consisted of foliage of several species of shrub and significant proportions of the diet of one population consisted of flowers and/or flower buds of Eucalyptus maculata during winter. The proportion of shrub foliage eaten was generally highest at sites dominated by less preferred Eucalyptus spp., such as E. tereticornis, E. camaldulensis and E. botryoides, compared to sites dominated by the favoured species, E. ovata, E. dives, and E. maculata. Ringtails in thickets of coast teatree, L. laevigatum, fed predominantly on foliage of that species. The proportions of Eucalyptus and shrub foliage eaten by different populations did not appear to be correlated with availability, suggesting that ringtails fed selectively from the foods available. Food selection was practised at four levels: between species, trees, leaves and leaf parts. Partly digested leaf material appeared to have been consumed by pouch young before they had begun to feed on foliage.