bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On a collection of Acrania (Phylum Chordata) from the Solomon Islands
Authors: Gibbs P. E. , Wickstead J. H.
Published: August 2009

A collection of acraniates from Marovo Lagoon in the New Georgia Group of the Solomon Islands is described. Five species are recorded—Asymmetron lucayanum, A. cultellus, Branchiostoma malayana, B. indicum and B. lanceolatum or B. haeckeli: each is discussed briefly in relation to its taxonomic and biogeographic interest.
Studies on the helminth parasites of freshwater fishes of the Sudan
Authors: Khalil Lotfi F.
Published: August 2009

2419 freshwater fishes from the Sudan were examined for helminth parasites and found to harbour one monogenean species, 15 species of adult digenetic trematodes, three species of larval trematodes, 16 species of adult cestodes, 13 species of adult nematodes, two species of larval nematodes and three species of acanthocephalans. Four species of adults and four species of larval worms are recorded for the first time in the Sudan and 30 new hosts are listed. The intensity of infestation of each species, the host‐specificity and the variations in the infestation of fishes are discussed. The helminth fauna of the Sudan is compared with that of other African countries.
On a new commensal mytilid (Mollusca: Bivalva) opening into the coelenteron of Fungia scutaria (Coelenterata)*
Authors: Goreau T. F. , Goreau N. I. , Soot‐Ryen T. , Yonge C. M.
Published: August 2009

A new genus and species of mytilid (bivalve) molluscs has been discovered living within shallow water fungid corals in the Gulf of Eilat at the northern end of the Red Sea. Specimens referred to the forma gardineri have been found in deeper water fungids in the Maldives. The animals live ventral side uppermost in cavities excavated chemically by the mantle tissues (pallial envelope) which envelop the delicate shell. The long siphons open into the coelenteron where food, consisting probably to a significant extent of symbiotic zooxanthellae discharged from the tissues of the coral, is collected. Feeding and digestive organs are well developed, labial palps are vestigial. The animal is dorsoventrally flattened with both adductors greatly reduced, the anterior one, with the mouth, being displaced posteriorly. The mantle cavity has a unique unpaired extension (accessory mantle cavity) which extends forward, dorsally and then posteriorly. It may assist in the distribution of hydro‐static pressure and so in the even application of the pallial envelope against the wall of the cavity. The byssiferous foot is relatively large and active with the pedal ganglia forming the major nerve centres in the body. The evolution of the genus is discussed. It is basically heteromyarian and has evolved along lines totally distinct from those taken by the rock‐boring (but also mytilid) Lithophaginae. The life history is unknown but must involve initial penetration of the coral tissues by way of the stomadaeum or coelenteron.
Competition and extinction: the mice of Foula, with notes on those of Fair Isle and St Kilda
Authors: Berry R. J. , Tricker B. J. K.
Published: August 2009

House mice (Mus rnusculus muralis) on St Kilda became extinct within about 18 months of the human population leaving the island in 1930. Although it was argued at the time that they died out because they were unable to find enough food, house mice flourish on a number of uninhabited islands and it seems more probable that they could not successfully compete with the Long‐tailed field mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus) in the absence of man.

A study of the distribution and diet of both house and field mice on the Shetland islands of Foula and Fair Isle shows that the house mouse populations tend to be centred on human dwellings, although both species were found apparently living together on Foula away from habitation. The natural history of the two species is reviewed, and it is concluded that the breeding of the house mouse is the most probable characteristic to be upset by disturbance, and that the disappearance of man on St Kilda allowed Apodemus to enter a habitat previously occupied almost exclusively by Mus.
Acclimation, water and temperature relations of the woodlice Metoponorthus pruinosus and Periscyphis jannonei in the Sudan
Authors: Cloudsley‐Thompson J. L.
Published: August 2009

The transpiration rate of P. jannonei is lower than that of M. pruinosus, and low even compared to that of the desert woodlouse, H. reaumuri of North Africa. Different populations of the same species of woodlouse may have transpiration rates which are related to the xeric nature of their environment, but rapid acclimation in the rate of water‐loss does occur. Both species, however, show quick acclimation to high and low temperature, not only as regards their time of survival in saturated air at 41·5°C (L.T. 50 for exposure of 30 minutes) but also in their metabolic rates.
Bi‐parental mouth brooding in Tilapia galilaea (Pisces, Cichlidae)
Authors: Iles T. D. , Holden M. J.
Published: August 2009

New evidence shows that Tilapia galilaea (Artédi) is almost certainly a bi‐parental mouth brooder throughout its range, and that this habit is not confined only to races found in Israel. Previous classification of this species as a maternal brooder in Africa appears to be based on lack of observations; it is the only member of the genus definitely known to be a bi‐parental brooder. The size of the eggs and the development of their adhesive stalk system is intermediate between those of substrate spawners and mouth brooders. Among the latter the adhesive stalk system of the only paternal brooding species is rudimentary but it is entirely absent in the maternal brooding species. The conclusion is drawn that maternal and paternal mouth brooders did not evolve directly from substrate spawners but independently from bi‐parental brooders.
Peristaltic waves of tubicolous worms and the problem of irrigation in Sabella pavonina
Authors: Mettaw C.
Published: August 2009

A simple scheme is presented to illustrate four possible kinds of locomotory peristalsis in worm‐like animals. The application of this scheme to real animals is discussed. Peristaltic waves may be of constriction or dilatation. A continuous body cavity enables the worm to regulate both speed and direction of travel by controlling the relative tonus of its body wall muscles. Thus peristaltic waves can be used to pump water without causing locomotion.

Sabella irrigates its tube by peristaltic swellings but the coelom and intestine are sub‐divided by entire septa. Anatomical and morphological features which allow the shortest, widest segments forming a “piston” to slide down the tube and the narrower elongated segments to grip its walls are considered. In this way the construction of the typical body segment is given a functional explanation.

The functions of septa in annelids are discussed.
A study of the egg shells of the Gaviiformes, Procellariiformes, Podicipitiformes and Pelecaniformes
Authors: Tyler C.
Published: August 2009

Egg shells of the Gaviiformes, Procellariiformes, Podicipitiformes and Pelecaniformes have been studied using general inspection, chemical analysis, histological and plastic embedding techniques.

In all four orders there is a true shell consisting of large crystals having their origin at the surface of the membrane. In the Gaviiformes and Procellariiformes, the true shell is then covered with a cuticle, while in the Podicipitiformes and Pelecaniformes (except for the Phaethontidae) there is a calcareous cover over the true shell. Histological studies showed no major difference in the organic matrix of the true shell as between the four orders.

Pore channels are all single and, in those egg shells which have a cover, these channels do not penetrate the cover. Considerable pigmentation is present in the Gaviiformes egg shells and also in the Phaethontidae, and pigment spots occur not only on the surface but also in the body of the shell. Studies of the apparent density of the true shells and the covers showed interesting differences.

The taxonomic aspect of the results is discussed.
The incidence of the Pea crab, Pinnotheres pisum in the two types of Mytilus (Mollusca: Bivalvia) from Padstow, south‐west England
Authors: Seed R.
Published: August 2009

Significant differences in the infection of M. edulis and the “Padstow type” mussel with P. pisum are recorded, and some possible explanations for these differences are discussed.

Both types of Mytilus from the mid and lower regions of the mussel bed showed heavier infections than mussels higher on the shore. Even so, the differences between the two types were still maintained.

A relationship exists between crab and mussel size, larger crabs being found only in larger hosts. The smallest mussel found to be infected with Pinnotheres measured 3·35 cm in length.

Infection in M. edulis was found to increase with increased size of host, the largest occurring mussels having from 80 to 100% infection. Larger mussels occurred in greater numbers in the low shore. It is assumed that infection in the “Padstow type” would show a similar relationship if sufficient recordings had been available.

The presence of the crab causes gill damage, and infected mussels show considerably lower tissue weights and slightly greater shell weights than uninfected mussels of similar size.

The presence of the crab does not appear to influence the reproductive capacity of the mussel.
The stimulus to egg‐laying in the Bengalese finch
Authors: Slater Peter J. B.
Published: August 2009

The effects of mate and nesting facilities on the occurrence of egg‐laying were examined in the Bengalese finch.

Egg‐laying is unusual in isolated females and those kept in large groups. It is more common in monosexual pairs, and its incidence in them is not markedly altered by whether males can be heard or not. Females in heterosexual pairs usually lay within three weeks of pairing. A similar lag was found in pairs separated by bars, pointing to copulation being unnecessary.

Carrying of nest material to the nest box is mainly done by males. It is unusual in isolated birds, but occurs in monosexual and heterosexual pairs, and in pairs separated by bars.

Egg‐laying is delayed in the absence of hay for nest building. A delay was also found in pairs separated by bars, when only the male was given nest material: this indicates that personal experience by the female is important. Heterosexual pairs deprived of nest boxes, but given nest material, were not recorded as laying.

It is concluded that egg‐laying is stimulated by mate and nest material in a complex fashion. The various stimuli these provide interact to a greater or lesser degree to give the physiological and behavioural changes observed.
The biology and ecology of the fishes of a small tropical stream
Authors: Welcomme R. L.
Published: August 2009

Many small species of fish are found in the stream/swamp systems that flow into Lake Victoria. One such system, in Uganda, was inhabited permanently by only one species, although others ran into the stream when it was flooded in the rainy seasons. Other fishes were confined to the lower reaches near the mouth, but never moved far upstream.

Studies on the biology of these fishes indicate that reproductive behaviour is generally confined to the rains in all species, the cyprinids using the system especially for breeding purposes at these times. Factors other than sexual state, such as feeding habits, vary little between fish from the river and those from the lake.

Experiments show that there is a change in the sexual state of the females of one species during the journey upriver, indicating the importance of this activity in the life cycle of the migratory fish.

The young of the cyprinids first appear in the up‐river swamps. Here they grow, migrating to the river and moving downstream to enter the lake after periods of time that are characteristic for each species. This distinctiveness in timing was also found for the other fishes that inhabit the system, and it suggests that downstream migration is controlled by changes in the physiological state of the fish with age.
Craniological observations on Hyaena and Crocuta (Mammalia)
Authors: Buckland‐Wright J. C.
Published: August 2009

The results are presented of a comparative study of certain features of the cranial osteology of Hyaena hyaena (Brisson) and Crocuta crocuta (Erxleben), of the atlas and axis vertebrae and of the associated cranial and nuchal musculature. Observable osteological differences between the two forms are shown to be correlated with the degree of development of particular muscles and thus with the functional activity of the jaws in the seizing and carrying of prey. Secondary sexual characters are more pronounced in the male than in the female of either form.
Venous return in the trunk of the Port Jackson shark, Heterodontus portusjacksoni
Authors: Birch M. P. , Carre C. G. , Satchell G. H.
Published: August 2009

The longitudinal veins of the trunk of the Port Jackson shark exhibit low venous pressures and blood flow is facilitated by four subsidiary mechanisms. The sucking action of the heart is augmented by the presence of single flap valves at the central ends of certain longitudinal veins. The flexion of the trunk in swimming transfers blood from the dorsal aorta to the caudal vein; both the segmental arteries and the segmental veins are valved at their origins from the main vessels. Movement of the median dorsal fins and of the tail pumps blood from cutaneous veins to the caudal vein by the compression and dilation of valved venous reservoirs located close to radial muscles. Movement of the rectum generates negative pressures in certain cutaneous veins. A division of the trunk venous system, into abdominal and postpelvic regions is suggested on functional and anatomical grounds.
The snapping strength of the egg shells of various orders of birds
Authors: Tyler C.
Published: August 2009

A study of the snapping strength (S) of egg shells and its relationship to the square of the thickness (T2) has been made on seven orders of birds and also in respect of a few shells of ratite birds, domestic fowl and guinea fowl.

There are considerable differences in strength between the egg shells of different orders of birds and when shells are snapped outwards the egg shells of Sphenisciformes are almost twice as strong as those of Podicipitiformes for a given thickness. The shells of the guinea fowl are very strong and those of the domestic fowl weak compared with the seven orders when they are snapped inwards.

Comparisons of the strength of shells with and without the outside chalky cover, which occurs on the egg shells of Sphenisciformes, Pelecaniformes and Podicipitiformes, show very variable relationships, while comparisons of inward and outward snapping strength indicate that in some orders the difference is great but that in others it is negligible.

The presence or absence of a cover on the shell could not explain any difference in snapping strength, nevertheless, a few tests on Pelecanus shells using impact strength showed that then the cover adds considerably to the strength. No other shell characteristics could explain the differences in snapping strength.
Ecological aspects of polymorphism in an African land snail, Limicolaria martensiana
Authors: Owen D. F.
Published: August 2009

In Uganda the herbivorous land snail, Limicolaria martensiana occurs in well‐defined populations. Samples of snails from 49 populations reveal the existence of five distinct colour forms, the frequency of which varies markedly from population to population. There is a common streaked form that occurs in all populations and a series of pallid forms that may be present or absent. Late Pleistocene fossils from the Western Rift indicate that the polymorphism is at least 8000–10,000 years old. The polymorphism is not correlated with broad geographical components of the environment or with habitat. It is however correlated with population density, and in one population a change in density resulted in a change in the relative frequency of the colour forms. Human activities have probably contributed to the dispersal of the snails to new areas, and because of these the founder effect cannot be ruled out as contributing to the polymorphism.
On the development of the venous system in Polyptems senegalus (Pisces)
Authors: Smet W. M. A. De
Published: August 2009

In Polyptems senegalus a peculiar venous system exists. The pattern is symmetrical in embryos and in early‐larval stages, but soon the asymmetrical development of the Cuvierian ducts, originating from vitelline veins, causes a predominance of the system to the right side. The two posterior cardinal veins coalesce except in the anterior region, where the right vein becomes the direct continuation of the single vein; in later stages the single posterior cardinal vein acquires a peculiar disposition, partially in the left and partially in the right kidney. The inferior jugular veins become asymmetrical as well. The anterior cardinal veins are replaced by lateral cephalic veins. A special vein in the abdomen may be considered as being a vena cava. Other peculiar items are the pulmonary veins. Other veins are more or less similar to those of other fishes.
A synopsis of the genus Mysidopsis (Mysidacea, Crustacea) with a key for the identification of its known species and descriptions of two new species from South African waters
Authors: Tattersall Olive S.
Published: August 2009

A list of the species now included in the genus is given with notes of their geographical distribution and (where possible) details of their ecology and a key for their identification. An amended diagnosis of the genus is given to include two new species, hitherto unnamed and known only from damaged and inadequate material, which are now named and fully described and figured.
The status of Dugesia lugubris and D. polychroa (Turbellaria, Tricladida) in Britain
Authors: Reynoldson T. B. , Bellamy L. S.
Published: August 2009

Two types of triclad in the Dugesia lugubris species complex were identified on the basis of head shape and cannibalistic behaviour. More detailed examination of the reproductive organs, breeding and cytology showed them to be distinct species. One of them fitted the description of Dugesia lugubris (sensu Schmidt, 1860), the other fitted D. polychroa (sensu Schmidt, 1862). They are most reliably distinguished by the features of the penial papilla; in D. polychroa it is relatively small, with a ventral duct and lacking a permanent nipple, and in D. lugubris the papilla is massive, with an ejaculatory duct surrounded by thick musculature and possessing a permanent nipple. There are also differences in external appearance. The head of D. lugubris is pointed, that of D. polychroa rounded. The eyes are nearer the anterior border of the head in the former. Dugesia lugubris has a less pronounced neck and a more squat appearance than D. polychroa and is often larger. The colour and pattern of pigment is more variable in D. polychroa. The ventral surface is lighter in colour than the dorsal in D. polychroa, but in D. lugubris they are similar. It is suggested that the earlier confusion in the nomenclature of these two species was due to the failure to recognize that D. polychroa may exhibit a temporary nipple on the penial papilla. A survey of lakes in northern Britain shows that Dugesia polychroa is more common than D. lugubris. The karyotype of D. polychroa corresponds to Benazzi's type B, while that of D. lugubris belongs to type E. Most of the earlier records and literature for British Dugesia refer to D. polychroa.
Gonadal and reproductive patterns in Tilapia leucosticta (Teleostei: Cichlidae) in an equatorial lake, Lake Naivasha (Kenya)
Authors: Hyder Mohamed
Published: August 2009

The cichlid fish T. leucosticta (Trewavas) was studied by fortnightly seining an area of an equatorial lake (Lake Naivasha) in Kenya to study their reproductive and gonadal patterns. The study lasted 16 months during which period temperature, rainfall and (for the last 11 months) sunlight patterns were obtained and analysed. Testicular and ovarian development was lowest in the months of July‐August. No evidence of breeding was detected during this period. This period is also marked by the lowest rainfall, the lowest temperatures and least sunlight. Slight but fluctuating breeding activity and gonadal development is resumed in October following increased sunlight and temperatures from September. The period December to February is marked by sustained high temperatures, high sustained maximal sunlight and low rainfall. It is also the period of rising gonadal development in most mature males and females reaching a peak in both sexes in February. This is followed shortly after by a sharp peak in reproductive activity. It is concluded that sunlight and temperature are the most important factors influencing gonadal development and subsequent breeding in Tilapia even under equatorial conditions. When preceded by conditions of sustained high temperatures and good sunlight which are conducive to the maximal development of the gonads of both sexes, the onset of rainfall seems to stimulate the initiation of the peak breeding activity. Sustained heavy rainfall on the other hand seems to check breeding.
The natural control of a population of Tawny owls (Strix aluco)
Authors: Southern H. N.
Published: August 2009

A long‐term study was made (1947‐59) of the numbers and breeding success of the Tawny owl (Strix aluco L.) in a woodland habitat near Oxford. Parallel studies were made of the numbers and distribution of the owl's two main prey species, the Wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus (L.)) and the Bank vole (Clethrionomys glareolus (Schr.)).

The life‐cycles of all these three interrelated species were worked out and special attention was paid to the habit of strict territoriality of the owl (on the evidence of vocalizations and of the recovery, from the regurgitated pellets of the owl, of marking rings placed on the rodents) and to the sequence of losses which occurred during the breeding of the owl. The owls' vocal defence of their territories enabled an accurate census to be made of the adult population each spring and the fact that the fledged young remained for a long time in their parents' territories made it possible to count the number of young produced each year. Investigation of the breeding habits of the owls showed that the number of fledged young produced fell far short of what was possible: some pairs of owls refrained from breeding at all, others laid eggs but failed to hatch them, yet others hatched young but failed to rear them to fledging. By and large this degree of reproductive “failure” was associated with the numbers and availability of rodent prey. At an exceptionally low density of prey no owls even attempted to breed; as densities increased, correspondingly greater numbers of fledged young were produced up to a ceiling where no more young were produced however much higher the level of abundance of the rodents rose.

In spite of these wide variations in the numbers of prey and in the numbers of fledged young produced, the population of adult owls remained notably stable, increasing from a low level of 17 pairs in 1947, owing to the emergency mortality of an exceptionally hard winter, to about 30 pairs in 1955, after which the population remained stationary until the end of the study in 1959.

It is clear that this stability is maintained by those young which fail to find a territory either starving or moving outside the study area, which in most cases amounts to the same thing. Thus regulation of the population studied was due to territorial intolerance acting to produce subsequent mortality, though it is not certain that this applies over a larger area.
Some observations on the histology of the ovary and RNA synthesis in the ovarian tissues of the starfish, Henrida sanguinolenta
Authors: Chia Fu‐Shiang
Published: August 2009

The general histology of the ovary and the cellular morphology of oöcytes in Henricia sanguinolenta (Muller) Bell is described.

The single nucleolus in the germinal vesicle begins to multiply when the oöcyte is 90 μm in diameter, either by fragmentation or by budding and it reaches several hundred in number in a full grown oöcyte of 1200 μm in diameter. At no time during the oöcyte growth is RNA synthesis in the nucleolus or any other parts of the oöcyte detected by autoradiographic techniques. However, follicle cells and coelomocytes in the ovary are actively synthesizing RNA during this period.

The inactivity of RNA synthesis in oöcytes is discussed.
Genotypic stability and physiological tolerance in the dog‐whelk (Nucella lapillus)
Authors: Berry R. J. , Crothers J. H.
Published: August 2009

Populations of dog‐whelks living on fully marine shores are in genotypic equilibrium: variation is produced during zygote formation in proportion to the exposure of the shore to wave action, and this variation is eliminated during life. However, populations collected on the Somerset coast where the salinity of the Bristol Channel begins to be reduced by land‐water from the River Severn show no such regular pattern. Out of 15 samples (a total of 4711 individuals) 13 showed signs of temporary extinction or of disruptions of growth apparently caused by periodic food shortages. It is concluded that dog‐whelks from the Bristol Channel live in a colonizing situation in which they are struggling to survive rather than extending their range by increasing their physiological tolerance.
Regulation of numbers in the Great tit (Aves: Passeriformes)
Authors: Krebs John R.
Published: August 2009

The census data of the Great tit collected by Perrins (1965) and others in Marley Wood near Oxford are analysed for density‐dependence. Clutch size and hatching success are density‐dependent and sufficiently so to regulate the population at the observed level (assuming that there is in addition a fairly large density‐independent mortality). There may also be some weak density‐dependent mortality outside the breeding season. The density‐dependent variations in clutch size are probably in the main due to shortage of available food and density‐dependent hatching failure is caused by predation. Territorial behaviour has been shown experimentally to determine breeding density, and may produce a density‐dependent effect outside the breeding season. These three factors are responsible for regulation of the Great tit population in Marley Wood.
The structure of the cochlea in Chiroptera. A selection of Microchiroptera from Africa
Authors: Pye Ade
Published: August 2009

Various measurements have been made on the cochleae of some insectivorous African Microchiroptera, including representatives from all the three superfamilies, the Emballonuroidea, Rhinolophoidea and Vespertilionoidea. Their ultrasonic pulses have been recorded and correlations between the structure of the cochlea and the pulses have been attempted. The most extreme measurements are found in the Rhinolophoidea, confirming earlier results in other species.
Colour change of Mountain hares (Lepus timidus scoticus) in north‐east Scotland
Authors: Flux John E. C.
Published: August 2009

A two‐year field study of colour change in a population of Mountain hares showed that the rate of colour change was significantly faster in a warm spring than in a cold one. The same result was found in individually marked wild hares, indicating that the response is not due to differences in age or sex ratios. It is postulated that the white coat is for camouflage, and the duration for which it is worn is correlated with temperature because of the coat's thickness. Moulting is probably timed by daylength, and the rate of moult affected by temperature.
Observations on the host‐parasite relations of Thersitina gasterostei (Crustacea: Copepoda)
Authors: Walkey M. , Lewis D. B. , Dartnall H. J. G.
Published: August 2009

This study seeks to analyse the degree of infection of a euryhaline fish with the parasitic copepod Thersitina gasterostei in an extensive brackish‐water system. For this purpose, a survey of the occurrence of the parasite on three‐spined sticklebacks in the Norfolk Broads was conducted in Spring 1969. An attempt was made to correlate the incidence levels of T. gasterostei with variations in salinity. In addition, observations were made upon the location of the parasite on its host, the changes in maturation of the parasite during the sampling period and the differences in infection between three‐ and nine‐spined sticklebacks.
The menstrual cycle and its effect on behaviour in the Talapoin monkey (Miopithecus talapoin)
Authors: Scruton Diane M. , Herbert J.
Published: August 2009

The menstrual cycles of 14 captive Talapoin monkeys (Miopithecus talapoin) were studied by making serial observations on the vaginal smears and sexual skin swellings for up to 15 months. Twelve of these females menstruated and the mean duration of their cycle was32–9 days (95% confidence limits 28.0‐37.7). The corresponding value for the seven most regular females was 33.0 days (29.1‐36.8). There were rhythmic changes in the vaginal smears and sexual skin during the menstrual cycle. Maximum cornification of the smears and maximum sexual skin swelling were observed at midcycle; the sexual skin deflated and the smear became less cornified during the luteal phase. The follicular phase—i.e. from menstruation to maximum skin swelling lasted 20.4 days with a wide distribution, in contrast to the mean duration of the luteal phase (13.7 days) which showed a pronounced peak at 14 days. The menstrual cycle of the talapoin thus resembles those of certain other Old World monkeys that exhibit perineal sexual skin swelling.

Sexual behaviour of the male and female was maximal near the female's midcycle and minimal during the luteal phase, with intermediate values in the follicular phase. The males were most aggressive towards other females of the group when one female was at midcycle; there were no consistent changes in aggression between the male and the female herself. The number of times one animal looks at another (a characteristic behaviour pattern in talapoins) was measured and occurred most often at midcycle, but other preliminary observations indicated a more pronounced correlation between this behaviour pattern and an animal's position in the hierarchy.
On a new species of medusa from an inland salt lake in South Australia
Authors: Russell F. S.
Published: August 2009

A description is given of a new species of medusa collected from a small inland salt lake in South Australia. A new genus has been erected for the species, which is probably a limnomedusan.
The burrowing of Priapulus caudatus
Authors: Hammond R. A.
Published: August 2009

An account is given of the way in which Priapulus caudatus burrows in the muddy sea‐bed in which it lives. Three phases are distinguishable in the muscular activity which is responsible for locomotion. During the first phase the animal is able to feed and defaecate, during the second the proboscis becomes invaginated, and during the third the animal moves forward. The power for locomotion is provided by contraction of the longitudinal and circular muscles of the body wall, not, as has been suggested previously, by the retractor muscles of the praesoma. Invagination of the proboscis is apparently stimulated by the arrival of a wave of contraction in the body wall musculature, propagated from the trunk.

In general the animal burrows in a way common for soft‐bodied animals; the anterior and posterior extremities acting in turn as “terminal” and “penetration” anchors in the substratum. The muscular activities of the larva are limited by the presence of a lorica which encases the trunk, and the animal's powers of movement at this stage are very restricted.
Stridulatory organs in spiny orb‐weaver spiders
Authors: Hinton H. E. , Wilson R. S.
Published: August 2009

A stridulatory organ is here described for the first time in the family Argiopidae. The file is on the surface of the lungbook covers, and the scraper is on the base of the femora. Altogether seven different kinds of stridulatory organs have been distinguished in spiders according to the positions of the files and scrapers. The organ now described in the spiny orb‐weavers of the genus Micrathena was previously known only in a few genera of the family Erigonidae. In one of the species of Micrathena the ridges of the stridulatory file are sufficiently close together to give bright diffraction spectra at incidences near grazing. The primitive polygonal pattern on the surface of the cuticle of spiders is illustrated, and the mode of formation of the stridulatory file is suggested.
The ultrasonic responses of albino mouse pups to tactile stimuli
Authors: Okon Eyo E.
Published: August 2009

Tactile stimuli, like environmental temperature changes, can evoke ultrasonic responses from albino mouse pups. But the changes with age in the intensity of ultrasounds so produced follow a different pattern from those due to temperature changes. The responses begin with very high intensity pulses in the very young pups and then gradually decline with the age of the pups. The present report arises from a systematic study of this phenomenon, the results of which are discussed in relation to those of previous ones.
Food preferences of an insular population of Rattus rattus
Authors: Norman F. I.
Published: August 2009

The food preferences of an insular population of Rattus rattus inhabiting colonies of the Short‐tailed shearwater Puffinus tenuirostris are described from results obtained during analyses of stomach contents and droppings collected from Big Green Island, Furneaux Group, Tasmania. It was found that rats on the island maintained themselves by eating a predominantly vegetarian diet and results suggest that there was some selective feeding on monocotyledons rather than the dicotyledons present in the area. Green parts of plants were taken throughout the year and rats may select these as a water source during the summer months. Plants made up 77.2% of the 254 stomach contents analysed and of this 57.7% was green material. Insect remains were found in 24.8% of the 1400 droppings examined and made up 14.3% of the stomach contents. Few feathers of the shearwater Puffinus tenuirostris were found in the stomachs or droppings and preliminary behavioural experiments suggested that the rat does not actively predate the bird though it may remove unattended eggs and eat dead chicks.
Mother‐young behaviour at Grey seal breeding beaches
Authors: Fogden S. C. L.
Published: August 2009

A comparative study of mother‐young relations at Grey seal breeding beaches was made and results from two sites in Orkney are described to illustrate the different situations. It was found that at the minimally disturbed beach the cows consistently and exclusively suckled their own pups. To achieve this a bond is formed between the mother and pup immediately after parturition. The cow uses a combination of senses to locate and identify her pup; she recognises and responds to her pup's call, she returns to where she last suckled and she identifies the pup by smell. The pup remains on the beach where it was last suckled, it probably does not recognise its mother and does not discriminate between cows when soliciting suckling. These results are considered to be representative of completely undisturbed behaviour in the wild. At the other beach there were many examples of inconsistent suckling; these are described and attributed to disturbed conditions created by the method of study which led to a break‐down of the mother‐young bond between many of the seals present. The situation was accentuated by the topography of the beach and the density of seals present.
Notes on the life history and reproductive biology of the Giant whip scorpion, Mastigoproctus giganteus (Uropygi, Thelyphonidae) from Florida
Authors: Weygoldt Peter
Published: August 2009

In the postembryonic development of Mastigoproctus giganteus there are four nymphal stages, and the adult never moults again. Size ranges of the different stages are given. Moulting seems to occur once a year. Postembryonic development up to maturity therefore takes about four years. Secondary sexual characters in the form of the pedipalp appear at the adult stage. These include a strong positive allometric growth of the male palpal femur and patella which starts in the fourth nymph and becomes significant in the adult. The only reliable characters by which the sexes can be distinguished in third and fourth nymphs are sclerotized bars within the male genital atrium.

Sperm transfer is accomplished by a very complicated spermatophore. This carries two sperm carriers each of which consists of a base, a sperm package with reservoir and ejaculatory duct, and a conductor. The male, using its modified movable palpal fingers, pushes these into the female's gonopore. After mating, they are dropped to the ground and discarded.
Tooth wear and jaw action in the Triassic ornithischian dinosaur Fabrosaums
Authors: Thulborn Richard A.
Published: August 2009

A system of tooth wear and replacement is postulated for the Triassic ornithischian dinosaur Fabrosaums. This scheme is based upon the evidence of worn tooth crowns. Tooth replacement is of the normal reptilian type described by Edmund (1960). Tooth wear is unlike that in most ornithischian dinosaurs (being matched only in the late Cretaceous Thescelosaurus) and involves the development of two wear surfaces one ach crown. This peculiar wear pattern necessitates interlocking of the upper teeth with the lower during occlusion and indicates an essentially vertical jaw action. The muscular basis for such a jaw action is briefly considered.
The structure and development of the spermatozoon of Heterakis gallinamm (Nematoda)
Authors: Lee D. L.
Published: August 2009

The structure and development of the spermatozoon of the nematode Heterakis gallinamm has been described. The spermatozoon is amoeboid. The centrioles have the unusual structure of nine single fibres. The nucleus has no limiting membrane and is surrounded by mitochondria and organelles, here called alpha bodies. These alpha bodies appear to arise from Golgi complexes in association with granular endoplasmic reticulum in the spermatocytes and have a fibrillar component which is released into the peripheral cytoplasm of the spermatid when the spermatozoon is formed. There is no refringent cone as in other ascaroid spermatozoa.
Geratodontology and horn growth of the impala (Aepyceros melampus)
Authors: Spinage C. A.
Published: August 2009

Examination of the jaws of an impala population showed advanced wear on mandibular M1 compared with other ungulates which have been examined. This could lead to an erroneous interpretation of age if based upon mandibular tooth wear alone. Explanations are offered for this pattern in terms of the apparent pattern of wear of the impala molar teeth. Suggestions are also put forward for a method of determining specific age, from a conceptual wear model, when only extreme parameters are known. Horn growth in the male is also described.
New Pogonophora from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans
Authors: Ivanov A. V. , Southward Eve C.
Published: August 2009

A study of a collection of Pogonophora, made by the R.V. “Vema” in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, has revealed a total of 20 species. One of these, Lamellisabella ivanovi, was already known, the rest appear to be new. Seven species are described in detail, the others being represented only by tubes or insignificant fragments.
A revision of the Mediterranean gobiid genus Chromogobius (Teleostei‐Perciformes)
Authors: Miller P. J.
Published: August 2009

The Mediterranean gobiid genus Chromogobius (Teleostei‐Perciformes) is redefined with additional information on lateral‐line system and skeleton. The value of meristic features, colouration, squamation, and relative number of cephalic lateral‐line papillae is shown for species and subspecies definition. Two species are recognized and described, the mediolittoral Ch. quadrivittatus (Steindachner, 1863) (type species) and the more offshore Ch. zebratus (Kolombatovic, 1891), with the latter being divided into the two subspecies Ch. z. zebratus (from Split, Adriatic Sea) and Ch. z. levanticussubsp. n. (Mediterranean coast of Israel; possibly Tyrrhenian Sea). Osteological confirmation for placing Chromogobius in the Gobiidae is provided, and Chromogobius shown to have affinity with certain South African species (Gobius nudiceps, G. caffer, G. natalensis, G. agulhensis, and Acentrogobius multi‐fasciatus), as well as occupying an intermediate position between the Mediterranean Zebrus zebrus and Didogobius bentuvii.
The profundal fauna of Llyn Tegid, North Wales
Authors: Hunt P. C. , Jones J. W.
Published: August 2009

Benthic fauna samples were quantitatively collected each month from the 6 to 40 m depth zone of Llyn Tegid for a period of one year. The seasonal distribution, abundance and life cycles of the invertebrate species are discussed in addition to a general description of the physical and chemical environment in which they live. The abundance and composition of the profundal fauna is compared with that of a similar survey carried out by D. R. Dunn in 1951/2 and shows a fourfold increase in total numbers of animals. The contribution to the increased profundal fauna of all animals recorded in 1951/2 and of those that have colonized this zone since that time are discussed.
Dynamics of uptake and binding of 35S‐sulphate by the cartilage of Rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) and the influence of thyroxine
Authors: Barber Sandra , Barrington E. J. W.
Published: August 2009

35S‐sulphate has been injected into the body cavity of yearling Rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) and the time sequence of its excretion, and of its uptake and binding by branchial cartilage, determined by scintillation counting. The data are shown to conform well with the time sequence of movement of 35S‐sulphate into the cells and matrix of the cartilage, as visualized by autoradiography. Peak content of both unbound and bound sulphate is reached within the cartilage at about 30 hours after injection, in both control and thryoxine‐treated fish, but the uptake in the latter is significantly higher. In conformity with this, the rate of excretion of 35S‐sulphate is lower in the hormone‐treated animals. The results confirm and extend earlier work in showing that thyroxine, by enhancing sulphate uptake, could exert a growth‐promoting influence upon cartilage, but it is pointed out that this can be only one component of a complex structural and hormonal situation.
The effect of dehydration on salt and water balance in gulls (Larus argentatusandL. fuscus).
Authors: Ensor D. M. , Phillips J. G.
Published: August 2009

The effects of a variety of dehydratory stresses, hypersalinity, heat and water deprivation on renal and extrarenal handling of a standard salt load have been studied. Concommitant measurements of plasma and tissue electrolytes and of pituitary prolactin levels have also been made and the possible correlation between prolactin levels and the degree of dehydration are discussed along with the possible ecological significance of the reported findings.
Ultrasound and mating behaviour in rodents with some observations on other behavioural situations
Authors: Sewell) G. D. Sales (née
Published: August 2009

Ultrasounds have been detected during mating behaviour in all 11 species of myomorph rodents in which this behaviour has been observed. The signals produced by each of the species studied are described. In all species except hamsters, these signals appear to be produced by the male. Ultrasounds have also been detected from rodents in other situations such as during and after disturbance and when placed in new surroundings. The possible significance of these ultrasonic signals in the lives of rodents is discussed.
Polyspecific associations and niche separation of rain‐forest anthropoids in Cameroon, West Africa
Authors: Gartlan J. Stephen , Struhsaker Thomas T.
Published: August 2009

A 19 month field study of rain‐forest anthropoids at Idenau and several other rain forests, and a similar 15 month study at Southern Bakundu were conducted in Cameroon, West Africa. The study areas and their primate fauna are described. Polyspecific associations of primates were temporary, but not random, some species occurring together more frequently than others, and with statistical significance. Seasonal environmental factors affecting the composition of polyspecific cercopithecid associations are described. Interspecific social behaviour was infrequent and hybridization rare; instances of each are described. Observations on vertical stratification, habitat preference, seasonal movements and food habits indicated that all these factors contribute to niche separation among five sympatric species of rain‐forest Cercopithecus. The major predator of anthropoids in Cameroon is man. To a much lesser extent the Crowned hawk‐eagle, Stephanoaëtus coronatus (Linnaeus) preys on Cercopithecus species. It is suggested that polyspecific associations, by increasing the effective group size, give advantages in food location and avoidance of predators without increasing interspecific competition for food and competition between males for females.
The developmental biology of the egg stage of Western European Tettigoniidae (Orthoptera)
Authors: Hartley J. C. , Warne A. C.
Published: August 2009

An account is given of the development, from laying to hatching, of 46 species of Tettigoniidae from Western Europe, in particular England, France and Spain. It is essentially concerned with the rate of growth and thermal requirements of the eggs through their phases of development, as determined under controlled laboratory conditions. However, the implications of these results are discussed in terms relating to the behaviour of the eggs in their natural environment.
Pneumatic osteolysis in a cetacean (Orcaella brevirostris)
Authors: Cave A. J. E.
Published: August 2009

Pneumatic osteolysis (excessive pneumatisation of cranial bones) previously reported for certain terrestrial mammals (rhinoceroses, elephants, gorilla) is here reported in the Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris). The osteological evidence provided by all mammal forms studied indicates unequivocally that, in the complex process of bone pneumatization (whether normal or excessive in range), the initiative lies with the peculiarly specialized mucosa of the pneumatic spaces concerned.
The anatomy of the syrinx in passerine birds
Authors: Warner Robert W.
Published: August 2009

The macroscopical structure of the organ of voice in songbirds has long been known, but detailed information on the microscopical anatomy of the syrinx has generally been lacking. Observations based largely on macroscopical evidence have led to a number of erroneous interpretations of function of various syringeal components, and lacking microscopical information, the vocal mechanism of birds cannot be adequately understood.

A wide variety of passeriform bird syrinxes have been studied by means of serial sections. Although there is much less variation in syringeal anatomy amongst songbirds than there is in the other orders of birds, and although all songbird syrinxes conform to the same basic pattern, there is nevertheless marked variation in various syringeal components between different passerine groups. Variations in syringeal structure within families Corvidae (Corvus corone, C. frugilegus), Sturnidae (Sturnus vulgaris, Gracula religiosa), Turdidae (Turdus merula, Erithacus rubecula), Hirundinidae (Delichon urbica), Ploceidae (Passer domesticus) and Paridae (Parus major, Aegithalos caudatus) are described and discussed. The significance of these findings in relation to bird sound production is discussed.