bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Allopatric speciation in the nematode parasites of frogs in southern Western Australia
Authors: Inglis W. Grant 
Published: August 2009

The nematodes parasitic in frogs in southern Western Australia are closely related to those found in South Australian hosts, with two cosmocercoid species common to both regions and at least two of the three Western Australian species of Parathelandros forming pairs with species in South Australia.The host distribution of the Western Australian species of Parathelandros suggests a host specificity, at generic level, with one species restricted to the genus Hyla, one largely restricted to the genus Helioporus and one, more widespread, in the genera Neobatrachus, Helioporus and Limnodynastes.Studies of the hosts have demonstrated that the four species of Helioporus in which P. carinae is known to occur do not represent a local radiation but are the result of at least three host invasions from the eastern side of the Nullarbor Plain. Because of this it is argued that the speciation of the parasites was independent of that of the hosts, was allopatric and probably involved intra‐host competition.The importance of using the divisions of their environment recognized by the parasites, rather than those recognized by their hosts, in studies of host: parasite relationships is stressed. As a consequence it is argued that although the theoretical basis of using parasites as indicators of host relationships is weakened their practical value remains unimpaired. Attention is drawn to the danger of circularity in the use of parasites in establishing host relationships.
Badidae, a new fish family–behavioural, osteological, and developmental evidence
Authors: Barlow George W. , Liem Karel F. , Wickler Wolfgang 
Published: August 2009

The behaviour of Badis badis is similar, in general, both to that of “nandid” fishes and that of anabantoid fishes; trenchant differences also exist. It is impossible at this time, on behavioural evidence alone, to assess the relative importance of the behavioural findings. However, the remarkable and consistent agreement in the performance of the spawning embrace suggests a close relationship of Badis to anabantoid fishes rather than to the “nandids”.The osteological studies confirm this hypothesis. Badis apparently split off from the ancestral anabantoids before they acquired the air‐breathing adaptation. The osteological differences between Badis and the anabantoids stem chiefly from the modifications accompanying aerial respiration.The egg of Badis badisis enclosed in an unusually tough sheath that is extremely adhesive. The egg itself lacks any special device for attaching. The larva has an adhesive organ at the tip of the yolk sac. The egg and the larva of Badis badis are thus unique among teleosts insofar as is known.From these three lines of information we erect a new percoid family, Badidae, based on Badis Bleeker. This family appears to have descended from the proto‐anabantoid stock.
The ecology of the Australian gecko Heteronotia binoei in northern New South Wales
Authors: Bustard H. Robert 
Published: August 2009

A two year study was carried out on Heteronotia binoei (Gray) in the Pilliga Scrub by means of visits of six days' duration in each month of the year. Animals were individually marked by toe‐clipping and a mark‐recapture programme was carried out throughout the study.In the Pilliga Scrub Heteronotia lives below bark or boards on the ground or below the bark at the base of dead trees or stumps.The mark‐recapture programme provided extensive data on the population, its movements, growth, tail loss and regeneration. Samples were collected for analysis of intestinal contents. The above data together with observations of behaviour provided a well corroborated picture of the biology of this small gekkonid lizard.
Body‐temperatures and torpor in Sminthopsis crassicaudata and S. larapinta (Marsupialia–Dasyuridae)
Authors: Godfrey Gillian K. 
Published: August 2009

Body‐temperatures in two species of insectivorous marsupial mice (family Dasyuridae) were measured using a rectal thermistor. In Sminthopsis crassicaudata at 21°C, body‐temperatures ranged from–5–31 ‐1°C (432 measurements on 12 mice). A diurnal temperature cycle with a mean amplitude of 0.79°C was revealed, with temperatures at a maximum at 02.00 hours and a minimum at 10.00 hours. Mean body‐temperatures of sibs showed significant differences; in one litter a difference of 2.7°C was demonstrated. In S. larapinta, the diurnal temperature cycle was greater with a mean amplitude of 4.24°C. Body‐temperatures ranged from 38.8–22.9°C.Changes in surface‐temperature (Ts) in unrestrained animals during entry into and arousal from torpor, were measured using thermocouples fitted inside the nest‐box and a recording potentiometer. S. larapinta had a daily torpor with or without food at room temperature, while in S. crassicaudata torpor could only be induced by lack of food. The lowest Ts reached were 18° and 17°C respectively. It is suggested that the torpor‐mechanism may have evolved in these species to meet temporary or seasonal shortages of food.
The structure of the cleaning brush on the pedipalps of some African Amblypygi (Arachnida)
Authors: LAWRENCE R. F. 
Published: August 2009

SummaryThe external structure of the cleaning organ or brush situated on the tarsus of the pedipalp in the Amblypygi has been examined in the following six species from tropical and southern Africa: Damon variegatus (Perty) Damon medius (Herbst), Titanodamon johnstoni Pocock, Phrynichus scullyi Purcell, Phrynichus bacillifer (Gerst.) and Hemiphrynus machadoi Fage.In all except one of these species the organ consists of two approximately parallel rows of modified setae; in Hemiphrynus machadoi there is only one. When both rows are present the constituent setae of each are quite different in appearance and structure.It is probable that the variations in number, size and shape of the setae in these forms furnish specific characters; further indirect support for this is afforded by the marked difference in the structure of the organ in Hemiphrynus as compared with the other five species; taxonomically Hemiphrynus belongs to the subfamily Tarantulinae while all the others are accommodated in the Phrynicinae or Damoninae.A brush‐like cleaning organ of some kind is found on the pedipalp‐tarsus of both old and new world Amblypygi and most probably in all members of the order.
The distribution of the Greater horse‐shoe bat, Rhinolophus ferrum‐equinum, during hibernation, in relation to environmental factors
Authors: Ransome R. D. 
Published: August 2009

Hibernation is a vital factor in the ability of bats to survive in temperate countries where insect availability is drastically reduced in winter. The value of hibernation in survival lies in the reduction of the bat's metabolic rate to very low levels, thus reducing their food requirements.The selection of a site which fulfils the physiological requirements of hibernation must be important in the survival of the Greater horse‐shoe bat. The present study shows that temperature is particularly important in the selection of a precise position for hibernation. The temperature required, however, varies throughout the winter.In England this bat finds suitable conditions in caves, mines, tunnels, cellars, and house attics. All are dark where the bats are found and offer protection from predators. These considerations are not sufficient to explain the distribution of this bat in hibernation.The present study shows that a large proportion of the population feeds outside the hibernaculum at times during the hibernation period. The evidence suggests that starvation is a cause of death. Hence it is not only the conditions inside the hibernacula which are important in the winter survival of a bat population. The environmental conditions outside may be just as vital.The Greater horse‐shoe bat is vulnerable since the bulk of its population depends upon relatively few sites. Its reproductive rate is very low and active conservation is needed in England, since populations are small. If conservation is to be successful however, both the physical conditions within hibernacula, and the environmental conditions outside will have to be satisfactory.
Reproduction in the female Indian gerbil (Tatera indica)*
Authors: Bland K. P. 
Published: August 2009

The Indian gerbil, Tatera indica (Hardwicke) has been successfully maintained under laboratory conditions for 18 months, during which time over 250 vaginal cycles were recorded and 30 litters were born. Under laboratory conditions this animal had four‐to‐five‐day oestrous cycles and sterile mating induced a ten‐day pseudopregnancy. Anoestrus was not infrequent and was characterized by the absence of corpora lutea and large follicles from the ovaries and the atrophy of the uterus.The mean length of pregnancy was 22.3 days (range 18–30 days) and the litter size varied from two to seven young (mean 4.76 young). Mating at the post‐partum oestrus resulted in delayed implantation if a litter of three or more young was being suckled. Under these circumstances pregnancy lasted 36 days (range 34–40 days).Implantation was interstitial and mesometrial. The chorioallantoic placenta was discoidal, labyrinthine and haemochorial probably becoming haemoendothelial just before term.Daily injection of ovine prolactin inhibited the occurrence of oestrus and caused enlargement of the corpora lutea in three of five animals. It is suggested that prolactin might be the luteotrophic hormone in this species.
The use of tooth eruption and wear, body weight and antler characteristics in the age estimation of male wild and park Fallow deer (Dama dama)
Authors: Chaplin Raymond E. , White Robert W. G. 
Published: August 2009

The eruption and wear of the cheek teeth of male Fallow deer from a park and wild population has been studied for age determination purposes. It was found possible to age accurately up to 48 months animals whose date of death was known, whether they were from a wild or park population. It was found that up to at least this age individual and environmental differences affecting animals born in successive years did not mask those resulting fromthe restricted seasonal breeding of this species.Antler development and body weight were studied in relation to the ages obtained and were found to be of limited value for age estimation.
The mammalian fauna of some jebels in the northern Sudan
Authors: Happold D. C. D. 
Published: August 2009

Mammals were collected and observed on seven jebels in the Sudan. A brief description of the position and geology, size, amount of soil, vegetation and rainfall is given for each jebel since these features are important in determining the variety and abundance of the mammalian fauna.There are few mammalian species, if any, on the desert jebels. Acomys cahirinus is the commonest mammal on these jebels, and it may be very abundant if the jebel is large enough. Small desert jebels appear to have no mammals.The jebels covered with trees and grass in the woodland savanna region have many species, although their densities are not as high as on the desert jebels. Larger size, dense vegetation cover, and many habitats may be responsible for this greater diversity (e.g. there are 34 recorded species, except bats, on Jebel Marra).In the desert, the “jebel” and the “desert” faunas are distinct, whereas in the woodland savanna there is an overlap between the mammals of the jebel and those of the savanna. The desert jebels are now “islands”, so each population is isolated from the next. This situation is probably due to the past climatic and vegetational history of the region. In the woodland savanna, jebel populations are continuous with those of the savanna.All the populations of Acomys in the study area appear to belong to one subspecies, Acomys cahirinus cineraceus. The specimens from the north were the palest, and those from the south were the darkest. Probably all Acomys in this region belong to the same species which forms a cline showing great variation dependent on climate and topography.
The home range, roosting places, and the day ranges of the Bonnet macaque (Macaco radiate)
Authors: Rahaman H. , Parthasarathy M. D. 
Published: August 2009

The daily movements of two troupes of Bonnet monkeys were thoroughly studied for over a year and it was observed that there is a clearly demarcated area within which the troupes move. The whole area though not well defended against trespassers is held exclusively by a particular troupe. Within the home range are the areas of preference or core areas where the troupes spend most of their time and these areas are kept free of strangers. The inhabitants announce their occupation of the area and intruders are given timely warning by methods which prevent encroachment.There are a few selected quarters where Bonnets sleep at night and these are generally located close to the feeding grounds.Movement, feeding, social grooming and social play including sexual activity are the four major activities in which the Bonnets indulge.In general there is no marked difference between the Bonnet macaque and other macaques in their daily movement and activity.It can be argued that these various facets of behaviour have a selective significance.
Influence of photoperiod and temperature on testicular recrudescence and body growth in the lizards, Lacerta sicula and Lacerta muralis
Authors: Licht P. , Hoyer H. E. , Oordt P. G. W. J. van 
Published: August 2009

Annual testicular cycles in the lizards Lacerta sicula and L. muralis appear to be regulated by the interaction between seasonal changes in body temperature and an endogenous rhythmicity in thermal responsiveness. Photoperiodism does not appear to be an important factor; i.e. testicular activity does not appear to be regulated by daylength.Following testicular regression in July, the lizards are refractory to sexual stimulation by high temperatures (i.e. normal preferred levels) for about five months. High temperatures accelerate gonadal regression and prevent recrudescence during late summer. Reduced temperatures stimulate testicular enlargement and spermatid formation during the autumn; this recrudescence can be blocked by treatment with testosterone. Very low temperatures suppress gonadal activity during mid‐winter.Maintenance of lizards at constant high temperatures (33°C) starting in July suppresses testicular recrudescence until December. Also, testicular collapse occurs in lizards transferred to high temperatures after recrudescence has started. The gonads are stimulated by exogenous gonadotropins at 33°C during the fall indicating that high temperatures reduce circulating levels of gonadotropins.The refractoriness to high temperatures is “spontaneously” terminated during midwinter (December) under a wide range of photo‐thermal conditions. Low temperatures may accelerate the termination of refractoriness. Thereafter, high temperatures stimulate, and are required for the final development of the testes and accessory sexual structures. Thus, the increase in body temperature following hibernation times the onset of breeding in the spring.Temperature also has a marked influence on appetite and growth, independent of photo‐period. Weight gains are greater at 33° than at 20°C. At 33° there is a tendency for abdominal fat bodies to enlarge but with little hepatic growth; whereas, the reverse occurs at 20°C.
The dentition of agamid lizards with special reference to tooth replacement
Authors: Cooper J. S. , Poole D. F. G. , Lawson R. 
Published: August 2009

The dentition of the African lizard Agama agama was examined in a range of material from late embryos and hatchlings to individuals of advanced age. Most of the skulls were prepared as dry specimens, but observations were also made on the living lizards in captivity and some records of tooth replacement collected.The gross anatomy of the dentition is described and its growth and elaboration from the hatchling to the adult. Attachment of the two types of tooth, both acrodont and pleurodont, is considered and the replacement process is found to be sufficiently different from that of other lizards to justify a separate descriptive category.Evidence from both dead and living material as to the order of tooth replacement in Agama is analysed and found to conform to the hypothesis of Edmund (1960). Other agamid genera are briefly described.The similarity between agamid and mammalian dentitions is pointed out and a connection suggested between polyphyodent reptilian dentitions and the diphyodont mammalian dentition which is more correctly regarded as being composed of two Zahnreihen.
A revision of the Australian earthworm genus Woodwardiella with descriptions of two new genera (Megascolecidae: Oligochaeta)
Authors: Jamieson B. G. M. 
Published: August 2009

The genus Woodwardiella Stephenson, 1925, from which oriental species were excluded by Gates (1938, 1939, 1960), is further restricted to include only five south‐western Australian species, a Tasmanian species and provisionally, as species inquirenda, the Victorian W. healesi (Michaelsen, 1923) and a further Tasmanian species, W. mortoni Spencer, 1895.Twelve species originally assignable to Woodwardiella, of which one is reduced to a junior synonym, constitute a new genus, Heteroporodrilus, known only from the southeastern portion of the Australian mainland. Woodwardiella punctatus (Spencer, 1900) is shown to be a junior synonym of the sympatric Victorian W. smithi (Fletcher, 1889a) which is placed in the new monotypic genus Pseudoperichaeta. Plutellus manifestus (Fletcher, 1889), which has tubular prostates and belongs to the family Acanthodrilidae s. Gates, shows close affinities with Heteroporodrilus which is referable to the family Megascolecidae s. Gates, characterized by racemose prostates. Variation in the form of the prostates can no longer be accorded even subfamilial significance and Plutellus is transferred to the subfamily Megascolecinae. Close morphological similarity demonstrated between P. manifestus and P. heteroporus Perrier, 1873, the type species of the genus, suggests a basis for restriction of the heterogeneous assemblage known as Plutellus. Diporochaeta davallia Spencer, 1900, has close affinities with Pseudoperichaeta and, like this genus, has tufted meronephridia anteriorly.
The state of oxygenation of haemoglobin in the blood of living Tubifex (Annelida)
Authors: Palmer Maureen F. , Chapman Garth 
Published: August 2009

Spectroscopic observations of the blood of the living worm have been made using various gas mixtures. The state of oxygenation of the blood has been determined particularly at the critical level where the respiration changes from an independent to a dependent type.Oxygen dissociation curves have been plotted using gas mixtures with 0.03% carbon dioxide and 5% carbon dioxide at three temperatures to correlate the in vivo and in vitro states of oxygenation with the normal environment in which the animal lives.
Gut structure, digestive physiology and food storage in Pontonema vulgaris (Nematoda: Enoplida)
Authors: Jennings J. B. , Colam J. B. 
Published: August 2009

Histological, histochemical and ultrastructural methods have been used to study gut structure, digestive physiology and food storage in the free‐living marine nematode Pontonema vulgaris (Bastian, 1865).Examination of the gut contents indicates that the nematode feeds by drawing in mud and silt and digesting bacteria and any other organic materials present.The gut consists of mouth, buccal capsule, suctorial oesophagus, intestine and rectum. The buccal capsule contains three interradial teeth, through which open the ducts of the oesophageal glands. These glands lie posteriorly in the interradial sectors of the oesophagus, with a single acidophilic gland cell in the dorsal sector and two cells, one acidophilic and one basophilic, in each of the two subventral sectors. The oesophageal region shows no enzymic reactions histochemically but extracts show esterase activity, and it is suggested that one gland cell type produces an enzyme precursor and the other an activator, the two secretions yielding an active enzyme when mixed on discharge.The intestinal wall contains glandular cells, whose secretions show carbonic anhydrase activity and are believed to be acidic, and columnar cells concerned with absorption. Both possess microvilli and there is some evidence to suggest that the columnar cell may normally develop into the secretory type which after functioning in a merocrine fashion eventually dies and is extruded into the gut lumen.Production of secretion within the glandular cells is of the usual pattern, involving the granular endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complexes.All the intestinal cells contain pigment granules, which show reactions for ferric and ferrous iron but whose precise nature and function remain unknown.Digestion is extracellular and with test meals of blood lipid is formed as an end‐product within the columnar intestinal cells. Esterase, believed to originate in the oesophageal glands, is concerned in digestion, as also are the products of the glandular cells of the intestine.Food reserves consist of glycogen and fat, deposited in the intestinal wall, lateral chords and eggs; glycogen also occurs extensively in the body wall musculature and in the oesophagus between the muscle bands, and lipid in the interstitial zone of the testis.
Long distance movement of Bank voles and Wood mice.
Authors: Watts C. H. S. 
Published: August 2009

Between November 1963 and October 1965 the long distance movements of Bank voles and Wood mice within an almost isolated 26 ha deciduous woodlot were studied by live trapping at approximately monthly intervals. Dispersal was most marked in juvenile Bank voles where most of the males and about half the females under 13 g, when released and later recaptured, had dispersed.Dispersal of juvenile Wood mice did not occur after September, before which time the evidence was sparse and inconclusive. It was estimated that about 6% of adult maleand 2% of adult female Bank voles dispersed. Little dispersal of adult Wood mice took place.The term ‘transient’ is discussed. True transients in the “once‐caught’ category are thought to be few. There was no evidence that the trappable population of either species included a significant number of non‐resident individuals.
Artificial rearing of some East African antelopes
Authors: Hutchison Maureen 
Published: August 2009

Six topi (Damaliscus korrigum), five Uganda kob (Adenota kob thomasi) and two kirk's dik‐dik (Rhynchotragus kirkii) were artificially reared from a few days of age.Foue kob and four topi were fed first on a humanized milk powder “Lactogen”; all four developed intestinal disorders which in two cases were fatal. The survivors recovered on a diet of pasteurized cows' milk on which they were satisfactorily reared. Two topi were satisfactorily reared on cows' milk from the time of capture.One dik‐dik was reared from two weeks on cows' milk enriched with egg yolk to the composition of eland (Taurotragus oryx) milk. weight gain was not significantly different to that of a second dik‐dik reared on cows' milk alone.Causes of ill health and death were: (a) dehydration during the first three days of captivity; (b intestinal disorders during the milk‐feeding period; and (c) heavy intestinal parasitic infections during the post‐weaning period.